Chapter 5

What is this place?" she demanded, trying to hide the fear in her voice. Juan's smile instantly turned into a frown. "This is where... business is conducted," he said, his eyes glinting with something unsettling.

Aria stepped back, sensing the darkness and terror emanating from the steel doors. "You’re holding people here, aren’t you?" she asked, her voice trembling. Juan chuckled softly. "Guests, Aria. Just very... special guests," he added with a smile that sent chills down her spine.

Suddenly, a scream echoed from behind one of the doors, so loud that she flinched. The sound sent a wave of terror coursing through her. "Who… who’s in there?" she stuttered. Juan's expression turned sinister. "Someone who’s learned to appreciate El Patrón’s hospitality and kindness."

Panic surged within her; she knew she had to get out of there, fast. As she turned to leave, Juan grasped her arm, his grip like a vice. She was sure he had left a mark. "Remember, Aria, curiosity can be quite deadly. Little girls like you should stay not curious."

With a surge of adrenaline, she wrenched her arm free and raced up the stairs, her heart pounding in her chest. She didn’t look back until she was sure she was out of his sight.

Back in the mansion, she collided with Maria, still glancing behind her to ensure no one was following.

"Señorita, what’s wrong?" Maria asked, concern etched on her face.

"I saw... something," Aria stammered. Maria’s eyes darted around, ensuring they were alone.

"You went down? You have to be very careful, señorita. El Patrón’s secrets are not to be shared."

"Maria, what’s going on? I’m scared," Aria whispered, her voice barely audible.

Maria glanced around nervously, her expression grave. "I don’t know much, señorita. But please, you must be careful. El Patrón’s business... it’s not for you to know."

Aria grasped Maria’s hands, desperation flooding her voice. "Please tell me something, Maria, anything at all. What’s behind those steel doors? Who are those people? What business are you talking about?"

Maria’s eyes filled with tears. "People who crossed El Patrón. People who owe him. People who... disappeared with his money."

Aria’s heart sank, and she began to shake with fear. "What… what about Jace… my brother? Does Alejandro have him?" she asked, dreading the answer.

Maria’s expression faltered. "I don’t know, señorita. But if El Patrón has him..." She trailed off, leaving the unspoken threat hanging in the air.

Suddenly, footsteps echoed down the hall. "Maria, go, quickly," Aria whispered urgently, not wanting Maria to get caught talking to her. Maria nodded and swiftly disappeared into the nearest room.

"Aria, darling. I see you’re now exploring," a voice called out, sending a jolt of fear through her. She recognized it immediately. Alejandro! "How do you like it here?" he added, his tone chilling.

Her heart raced as he approached, his eyes burning with intensity. She shuddered, wishing the ground would open up and swallow her whole, wishing the building would collapse on them. Anything to stop him from reaching her.

As he stood right in front of her, she felt a wave of dread wash over her.

He leaned closer, and she could smell his cologne, it was intoxicating yet terrifying. She closed her eyes as he came nearer. "Find anything interesting?" he whispered into her ear.