Episode 5

*Danillo*

Upon entering my room, the first thing I do is peel off my shirt, then I collapse into an armchair and pour myself a glass of whiskey. I sit there, thinking of the girl I had just seen. Her hair was a shade of brown, eyes green flecked with hints of hazel, her features etched into an oval face that glinted attractively with a hint of naivety. She was beautiful - with every facial expression a woman ought to have. What am I thinking, my God? Her mocking tone irks me, ugh. On second thought, it's going to be tricky understanding that woman. But I don't care, because all I want is to grow my business further, and tomorrow is going to be another busy day with loads of papers to sign.

*Beatriz*

A beam of light strikes my face, rousing me from sleep with some difficulty, causing me to rise with a backache.

Beatriz: Ouch! Ugh, this isn't a dream; this is a nightmare. (I put my feet on the ground and gradually stand up.)

Heading toward the bathroom to attend to my morning necessities, I finish brushing my teeth and return to the bedroom, only to stub my toe against a chair.

Beatriz: OW! DAMN it. (I try to hurl the chair away but fail.)

Beatriz: For a chair, you're quite heavy, haha. (I start to smile when, suddenly, I hear footsteps, and I fall silent.)

(sound of door opening)

A woman who appears to be in her forties enters my room, stopping at the doorway to look at me, then speaks.

Woman: Hello, I'm Vera, and I'm responsible for your security. (I look at her with a stern expression.)

Beatriz: Hello.

Vera: Mr. Hastings awaits you in the garden for breakfast, so I will give you 20 minutes to dress appropriately, after which I will come to fetch you. (After saying this, she leaves the room.)

Beatriz: At least I won't go hungry. (I'm actually really hungry.)

I take a quick shower, then move to the wardrobe, select a dress, and put it on.

Afterward, I grab a brush to comb my hair; once done, I wait for someone to show up to escort me.

(sound of door)

Vera: Shall we? (She looks at me with a serious expression.)

Beatriz: Yes. (I follow her with my head down.)

She leads the way as I follow, with a security guard trailing behind me. Once we arrive, I see the same man from yesterday seated at a table, busily tapping on his phone, and I remember I don't know where my phone is. Vera guides me to the table, pulling out a chair for me. I settle in and face the man.