Civic Forum Stage in Puerto Vallarta Campaign Office

Warm candlelight fills the campaign office in Puerto Vallarta, casting copper-toned shadows across a stage prepared for a civic forum. Rows of empty wooden chairs face a raised platform where a simple microphone stand stands ready. Dust particles float in the shafts of light filtering through heavy monsoon clouds outside, visible against the dim interior. The walls are painted a muted terracotta, reflecting the soft glow of dozens of small candles placed along the front ledge. Heavy drapes hang in the background, their fabric slightly damp from the humid air. A stack of printed agendas rests on a side table, their edges soft from handling. The light catches the texture of the worn floorboards, revealing their age and use. One candle flame flickers near the center of the stage, its light trembling slightly.