Chapter 60: Counterstrike

“The Court, having heard all the evidence, now finds that the defendant is guilty.” At kasunod noon ang magkakasunod na pagpukpok ng judge. “Court is adjourned.”

Napanood lahat ni Miguel ang ginawang paglilitis kay Jacque habang kuyom ang kanyang kamay.

“The decision has already been made, Dad. So, what are you going to do next?” tanong ni Luigi habang nakatingin sa kopitang may alak na kanyang inaalog sa kanyang pagkakahawak. “What’s your plan?” Dagdag nito saka ibinaling ang kanyang tingin sa kanyang ama.

“This is an unexpected but unavoidable thing to occur, and it has already gotten out of our hands, so we must take action to ensure our safety.” Sabay hinga nang malalim.

“So, Miguel, tell us what you're going to do now?” tanong ni Irina na nagsisimula na kanina pa hindi mapalagay sa nangyayari. “If things continue to escalate, your candidacy for President will be seriously compromised! Keep in mind that you should not—”

Hindi natapos ni Irina ang kanyang sasabihin nang putul