Dusk had deepened.
Johnny Gross lay in bed, already fallen into a deep sleep, when the faint sound of footsteps suddenly startled him awake, and he abruptly opened his eyes.
The footsteps stopped on the balcony, right outside the door leading to it.
"Thump, thump, thump!"
A gentle knocking sounded, not loud, but it seemed to strike Johnny's heart, making it tighten with each beat.
Hesitating for two seconds, Johnny got out of bed, walked to the door, and pulled it open.
Carson Flores stood at the door, his gaze fixed calmly on Johnny.
Johnny let out a sigh, "Come in and talk."
Carson remained silent for two seconds, then followed Johnny inside and carelessly shut the door, "You knew I would come to you?"