Chapter 11: The Visit
A few days later..
Santiago
In a last-minute rush after entrusting Antonio's case to me, my father had to go to Cancun that very evening to take a look at the preparations for the inauguration of our second casino, which will take place this Saturday. And yes, we own casinos and it is safe showbiz. But as you can see, it is just a front. By using the casino as a cover, we can operate discreetly, while enjoying the profits generated by gambling. With our gambling houses, they provide an ideal environment for concealing dubious financial transactions. The sheer volume of money circulating in these establishments makes it difficult for the authorities to distinguish legitimate funds from those of criminal origin.
As a result, we are able to invest sums of money obtained from our illicit activities, such as drug trafficking, in these gambling dens. Wondering how it all works? Well, let me tell you about the regulars who come to play, buy chips with dirty money to play a few games, then exchange their winnings for legitimate funds. This process allows us to "launder" the money, namely to make it legal in the eyes of the law. What's more, our gaming palaces can also serve as meeting places for illegal transactions, where mafia members can establish contacts, plan operations or even extort money from other players.
Isn't it that nice? No one knows. With this penumbral environment, it is like the dark, abyssal depths of the ocean, and I see myself as the ghost fish, one of the lords of the deep and a silent killer. One of the species that thrives in dark, extreme ocean depths. Although translucent in appearance, their organs are bioluminescent! They enable them to move discreetly in their environment, while producing their own light. Except that for me, I move forward in the chiaroscuro like this animal, which has haunted the seas since the dawn of time, is a perfect hunter. Unexpectedly, as I leave the balcony, Orely comes to my mind. As I have no plans for today, I would like to pay her a little surprise visit, just to see how she is doing or if I can help her. Women don't usually hold any interest for me, but with her, a mysterious attraction develops every time she creeps into my thoughts, and I don't like it. However, I am going with the flow.
"But before that, I am going to do something.” I murmured, reaching for my phone on my bed.
I dial a florist's number and immediately someone picks up.
"Hello, you have reached Flora Colors. How can I help you?"
"Hello yes, would it be possible to place an order for a bouquet of yellow roses please?"
"Yes, of course, and how many flowers would you like?"
"Fifteen or so?"
"Okay, noted"
"I'll pick them up in an hour."
"Okay, no problem. See you soon."
After hanging up, I head straight for the bathroom, thinking of a casual chic look. I opt for a black collared tee with blue jeans over white sneakers, which will do the trick. Faded blue jeans, even slightly worn, make me look even sexier, as they are well cut and fitted. Not to brag but I know, I am pretty good-looking, and as an accessory, I chose a leather belt.
"Perfect. I am ready." I said aloud in front of the mirror, spraying myself with the perfume.
Orely
The sun's rays gently caress the colorful flowers, making their petals glow. Sitting in the garden, I enjoy this quiet moment to watch the birds singing happily, adding a soothing melody to the atmosphere and warmly accompanying my thoughts. Thanks to this majestic, verdant tree, I find myself pleasantly shaded, with a breath of fresh air caressing my face. I wasn't able to talk to Andrés after the heavy moments of Diego's funeral, as he had to leave quickly for work. He really kept his word by helping me, and I'll see what he wants to talk to me about next time. Suddenly my mother joins me with yellow roses in hand.
"This is for you."
"Really? And who is it from?"
"I have no idea. It has just been delivered and there is no recipient card."
"That is strange."
"Well, I'll leave you to it, there are my cheesy brioche buns in the oven."
"Okay, see you then."
Lost in the beauty of nature all around me, I stand in awe of how well my mother has tended this green space over the years when the sound of rustling leaves catches her attention. I look up and see a familiar figure approaching.
"Santiago? To what do I owe your visit?" I said, surprised.
"Hello. Yes, it is me. Do you like the flowers?"
It took me a few seconds to realize that it was he who had sent me the flowers.
"So, it was you?"
"Yes, I had them delivered because I couldn't come to Diego's funeral."
"Thank you, yes, they are beautiful." I said, sniffing them.
"Glad you like them. I have come to see you in person because I have made a decision."
"What decision?" I asked, genuinely curious to hear it.
"We met under rather disastrous circumstances and now I want to make a fresh start. That is why I would like to invite you to a premiere evening this weekend."
"And what kind of evening is this?"
"An inauguration. I am actually the director of a casino and we have just finished building a hotel next door. We are organizing a reception that will start with dinner in the hotel's rooms, followed by a private party at the casino for the occasion. I would love you to attend."
"Hmm, I am not sure I belong at this kind of event. Seems a bit frivolous, doesn't it?"
"A little, indeed, but you will be able to enjoy an excellent meal. We have invited a Michelin-starred chef who is sure to please. The evening at the casino will be equally entertaining, with complimentary chips."
After all, why not? It would help me take my mind off things. With these difficult times, only the land business really occupies my mind, so as not to sink into melancholy.
"Can I bring someone with me?”