Chapter 161: Beneath the Surface

Drew remained concerned about Mariana despite her downplaying the aftereffects of the red pill. He recognized her kindness and dedication to her work, but he couldn't shake the feeling that she was hiding something. Her sudden defensiveness and the odd story about food poisoning only added to his unease. He decided to keep a closer eye on her, hoping that his instincts were wrong and that there was nothing more sinister at play. Meanwhile, Mariana's curiosity about Hailey's absence during her initial visits to Castillo Alvor for the rituals had been nagging at her. She finally decided to confront Hailey about it. The two of them found a quiet corner on set, away from prying eyes and ears. "Hailey," Mariana began cautiously, "there's something I've been meaning to ask you. Why weren't you around when I first went to Castillo Alvor for the rituals?" Hailey's expression softened. She had anticipated this question. "I was on a mission," she explained. "There was a particular pack of wer