Chapter 7

Alessandro

I took in a huge puff of the Cuban cigar tucked between my fingers, its flaming red end casting a dim glow on the silver ring embedded in my index finger. I trapped the smoke within, letting it burn and heat up my insides before letting it out through my nostrils.

“Are you listening to me?” I focused on the wisp of smoke that disappeared into thin air as someone spoke beside me. “I really don’t think…”

“And I don’t remember asking your opinion.” My voice was curt and precise. I took another long drag before stubbing the end against the ashtray right in front of me. “Did I?”

“I just thought…”

“Thought?” I echoed as I bent over slightly. My swivel chair squeaked in the almost empty room as I leaned in to take a good look at the lowlife who thought he possessed the ability to think. “No te pago para que pienses! I do not pay