The Woman Behind the Mansion Doors
The villa stood behind tall gates in one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in the city. Its gardens were carefully maintained, its windows gleamed, and a polished vehicle rested beneath the entrance canopy.
Raúl checked his worn shirt before ringing the bell.
The door opened, revealing a woman whose elegance made him suddenly conscious of his dusty shoes.
She wore a beautifully tailored dress, delicate jewelry, and her silver-streaked hair was arranged perfectly. Her face showed the natural signs of age, but there was something striking about her eyes: they were intelligent, confident, and accustomed to being obeyed.
You’re the plumber?” she asked.
“Yes, ma’am. My name is Raúl.”
“Come in. The bathroom upstairs is practically unusable.”
He followed her inside, carrying his toolbox.
The bathroom was enormous, with marble walls and gold-colored fittings. Raúl examined the problem, discovered the damaged component, and set to work.
