To mark the end of one of the most dangerous and exhausting chapters of our careers, I decided to throw a celebration. Not just for me—but for everyone who helped take down the corruption that plagued our justice system.
The venue was small but warm. String lights flickered above, music floated through the air, and laughter filled the space. My colleagues, the lab team, and even Judge Vega arrived in good spirits.
Emma showed up in a sleek navy-blue dress—professional, yet graceful as always. People naturally gravitated toward her. She had earned their respect.
I walked over to greet her, Amara by my side, holding my hand with visible reluctance.
"Emma," I said, "this is my wife, Amara."
Emma smiled and extended her hand. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you. Santiago talks about you and Israel all the time."
Amara didn't shake her hand. She crossed her arms, looked her up and down, and replied coldly, "You're prettier than I imagined… That explains a lot."
The table nearby went silent.
Emma blinked, clearly caught off guard. "I—I'm sorry if I—"
"You're not sorry," Amara cut her off. "You knew he had a family. And still, you made sure he noticed you."
"Amara," I said, stepping between them, trying to de-escalate. "Please. This isn't what you think."
She turned to me with fury in her eyes. "You invited her here. To celebrate with us. Do you even understand how much that hurts?"
Before I could answer, Judge Vega's phone rang sharply. He stepped outside to take the call. Seconds later, he returned—his face pale, voice stern.
"Everyone—quiet down."
The room froze.
"There's been… a development," Vega said slowly. "All investigators, agents, and analysts need to report back to headquarters. Now. Except for the forensic team—Santiago, Emma… I need you both to stay out of this one."
"What? Why?" I asked.
Vega looked straight at me, then at Emma. "Because I don't trust who's involved. And if my gut is right… you two are already targets."
Emma and I exchanged a glance. The celebration had turned cold. The victory we thought we had secured?
It had just crumbled into something much darker.