Chapter 35

The crunch of gravel under my feet seems unnaturally loud as I step out of the car, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows across the quiet suburban street. A knot of anxiety tightens in my stomach.

I turn back to the driver's seat, giving Julio a small smile.  His eyes, dark with worry, meet mine as I close the car door. The golden light should make this neighborhood feel warm and inviting, but instead, it only heightens the sense of unease gnawing at me.

This morning's conversation with Rafael replays in my mind. When he told me I'd be coming here with Julio to check on Carla, I nearly protested. Julio's recent confession about his obsession with her still set off alarm bells in my head. But one look into Rafael's concerned eyes had silenced my objections. I understood then - Julio was coming because his worry for Carla was genuine, perhaps even necessary for what we might find.

I approach the bulky, intimidating man standing guard a