Sunday. Late. Caller ID says Singapore? Not panicked but, serious, Nick says, "I'm in trouble and I'm not sure I can get out of this one, Gustavo."
Where are you, Nick?
"I'm at the bordello close to the Kentucky Club in Juarez, MX. I may have had a little too much." Nick had been there before. The ladies liked Nick. He was always gentlemanly. He was considerate and liked spending money. Big money. "They say I owe them. They won't let me go until my debt is paid. They're lying. Here! Talk to them."
Hello. Señor boss? What's going on? "Nick owes us money and he needs to pay. He's not leaving until he's paid up. He owes 10 grand."
So, you're holding him hostage? He's your prisoner? You've kidnapped him?
"THIS IS NOT A KIDNAPPING! He owes us. We want our money by noon, tomorrow. Cash."
Click.
Entering a narco city with such funds is enough to get one "suicided". Racing thoughts lead to poor decisions. Our investigator put on his cleanest dirty clothes. Brushed his teeth. Combed his hair. . . and out the door into darkness he went.
Only one of Nick's friends had that kind of cash at that hour -the Texas cattle man. He had a strong disinclination to release the funds. The cattle man offered a concealable side arm. "That'll get me killed or 'disappeared' in one Mexico's 'cheap motels' for just as long. No, thanks."
Led down a long, poorly lit hall, our investigator met up with 'the boss'. He managed the place. He managed the ladies.
His boyfriend scrambled to put his clothes on. There was some small talk. Tense small talk. They counted the money. Twice.
"Great! We love your business, Nick. Come back anytime!"
"Tiralos a la chingada. (Throw 'em out!)", he ordered. We were rushed out into the blinding sunlight. The international line and freedom were within (fast) walking distance.
Never believe that disquiet fear and rushing adrenaline are absent from such an experience despite appearances to the contrary.
"What's the purpose of your travels into Mexico?", asked the US customs official at the port of entry as he eyed his screen and examined our identifications. "Visiting friends!"
"Welcome to the United States. . . Next!"