His voice remained mild, indifferent even—but his grip on my wrist tightened, twisting until I had no choice but to release her. Only then did he speak again.
"Let's chalk today up to youthful impulsiveness. She overstepped. It happens."
"But if there's a next time—" His gaze dropped to me, turning glacial. "Mrs. Sanchez, my tolerance has limits."
I watched him cradle her like she was made of glass, murmuring soft reassurances.
"It doesn't hurt anymore, does it?"
"There's a good girl."
She melted into his arms, sobbing so hard she could barely breathe. He scooped her up effortlessly, ready to leave—but I called out before he could.
"Otis."
He didn't stop. I didn't care. I chased after him and blocked his path.
"If you really love her—" My eyes locked onto her tear-streaked face. "Give her a proper title."
I leaned close to her ear, my voice dropping to a whisper edged with laughter.
"It's not that I won't step aside."
"Your precious Otis won't let me vacate my position so you can take my place. If you're really as capable as you think—" I let the words land, light but lethal. "Make him agree. Make him fight for you the way he once fought to bring me into the Sanchez family."