Chapter 26

His mother, alerted by the doorbell, hastily made her way to the door. As it swung open, two figures stood on the doorstep, their faces obscured by stern expressions and official police badges. 

"We are the police," they declared, presenting their ID cards for verification. 

A chill ran down Javier's mother's spine. Why were they here this morning? Her shaking hand betrayed the anxiety that gripped her as she struggled to compose herself. 

"Why are you here?" she managed to ask.

The police officers cut to the chase. "Is Javier home?"

Before she could respond, Javier himself appeared at the door, his demeanor surprisingly composed.

"I was expecting you guys," he acknowledged.

"Please come to the station for questioning," one of the officers requested.

Javier nodded. His mother discreetly signaled for him not to go. Yet Javier remained resolute, ignoring her silent pleas.