He leaned closer.

“I’ve spoken to the lawyer. Just as a precaution. In case things… worsen.”

Lucía opened her eyes more fully and studied him.

“Always thinking ahead,” she said calmly.

For a brief second, his composure slipped.

“I’m just protecting what’s ours.”

“Ours?” she repeated quietly.

At that moment, Carmen entered with a tray, interrupting the tension. Alejandro stepped aside, but his glance drifted toward the IV pump. Carmen noticed immediately.

“Please don’t touch the equipment.”

“Relax,” he replied stiffly.

Later that afternoon, Alejandro was summoned to the medical director’s office.

“Mr. Martinez,” the doctor began neutrally, “we’ve identified irregularities in certain medication orders.”

“Irregularities?”

“Drugs not typically indicated for this diagnosis — authorized with your signature.”

Alejandro frowned. “I relied on the staff’s expertise.”

“Interestingly, since those medications were discontinued, the patient’s condition has improved.”

The silence that followed was thick.

“Are you suggesting something?” he asked coldly.

“We’re reviewing the facts.”

When he left, his confidence seemed shaken.

What did you tell them?” he demanded quietly.

Lucía met his eyes with unexpected steadiness.

“The truth.”

“No one will believe you. You were sedated.”

“Not completely.”

He stepped back.