“I Want to Marry You”
On Raquel’s birthday, she hosted a gathering attended by business leaders, journalists, politicians, and longtime friends.
The celebration took place at her residence, where the garden had been decorated with flowers and warm lights. Music drifted through the open doors, and waiters moved quietly among the guests.
Raquel wore a deep blue dress. Her silver hair caught the light, and for once, she seemed less concerned with impressing anyone than with enjoying herself.
Raúl watched her speaking with María.
He had seen Raquel at public events before, surrounded by people who admired her influence. But that evening he noticed something different.
When María laughed, Raquel laughed with her. When an elderly friend struggled to climb a step, Raquel immediately reached out to help. When a waiter dropped a tray, she reassured him instead of embarrassing him in front of the guests.
