In the distance, sirens were heard.
First soft.
Then closer.
Ricardo ran to the window.
He saw the black vans entering the parking lot.
Two federal vehicles behind.
Agents coming down with vests.
Sergio whispered:
“Inspector—what do we do?
The door was slammed open.
Elena Vera came in with six agents.
All armed.
All serene.
Everyone looking at Sergio, Ricardo and Alberto as if the trial had already begun.
No one moves.
An officer approached Don Manuel and opened the handcuffs.
Click.
The sound was small.
But in that room it sounded like justice.
“Director Rivas,” Elena said, “are you hurt?”
Don Manuel raised his marked wrists.
“Minor bruises. Nothing that doesn’t heal.
Sergio was shaking.
Richard tried to talk.
“Deputy director, if you allow us to explain…
“Keep your words for your lawyer, Inspector.
Don Manuel recovered his belongings.
Sergio pulled the mobile phone out of his pocket with trembling hands.
