Chapter 9: Chapter 9

Carmela followed Pedro to his car, a sleek black sedan with tinted windows. 

As they drove through the city, she noticed that they were headed to a very fancy neighborhood, filled with huge houses and perfectly manicured lawns. 

When they pulled up to a large, imposing gate, a guard stepped out to greet them. "Mr. Lone, welcome back," the guard said. "Is this your guest?"

"Yes, this is Mrs. Martins," Pedro said. "She'll be staying with me for the night. Please make her feel at home."

"Yes, Mr. Lone," the guard said. He turned to Carmela with a smile. "Welcome to the Lone estate, Mrs. Martins. Please let me know if there's anything I can do to make your stay more comfortable."

Carmela felt a little like she was in a dream. Everything seemed so surreal. She followed Pedro into the house, marveling at the opulent furnishings and the massive chandeliers. 

A maid was dusting in the foyer, and she nodded politely as they passed.