Chapter 2 — The Empire Built on Borrowed Time
Beatriz stepped forward first.
"You have no right to interfere in our family."
Ricardo looked at her with quiet disappointment.
"For two years..."
"...you believed my daughter was alone."
He nodded toward one of his attorneys.
A thick leather folder was opened.
Inside were loan agreements.
Corporate guarantees.
Debt schedules.
Santiago frowned.
"What is this?"
"The reason your company still exists."
Ricardo answered without emotion.
"Six months ago, every major bank refused to refinance the Rivas Group."
"You survived because Grupo Salazar quietly purchased your debt."
Santiago laughed nervously.
"Impossible."
The attorney slid several signed contracts across the table.
Every signature was authentic.
Every loan had been legally transferred.
Every payment belonged to Grupo Salazar.
Ricardo folded his hands behind his back.
"As of midnight..."
"...every loan becomes immediately callable."
The color drained from Santiago's face.
"You would destroy an entire company?"
Ricardo looked toward Valeria.
May you like
"No."
"You already tried to destroy my family."
