Chapter 10 - THE LAST CUP OF COFFEEThree days later, the headlines shook Chicago to its core.
VALENTI EMPIRE CRUMBLES: MASSIVE FEDERAL RAID UNCOVERS INTERNATIONAL SYNDICATE. CORPORATE BOARD ARRESTED FOLLOWING ANONYMOUS LEAK OF ENCRYPTED FINANCIAL LEDGERS.
The Blue Lantern Diner was quiet again.
The police had processed the crime scene, the blood had been scrubbed from the linoleum, and the neon 'OPEN' sign buzzed softly in the window against the gray Chicago dawn.
I stood behind the counter, wearing a fresh uniform, wiping down the stainless steel surface with a clean cloth. The bell above the front door chimed.
I looked up.
Adrian Valenti walked in. His arm was still in a sling, and a white bandage peeked out from under his shirt collar, but he walked with a steady stride. He sat down on the exact same stool he had occupied three nights ago.
"Rough shift?" he asked quietly, offering a faint, weary smile.
I poured a mug of black coffee and slid it across the counter until it stopped right by his hand.
"The worst," I replied. "And you? I thought you'd be boarding a private jet to the Bahamas by now."
Adrian wrapped his good hand around the warm ceramic mug, taking a slow sip. "And leave the best coffee in Chicago? Besides, I heard the waitress here is exceptionally dangerous."
I leaned against the counter, crossing my arms, looking out at the quiet, rain-washed street.
"She retired," I said calmly. "Just a regular diner employee now. Nothing to see here."
May you like
Adrian laughed, a warm, genuine sound that chased away the last shadows of the night.
"Good," he said. "Because I'm a regular customer. And I plan on ordering a lot of coffee."
