Chapter 14

• RAFAEL
• The basement of my estate thrums with an undercurrent of power and danger. Thick concrete walls, reinforced and soundproofed, create an impenetrable fortress beneath the opulent mansion above. The air is cool and dry, tinged with the faint scent of gun oil and expensive cigars.
• I slowly unstrap my gold Rolex, its weight suddenly feeling heavier than usual in my hand. The dim light of the room catches on its polished surface, creating a brief, mocking glimmer of brightness in this tense atmosphere. With deliberate movements, I extend the watch to Julio.