Page 27 of Rhythm Of Redemption

Navigating the familiar streets of the town, Logan deliberately avoided his usual parking spot near the club, opting for an anonymous space near Antonio’s office. As he stepped out of the jeep and entered the building, the refreshing blast of cool air from the office’s air conditioning enveloped him, providing a welcome reprieve from the sweltering heat outside. With a hint of nervousness, Logan steeled himself before stepping into Antonio’s office, a mix of anticipation and apprehension swirling within him. Uncertain of what news his lawyer would deliver, he entered the room, mentally preparing for the possibility of hearing something he might not want to hear.

Antonio rose from his seat as Logan entered, a warm smile lighting up his face. “Logan, great to see you,” he greeted, his voice brimming with genuine warmth. Logan returned the smile, nestling into a worn chair, his palms slightly moist with anticipation. “Any news, Antonio?” he asked politely, his eagerness tempered with a sense of understanding. Keen for news that would open the path to his return home and the opportunity to rebuild his life, Logan’s anticipation filled the room, thickening the air.

“Logan,” Antonio began, his voice tinged with weariness, “I’ve been going through the evidence, examining every angle, but I warn you, the situation is bleak. There are some unexplained bank deposits, large transfers to offshore accounts in Belize, things like that.” He paused, his gaze fixed on the table, avoiding eye contact. “But not impossible.”

Logan’s throat tightened, his anxiety escalating. The room seemed to grow colder, the weight of the impending verdict pressing down on him.

“The police have been building a compelling case,” Antonio admitted, his concern evident in his tone. “But we need a little more time to gather the evidence that will support our defence and counter their narrative. So, for now, my friend, you will need to be patient.” His words carried a mix of caution and optimism, acknowledging the challenges ahead while instilling a sense of hope in Logan that it was only a matter of time before he got his life back.

“Will Louisa be open to extending your stay?” Antonio asked, concern lacing his voice.

Logan nodded. “It shouldn’t be a problem, but I need to talk to her about it first. I don’t want to push my luck.”

Antonio leaned forward, a thoughtful expression on his face. “If it’s a matter of money, I’m more than willing to lend you some until you get back on your feet.”

“It’s not about the money. I don’t want to complicate things for her or involve her further by giving her money when I’m under investigation for money laundering.”

Antonio nodded in understanding. “I understand. So, how are things at Casa Bonita?”

Logan sighed, his shoulders slumping. “It’s … complicated.” There was that word again—complicated.

Antonio stood up, his voice firm and reassuring. “Just remember, if you change your mind, call me. I’m here for you.” He stretched out his hand, which Logan firmly shook as he rose from his seat.

“Thank you. Your support means a lot. And please, keep me updated on any developments.”

“You have my word,” Antonio assured him. Their eyes met briefly, conveying a shared understanding. With a nod of acknowledgement, Logan turned and left.

Stepping out of Antonio’s offices, Logan was immediately engulfed by the sweltering heat that radiated from the sun-drenched pavement. The oppressive air clung to his skin, beads of sweat forming on his forehead as he sought refuge in the scant shade of a nearby tree. His concern deepened as he dialled Matti’s number once more, the ringtone cutting through the hot, stagnant air. But silence greeted him, leaving him to grapple with a mixture of frustration and suspicion. What the hell was going on with Matti?

Logan stood outside Matti’s apartment. The silence that followed his firm raps on the door sent a shiver of unease down his spine. Glancing up, he noticed a neighbour leaning over the balcony of the floor above, his inquisitive gaze fixed on Logan.

“Looking for Matti?” the neighbour called out, his voice carrying through the still air.

Logan nodded, squinting against the sun’s glare as he looked up at him. “Yes, have you seen him?”

He shook his head, a hint of uncertainty in his voice. “Not for a few days. Maybe you should try asking at the club where he works.”

Logan’s heart sank, but he mustered a grateful smile. “Thanks, I’ll do that.”

With a heavy sigh, Logan turned away from the silent door, his mind filled with a mixture of concern and determination. He needed to find Matti, and the club seemed like the next logical place to search.

In the quiet daylight, Logan stood outside his shuttered club, the streets devoid of the vibrant energy that engulfed them at night. The absence of partygoers and the dimming of bright lights created an entirely different atmosphere. The once-thumping music and laughter were replaced by a hushed stillness that hung in the air.

As the sun cast its gentle glow on the surroundings, the colours seemed subdued; the buildings stood silently as if holding their secrets close. Logan observed the empty pavements where just hours ago, revellers would have been dancing and laughing their way through the night. It was a stark contrast, a reminder of the duality of his world—the vibrant facade and the shadows that lurked beneath.

Standing outside his club, the shutters closed, Logan’s mind swirled with unsettling thoughts. Could Matti’s sudden vanishing act be the missing link to the drugs plaguing his club and the ongoing police investigation? The puzzle pieces fitted too seamlessly, casting suspicion on his once-trusted head of security.

A figure emerged from the shadows, familiar yet carrying an air of uncertainty. It was Angel, his bar manager, her eyes filled with a mix of concern and curiosity. She approached Logan, her footsteps echoing through the deserted street, each sound punctuating the gravity of their conversation.

“Logan, is that you?” Angel said, her voice tinged with urgency. “Looking for Matti, I presume?”

Logan nodded, his worry clear on his face. “Yes, I’ve been trying to reach him for days, but he’s not answering his phone or his messages.”

“Have you tried his apartment?” Angel suggested, concern lacing her voice.

“Yes, I’ve just been there. His neighbour said he hasn’t seen him either,” Logan replied, frustration seeping into his tone. Angel nodded slowly, a sense of unease lingering in the air. “What about you? Have you heard from him?”

Her eyes shifted, searching for the right words, before settling on Logan. “No, but there have been a few whispers … rumours, if you like, floating around the club.”

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