Chapter 42

CARLOS VALVERDE’s pov Tonight, the city smelled different. The smell was as if a sour substance had seeped into the sidewalk. Not blood. The substance in question was not motor oil. Betrayal is worse. I used to own a hotel, and I watched from the rooftop. In the penthouse I constructed using blood money and spine-snapping deals, a politician's son now snorted cocaine. I gave him permission. For now, this was acceptable. However, the empire? It was breaking. The conversation was swift and filled with noise. “They’re talking, Carlos,” Enrique whispered behind me. Tonight, Vega will meet with the Herrera twins. downtown. I didn't look back. I just lit a cigarette. My fingers trembled a bit. I didn't tremble out of fear. Fury. "I rescued them during their childhood." "They are no longer children." I blew it straight up after taking a long drag. The wind blew it back in my face. Excellent. "I owe them." "They believe you to be weak." I remained silent. What words could I offer? You bleed fr