NINETEEN - ALEJANDRO

I turned off my phone on purpose and didn't use it again until I was back inside Tucson proper. Though my dad never gave me the credit I deserved, he probably thought I didn't realize he had tracking apps installed on all company-issued phones. I was aware of his apps and how to get past them, and I also had a spare phone that I could use for covert purposes. When I wasn't working, my time was entirely my own.

I slid out of the leased SUV and gave my phone a moment to connect and update all the apps before using it.

Located in a cramped, low-slung plaza just off the main road, the coffee shop I had parked in front of was a small, independent establishment with an eccentric menu and decor.

Strolling inside, I placed an order for a café breve and generously tipped the barista when it arrived. Out front of the store were a handful of small, circular tables in bright primary colors. I took my drink outside and sat at the farthest one since it was too tempting to pass up.

Arizona had surpr