The rich don't Cry

Chapter 1

The faint light from the last sun rays made the man give thanks for the chance he had got to enjoy one of San Antonio's unforgettable sunsets. It was impossible to find the words to describe such beauty. You could observe in the distance the small fishing boats approaching to the coast, returning with the booty that the sea would have offered them that day. The greenish and greyish tones were subtly shifting toward the line dividing the sky from the sea. The sight of that horizon produced a calming effect that was just what he needed in that moment. Without a doubt, he had missed those views. Yes, he was home.

Back in the car after a couple of hours of assimilation, Alex proceeded in the trip and could finally glimpse the emblematic mansion of their hosts. From the privileged natural hill on which it was built, it stood as the largest, the highest, and possibly one of the most beautiful structure in the whole town.

Raised to never disappear, the solid stone construction, gently stained over the years, granted the dwelling a solemn and endearing air. Honoring the distinction of such a residence, its inhabitants had to be just as important and imposing. This honor corresponded only to the Monte Negros, a family that had played a very important role in San Antonio's history from their humble beginnings and from generation to generation.

Fifteen years could seem like a sigh. To Alex, they had felt like an eternity. He had been separated from the love of his life, and moment he had been waiting for almost every second since they went apart had finally come. The sleepless nights would end and so would the constant fear of having lost his great opportunity. No! Years of experience had taught him that all would be over just when you were dead, and yet, nothing was certain.

It had changed, everything in him had changed, he was sure of that. Even the love he felt for that beautiful little girl, who looked for him in the harbor to enjoy his breaks, had changed. That night wouldn't come back to delay anything. As a successful financial adviser, he knew that if one wouldn't risk and throw himself into the pool for what he wanted, he wouldn't get anywhere.

Every year, Francisco organized a ceremony in honor of his family, which he used to pay homage to his late brother Adolfo, father of Elisa whom he had raised as his own daughter since the death of his parents. That year was special because it was celebrated in the old family mansion located in his hometown, the incomparable and picturesque San Antonio. Since they moved to the city, the family hadn't returned to the house.

The caravan of luxury cars barely fit into the property's entrance. You had to be at that party if you were someone. The entrance to the mansion was controlled by the security company hired for the occasion. It was impossible for anyone to have access to such a grand evening. It was going to be a big night.

Alex got off the car and headed to the main entrance of the mansion. The two men placed at the entrance carefully inspected the guest list. The indications of the house-owner had been very clear: "No entry without invitation!"

Alex not only had an invitation but also a special mention on the list. Francisco's work relationship with the financial adviser began only a few months ago when the patriarch's company was going through a major crisis. Once he had helped the tycoon with his financial problems, Alex became a part of the entrepreneur's social circle, thus starting on a path without turning back and leading to his presence at the party.

The man pushed his way through the guests. The crowd joined in small groups, enjoying the evening animatedly. More than one flirty and indiscreet looks were directed toward him—something he was already used to. On some occasions, he knew how to take advantage of them, but that night, he didn't have time for any game, except for the one that justified his presence at that party.