Chapter 34: Just A Matter Of Time

Santiago

I consulted an independent lawyer to seek legal advice regarding my mother's coffin. I preferred not to ask Andrés to help me, because I wanted to handle the matter on my own, and I don't want his mother to be involved in something that's none of her business. Sitting in his office, the room is elegantly decorated, with shelves full of law books and framed diplomas hanging on the walls.

Spacious, the walls are painted in neutral shades, a soft beige I'd say, creating a calm, serious atmosphere. I take the opportunity to run my index finger over the table, which is made of dark, polished wood, to see if there are any traces of dust. This shows that I have nothing to do at the moment and that I am bored waiting.

"Hmm, flawless." I said softly, rubbing my index finger and thumb together to ensure they were clean.

I can't complain, this table is neatly organized, although a few files are scattered about. Each file is carefully labeled, some featuring client names that I discreetly examine, while others contain references to current cases.

"Ah, I am so bored !" I thought when suddenly I heard the door unlock followed by footsteps.

"Good morning, Mr Rivera, I see you are early and my secretary has let you settle in." Says the lawyer, shaking my hand.

"Good morning, Master Javier. Yes, absolutely."

This lawyer wears a well-tailored suit and sober tie, giving him an appearance that's both professional and reassuring. He puts down his keys and a few documents in his hands on the table. He takes off his jacket and places it on his armchair.

"It will teach me right from arriving too early." I muttered as I watched him open his laptop.

Then I see him take out his notebook and a quality pen, ready to be used to take notes during the meeting. Next door, a large window lets in the daylight, illuminating the dark wood furniture and brown leather armchairs.

"So, with the exhumation already done, this will allow us to analyze the remains and determine if there were any suspicious elements. Do we agree?" he said firmly, examining the file.

"That is right. I have hired a private investigator to find out if there has been any wrongdoing or foul play."

"Hmm, that could be a game-changer for you and for justice," he expresses thoughtfully.

"And how are we going to make sure that everything is done properly? Because I don't want the press involved.

"Don't worry, it is my duty to ensure that all legal procedures are followed. If you wish, I can call in experts to ensure that the exhumation analysis is carried out professionally and respectfully. I can also ask for the process to be as discreet as possible," he announces, taking notes.

"It is a deal. I trust you." I replied with conviction.

"Perfect, we will do it that way. I assure you our team will do everything in our power to get to the truth. Sometimes, the truth is the only thing that can bring peace, isn't it?" he emits, closing his notebook.

"That is what I expect from you."

"Alright, then. I am going to start preparing the necessary documents right away. We will take it one step at a time, together."

Just as I am about to sign the papers, a call comes in and pulls me out of my concentration. It is Alvaro, who informs me that some men have tried to break into Orely's house.

You can't imagine how my blood runs cold just hearing him say those words, and I grit my teeth. I interrupt the meeting for a moment to find out more and give my instructions to Alvaro on his way out of the office.

"Take the lead until I get there."

"Okay Boss."

I return back to the office to conclude this issue. Once completed, I leave with a haunting feeling followed by an aura of thick black smoke like an impenetrable fog.

As soon as the meeting was over, I got in my car and headed off to meet Orely. But then I get another call informing me that some spies have managed to get into the house. The situation is becoming increasingly serious. Enraged and powerless, I hit the steering wheel.

"Fucking hell!" I growled.

I park a little further away, near a secluded lot, and get out of the car with my pistol in hand. Alvaro immediately joins me with some men so that I can cross the threshold of the house with caution. Once inside, I immediately head for her workshop, and as I climb the stairs, I see the door slightly ajar.

I nearly tiptoe forward and see her sitting on the corner of the wall. I approach her and signal that I've come to fetch her.

"Are you all right?" I asked her hastily, imagining the worst.

"Yes I am fine.."

"And your mom?"

"She went out running errands when I suddenly heard voices and gunshots," she replies in panic.

"It is okay, I am here now. I will tell my men to keep an eye on your mother. Let's get out of here!, grabbing her hand.

Trembling, she clings to me and I can see the fear and bitterness in her eyes. Orely and I quickly get out of the house and head for my car, while my men take down these thugs one by one. Once we are in the car, I decide to tell her something she'll think is weird, but I have to. I can't think of any other way.

"Orely, we will have to live together for a while to ensure your safety. I have already bought a small apartment for us to move into."

"You say it just like that, without the slightest explanation!"

"I will tell you everything, but first let's get away from here."

I know I have to tell her that everything that is happening to her is partly my fault because my father had something to do with it. How will she react after that? You will soon find out. Stay tuned..