CHAPTER 7 — DEMON REFUSED TO LEAVE THE WELL… THEN THE SEARCH TEAM MADE A HEARTBREAKING DISCOVERY
The investigation lasted until sunrise.
Powerful floodlights illuminated the abandoned well while forensic teams worked in complete silence. No one wanted to interrupt the strange peace that had settled over the ranch.
The boy refused to go home.
Neither did Demon.
The massive bull stood only a few feet from the old stone well, staring into the darkness below. No matter how many times the handlers tried to lead him away, he planted his hooves firmly into the ground.
He wasn't angry.
He was waiting.
One of the investigators finally climbed out of the well carrying a small wooden box, wrapped in what remained of an old canvas bag.
"It's intact," he whispered.
The crowd instinctively stepped closer.
Inside the box were a faded family photograph, an old silver pocket watch, a leather wallet... and a sealed envelope.
Across the front, in neat handwriting, were four words:
"For My Little Son."
The fifteen-year-old's hands shook violently.
"I... I can't..."
He couldn't bring himself to open it.
Don Mateo gently placed a hand on the boy's shoulder.
"When you're ready."
With tears streaming down his face, the boy carefully unfolded the yellowed letter.
The paper had survived fifteen years underground.
Gabriel's handwriting was still clear.
"If you are reading this, then life didn't give me the chance to watch you grow."
"Never judge an animal by its fear."
"Fear is often created by people."
"A truly strong man never wins by causing pain... only by protecting those who cannot protect themselves."
The boy broke down in tears.
Even the hardened police officers looked away to hide their emotions.
Esteban quietly removed his hat.
"He was the best man I ever knew."
At that exact moment, Demon slowly walked toward the boy.
Without hesitation, the giant bull gently rested his forehead against the teenager's chest.
Almost...
As if he understood every word written in the letter.
Hundreds of spectators who had remained overnight wiped tears from their eyes.
But before anyone could leave, another investigator called out.
"There's something else."
He held up a small metal key.
Attached to it was a rusted tag engraved with a single word:
May you like
Archive.
Nobody knew what it unlocked.
