Chapter 20

Rafael instructs me to head to my room, handing me one of his shirts to wear. I offer him a look of gratitude before I leave, but once in bed, sleep eludes me. The events of the day replay in my mind, but it's the memory of our hug that lingers most vividly. I've never seen anyone lose themselves so completely from a simple touch the way Rafael did. In those few seconds, he seemed to be transported to another place, his entire demeanor shifting as if the hug triggered a profound emotional response.

It makes me wonder about the hidden facets of Rafael's life. People like him are typically the ones who inflict trauma, so what could have happened to him to make him react this way? What don't I know about him? 

And come to think of it, all I know is that he's after Thomas for sleeping with his wife, whom Rafael is suspected of killing to take over her father’s cartel. Beyond that, Rafael is a mystery. 

Why did he freeze? Why did I see a flicker