Chapter 44

• RAFAEL
• The familiar comfort of my home office wraps around me as I lean against the mahogany desk, the bourbon burning a welcome path down my throat. Julio stands by the window overlooking the manicured garden, moonlight casting shadows across his face as we discuss the night's events. Frankie's footsteps had barely faded down the carpeted hallway after I sent her to her room before Julio appeared, wanting details about the bloodshed at the party.
• "Do you regret it?" Julio asks, his eyes studying my reaction. Though he wasn't there tonight, the way his jaw tightens tells me he's already forming contingency plans.