Chapter 19
Chapter 19: The Vanguard
Word of Renata’s firm spread through the elite circles of Mexico City like wildfire.
She became a terrifying urban legend to corrupt, abusive men, and a beacon of absolute salvation to the women trapped in their gilded cages. Her firm, simply named The Vanguard Group, expanded rapidly. She hired a team of elite forensic accountants, private investigators, and ruthless litigators.
They didn't just handle divorces. They dismantled systems of financial abuse.
One evening in December, Renata hosted a small, private dinner party in her beautiful apartment in Roma.
There were no crystal chandeliers or mariachi bands. The lighting was warm and golden, illuminating the lush green plants and the walls lined with books. The dining table was set with simple, elegant white plates and glasses of rich red wine.
Sitting around the table were the people who had become her true family.
Valeria Montes was there, laughing loudly at a joke. Agent Salcedo, off duty and relaxed, was pouring wine. Sofia Vargas, now completely financially independent and running her own charity for domestic abuse survivors, was helping serve the main course.
Renata stood at the head of the table. She looked at these brilliant, fierce, loyal women. There were no insults disguised as jokes. There was no anxiety tightening her chest. There was only profound, unconditional respect and love.
"To family," Valeria said, raising her glass with a grin.
"To the family we choose," Sofia corrected, clinking her glass against Valeria's.
Renata raised her own glass. She looked at the red wine, remembering the night a glass just like it had been held by a monster who thought she was invincible.
May you like
"To the truth," Renata said softly.
They all drank. The food was delicious, the laughter was genuine, and for the first time in her life, Renata felt completely, unbreakably safe in her own home.
