Braun was only too happy to continue with her story. “Martin shipped over five hundred million dollars’ worth of gold, as well as a priceless collection of art. He and the Führer talked constantly of building a new empire, a Fourth Reich. He realised the way forward was to create the biggest pharmaceutical company in the world, rather than a physical army. Martin recognised the outcome of the war meant the United States would inevitably become the most powerful country in the world, and that’s when he hatched his plan. Franklin Pharmaceuticals would be the perfect vehicle to regain power through legitimate means. A respected, credible corporation that would originate in Argentina and then go on to conquer America. It would also spawn a new Führer for the twenty-first century – a man, with Hitler’s blood running through his veins, who would become the most powerful leader of the Western world. Of course, he would have to be born in America, which is why my son, Richard, set up home in California before having a child.”

She stopped again, as if the recollection of events was literally draining her strength away.

Vargas changed the line of questioning. “But why did you fake your own death for a second time?”

She came back to life and laughed at this notion. “Martin convinced me it would be far safer for my grandson’s life and future career if he genuinely believed that both I and his grandfather were dead. If I were ever exposed, it would destroy everything. Far better for everyone that I was dead. That way the child would never be tempted to travel here to see me and that part of his life would be closed forever. From the day he was born, John was groomed by Richard and Martin to fulfil his destiny and become the most powerful leader in the world.”

“So that’s why you razed El Blondi to the ground and created Valentina Suarez?”

“I didn’t want to ever leave here because my life with my husband had been truly special. I grew to love this place, but I had to make a clean break and start again with a new home and a new identity. It’s been incredibly painful watching John’s progress, realising he doesn’t even know I exist. I see him on the news channels nearly every day at the moment. He’s only a few months away from fulfilling his destiny.” Once again, she stopped and thought for a few seconds. “What are you planning to do with this information?”

Vargas didn’t reply.

“You realise no one will believe you. My son is one of the most powerful and respected men in the United States. He will destroy you and your bullshit story. You have no idea who you are dealing with.”

Vargas had heard enough and rose from the bed. “Actually, I know exactly who I’m dealing with, Frau Braun.”