Chapter 7 - THE INSPECTOR'S VISIT
The following Tuesday evening, Casa D’Ouro was operating at peak capacity. The dining room was filled with the soft clinking of crystal and silver, laughter, and the rich aromas of truffles and wine.
Marcos was standing near the kitchen pass, reviewing an order with his head chef, when the front doors swung open.
Three city health inspectors, flanked by two municipal police officers in uniform, marched into the restaurant with clipboards and aggressive strides. The lead inspector, a man named Roberto Souza—known throughout the district as a man whose signature could be bought by the highest bidder—fllashed his badge at the maître d'.
"City Health Department. We received an anonymous tip regarding severe health code violations, pest infestations, and improper food storage at Casa D’Ouro," Souza announced loudly enough for nearby diners to hear, deliberately trying to cause a scene.
Several patrons gasped, pushing their plates away in sudden alarm.
Marcos stepped out from the kitchen, his expression completely calm, wiping his hands on a clean white cloth. He didn't look surprised. In fact, he looked like he had been expecting them.
"Good evening, Inspector Souza," Marcos said smoothly, walking up to the group. "Funny time for an inspection. Especially without a prior warrant or a formal complaint filed through the standard portal."
Souza sneered, stepping closer. "We don't need a warrant when we have credible evidence of safety risks, Mr. Albuquerque. We’re going to shut this kitchen down right now, unless... well, maybe we can discuss this in your office."
May you like
Marcos let out a low, dry chuckle. "My office? No, Inspector. Let's discuss it right here in front of my guests." He turned to the dining room, raising his voice slightly so everyone could hear. "Ladies and gentlemen, please continue your meals. Inspector Souza here is just doing a little... community outreach on behalf of my former customer, Carlos Silva."
Souza’s face flushed. "Keep Mr. Silva's name out of this! Show us the walk-in freezers immediately, or I'll slap a padlock on your doors right now."
