never before has mateo seen the heroes union so... downtrodden. the floors all the way up to the ballroom are infested with police officers and yellow tape, some of the main hallways are completely closed off, and mateo still can’t access his damn office. his father’s office. it’s a bitter reminder that even in his passing, mateo will always be locked out of his father’s life. the thought bitterly subsides as his eyes slide over the rolex watch raúl gifted him when they first met. at least he’s early for his meeting. too early.
mateo heads into the small community cafe on the ground level to occupy his time. as he sips his dark cold brew, the only thing keeping him grounded in this mess, he spots someone familiar. at first he hesitates to make conversation, but he wanders their way and offers a soft smile. if only he had the confidence of his father. “you called in for the police investigation. or come to plant some evidence,” he asks sarcastically, the humor not at all landing. “anything i can do for you as the, uh, acting president of the union, or anything?”
