Chapter 48: The Painful Inquiry

Olivera’s confusion was palpable when Raul's question reached her ears. The query about "pain" left her baffled. Her mind raced, struggling to grasp what he was referring to. His piercing gaze seemed to demand an answer, yet she stood frozen, her silence betraying her lack of comprehension. She hoped he would clarify without escalating his anger, but her hope was quickly dashed. “Why are you silent? Are you mute?!” Raul’s voice thundered, each word laced with irritation. The sheer force of his shout made Olivera flinch, her body trembling uncontrollably. “I... I...” Her voice wavered, her fear palpable as she tried to form a coherent response. Her hands clasped tightly together, knuckles white, as she struggled to maintain any semblance of composure. “Stop stuttering like a fool!” Raul's frustration was evident, his voice rising with every word. He was exasperated with Olivera, feeling as if she was a cruel jest played by fate. Her fear intensified as Raul’s anger became more evide