17. Mere pawns

A week had passed since the doctor's appointment, the same one where Mariana decided she would not remain unmoved by the facts. Now she and James found themselves at a crossroads, trying to balance the protection of their secret and the search for answers.

Nervous, James was aware that his "mistress" was planning something risky. He felt the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, but he also understood Mariana's need for information about Maxmilian.

That afternoon, Mariana sat in front of her laptop, discreetly researching private detectives in the area. She knew she needed to find someone reliable, discreet, and capable of uncovering the truth without arousing suspicion.

After hours of meticulous research, Mariana found a name that looked promising: Daniel Reynolds, a renowned private detective known for his ability to solve complex cases.

"So, what do you think?" asks Mariana, showing James the investigator's profile.

"Have you checked his credentials?"

"Yes. They're great. He'