Maria Santos: Dramatic entrance, slamming her hand on the bar W-why did you l-l-leak those p-pictures?
Because I thought it'd bring you some notoriety, Maria.
narrows her eyes, clenching her fists Notoriety? Is that what you think I want? You believe I enjoy being the center of attention because of some scandal?
No, you've always been in the spotlight. I just wanted to help you.
leans in, voice trembling with anger Help me? You call exposing my private life helping me? Are you out of your goddamn mind?
Look, I didn't know it would cause such a fuss. All I wanted was to give you a boost in popularity.
points at herself, voice filled with disbelief A boost in popularity? That's what you call helping me? You've turned my life upside down, OceanOracle.
Well, do you have any idea how many people are obsessed with you right now? You're famous, Maria.
takes a deep breath, trying to calm herself Famous, huh? And what has that done for me? Made my life a living hell?
smirks Hell? You're being dramatic, Maria. It's not that bad.
slams her fist on the bar again, voice filled with rage Dramatic? You think this is a joke?
No, I don't think it's a joke. But I also don't think it's the end of the world, Maria.
grabs a glass and throws it at OceanOracle You don't understand, do you? This isn't just about my reputation. It's about my safety.
I'll keep you safe, Maria. You have my word.
narrows her eyes at OceanOracle I want proof, OceanOracle. Prove to me that you'll do whatever it takes to keep me safe.
How about I hire a bodyguard for you? Someone who can protect you from those paparazzi.
narrows her eyes, considering his offer A bodyguard, huh? Fine, but I want the best. No room for mistakes. And you better make sure they can handle this shit storm I'm in.
Of course, Maria. I'll find the best one I can.
leans back, crossing her arms And another thing, OceanOracle. If you screw this up, I swear I'll make your life a living hell. You know me, I don't forgive easily. So you better get this right.
Understood, Maria. I won't let you down.
points at OceanOracle, voice filled with determination Good. Now go, and don't come back until you have something concrete for me.
OceanOracle walks off, looking slightly annoyed
takes out her phone and starts scrolling through messages I need to find someone I can trust. Someone who knows how to handle these kinds of situations.
pacing back and forth, talking to herself Come on, Maria. Think. Who can I turn to in this situation? I need someone reliable, someone who knows the ins and outs of this kind of chaos. pauses, thinking deeply Maybe I should reach out to that detective I met at the police station years ago. He seemed like a smart cookie. Yeah, maybe he can help me sort this mess out. grabs her phone and dials the number