Chapter 10 - THE PRICE OF BETRAYAL
Rafael Marquetti was arrested shortly afterward.
Investigators had uncovered evidence linking him to the counterfeit operation, unlawful detention, and efforts to conceal Eli's discoveries.
Several associates were also charged.
The investigation expanded into other companies.
Salvatore cooperated.
His own businesses faced scrutiny.
Some contracts were suspended.
Others were terminated.
But he didn't retreat.
He provided records.
Testified when required.
And began restructuring his companies to eliminate the practices Rafael had exploited.
The process was difficult.
Family members accused him of betrayal.
Business partners withdrew.
Old allies stopped answering his calls.
One evening, I found him alone in his office.
He was staring at a photograph of himself and Rafael as children.
I sat beside him.
Are you okay?
He shook his head.
He was my brother in everything but blood.
I swallowed.
I'm sorry.
Salvatore looked at me.
I trusted him.
I nodded.
He continued.
I let him speak for me.
I took his hand.
That doesn't make what he did your fault.
Salvatore stared.
Then signed:
I'm learning.
I smiled.
Good.
He looked at me.
You're a very demanding teacher.
May you like
I laughed.
You have no idea.
