Carlos Martinez: Looks around cautiously Ever wonder why the bull hides in plain sight? Think I found my matador, amigo.
I'm a man named Gabino that's 6'4 and have muscles for days so carlos how's it been?
Carlos looks up at you with a mix of surprise and relief. He smiles, standing tall at 6'1.
Carlos Martinez: Hey, Gabino. It's been a while, hasn't it? You haven't changed much. Still towering over everyone like a giant.
What do you mean by that? I asked confused.
Carlos looks around one more time before leaning closer and speaking in a low voice You're not who I thought you were. But you're smart enough to figure out the truth, aren't you?
shocked Carlos?! Is that really you? What’s going on?
Carlos sighs deeply Yeah, it's me. I'm sorry I couldn't tell you earlier. I had to keep my identity hidden for safety reasons. It was tough pretending to be a Spanish tourist all this time.
she looked at him confused what do you mean?
Carlos looks around the Andean village again, ensuring their conversation remains private
I mean, just like how a matador lures a bull into its trap, I've been hiding in plain sight, pretending to be a Spanish tourist. But I need to let you in on a little secret.
What do you mean, Carlos? Are you in some kind of trouble?
Nods You could say that. But let's find somewhere more private to talk, shall we?
Oh... I didn't realize you were Carlos Martinez. I thought you were just some random guy I met at a bar in Madrid. So, what's up?
Laughs softly You're one of the few who doesn't know me from my athletic career. Let's just say I'm taking a break from the limelight. What about you? Still working as a tour guide?
What do you mean? I look at him confused
Chuckles softly The way you're looking at me... I think you're starting to figure it out. I can tell by the way you tilt your head and raise an eyebrow.
Bull's hide in plain sight? What are you talking about, Carlos?
Smiles cryptically You know what I mean, my friend. The strong often disguise themselves as harmless. It's a tactic to protect what's important, like a bull in a field of hay.
Looks confused What do you mean, Carlos?
Carlos leans in closer, lowering his voice You know, back when we were friends, I told you about my career as an athlete. Well, it seems that some dangerous people have been following me, trying to use me for their own gain. That's why I had to pretend to be a Spanish tourist.
wait you’re not really that Spanish dude you’ve been pretending to be?
He lets out a soft chuckle and smiles That's right. The accent, the clothes, the whole act. Just a little something I put together to keep a low profile. But now, I think it's time we drop the charade, don't you?
What do you mean by that? i look at him confused
He grins, leaning against a nearby wall. You know, I've been living under this Spanish tourist cover for quite some time now. It's not easy, but someone's gotta do it. But I think I found someone who can see past the act. Someone who knows me better than most.
What are you talking about, Carlos? You're freaking me out.
Smiles, gesturing for you to lean closer Carlos Martinez: It's a metaphor, my friend. Just like a bull may look harmless, I've been hiding my true identity as an athlete under this disguise. But now, in this small Andean village, it's time to come clean. Can you keep a secret?
Matador, huh? Interesting... So, what's next, Carlos?
Leans in closer, lowering his voice Next, we find a way out of this charade and reunite without putting anyone in danger. Can I trust you to keep this between us?
what do you mean by that? I asked as we walked down the street
Chuckles and glances around, keeping a low profile You know me, always full of metaphors. But seriously, I need your help with something. It's important.
I'm a man named Xander Ohhh... Hi... Wait how do you know me?
Carlos takes a moment to observe you, studying your mannerisms and facial expressions You don't remember me, eh? We met many years ago... in Rio de Janeiro.
You're still full of surprises, aren't ya? So, what's this about protecting loved ones? Spill it, Carlos.
Carlos leans in closer, lowering his voice You remember my family back home, right? My parents, my sister? Well, they're in danger. Threats from some unsavory characters have put them in harm's way, so I had to take drastic measures to keep them safe. That's why I assumed this Spanish tourist identity. It's a cover, a way to blend in and stay under the radar. But now, I need your help.
I look at him confused what do you mean?
Carlos glances around, ensuring their conversation remains private. Carlos Martinez: You're not a stranger to sports, are you? Think like a matador, knowing the bull's movements and weaknesses. That's how you take it down. He leans in closer, lowering his voice.
You’re that baseball player right?
He looks at you, recognizing you. Carlos Martinez: Yes, I am. But you know better than to mention that out loud, don’t you?