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The day finally came.
The day I left San Vittore.
The guard was scheduled to come get me at noon sharp. While we waited, Dario and I said our final goodbyes.
Dario smiled. “Good luck with Rachel.”
“Thank you,” I said nervously.
“It’ll be fine,” he reassured me.
I just exhaled noisily and nodded.
“You remember Niccolo’s number?” he asked.
“Dario – ”
“Not just for the job offer. If you need any money, call him. I warned the prison staff years ago, so whatever you had when you came in here should still be there when you get out – but if you need anything else, call Niccolo.” Then he prodded me gently, “What’s his number?”
I rattled it off from memory.
“Good. After I get out of here, you and Rachel should come see me in Tuscany. I promise you the vacation of a lifetime. It would also make a beautiful wedding location, if you’re so inclined.”
“Thanks.” I smiled, and my eyes misted up a bit. “For everything.”
Dario grinned. “You’re my best friend, Lars. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for you.”
The guard arrived right on time. “You ready, Andersen?”
“Yeah – hold on.” I looked at Dario. “You gonna be okay?”
We both knew what I was asking.
Are you going to be able to stay alive?
“I’ll be fine,” he said. “I had the best teacher in the world.”
Dario and I hugged one last time, then he slapped me on the back. “Go find your woman and live a beautiful life.”
I nodded, then went out to join the guard in the hall.
Before I completely passed the bars of the cell, I looked back at Dario one last time.
He was standing there, a sad smile on his face.
Our eyes met, and he gave me one last nod before he passed out of sight.
When I got to the discharge office, the clerk gave me a cardboard box and the same manilla envelope from three and a half years before.
Shockingly, it was all still there: my wallet, burner phone, passport, 5000 euros, all the clothes from my duffel bag…
And the necklace and diamond ring.
I stared at the sparkling stone in amazement as I held it between my fingers.
No one had taken it…
Just like Dario had said.
