Her departure from home had been kept secret, with the story being that she was confined to her room with a contagious rash. Luckily, she had returned safely.

Initially, everyone in the neighborhood knew about Selena's engagement to Lucio and their impending wedding. However, it was strange that there had been no word from Lucio for two months, and the wedding plans seemed to be falling apart. Now, many people in the town were making fun of Selena, despite her successful business ventures. They speculated that there must be something wrong with Selena, and Mr. Simeone was not pleased.

Maria had been looking increasingly worn out and troubled lately. It...