Chapter 15: The River Runs Clear**
On a bright spring morning in 2026, the iron gates of the federal facility swung open. Mateo Vance, granted early release for exemplary service and unprecedented charitable contributions to urban rehabilitation, stepped out into the crisp morning breeze wearing a simple civilian jacket.
Waiting on the asphalt was a sleek, modest sedan. Aurelio stood leaning against the driver’s door, looking tall, confident, and whole.
Mateo walked up, his eyes slightly wet, and extended his hand.
Aurelio ignored the handshake and pulled the older man into a tight, brotherly embrace.
"Welcome home, Mateo," Aurelio said softly.
May you like
They got into the car and drove back toward the city. As they crossed the massive highway bridge over the Rio Salado, Mateo looked out the window. Down below, the riverbanks were green, the water ran clean in the morning sunlight, and children were running along the sandy shore.
The devil who had drowned in that river ten years ago was dead. The man riding across the bridge was finally free.
