The Vote Shifts

The next morning, the third vote begins.

Lomeli watches as the cardinals write their ballots, each convinced they are acting according to God’s will.

Names fall into the urn. The count begins.

—Bellini… —Tremblay… —Benítez…

Lomeli tenses. Benítez has received more votes than ever.

When the count ends, the result is clear: Vincent Benítez has become the candidate with the most support.

Murmurs ripple through the Sistine Chapel. No one saw it coming.

Tremblay leans toward Bellini and whispers with a bitter smile:

—Seems the Holy Spirit has a sense of humor.

But Lomeli doesn’t laugh. He knows what’s happening isn’t a miracle—it’s a calculated move.

Doubt Turns to Fear

That night, Lomeli encounters Bellini in the Santa Marta corridors.

—It can’t be a coincidence —says the Italian, rubbing his forehead—. Someone is pulling the strings.

—Who?