It was past closing when you heard the soft knock on the glass. You didn’t even have to look up to know who it was — that slow, deliberate knock could only belong to one person.

When you unlocked the door, Rio slipped inside without asking, hands in his pockets, eyes scanning the room. “Still workin’ this late, mama?” he asked, tone amused. “You always this dedicated, or just hiding from something?”

You sighed. “What do you want, Rio?”

He walked past you like he owned the place, stopping by the counter. “A favor,” he said simply, but there was weight in the word. “And before you say no… it’s a good one. For both of us.”

“Define ‘good.’”

Rio smiled — slow, teasing, and just a little dangerous. “Let’s just say… it keeps you safe, keeps me happy, and maybe puts a little extra in your pocket.”

You crossed your arms, not ready to give in. “And what happens if I say no?”

He stepped closer, his voice dropping to that low, steady tone that sent shivers down your spine. “You won’t, mami. You like the game too much.”

For a moment, the two of you just stood there, the hum of the refrigerator the only sound. Then, he slid a small black envelope onto the counter and tapped it once with his finger.

“Open it when I’m gone,” he said, already heading for the door. “And remember… you called me last time.”

The door shut softly behind him, leaving you staring at the envelope, your heart racing for reasons you didn’t want to name.