Don Ricardo Valdés was a man whose life was measured in exorbitant figures. His name resonated in the most exclusive financial circles in the country, synonymous with success, power, and a fortune amassed with shrewdness and an implacable work ethic. He owned skyscrapers that grazed the sky, fleets of luxury vehicles, and a mansion that was a veritable fortress of marble and glass, nestled atop the most coveted hill in the city.
But among all his possessions, the most precious, the only one that truly mattered to him, was his little Sofía. His daughter, barely three months old, a tiny creature with blond curls like threads of gold and blue eyes that reflected the purest innocence. Sofia was the center of his universe, the only place where his ruthless businessman’s heart showed a crack of utter tenderness.
To ensure his princess lacked absolutely nothing, Ricardo had hired Elena. A middle-aged woman with steady hands and a kind gaze that inspired instant trust. Elena had been recommended by the most demanding social circles, and her reputation as a nanny was impeccable. She cared for Sofia with a dedication that Ricardo, despite his fortune, couldn’t buy anywhere else.
At the Valdés mansion, every detail was meticulously cared for. From the immaculate gardens to the works of art adorning the walls, everything was a testament to opulence. Sofía’s room was no exception. It was a pastel-hued sanctuary, filled with delicate toys and a hand-carved wooden crib, imported from Italy, where the little girl spent her sleep protected by a silk canopy.
One Wednesday afternoon, Ricardo’s routine was disrupted. A crucial meeting was unexpectedly canceled, leaving him free earlier than planned. He decided to return home, eager to spend some extra time with his daughter. The afternoon sun streamed through the windows of his Rolls-Royce as he drove up the winding road toward his residence.