“The problems aren’t getting smaller, Enrico. They’re getting worse.”
The exhaustion that had become a constant companion over the past years suddenly felt heavier.
“What now?”
“I got reports this morning,” André said, his tone shifting. “The locals are forming an even stronger resistance. They’ve already contacted regional press. They’re making noise. It could become a public relations headache fast if we don’t act now.”
I clenched my teeth, irritation turning quickly into anger. I had enough problems already; the last thing I needed was that damn project spiraling out of control.
“We sent negotiators. The permits are secured. City hall and the council are on board,” I said, cutting and cold. “But if we don’t control public opinion—”
“It blows up in our face,” André finished.
“Exactly.”
“What is the project’s PR team saying?”
André’s expression tightened.
“They quit. Yesterday. The third one.”
I let out another slow breath.
“Then I’ll have to handle it personally,” I said, voice low, final.
André gave a cynical smile and shook his head.
“I figured you’d say that. I just wanted to warn you before our dear grandmother finds out and decides to handle it herself.”
My gaze slid toward Eloá across the room—impeccable as ever, speaking with another group of guests, completely unaware of the internal chaos boiling beneath the family’s perfect façade.
“She won’t need to get involved,” I said with absolute certainty. “I’ll take care of it.”
André nodded, watching me closely.
“Just be careful, Enrico. I have a bad feeling about this project.”
I looked away quickly, dismissing the omen. Problems were what I dealt with. This one would be no different.
“Don’t worry,” I said, posture straightening as I finished my drink. “I always solve my problems.”
“I don’t doubt that,” André replied, giving my shoulder a light pat before walking away.
I stood there for a few seconds, staring into nothing while my mind began to plan—coldly, efficiently.
It didn’t matter how big the problem waiting in Tiradentes was.
I would go there myself and resolve it.
No mistakes.
No interference.
Because failure had never been—and would never be—an option.
Never.
SIX
