CHAPTER 114

The sun rose over the farm in Poconé as Bruno and his children prepared to return to Cuiabá after their weekend together. The atmosphere was serene, but there was an underlying tension, especially after the encounter with Graciliano by the riverbank.

Isabel, Antônio, and Emanoel helped pack the car while Bruno finalized the preparations for the journey back. The air was filled with a mixture of anticipation and concern as they prepared to leave the farm behind.

As they drove back to Cuiabá, Bruno glanced at his children in the back seat, feeling the weight of the conversation he needed to have with them. He knew he couldn't let Helena know about the incident with Graciliano; it would only worry her more and could harm his relationship with the children.

“Kids,” Bruno began, his voice sounding calm yet firm.

“I have a favor to ask of you.”

Isabel turned in her seat, her eyes filled with curiosity.

“What favor, Daddy?” she asked, eager to know what it was about.

Bruno took a deep breath