In the private dining room of the Night Star Hotel's restaurant, Christian sits across from Lucas and Henrique. The room is sleek and softly lit, with the quiet hum of air conditioning and the distant chime of silverware from the main dining area.
Lucas is lounging in his chair, phone on the table as he sips sparkling water. "So… how's Marilena? After everything?"
Christian leans back slightly, rubbing a hand over his jaw. "She's doing okay, I think. The media's quieted down since Andrea's PR people shifted focus."
Henrique raises a brow. "And you?"
Christian pauses. "Trying not to get pulled into my mother's whirlpool. She still hasn't let it go."
Lucas scoffs. "Elizabeth doesn't drop anything, let's be honest."
"She'll have to," Christian mutters. "This whole 'mystery woman' scandal nearly cost me. If it weren't for my mother, we'd still be in the fire."
Henrique steeples his fingers. "And Marilena? Is she still… just your 'friend'?"
