Estello leaned forward in his chair, elbows on the polished wood, eyes fixed on the man across the desk. Mario sat still, shoulders stiff, eyes downcast.
Estello's voice was calm, but it hit with weight. "I don't know what Richard saw in you."
Mario said nothing.
"You've been spared. That's not a small thing. Don't mistake it for forgiveness."
He paused, watching for a flinch. None came.
"I could've had you buried in the jungle," Estello continued. "But instead… he wants you as his sword. His personal security. I don't know if it's empathy or arrogance. Either way, I don't trust you."
Mario slowly raised his eyes. "Understood, sir."
"You'll be watched. Around the clock. Don't take a piss without someone knowing. You don't earn trust with words. You earn it with time."
"Yes, sir," Mario said again.
"Good." Estello stood and gestured toward the door. "Ask the man outside where your bunk is. Rest while you still can."
Mario nodded and left without another word.
