Carlos placed a firm hand against the door and gestured toward the adjoining sitting area. The glass walls overlooked the resort’s gardens, a softer backdrop than the sterile lines of the boardroom where we’d just spoken.

“Come,” he said simply. His tone left little room for argument, though it carried no edge of force. It was as if he’d anticipated my restlessness and chosen the gentlest way to redirect it.

The sitting area was warm, almost home-like, with low couches and a wide ...