Carmen hesitated, torn between the weight of her responsibilities and the intrigue of Lucía’s proposition. Her life had been confined to the sterile walls of the hospital, each day blending into the next. But there was something in Lucía’s eyes—a fierce determination—that sparked a curiosity she hadn’t felt in years.

“Tell me what I need to do,” Carmen said cautiously, her voice barely above a whisper. Lucía nodded, her mind racing despite her weakened state. She knew she had to act quickly and intelligently to outmaneuver Alejandro, whose greed had blinded him to her true capabilities.

The years of observing his every move, his every ambition, had prepared her for this moment. “First, I need you to bring me my bag. It’s in the drawer of that cabinet,” Lucía instructed, indicating with a slight tilt of her head.

“There’s a notebook inside.”

Carmen retrieved the bag and handed it over, glancing nervously at the door. Lucía opened it with trembling hands and pulled out a small leather-bound notebook. Its pages were filled with meticulous notes and sketches—details of Alejandro’s business dealings, hidden assets, and the intricate web of contacts he maintained.

“This is everything he thinks he’s kept hidden from me,” Lucía explained, her voice gaining strength as she spoke. “But knowledge is power, and I intend to use it.”

As Carmen flipped through the pages, she realized the extent of Lucía’s intelligence and foresight. A plan formed, piece by intricate piece, and she felt an unfamiliar thrill at the prospect of turning the tables on Alejandro.

“We need to act swiftly,” Lucía urged. “I’ve already initiated the transfer of some shares to an undisclosed account. With your help, we can finalize it and ensure Alejandro has nothing.”