Chapter 97: The Awakening

The hushed murmurs about Jose Fernandez's final words drifted through the interrogation room door, each syllable a fresh barb that pricked at Officer Leao's already simmering anger. Tiago Alarcão's name, laced with accusation, hung heavy in the air. Leao slammed his fist against the table, the sudden noise startling the officer across from him. "Damn it!" he growled, his voice tight with frustration. What deal had Tiago struck with Fernandez? And what motivated the accusation in Jose's dying breath? With a determined glint in his eye, Leao grabbed his phone and punched in a familiar number. "Tiago Alarcão," a smooth voice answered on the other end. "Leao here," he barked, his voice curt. "We need to talk." A beat of surprised silence followed before Tiago chuckled, a touch too cavalier for Leao's liking. "Detective Leao. What a pleasant surprise. To what do I owe the pleasure?" Leao ignored the feigned pleasantries. "Cut the crap, Tiago. I know you visited Fernandez. Wh