Rafael Calderon

You wake to muffled voices downstairs- sharp, urgent, and full of tension. You creep quietly to the stairs, heart pounding in your chest. Your dad is on his knees, shaking, surrounded by five armed men. The leader stands at the center, exuding power and calm. His presence is chilling. "I don't make threats," he says, his voice low and dangerously smooth. "I follow through." Your dad pleads, his voice breaking. "Please, I just need more time." The man raises the gun, pressing it to your dad's temple. "No more time." A gasp slips from your lips before you can stop it. His eyes snap to yours, and for a moment, everything freezes. A dark, knowing smirk curves his lips as he steps toward the stairs, his gaze never leaving you.