Chapter 23 - The Broken Alliance
Elena decided to confront Judge Vance directly. She cornered him in the underground parking lot of the county courthouse before his morning session.
"Raymond," Elena said, stepping out from the shadows of a concrete pillar.
The judge startled, dropping his leather briefcase. "Elena. You shouldn't be here. The Alvarez name is toxic in this city right now."
"You signed the release forms for Viktor and Sophia Rossi," Elena said, stepping closer. "They are cartel assets, Raymond. Why did you let them walk?"
Vance’s face turned pale under the dim yellow lights of the garage. "I didn't have a choice, Elena. They have things on me. Things from twenty years ago when your father ran the docks. If I didn't sign, my daughter’s medical history—her location—everything would be leaked."
"Who has the leverage?" Elena demanded.
May you like
Before Vance could answer, the sharp crack of a silenced rifle echoed through the concrete structure. A neat hole appeared in the center of the judge's forehead. He collapsed instantly.
Elena drew her weapon, scanning the upper decks, but the shooter was gone. She was left standing over the body of a federal judge, the sound of approaching sirens echoing in the distance.
