Chapter 32. The Docks

Armano motioned for them to follow him. He led them deeper into the warehouse, the dim light casting long shadows across the floor.

They passed rows of dusty crates and abandoned machinery, the silence only broken by the occasional creak of the old building settling.

The tension was very palpable in the hearts of Anna and Kevin, yet they continued.

They arrived at a small office tucked away in a corner. Inside, a single lamp illuminated a cluttered desk and a few chairs. Armano gestured for them to sit, then closed the door behind them, making the room feel even more claustrophobic.

Anna and Kevin sat down, their eyes never leaving Armano as he settled into a chair across from them.

He leaned back, studying them with a mixture of curiosity and something akin to pride.

“Our family’s story is not a simple one,” he began, his voice low and measured. “I’m sure your parents have already explained their version of the story to you, which makes sense as