The distant wail of sirens grew closer, and within moments, paramedics were flooding the tiny apartment, efficiently taking over. Richard stepped back, watching as they worked swiftly to stabilize Maria, inserting IV lines and administering oxygen.

In those chaotic moments, Richard’s eyes wandered around the modest apartment. Simple furnishings, a few family photographs on the mantle, a stack of bills on the kitchen counter. It was a stark reminder of the world beyond his insulated existence of luxury and power.