500K SUBS - Fallen Angels Audiobook

huh so first this video will not make sense unless you've seen this one erasing my awful book from the history of the internet seriously go watch that one first before watching this also don't watch this so you know when you make a promise but the preconditions of that promise seems so extraordinary you don't really ever expect the bill to come due I guess that's what was going through my mind when I promised to read a copy of this awful book on a live stream if I ever reached half a million subscribers because after all at the time one hundred thousand subscribers seemed like a naive pipe dream but the Internet has a way of coming back to bite you and a promise is a promise so here we are I'm doing you all one better I decided to create a fully produced audio book of fallen angels number one welcome to Munich this isn't going to be good you're not going to like this you think you want this but you don't you'll see alright enough beating around the bush let's get to it seriously last chance don't say I didn't warn you [Music] Fallen Angels book 1 welcome to Munich based on the television pilot by tempest pictures dedications to Al Kat Vinny and Lance thanks for the hard work [Music] chapter 1 here we go Charlie Wahid stepped forward to enter the small conference room inside was a chair waiting for him placed dead center a few yards away from a long table where six well-dressed parole board members were looking him over intently Wade walked over to the chair as calmly as possible and took a seat the chains attached to his handcuffs knocked against one another as he sat making a loud and obnoxious ching sound that he had become far too accustomed to he lifted his left hand to draw his hair behind his face looking at the group of people before him one of the men opened up a file folder and turned on a camera please state your name for the record he said bluntly Charlie Wade Wade cleared his throat and straightened himself up he needed to look as dignified as possible thank you a woman responded she opened her folder as well and looked up at him mr. Wade the purpose of this hearing is to determine whether or not you meet the proper qualifications for early release she stated while your conviction was meant to last until age 21 you shown remarkable improvement on both your part and the part of your fellow inmates Wade remained silent she continued you have been suggested by senior staff members Ward's supervisors as well as in-house occupants to be placed on the shortlist as a nominee for early release on good behavior I understand Wade responded another man from the board leaned in towards Wade mr. Wade what we're trying to find out today is if given the opportunity to be released back into society what guarantee is there that you won't fall back into a life of crime take your time Wade thought give them an answer that works my family is no longer here I've been making smart decisions in this place I'm an adult now Wade said clearly I can live on my own perhaps the man interrupted but several of my colleagues and I are not fully convinced the outburst of emotion you displayed that initially got you in this home was started because you refused to get help I would have thought the reason it started was because of my father weight interjected the reason I'm talking about the reason you were in here is because of you and the choice you made the man said sternly idiot Wade told himself quit arguing with him or you'll never get out of here I know where to go if I need help Wade said aloud the man craned his neck to the side if that were true then why didn't you seek help before your first defense Wade thought for a moment staring down at his hands glued together restlessly on top of his lap he peered down himself and looked at the bright orange jumpsuit he was wearing thoughts racing through his head my home life was cruel my school life was worse I had nothing I was miserable I fell into a self-destructive pattern where nothing mattered to me and I didn't care about anything or anybody and living in that sort of situation once again mr. Wade we're here to discuss you not to hear you blame your actions on everything under the Sun I'm not blaming my actions on anything or anyone for that matter Wade cut in he was tired of getting interrupted this was his chance his turn to speak I blame me Wade said looking at the man just as much as you do I had the choice as to whether or not I was going to be in here and I made the wrong choice I have another choice now an opportunity to make a better choice I've got a chance to start over and I promise you and I promise myself I won't make the wrong choice again glances darted between the board members for several moments finally a woman spoke mr. Wade what do you think you would do if released Wade looked at each one of the board members making eye contact with every one of them he then tilted his head upwards considering chapter 2 as he put on his worn tennis shoes in the locker room Wade wasn't sure what to expect he was happy to have the jumpsuit off at last and to no longer be constrained by a pair of cuffs he was free it would take a while to get used to the feeling he pulled his jacket on and stared at his reflection in the nearby mirror he needed to shave more importantly he needed a shower a very long hot shower it had been three grueling years since he had taken what he considered to be a truly dignified bath living in prison meant that you had to forgo certain daily conveniences and Wade was all but ready to reclaim them looking at himself he fought with his sleeves trying to pull them down far enough so that they would cover his highly exposed wrists his clothes no longer fit him he'd be sure to jot down a shopping trip on this list of things to do Wade stepped outside of the locker room and walked with two guards through the rec hall into the reception area he went to the front counter and received his personal belongings it was almost nostalgic ripping open the small packet and emptying out its contents he picked up his three-year-old pack of stale cigarettes his lighter pocket knife and his billfold which was mysteriously missing the $35 Wade had inside of it at the time of his arrest walking it out to the gatehouse was almost too overwhelming for him he soon would be out and about in the city no longer confined by walls gates fences or guards he could start a new life he could finally start over three years in the pen in New York City still hadn't changed a bit Wade stepped foot outside of the taxicab and looked at the city around him what struck him the most wasn't the people walking around nor the tall buildings surrounding him but the sound of it all for too long he had been incarcerated with the same old constant noise the loud clamor of guards walking up and down the hall of inmates shouting of cells opening and closing of chains rattling the long and continuous echoes it had been maddening but things were different now he could hear the sound of cars running people talking horns honking in the distance it was the sound of life and he cherished every ounce of it rifling through his jacket he pulled out a note card containing the address of his new home the early-release program that he had been granted would set him up with temporary residents and employment free of charge all they asked for in return was total obedience to the law as well as their very strict guidelines it wasn't total freedom but he didn't mind he felt like a dog chained to a tree but it was better than being a dog locked inside all day and besides after two years of probation he would be free to go wherever he wanted to do whatever he wanted but for now he would live with what he had crossing the street he caught sight of a payphone he walked over to it dug around inside his pockets for a few quarters and promptly plopped them into the machine he looked at the phone number on the card and dialed it after two rings he was connected yeah I'm trying to reach officer McDaniels wait spoken to the phone I was told to call this number when I was released a few minutes later he was in deep conversation with his parole officer here to contact me every 24 hours you're not to leave the state for the next year under any circumstances McDaniel said over the phone you're to accept the employment you've been given by the parole board and you must also complete your mandatory 30 hours of community service you are in no way allowed to break curfew or any of the guidelines outlined in your contract whatsoever or you'll face further detention Wade sighed should I let you know what I eat for breakfast lunch and dinner as well equipped McDaniels coughed saying look I know it seems excessive but getting out early means that we need to watch you at all times it's how the system works if you're unhappy I could always file a grievance report and get you sent back here if that's what you'd prefer I got it I got it wait frustratingly answered anything else I think that's it we'll send you some paperwork at your new residence to fill out now keep in mind if you get in any kind of trouble or if it looks for a second like you won't be able to support yourself if there's a shadow of a doubt that you can't take care of yourself you're going right back to state pen way to put the pressure on a guy wait thought most importantly Sun just set a plan and stick to it you've got to find your own way the officer finished entering into his apartment Wade couldn't help but have a bit of buyer's remorse the place was a dump its walls were oppressive and the environment was hateful it was a single room and small at that every element of a torn retro suburban home had been jam packed into a single suffocating area its walls were lined with the mockeries of a rusted shower an old dial television set a torn sofa a flimsy mattress and other cheap decorations Wade said his belongings on the rickety table and took a seat he was facing a small 70 style dartboard pinned on top of a large map of the country the wall around it was falling apart and Wade could clearly see a rusted water pipe through the drywall's holes he extended his hand across the table and pulled a plastic cup containing several darts towards him this wasn't exactly what he was expecting somewhere between the idea of being out on the city streets once again and being able to go to bed in a room larger than twelve feet on all sides waited imagine that his new home would be a small taste of heaven it never really clicked in his head that they would shove him in a junk heap on the bad side of town but then again why not it made perfect sense he was a felon he should have never expected to be treated like a king once he was released he was at the bottom of the barrel in terms of socioeconomic status he was a bum he had no cash no car no friends at least none that had tried to contact him Wade picked up a dart and threw it haphazardly at the dartboard not caring to check where it landed what was the point of all this was anything really going to change doubt began to creep into his mind he had been told that this was a chance to start over but how could he start over like this he had been placed in living conditions that were worse than being in prison how could he get better if the opportunities he was given were substandard he threw another Dart this time missing completely sending the dart behind the drywall it hit the pipe and clattered to the ground his whole life had been a missed opportunity he was smart he had been a straight-a student it was two years ahead of the other kids his age in school he was always called the child prodigy but he never could quite live up to his potential things always seemed to get in the way was always bullied picked on and made fun of growing up and his dad certainly hadn't helped things either being in prison was better than being with him but now that Wade was out he wasn't sure if he could reclaim the life that he had lost a knock on the door Wade turned around and looked toward the apartments entrance who would be coming to see him he got up from his seat slowly made his way over to the door and opened it the door quickly flew open and pain instantly shot through Wade's stomach he was shoved backwards and then grabbed forcefully make a sound and it'll be your last Wade felt cold metal being pressed against his chest and when his eyes adjusted he saw his attacker wearing a black hoodie and sporting a scarred cheek the thief had a look of pure adrenaline in his eyes the quiet click of a gun pulsed through Wade's eardrums just just take it easy pal Wade stuttered trying to recover his senses shut up where's your wallet the thief yelled what Wade choked out flustered he felt the gun sink further into his chest and he found it hard to breathe did I stutter the man said your wallet now look buddy I don't have a wallet Wade lied he needed to stall for time to get his bearings and shut up do I look like I'm playing with you where's your money the thief was near breaking point now and Wade realized he couldn't get out of this situation he caved in back pocket but look it's the thief grabbed Wade's wallet forcefully from his back pocket he rifled through it and finding nothing through it vehemently to the ground in anger I'm gonna give you one more chance man where's your money he shouted listen pal would you just listen I just gone out of juvie I've got nothing - Wade was cut short however when the man threw a punch that hit Wade in the stomach hard his knees buckled and he crumpled to the cold floor in pain Wade's eyes blurred he fought to keep conscious to stay awake but eventually a dark haze sank over his eyelids and he felt his head slowly rest on the ground Wade woke with a start and tilted his head up his apartment was empty and the door was hanging open he felt fine for a few moments and then his head began to throb with intense pressure he moaned aloud and rived on the floor helplessly for a few moments before crawling over to the table and pulling himself back up well that was interesting he stated aloud laughing pathetically at himself he took a peek around the room rubbing his temple gently his wallet was gone but the other items from lockup were still there maybe the thief had gotten spooked and left Wade ran a hand through his hair and then spotted it or rather didn't spot it his watch his golden watch his favorite watch gone Wade slammed his fist down on the table and frustration the sound piercing his brain painfully he jumped up from his seat and kicked it over pacing around the room thoughts rushed into his head of everything that had led him to this point images raced through his memory of prison his cell the rec hall the yard the fighting the robbery the gun he snapped out of his trance and scanned the map on the wall he needed to get out the words of the parole officer were echoing through his skull if you get in any kind of trouble or if it looks for a second like you won't be able to support yourself if there's a shadow of a doubt that you can't take care of yourself Wade looked over at the broken hinges of the door left from his intruder there was no question he had to leave if they found out he couldn't go back to prison not after tasting an honest chance at freedom just set a plan and stick to it you've got to find your own way Wade caught his reflection in a broken mirror hanging on the wall he couldn't even stand to look at himself he needed to change to find his own way and he needed to do it now Wade picked up a dart from the plastic cup and looked over the map anywhere would do anywhere but here someplace random someplace unexpected closing his eyes he threw the dart sharply at the wall he gritted his teeth as he heard it impact this would decide everything he opened his eyes and stepped towards the map he placed his hand around the body of the dart and pulled it from its place he lifted up his other hand and lightly touched the mark left behind the hole was aligned perfectly to a small town in southern Kentucky he moved his hand to the side to look at the plot printed lightly in thin black letters was the name of his new home Munich Kentucky Chapter three how could she be late again 20 year-old harmony Wallace raced down the staircase of her very cozy upper-class home taking care not to trip on the second to last step which she always seemed to have trouble keeping track of family photos littered the walls and she could hear the distant chattering of early morning breakfast coming from the kitchen harmony walked into the room and caught sight of her mother and father busying themselves her mother stood by the toaster putting waffles on the plate and making coffee her father an older man of 57 years was sitting comfortably bound in his wheelchair patiently waiting for his meal harmony quickly stepped toward the kitchen counter and began packing her book bag slow down there kiddo you miss breakfast her father said smiling no time daddy I'll be late for class harmony answered she was slowly gaining a reputation for being the last one to arrive to her classroom each day and she made a promise to herself that she would do better I can't honestly expect you kids to get a good education if you can't even eat breakfast in the mornings I'm in college now daddy they don't expect us to run on anything except caffeine and desperation she heard her father chuckle I suppose you're right be home early he asked late harmony replied I'm working two shifts tonight harmony crossed over to the sink and picked up her father's meal taking a sip of his coffee she sat the plate in front of him gently you never slow down do you he said chuckling to himself got a stay ahead to survive she answered kissing him lightly on the cheek as her mother took a seat across from her father harmony walked over to the counter to grab her things wear a coat said Miss Wallace it's still chilly from the rain last night harmony quickly grabbed her coat from the closet and threw it on slinging her bag over her shoulder she made for the door I'll be home tonight love you bye with the slam of the screen door harmony left good morning Munich this is km WZ 102.1 with today's weather expect to get off to a slow start this morning after last night's sudden thunder storm a few power lines were down but electric crews are working to get things restored as soon as possible expect a partly cloudy day with a slight chance of rain high 65 low 44 and now for today's top stories harmony listened intently through her earbuds to the radio The Morning Sun was beginning to peak out across the horizon line of Munich casting a cool light upon the city streets the atmosphere was still muggy from the thunderstorm the night previous yet life still went on cars hustled and bustled through the traffic lights farmers were opening up their barns and people were just waking up ready to go about their daily lives life and Munich was quiet harmony had lived in the town or entire life and almost the entire population knew her by name it was a very small lifestyle living in a town like Munich and harmony yearned for something more she would jump at the chance to leave her life in the small town behind and start over someplace bigger someplace better she needed to move to a city full of opportunity and that was something that Munich didn't provide she was smart though and she knew she wouldn't last long if she wasn't properly prepared so she waited she was going to finish school before venturing out into the world and she needed to make sure that she had enough money to afford living expenses in the big city she had been preparing for a long time and she still had quite a few things to take care of before she would be ready Harmonie passed by the gas station and waved at the owner through the window he waved back and nodded to her politely pedaling a bit faster in time to make the traffic light she slowly slid across the street and around the towns only no biking zone she checked her watch given her current speed she would probably be around 15 minutes late she pressed down further on the pedals knowing that it would ultimately be fruitless she would have to deal with another lecture from her professor what would it be the fifth one this month harmony crossed in front of a stopped bus waved to the driver and hung a sharp left trying to pick up speed Wade exited the bus behind two others he stuffed the small state map into his pocket and looked around so this was Munich he liked it it was small a real-life blink and you'll miss at Cowtown he couldn't help but stand in awe at the vast differences between New York and his new home where the Big Apple was pure noise this place was quiet he could hear birds chirping few cars were in the street the buildings were small there wasn't a crowd in sight it was perfect just the place to go out at Wade scanned the street and caught sight of a gas station a few yards down he pulled his hair behind his face and walked towards it it felt good to clean up Wade finished clipping his hair and set the pair of scissors on the sink it was a horribly uneven haircut but at least it wasn't in his face anymore turning on the hot water he cupped his hands and splash some on his face taking care to not agitate the spot on his chin where he'd cut himself shaving it had been the first real time he had seen himself like this since his incarceration and as he stood in the middle of the gas stations locked men's room he couldn't help but wonder about his friends why hadn't they come to visit him he already knew the answer but deep in his heart he wondered why they hadn't even attempted to see him he wondered if they still cared if she still cared should he call her it would be good to hear her voice one last time to know that she was okay to see if she still thought about him Wade stepped outside the men's room and walked up to the front counter he would put it on his to-do list but first he needed to take care of life's essentials can I help you ask the clerk Wade peered over to the tobacco products could I uh could I get a pack of smokes the clerk eyed him over suspiciously you got any ID Wade opened his mouth to speak but finding no words promptly shut it the clerk made a disappointed snort and shook her head he should have kept the goatee chapter 4 what would happen in such a situation miss Wallace harmony looked up from her Hospital internship form and stared blankly at her professor whoops she probably should have been paying attention around her students who had either been sleeping or taking notes looked over to stare at her uh I'm sorry sir the professor cranked his head to the side and folded his arms have you managed to find something more beneficial than my lecture to spend your time on Miss Wallace no no sir she saw the professor grin clearly soaking up the opportunity to harass her are you sure he said in a mocking voice because if it's any more important than passing my class feel free to tell us all about it she looked around students were peering over at her and laughing at each other embarrassed harmony looked down at her desk it it isn't I'm sorry yes well then can you please tell me what would happen if the tape were to come in contact with an acid instead of a base she didn't even have to look at her notes it would turn a lighter color that would be correct the professor replied the bell sounded marking a new hour the professor looked to the class that would be where we end our lecture for today your assignment is on page 436 it's due Thursday ladies and gentlemen harmony I'd like to see you up here please great as the rest of the class piled out of the room harmony reluctantly walked to the front where her professor was waiting here we go again she thought as the last student exited the classroom her professor turned to look at her harmony look if you have any intention at all of passing my class this semester you're going to have to put forth a little more work ethic than you've been doing he said yes sir is there anything going on that you need help with he questioned no sir I've just been having to juggle between jobs right now and I'm trying to make ends meet around the house look contrary to popular belief I don't get any joy out of beguiling you or the rest of the students he said while sitting himself down on top of his desk leisurely I just want you to succeed harmony didn't have time for this she was on a schedule and a lecture about being late was going to end up making her even more late I understands her she said quickly and thank you harmony turned around and took a step toward the door to leave harmony her professor called sir she said turning to look at him he stared back at her with tight eye contact don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it she nodded I won't and I'm fine thank you harmony stepped outside the classroom and took a few soft steps until out of earshot and then broke into a run harmony flew by on her bike pedaling as fast as possible she couldn't be late twice in the same day it was getting ridiculous she passed by several people on her way to work there were kids playing on the park swing set some hoodlum was stumbling around smoking a cigarette and a strange looking man was standing in an alley why was it that she was the only one who ever seemed to be in a hurry you late pops it'll cost you extra not my fault traffic two men approached one another in a small alleyway one was carrying a large duffel bag dressed in dark clothes and a grey beanie sporting a beard the other a taller man in his 40s walked up nervously man you and I both know this podunk town ain't got traffic I said the man with the bag look I told you it's not my fault you got what I want long as you got my money and hey look but I've got your money don't you worry about that just outside the alley a few yards down in unmarked black van was waiting patiently inside set two men listening to the conversation taking place in the alley over headphones yeah yeah What did he say just make sure it's worth my time they heard the man with the bag say over the airwaves in the driver's seat dressed in full police uniform officer Morgan of the Munich Police Department turned up the volume on his headset it was a routine drug sting they had received several reports of a man selling cocaine in this area and they had sent an undercover officer to purchase drugs from him you're wasting both the times with all this smack and let's hurry this up so I can get back to work came the voice of the undercover detective Dan Palmer Morgan turned to the man in the vans passenger seat there's that work line he's got a visual Morgan said sitting next to him and lazily scribbling on a pad of paper was Deputy Commissioner Frank's wonderful Frank spoke nonchalantly you think this department can actually muster up the ability to catch the guy this time classic Franks Morgan thought always trying to talk down to everyone around him look Frank's you and I both know detective Palmer is an expert at these kinds of things he could have transferred to someplace bigger and done some real good New York Los Angeles even but he stayed here in Kentucky for his family and he still puts in the most work out of the entire department believe me this will be the last day this dealer walks the streets Frank's chuckled I'm not here to trust anyone officer Morgan I'm just here to evaluate your and detective Palmer's performance during this operation just get this guy in cuffs and you can be sure to keep your ridiculously low government salary for another year Morgan let out an aggravated sigh as he turned the van on yes sir the dealer unzipped his bag while he looked around slowly carefully separating two of the front flaps to reveal its contents several bags of cocaine Palmer looked into the bag and nodded looks like this guy's for real he thought he just hoped Morgan was ready to close the deal how much for a bag Palmer asked 8080 Palmer replied in mock shock trying his best to keep the act up I told you is gonna cost you extra for making me wait the dealer replied you best be here early next time I don't know Palmer speculated - pure Palmer looked around and slowly nodded all right I got you Palmer reached into his back pocket for his cuffs and by the time he realized his mistake he was too late as he reached into his pocket he saw the wire from his one-way radio sticking out from his jacket any hope that perhaps the dealer hadn't seen it was instantly shattered when Palmer felt himself being kicked to the dirt the rocky surface of the ground tour against Palmer's jacket as he made impact and a handcuffs he had reached for fell limply to his side the dealer let out a curse as he shoved his foot into Palmer's side once more and he took off Palmer grunted loudly in pain as he tucked his head in how could he have been so stupid why didn't he check to make sure the wire would stay in place beforehand he inhaled sharply trying desperately to catch his breath as he pulled a headset from his jacket pocket runner going down the opposite side circle around to cut him off Palmer heard the distant screeching of tires as he knew Morgan and Frank's would take care of business he lifted himself up put his earpiece in properly pulled out his sidearm and flipped the safety off be aware suspect may be armed don't lose this guy looks like he's headed down West Street I'm in pursuit on a6 Palmer shouted taking off toward the dealer game time Chapter five Wade walked down the sidewalk at the local park flicking his finished cigarette onto the street he placed his hands in his pockets and looked over the horizon just get up the nerve to do it he told himself but he wasn't ready yet he needed more time Wade crossed into the main area of the park and headed towards a small pond he needed somewhere quiet to think to get ready this was the biggest decision he was ever going to make in his life his last he stood overlooking the pond closed his eyes and let the subtle breeze wash over him a few drops of almost rain hit his forehead he bent over and picked up a small rock looking it over this place was quiet he turned the rock on its side and through it with a sharp curve sending it skipping lightly across the small pond once twice three times and then a series of small skips that Wade had never really ever thought counted his mind went back to when he would go to his aunts boat out on the dock he would stand on the banks of the lake all five years three feet and two inches of him skipping rocks and watching the boats float on the river sailing was his guilty pleasure that he rarely got to take part in but he cherished any moment that it would present itself to him he remembered when he was eight he tried to swim in the lake for the first time without a lifejacket his aunt and uncle had always made him wear one but he snuck out that afternoon to see if he could do without it he swam out a bit too far from the boat and the waves started to take him away from safety he desperately kicked his legs as hard as his eight year old body allowed him to but try as he might he just couldn't fight against the tide he had to yell for his aunt to come get him and after the entire ordeal was over he had tried to stay away from the water as much as possible for Wade the episode on the boat had been the first time he ever thought he was going to die he stared down at himself and wondered how far had he managed to float out by now he skipped another rock and breathes heavily trying to erase the thoughts from his mind digging in his pocket he pulled out the last remaining cigarette he had managed to swipe from the front counter of the gas station placing it in his mouth he took out his small silver lighter he had received from lockup he flicked the lighter a few times to no avail holding it up to his ear he shook empty wait toss the lighter into the pond watching it hit the water a long distance away he placed the smoke back into his jacket pocket don't suppose you could spare a center to a voice set behind him Wade spun around startled slowly walking up to him was an elderly homeless man he was wearing a very torn overcoat a scarf and he smelled terrible his hair was long and knotted and his face had patches of dirt all around it paired with a small set of grey eyes that carried a look of defeat just a little bit of change he asked sombrely Wade looked to the ground sorry I've got nothing for you Wade finally replied the man stared at Wade for a moment and then slowly began to walk away as he turned around Wade caught a glimpse of a bottle tucked haphazardly into the man's coat pocket Wade thought for a moment actually Wade threw out causing the man to turn back around to him I've got some spare change if you wouldn't mind selling me something of yours Wade nodded down toward the bottle in the man's pocket it wasn't the best stuff but it worked wait thought as he took another drink he was now sitting quite comfortably on a park bench his newly purchased bottle in hand it had been three years since his last drink and he honestly didn't miss it that much it never really been into hard liquor and tasting from the bottle he now had in his possession he wasn't quite sure he found it that enjoyable Wade dug around in his jacket pocket and pulled out the other item he managed to take from the gas station undetected a small pocket-sized leather book weight opened it up and slowly flipped through its blank pages he didn't know why he had taken it but nevertheless it found its way into his jacket ever since he had become a teenager and started high school he had gotten a thrill out of taking things out of evading capture out of not being caught but he had been caught and getting caught once was all it really took he was tired of prison of being haunted with his past he needed to get it all out of his head before he did what he had travelled to Munich to do and that meant calling her weight looked up and I had a payphone standing on the other side of the parkway he took one last drink and made his way towards it time to get it over with it's the last thing you'll ever have to worry about Wade told himself as he picked up the phone he put his hand in his front pocket and wrestled around to find some coins he pulled out a quarter and a single penny he had given the rest of its change for the liquor Wade stared at the bottle that he had set on top of the payphone and discussed it stared back laughing at his pathetic predicament frustrated Wade punched in a few numbers that correspond with a sticker plastered beside the keypad collect call for came the automatic voice Wade punched in a few more numbers and prepared himself connecting the phone line began to rain Wade swallowed looking around the park as if searching for a nearby exit looking for a reason to be able to hang up the phone another ring Wade looked up at the payphone sign while the lion rang twice more he couldn't do it Wade slammed the phone down on the receiver and hung up he rubbed his head in shame and then shoved it into the payphone hard why was he such an idiot why couldn't he work up the guts for a single phone call was he afraid she hadn't visited him during his entire stint three years they've been so close and yet three years passed without a word no letter no call nothing had she found someone else of course she did there's not a single reason she would wait for you disheartened Wade left the park and walked down the street crossing into an empty alley he staggered a bit as he finished the bottle this was all pointless if he couldn't get up the nerve then he was just wasting time Wade chucked the bottle against the brick wall sending glass everywhere sitting down on the pavement he ran his hand through his hair tears were coming from his eyes and he made no effort to stop them it didn't matter now none of it mattered kicked up ur wheels as fast as possible finally arriving at the restaurant she gave a wave to several customers eating outside as she rode by them swinging her bike around to the back she parked and hopped off racing inside harmony walked into the restaurants kitchen through the back door breathing heavily from pedaling so much she threw her bag on the ground and hung her jacket up a voice came from the adjacent room u leik girl Steven a young man in his early 20s peeked through the doorway at harmony he was tall and sported a purple hairnet which kept his curly red hair pulled behind him harmony looked at him I know I know I got out of class late it won't happen again she said whatever I can't keep covering for you all the time I got it I got it came Harmony's reply Steven was the closest thing to a brother that harmony had in the past year he was always dependable and easy to rely on cool and collected he was a nice breath of fresh air from harmonies routinely busy schedule harmony crossed into the main kitchen where Steven was slicing bread she headed to a nearby cabinet and pulled out an apron and a hat she put them on while smiling to him and crossed over to the sink to wash her hands how's your dad doing by the way Steven asked as she scrubbed in he's fine Harmonie replied he's got a doctor's appointment in about a month any change Steven questioned not really well I'll keep praying thanks said harmony I really appreciate it Steven was that kind of good-natured soul that always made you feel better when you were down ever since her father had been diagnosed she found it hard to talk to people about the possibility of slowly losing her father over time Steven for all harmony could tell was pretty religious and devout in his faith he always had the right thing to say to cheer her up or even just to make her laugh cheer up harmony he said brightly you've got that gloomy look on your face it's gonna be a beautiful day tomorrow get ready for it harmony laughed to herself okay maybe sometimes he was a little too cheerful but harmony didn't mind it was a nice break from the people she attended college with most of them seemed like the type of people that only knew how to function while being unhappy and she didn't want to become like that besides Steven was fun and easy to work with during the afternoon and harmony wasn't sure if she'd give it up for anything did I ever tell you that you're too happy all the time Steven harmony said grand yep but I ignored it Stephen responded with a cheesy smile he passed her a pair of disposable gloves which she put on whatever hey did you hear about an opening down at the bookstore she said while looking at him Stephen grunted and peeked over at her speculating an opening don't you have three or four jobs already I just need to get a little bit of cash together harmony returned apparently a lot more than a little bit when he gonna start slowing down harmony pulled down a loaf of bread and began slicing it when I kick the bucket most likely half talking to herself Stephen had a point she had been working herself to death but she couldn't take a break right now there was too much left to do once she got enough money together and finished school she'd be free to do anything she wanted she just hoped her life would still be worth living by then harmony passed the rest of the loaf to Stephen at the sound of the door chime she walked through the swinging doors out to the front counter where a man and his child were waiting to order their meal harmony looked at them and smiled politely pushing the thoughts to the back of her mind hi can I take your order Chapter six Palmer cut across the grass and ran full pace he heard a horn honk and witnessed Morgan swerving the police van sharply into a parked position on the side of the road is a group of old men sitting at a nearby barber shops front porch looked on Morgan and Frank's jumped out of the van both drawing their weapons you see him Palmer asked frantically finally meeting up with him he took this opportunity to take a short breath now we didn't see him Frank shouted disgusted what happened someone tipped him off what no he he Palmer fumbled around with his words how could he explain himself did he cut across an alley Morgan interjected frustrated palmer pointed at both of them I told you to to cut him off cut him off from where Frank shot back loudly you never gave us a location I gave you West Street West Street in what you gave us nothing Palmer pushed past Frank's and scanned the horizon Frank's turned around advanced toward Palmer what kind of performance is this from my senior detective he roared shut up Frank's Palmer cut in making a move toward him as well Morgan step between them and held both of them apart Hey look we're not getting anywhere standing around arguing like this he said Palmer backed away from Frank slowly eyes hot with frustration did you get a positive ID Morgan asked Palmer as calmly as possible yes it's the guy Palmer shouted I'll call it in Morgan said while pulling out his radio Oh for cryin out loud came to put out voice of Frank's Palmer ran his hands through his hair and craned his neck over toward the adjacent street all right look we'll split up he called I'll take West Morgan you go south Frank's can take east Frank's holstered his sidearm and shot his hands into the air looking at Palmer and what if he's decided to double back he complained Palmer put his firearm away and prepared himself for another run he looked over giving one last glance to Frank's three out of four is better than nothing at all even you want to know that now let's go Frank's looked at Morgan who ducked into the police van call it in go south he commanded roughly yes sir Palmer turned around and broke into a full sprint determined to fix his mistake wayde's stood next to the payphone listening to endless rings he had finally worked up the nerve to call again and he promised himself he wouldn't hang up this time hi you've reached Catherine I can't get to the phone right now so leave me a message wait opened his mouth to speak what would he say how would he say it he hung the phone back up and stepped away from it there was nothing to say nothing that would matter anyway he and Catherine might have been dating at the time but three years had gone by she had moved on and found someone else she wasn't interested in him anymore why would she be what did a low-life like him have to offer her Wade staggered back over to the park bench and plopped himself down he ran his hands through his greasy hair and hung his head low that was the end of it there was no one left to look up no one who cared to speak with him at least he was alone there was nothing more for him to do Wade slowly lifted himself from the bench and made for the exit with a thud he accidentally ran into a man walking by him hey watch where you going kid the man shouted sorry Wade mumbled meekly as Wade walked away he heard the man shouting to thin air angrily this is Frank's I'm getting nothing on my end the guy probably doubled back Harmonie stood at the front counter twirling her hair lazily it was a slow afternoon at the restaurant she leaned against the cash register and peered out to the parking lot wondering if any cars were in the process of pulling in nothing suddenly she heard her cellphone beep placing her hand in her pocket she punched a button down to shut the sound off and pulled it out to see who was calling the day care harmony looked around the restaurant and feeling satisfied that everything would go smoothly while she was gone made her way into the employee restroom in the back hello she spoke into the phone upon locking the door Harmonie you coming into work today it was Lacey one of Harmony's co-workers at the daycare yeah but my shift isn't until four o'clock harmony responded there was a pause on the other end would you mind coming in a little early the school just called and told me that my brother is sick so I need to go pick him up harmony tilted her head back there was always something I'm in the middle of class right now I don't think I can make it harmony lied did you call Karen she said to call you harmony side to herself and rubbed her forehead thinking the daycare didn't know that she had a different job they had simply assumed she was a student and harmony hadn't bothered to correct them if she didn't handle this situation properly they could find out about her job at the restaurant she wouldn't risk it what time do you need me there harmony asked annoyed can you get here by 1:00 that could be a problem harmony thought to herself hold on a minute I'll check she told Lacey harmony said her phone down and stepped out of the restroom she would need to make some quick decisions to pull this off she crossed into the kitchen and found stephen mixing some ingredients in a bowl humming Amazing Grace to himself hey Steven harmony called innocently hey yeah he replied cheekily listen I know it's short notice and all she began but would you mind watching the rest of my shift Steven stop stirring and spun around facing her are you serious I'm really sorry said harmony something came up at work and they need my this is your work girl Steven pointed out harmony step toward him she would need a bargain she wrapped herself around him in a bear hug causing his cheeks to turn as red as his hair pretty please I'll buy you lunch for the whole week pretty please she pleaded sweetly even stared at her for a moment and then smiled lunch and breakfast you mean not exactly made of money you know harmony returned whatever lunch is fine Arne smiled her omission is success Thanks she said hurrying towards the restroom I'll clock you out Stephen called harmony nodded by harmony returned to the restroom and picked up her phone checking her watch she figured she'd be able to make it there in time if she cut across a few alleys hey you still there she asked lacy yeah I'll be there at 1:00 ok thanks a lot harmony no problem harmony hung up the phone and placed it in her pocket heading out to the restroom door she took off her hat and apron placing them quickly in a nearby basket she headed towards the back door and retrieved a book bag and jacket once out the door she swung herself over her bike and smacked her heel against the kickstand setting one foot solidly on the ground she pivoted the bike and turned it around taking off toward the daycare as fast as possible Chapter seven throwing himself over the fence Palmer hit the ground with a start he searched the street from top to bottom coming out empty-handed where was this guy at he couldn't have gotten too far away Palmer anticipated that at most the dealer had managed to get a minutes worth of a head start Palmer jogged around to the front of a local building trying to catch his breath as best he could guy must've been cutting corners constantly Palmer thought come on Palmer said out loud to himself in frustration he's gotta be around here some Palmer froze off to his left he caught sight of him the dealer was hunched over his upper body stuck inside of a car he seemed to be hot wiring Palmer raised his weapon and took aim freeze he shouted the dealer looked up surprised and in one swift motion pointed a revolver towards Palmer and fired off several shots dirt kicked up around Palmer's heels as he fired back once and the front windshield of the car shattered the dealer forcibly threw himself to the ground behind the car and fired back blindly as the sound of bullets flew past him Palmer took cover behind a nearby wall and pulled out his radio this is detective Palmer he said trying to keep calm I need backup on south and main suspect is armed and taking fire Palmer pocketed the radio and pulled himself out from the cover of the wall into a firing position the dealer took off down an alley and Palmer rose to his feet grabbing the radio once more suspect is on foot and heading south I'm in pursuit keeping his weapon closed Palmer ran after him Wade traipsed around the outskirts of the town slowly walking over a bridge his eyes were damp and his head was throbbing in pain he knew what he needed to do next but he hadn't worked up the nerve lifting himself up with the steel railing he looked down the river several yards below him jagged rocks outstretched the body of water and wade swallowed he looked over the horizon should he jump it might not work what if the fall alone didn't kill him it would be painful beyond belief and he would lay there for several days before he either bled out or someone found him and if the latter happened he would be sent back to jail and that was torture enough he needed a better plan lowering himself to the railing he scanned the town if he was going to do this he needed to go out in a way that would be the least agonizing something quick something simple something final walking down the road now across from the grocery store Wade saw it a small building with a large yellow sign that stretched forth to the sky the answer to all his problems the solution to everything Munich pawn and gun she might actually make it there on time harmony glided along the road towards the daycare skating over a small puddle a car passed by on the opposite end of the street and she waved politely smiling she felt bad leaving Steven to do all the work but she couldn't risk losing her job at the daycare it might have paid less but harmony needed the extra money that it offered Steven was a good friend though and he didn't seem to put up too much of a complaint she would pay him back later Harmony's thought was cut short at the sound of grinding gears her bikes front pedal began to lock up and she let out a Yelp as the bike jerked to a halt sending her forward she put out a hand to catch herself threw down the kickstand and hopped off the bike of course it would break thought harmony why on earth would anything go right for her today did she really honestly believe that things could be looking up she pushed the bike off the street and over to the alley harmony kneeled down onto her knees and surveyed her bike something was wrong with the brake chord harmony ran her hand across it lightly maybe if she could harmony screamed she felt herself being lifted up off her feet shut up shouted a deep voice from behind her the man yanked her hair with force one hand was across her throat his other groping her chest tightly harmonies feet flailed knocking her bike to the ground help me she screamed a hand dropped over her mouth and she began to be pulled into the alley shut up for I put a bullet in your head harmony kicked her legs into the air trying to break free but to no avail the man had a firm grip on her and she couldn't get loose he dragged her into the alley and threw her roughly against the wall pain shot through her back as she felt her body impact with the cement wall behind her and her eyes finally focused on the man he pulled out a small revolver from his back pocket and pressed it deep into her neck harmony gagged and tried to gasp for air freeze behind her attacker to see another man pointing a gun at him Harmony's collar was grabbed and she was spun forward to revolve her place directly against her head shut up her attacker yelled to the other man you take one step closer and she dies take it easy man no one needs to get hurt here harmony felt the gun click against her head you drop your piece and no one will there was a short pause the attacker pulled harmony closer I'm not saying it again drop your gun he shouted holding harmony tighter what should he do Palmer stood a few yards away from the alley his gun aimed directly at the dealer he had a clear shot every part of his mind was telling him to take it but he didn't know if he should risk it he already made one mistake to date did he really want to risk putting someone else in danger frustrated Palmer said his gun to the ground the girl stared at him unblinkingly he silently screaming at him for help all right guns gone now just let her go palmer shouted the dealer pulled the girl to her feet and looked at him shut up and stay there he yelled at Palmer Palmer obeyed not moving an inch he was defenseless now but much more than his own safety he couldn't risk having her hurt the dealer dragged the girl out of the alley and took off holding her clothes at his side Palmer waited two seconds and then made for his gun he picked it up and grabbed his radio this is detective Palmer be advised suspect has a hostage repeat suspect has a hostage Chapter eight Wade rummaged through the supply room as quietly as possible the owner would probably be back from lunch at any moment so he needed to hurry all of the items were locked in different gates and he couldn't find a key to any one of them finally he managed to get hold of a crowbar in the rooms closet Wade made his way to the center Locker propping the lock up he raised the crowbar above his head took aim and swung down missed blame the booze Wade thought to himself he lifted the crowbar once more in Swan with a loud crack the lock bent sharply in words Wade swung once more this time severing the lock in half Wade removed the fragment of the lock that was still attached to the gate and tossed it on the ground he lifted the gates lever upwards and pulled the gate opened up smoothly and Wade pulled out one of the many boxes it housed he set it on a nearby table and propped it open removing the foam covering he withdrew a very sleek very smooth black handgun he walked towards the other end of the supply room and reached into an unlocked cabinet to retrieve ammunition this should do the trick Wade had surrendered himself from the possibility that he would change ever since leaving New York his plan had been simple tie up any loose ends and then finish it he wanted to end it all and all the countless days of feeling empty of feeling solace he was tired of running from the inevitable he had suffered his whole life and things weren't going to get any better Wade heard the front door of the shop open he turned around and peeked out of the storage room the shop owner was moving several boxes into the storefront through the doorway and Wade silently slipped out from storage and crept his way out of the building through the back door that he had broken in from quickly he stuffed the gun into his pocket and left the scene she was going to die harmony cowered in fear as she was pushed against another wall the man had dragged her along for about a block before deciding she was too much trouble had he decided to go on without her and if he had what did that mean for her give me your bag please don't kill me she whimpered Harmony's cheeks tongue as the man slapped her violently across the face I said give me your bag the man forcibly grabbed harmony by the hair and yanked backwards he placed his hand on her bag and pulled it toward himself he began a rummage through it and harmony stood still frozen against the wall fearing for her life it was time Wade sat behind a building resting slightly against a cooling unit preparing himself where had he gone wrong did it even matter now did the path one travel on really matter once he reached the final destination so many things had happened to him and in such a short amount of time three years ago he had entered into prison with the promise that things would be different once he got out and yet here he was by different did they mean worse he was at the lowest point in his life it searches mine and finally come to the conclusion he was at rock-bottom there was nothing to live for nowhere for him to go no one who cared for him he was empty he nothing to the world and the world meant nothing to him he'd been chewed up spit out and belittled to being less than dirt anytime he tried to do something for himself anytime he tried to fix things there was always another obstacle in his path ready to knock him down again that was all life had to offer he could do without weight looked around to make sure he was alone and then pulled the gun out from his jacket pocket he ejected the empty magazine and dug around in the jacket for a bullet he pulled one out a single golden trinket no more than an inch tall was about to be his salvation from everything felt almost poetic summarizing his entire existence into such a miniscule object how can something so small offers so many things when he himself could put forth nothing of value he slipped the bullet into the magazine and made sure the spring was functioning properly should he write a note leave a message what would he say who would he even say it to no he would leave this between himself and the gun the only two objects in the world that meant anything to him the gun meant an out it meant relief it meant freedom wade looked up to the horizon it was fitting seeing the Sun obscured by the clouds he raised the gun to his head and pressed the barrel lightly against his temple a few moments of silence passed as Wade shut his eyes tightly and held his breath I'm sorry he whispered flashed through his mind of his mother all the pain she suffered the things she had to endure his father the things he did to her and to him the prison that terrible place isolation loneliness his cell the four corners the smell of the air sound of the inmates all flooding back to him as if his whole life was playing out inside of his mind in time for the finale his lungs were aching for error his brain started to slow down weight felt his finger tense up as he began to pull the trigger back the sound of a scream caused Wade's eyes to shoot open and he lowered the gun as he took a sharp inhale he threw the gun as far away from himself as he could and stared down at it in disbelief tears were streaming down his cheeks and he covered his face in his hands as he took an unsteady breath he heard the scream once more and his head pulled itself up to look around something was wrong the man threw her bag aside and kicked her feet out from under her causing the back of her head to hit the wall hard I told you to shut up he shouted putting his boot on her shoulder and pressing hard harmony let out a cry of pain and then felt herself getting picked up by her jacket once again you're lucky I need you alive so they don't gun me down he said putting his face millimeters away from hers she felt his hand glide over her waist and he grabbed her hip maybe if I'm lucky enough to get out of here you and I can spend some alone time together harmony spat in his face if he was going to hurt her she wasn't going to make it fun for him he cursed angrily and slammed his knee into her side grabbing her neck Hey harmony felt his grip loosen and she turned to see someone walking slowly up to their position he had to have been a teenager he was dressed in worn-out clothes that were too small for him his hair was uneven and messy he walked slowly as if in a daze let her go he shouted defiantly once you say to me her attacker called back pure rage building in his dilated eyes I said let her go are you gonna have a bigger problem on your hands as harmony felt the grip around her neck loosen the man threw her bag to the ground and stared at the boy you best go back where you came from if you know what's good for you he threatened harmony saw the boy quickened his pace pulling out a small silver knife from his back pocket last chance the boy shouted as he closed in Harmony's attacker threw her aside and pointed the gun towards him I got you last chance right here pal drop that knife and turn around harmony hit the ground hard cutting her palm open on a jagged rock sticking up from the dirt should she make a run for it she turned to look at the boy who continued to walk towards them he was going to get himself killed she needed to do something or else no one would get out of this situation alive wayde's step closer and closer gun or no gun the man wasn't going to scare him away Wade tightened the grip on his pocketknife he wasn't scared to die this could be his last chance to go out as a hero I said to drop that knife Wade moved into a full sprint clenching the knife in his fist he would be on him in two seconds the man let out a yell and Wade watched as the girl kicked him hard in the stomach knocking him off balance the man pulled the trigger and the bullet hit a dumpster missing Wade by a mile Wade collided with him knocking the gun away Wade threw a right hook but the man ducked just in time to catch him with a swing of his own his Wade lost his footing the man lifted him high and threw him against the wall Wade felt his back slam against solid force and the knife flew from his hands almost as fast as the air from his lungs Wade stumbled back onto solid ground and took another shot to his face he needed to focus Wade duck the next blow and through a lefty catching the man's shoulder they traded shots and Wade lost all hearing when he was hit with a surprise punch the man kicked Wade to the ground and he laid there trying desperately to get back up and catch his breath Wade saw the man pick up his knife and take a step toward him Wade's eyes lost focus the sense of sound came rushing back to him and he heard the man yell out in pain Wade shook his head and looked up the man was lying on the ground unconscious with the girl standing over him holding a metal pipe and carrying an expression of shock bloodied and bruised Wade lifted himself up and gave the man one final kick the girl dropped the pipe and huddled against the wall Thanks wait said looking at her same to you she returned quietly wait limped over to the side of the building and picked up his knife freeze wait looked up to see two men coming toward him aiming guns one was in a suit the other in a police uniform his basic instincts kicked in and he turned around to go the other way another man appeared from the opposite end with a pistol drawn on him as well drop your weapons son on the ground now there was nowhere to run he was sandwiched in he heard the girls screaming reluctantly Wade tossed his knife to the ground and dropped to his knees hands raised his cheek tore against the grounds textured surface as the officer pushed his head to the ground and his wrists stung sharply as an ice-cold set of handcuffs locked into place chapter nine so much for the best of intentions Wade thought to himself as he was being escorted down the hallway of the Munich Police Department his wrists were raw from the familiar grip of cold metal cuffs leading him along was an officer who called himself Morgan Wade got the distinct feeling that the man was rather new at his job by the way he walked policeman always had that walk that established themselves as supreme authorities but Morgan was different judging by the lack of classic decorative patches worn by most officers way deuced that Morgan hadn't been at his job for more than a year then again it was a small town things might have worked differently in Munich so Wade wasn't quite ready to put all his chips on the table a buzzer sounded as Wade was led into a small room containing a table and two chairs interrogation room Wade looked around and noticed four solid walls without a mirror the department must not have been able to afford one Wade laughs to himself at the split second idea of making a run for it in such a poorly designed building take a seat and wait for a while the detective will be in to speak with you shortly said Morgan Wade sat in the seat furthest from the door and sent his shackled hands on the table looking up he noticed an old CCTV camera on the ceiling pointed at him the red dot underneath the lens was blinking repeatedly Morgan exited the room and Wade took a breath game over he should have ended things when he had the chance but then again would she still be alive a chance to catch her name it was a shame really she was the first girl he had really interacted with in any ways since how long it had been regardless she was in trouble and he had helped her was a different feeling being the hero not good but somehow different the first time he had been arrested Wade was guilty he was the criminal he deserved every bit of what he got but this time was different this time he was justified this time he was the good guy at least he thought he was Wade stared down at his bound hands which he was restlessly tapping on the table in beat with the cameras small red dot a buzzer sounded and the detective walked in he was about an inch or so taller than Wade which wasn't saying very much he was dressed in a white button-up shirt and cliche business slacks carrying a file his shoulder holster was empty but Wade managed to catch a glimpse of the detective shining gold police shield which bore in large lettering the words senior detective well looks like we've both had quite a morning the detective said I'm detective Dan Palmer by the way Wade remains silent and Palmer took a seat in the opposite chair setting his folder on the table he opened it up and skimmed through it for a few moments just been reading through your file he said quite a jacket for 18 years old Wade stared down at the table not making eye contact Palmer flipped through the folder some more reading top to bottom several documents Charlie Wade released from juvenile detention just yesterday on good behavior he paraphrased aloud you had three more years on your sentence but the parole board decided you were doing well enough to be released back into society ahead of schedule albeit on probation Wade swallowed in his heart he already knew the answer but the question still remained would he be sent back Palmer shut the folder gently and looked up at Wade to speak let's make no mistake according to what that girl says you're the hero here Wade looked up and locked eyes with Palmer had he just been thanked there's no telling what that guy would have done if you hadn't intervened Palmer continued and in truth I'm all but ready to call you the Good Samaritan if it weren't for the issue of you breaking your probation you've had a warrant out for your arrest and unfortunately doing a good deed doesn't wipe away every bad one sure seems to help highlight them though Wade returned bitterly Wade and Palmer stared at each other look I'm not the best when it comes to things like this but there's nothing I can do Palmer answered there are rules we have to follow for the greater good you broke probation and you were involved in a crime that breaks the terms of your early release agreement Wade turned his attention back to his hands the classic it's not my problem treatment he dealt with it before plenty of times so what happens to me now Wade asked you're going to be transferred back to prison and you'll serve the remainder of your time until you're 21 you'll no longer be eligible for parole Wade nodded his heart sinking that was it no more free passes it would be another three years if he could even last that long if he even wanted to look wait I don't know exactly what's going on but I look at you and I see a good kid said Palmer a kid that knows right from wrong a kid that deserved another chance and when you got it you threw it away how come there's a fair question why had he thrown everything away why instead of living on a leash of freedom did he choose to simply end it all was he really that miserable his life was indeed at a low point but had he really hit rock bottom after a while Wade looked up and stared at the wall behind Palmer then he spoke when you grow up like me and you live the life that I lived you don't have many friends and when you get thrown in the pen you've got no one Wade felt tears coming but held them back and when you spend three years by yourself waiting for that second chance hoping and praying and you finally get it you can feel new waits eyes burned but when you get back home you come back to where it all started you realize that everyone else is left and moved on you're just as alone in the big wide world as you were in that tiny little cell yeah find yourself wanting everything to go back to the way it was before even though before it was nothing but pain every day because in truth feeling pain Wade refocused on Palmer staring directly at him it's better than feeling nothing Palmer and Wade sat there looking at each other for a few moments Wade couldn't read Palmer's expression and didn't know for sure what to say next finally Palmer blinked as if pulling himself out of a train of thought I've got to go contact your supervisor and let him know that you're being transferred Palmer got up from the table making for the door when Wade asked tomorrow detective wait called the had been burning in him for several hours and he had to know the answer Palmer turned around how is she Palmer lifted an eyebrow confused at the question the girl wait clarified how's she doing Palmer closed the folder and tucked it under his arm as the buzzer sounded grateful he answered heading out the door chapter 10 as the door to the holding cells shut behind him Palmer made his way to the lobby to say that today had been a long day would have been quite the understatement what was supposed to be a routine drug bust ended up becoming the biggest headache Palmer had dealt with and at least the past six months he felt bad for the kid the girl would have most likely ended up in the hospital or even dead if he hadn't come to her rescue and now he was being sent to prison Palmer had seen firsthand what a double-edged sword the legal system could be but it didn't feel right letting a kid like that get cut down Palmer reached the end of the hallway and stood in front of the door to the lobby he could only imagine what kind of whirlwind was awaiting him from Frank's Deputy Commissioner Frank's and he had butted heads on a continual basis while it was true that Frank's was technically his superior Palmer had far more experience and skill though Franks would never admit to it Palmer had been enlisted at the Federal Bureau of Investigation's spending a good five years in service to the Department of Justice he had been a special liaison with the Central Intelligence Agency and had lived in over four different countries after a decade of service to his country he had decided to retire from federal work and try his hand at being a detective he had never forgotten his first day walking into an interview at the Munich Police Department Frank's had questioned him for over an hour about almost everything under the Sun being an ambitious man himself Frank's just couldn't wrap his mind around Palmer's wish to essentially climb down the totem pole still he had enlisted Palmer regardless but Palmer never could quite shake the feeling that Frank saw him as a threat Frank's took great joy in reminding him on a daily basis who was in charge and this had led to several rather heated discussions to make matters worse Palmer was facing his yearly performance review run by none other than Frank's himself and if Palmer didn't perform well he could risk losing his job how's he doing Frank's asked as Palmer walked into the lobby Morgan and Frank's had been waiting for him to return from questioning Palmer side saying kids got a record he's being transferred back to his parole site tomorrow Frank's furrowed his brow and a classic expression of frustration I was referring to our dealer detective Palmer he said hot Lee Palmer lifted his hand up and rubbed his head write him the real issue oh sorry Palmer apologized he's in custody facing three to five his hearings in a week Frank's snatched the files out of Palmer's hand well that is wonderful he quipped lifting the folder up to Palmers face and I hope you'll be there at the hearing to explain exactly why the Munich Police Department has to rely on innocent fugitive bystanders in order to catch its drug dealers look the guy got away Palmer fought back it wasn't the first time something like that had happened it was a routine mistake and we fixed it Palmer knew he had no real excuse and Frank's clearly picked up on this he opened up the file lazily scribbled his signature and tossed the folder back to Palmer um detective keep in mind that your performance review and still ongoing he said with a great deal of arrogance Palmer took a breath careful not to lose his cool answering fully aware of that sir and believe me I'll make sure that nothing like this ever happens again I certainly hope it doesn't detective Palmer Frank said leaving the lobby and heading toward his office finally able to let out some steam Palmer stepped over to his filing cabinet opened it up placed the file in its proper place and slammed it shut roughly Morgan turned a blind eye and made for his desk which was located directly behind Palmers thanks for running point back there Palmer called to him Morgan sat in his chair and leaned back making eye contact with him hey listen Dan don't let him get to you I'm sure the review will I know I know it'll go just fine Palmer finished for him taking a seat at his own work area still doesn't change the fact that he's right though Palmer continued I messed up it was a rookie mistake and it put a lot of people at risk was stupid to me to let things get that far out of hand and I deserved the punishment that Frank's will inevitably reward me with Morgan gave him a slap on the shoulder trying to cheer him up hey let me take you out for a drink tonight Palmer shook his head can't promise Sherri I'd be home for dinner Morgan's stacked a few papers together and shut the light off on his desk suit yourself he said standing up to leave to have a good night you too Morgan Palmer responded as he headed out the door Palmer was left to himself giving him some much-needed quiet to think about the day Morgan was a good cop Palmer had first started working with him around eight months ago he was picking up the work routine faster than Palmer himself had he was the best driver on the force and he knew how to handle himself in the field Palmer had regularly been impressed with how cool Morgan managed to stay throughout the day he never got into an argument and he seemed to always know how to keep everyone calm in situations under control would Morgan have made the same mistake he did somehow Palmer knew in his heart that Morgan would have checked the wire double-checked in fact Morgan was a perfectionist and he always made sure that everything was in working order he was the kind of guy who would wake up every morning to clean and check his firearm to see if everything was an above satisfactory conditions Palmer then thought about himself was he that committed the much of a perfectionist did he show as much care and concern for his job was he getting lazy there had to be some explanation as to why he had slipped up so many times in a rather simple procedure he had done far more complicated and far more dangerous things in his past while working in the field what was the reason for his sudden drop in proficiency was he getting too old the thought of retirement hadn't even occurred to him before Palmer rubbed his forehead and let out a yawn he was just having a bad day everyone did every now and then he just needed to get home and unwind sherry would be able to cheer him up and the thought of a long nights rest wasn't that bad either Palmer switched off his computer and turned off the desk lamp he stood up packed his things and clocked out heading out to the parking lot the feeling of the early evening wind calmed his nerves and he took a deep breath he would put the thoughts of the drug bust of Franks and Wade aside for now he could tackle all of those issues in the morning the thoughts of family dinner and sleep filled his mind and palmer walked up to his car eager to face them Chapter eleven wade sat on the ground of his small cell in Munich staring up at the ceiling tomorrow he be transferred back to New York and quite a great deal of punishment would be waiting for him Wade turned himself around and lay on his back the cold ground of his cell pushed against his body and made it feel like he was laying on ice Wade rubbed his side felt like he had cracked a rib but he wasn't going to let the police know it he needed the pain cuts and bruises on his face chest and back made him feel alive he had helped someone he had seen a problem and he had fixed it and for some reason being part of the solution made him feel as if he was worth something again he had tried to end it all but Wade was starting to see things differently there were still things that he could do there were still people out there who needed help and for today he had managed to help one of them could he have found a reason to be free come home Palmer walked through the front door of his single-story home and hung his jacket up his house was the kind that was always unspeakably clean with fresh flowers decorating almost every room his wife Sherri liked it that way and had made it a rule to make sure everything was as tidy as possible throughout the day she walked into the front room and greeted him with a kiss on the cheek how was work honey Palmer loosened his tie and unbuttoned the upper section of his shirt no worse than usual he said without a hint of worry traceable yours just peachy Sherri said smiling hey chief huh well I like the sound of that Palmer answered chuckling to himself Palmer walked into the living room and looked around the TV as usual was turned on with the volume going full blast and his son Collin sat playing a video game callin how his skull Palmer shouted over the television Collin put a hand through his thick blond hair in an attempt to imitate his mother just peachy he answered sarcastically Palmer looked at his son and amusement he turned to his wife pointing at the television how long has he been in front of that thing today he asked about an hour Cherie responded giving a small smile yeah an hour my foot Palmer said making his way toward the kitchen he knows he's got you to cover for him what her mother's for yeah yeah Palmer mumbled heading to the kitchen counter we get anything in the mail just bills let's see Palmer said to himself picking up the stack of letters and skimming through it he pulled out the electrical bill and tore it open whoa Palmer craned his head around the doorway and called to his son living room callin buddy turn that thing off for you bankrupt us he said that'll be the day Collin responded as he continued playing I'm serious kiddo this bills through the roof why not turn off half those computers you got running upstairs and save us a few trips to the soup kitchen I'm on it Collin answered as he sat doing absolutely nothing palmer furrowed his brow and looked back at the bill he would never admit it to Sherri or Colin but things weren't exactly easy to pay for more and more recently he had been pulling in overtime shifts at the station to cover the cost of the house he didn't know for sure how much longer he'd be able to hold everything together ironically his line of work was one of the lowest paying around yet Palmer never felt like he fit anywhere else he had tried different jobs sure but he always found himself returning to what he did best he was in his element when fighting crime and he had learned a long time ago that just because one excels at something doesn't mean they'll always be rewarded handsomely for it sherry walked up behind him and began to rub his back gently what is it honey she asked concerned he never could hide his thoughts from her oh it's nothing he answered dan tell me um all right I messed up in the field today during a performance review I almost let a guy get away it was a stupid mistake and I can't seem to shake it off sherry looked at him should I be worried she questioned Palmer shook his head what no of course not don't don't worry about it he turned his attention to the dining room table fix dinner your favorite she smiled dark chocolate steak even better he said kissing her on the cheek excuse me there's a miner in the house Colin shouted from the living room palmer shrugged him off and looked at his wife i'm gonna go hop in the shower and get the smell of convicts off me okay sounds like a plan palmer headed towards his bedroom messing with collins hair as he walked by not necessary colin said neither is the game palmer said playfully go help your mom with the table things were starting to look up and more importantly he had just thought up a solution to the problem that was nagging at him chapter 12 harmony sat in her daycare room the next morning acting as if everything was normal on the outside she tried her best to seem as natural as possible for the kids but on the inside she was screaming she had almost died yesterday she would have been in a body bag if it weren't for the help of a guy that was now sitting in a jail cell it wasn't fair she didn't even get to know his name the police had come to scoop her up after he had done all the dirty work for them he had put his own life at risk that was bothering harmony the most out of everything the guy had never met her and she had never met him yet he was willing to run headfirst towards the barrel of a gun for her who was he and more importantly who was she that she deserved such a protector harmony looked at the clock in an hour she would be able to get off of work and she would go directly to the police station to get all of her questions answered harmony hoped that she could find some type of closure to the whole mess and put it behind her despite every suggestion of her conscience she hadn't told anyone what had happened yesterday the police had kept the events to themselves and she hadn't shared the episode with anyone else not even her parents it had been a strange feeling coming home and keeping it all a secret she knew she would eventually have to tell them but they didn't need all of the added worry just yet harmony she looked up from the group of kids and saw a co-worker standing in the doorway looking concerned yes harmony answered cautiously mrs. Frederic's needs to see you mrs. Frederic's was the sole owner of the daycare and was quite the character she reminded harmony of an exceptionally mean math teacher she had studied under in third grade as a boss she was almost impossible to get along with and she always had a negative comment or critique that she wouldn't shy away from sharing if ever there was a reason to leave the daycare and find another job the existence of mrs. Frederic's would have been it but needing the money harmony stuck with it as best she could harmony looked to her co-worker in motion to the group of kids mind watching them while I'm gone of course Harmonie turned to the group of children and smiled as politely as she could kids I'll be right back okay okay miss Wallace they all returned harmony got up and made her way to mrs. Frederic's office fully expecting bad news mrs. Frederic's office was your classic schoolteacher of Terror workroom it reminded harmony of the principal's office that she sat in with her mother and father in the first grade when she'd gotten in trouble for kissing a boy she had liked on the playground during recess it had that distinct feel of curriculum is let off the type of aura that the only people who ever went inside had come back out with no happiness left in their souls harmony knocked on the door quietly come in said a voice from inside she slowly opened the door and stepped in mrs. Frederick's was sitting behind her very large desk writing on a legal pad and looking through several books she were a set of thin half moon glasses and was donning a striking color of cherry red lipstick appearance was almost comical and had harmonies anticipation not been so dire she might have laughed I was told you wanted to see me mrs. Frederic's yes harmony please have a seat she replied gesturing to the seat facing her harmony entered the room fully and sat quietly at the opposite side of the desk trying to look as comfortable and natural as possible mrs. Frederic's continued to write on her legal pad for a few moments and then finally moved it aside she slowly leaned back in her chair and placed her pen inside of her desk harmony swallowed the police station phoned here a while ago and told me what happened mrs. Frederic's finally spoke it was as harmony feared she had been a fool to think the police department would remain completely silent about what had happened it it was nothing said harmony I would have mentioned it but everything had already gotten worked out I figured it didn't really matter that much mrs. Frederic's looked past harmony to examine the wall with a completely blank stare well it doesn't and yet it does harmony blinked at her confused I'm not quite sure I know what you mean mrs. Frederic's mrs. Frederic's focused her eyes back on harmony giving her that classic stare she was known for like she could see through any lie that you threw her way harmony she said you are currently enrolled in college trying to get into the medical field correct yes ma'am harmony nodded mrs. Frederic's immediately kept talking and yet you are currently employed not only here but also at a restaurant on Third Street as well yes ma'am Harmony's heart sank she had worked so hard to make sure she kept her second job under wraps and yet mrs. Frederic still managed to find out about it I see and in what class that you're enrolled in did they teach you that you'd be able to manage two full-time jobs and a full-time college career mrs. Frederic's voice was harsher this time harmony put her best face on I'm I'm only doing it all for just a little while longer I'm just trying to get some extra money to help support my family mrs. Frederic's folded her arms and shook her head in a manner that showed she wasn't buying it harmony I know your mother and your father and I know for a fact that their lives are not dependent on your current income so I'll ask you again why choose to juggle so many different responsibilities harmony looked down at her lap she couldn't keep eye contact without stumbling over her words I'm trying to get enough money to get an apartment mrs. Frederic's continued her hard look still not satisfied with Harmony's answer harmony it's far from my position to know what you need to work so hard for but it is unfortunately affecting your performance here and I'm sure at the restaurant in your school work as well harmony looked up and locked eyes with her if something has to give mrs. Frederic stated and unfortunately it's going to have to be this job harmony looked away trying to control her emotions um am I fired mrs. Frederick's leaned forward in her chair I'm putting it on record that you gave me your two weeks notice harmony held back her tears I understand mrs. Frederic's unfolded her arms and beckoned towards her harmony you're a wonderful young woman with a bright future and I'm not going to let you jeopardize it by overloading yourself with too many things do yourself a favor come back to work when you've got a little more room on your plate and we can try and work something out harmony nodded you can pick up your check at the front office mrs. Frederic said returning her attention to her desk harmony slowly got up from the chair and headed towards the door harmony mrs. Frederic's called yes mrs. Frederic slower two glasses and looked at harmony with a stare that was difficult to read tell your parents I said hi pedaling as fast as she could towards the police station harmony had finally managed to pull herself together between her mass amount of school work being attacked and losing her job she wasn't quite sure how much more she could take she needed good news and she hoped that she'd be able to get some when she arrived at her destination she needed to find out what had happened to him despite her cries against it they had thrown him into the back of the police cruiser and sent him to the station like a common criminal harmony hoped that the police had finally sorted things out after she had given them her statement she had assured them that he was her rescuer and harmony wondered if they had released him yet who was he judging from the limited time she had been with him harmony figured he was about the same age as her she hadn't seen him in class and she certainly hadn't seen him around town beforehand did he live somewhere else maybe he had family in Munich that he was visiting on vacation whatever the case harmony needed to know who he was she needed to thank him she needed to ask him the question that had been running around her head all morning why why had he saved her why risk his own life why had he been so brave Harmonie cautiously walked into the Munich police station and looked around several people were at work typing on computers and filling out reports she scanned the station and crossed into the main workroom he had to be here somewhere finally she spotted him leaning against his desk with his arms crossed talking on the phone was detective dan palmer he had been the one to debrief her yesterday he had been very kind and promised that he would make sure everything turned out all right harmony had asked him to keep the attack to the confines of the station and he had agreed but harmony now wondered if he had broken his promise and called the day care on purpose she walked up behind him as he spoke into the phone and tapped his foot at the same time yes I understand you're having problems securing the permit but the law requires you to have one by next month or you can't legally own it detective Palmer she asked he spun around and looked at harmony he smiled held up his finger and continued speaking to the other person on the line yes you need to contact the manufacturer then and find out what they can do about it alright have a nice day he hung up the phone and looked over at her while checking off a name on a list yes harmony straightened herself I'm harmony Wallace from yesterday yes of course how can I help you miss Wallace he said turning his attention fully to her his voice was very calm and well-mannered oh um actually I was wondering how the guy that saved me was doing harmony looked at Palmer with keen interest his answer to the question would decide how the rest of her day would be Palmer took a breath which signaled a harmony the news wasn't going to be good Wade well Wade was on probation for a previous offense and he wasn't allowed to leave his state so he's been arrested and he's being sent back harmony looked at him confused arrested but he helped I know how it sounds he interrupted and believe me I don't like it any more than you do but it's how the law works he might have been a hero yesterday but he's still a criminal according to the rules how is he a criminal harmony had spent the whole night thinking he was innocent and it turned out that he was on the run from the law she didn't believe it he had saved her there was no possible way he could be grouped in with the same lowlife that had tried to hurt her there must have been a mistake even if he did have a criminal record he helped her he should have been cleared of all charges that doesn't seem fair Harmonie charged Palmer knotted adding I feel exactly the same way miss Wallace harmony took a step toward him well there must be something that you can do Palmer looked off to the side for a moment as if in deep thought I'm afraid there really isn't and it's quite a shame he finally spoke harmony didn't buy it Palmer had been the one to arrest Wade and now they're suddenly was nothing he could do to help him what good was the law if it was constantly putting people like Wade in prison harmony didn't know what he was guilty of or what he had been running from but she was certain of one thing a person who would risk their life to help save another didn't belong behind bars she looked around the station as if trying to find some form of support she had to do something Wade it helped to save her and she needed to return the favor she had to ask him she to see him where is he now she asked Palmer motion towards a hallway off to the side of the station he's in holding how long is he staying there Palmer checked a folder that he already had open on his desk he's going to be transferred in a few hours he responded checking his watch adding I'm sorry Palmer turned back to his desk and picked up the phone going back to work harmony turned to leave it couldn't be over there had to be something she could do she turned back around to Palmer who was dialing on the phone could I talk to him she finally asked Palmer looked up from his desk I'm sorry he responded questioningly harmony looked down at her shoes saying it's just I never even got a chance to say thank you she sensed Palmer's hesitation adding it would only be for a moment I just I would feel bad if I didn't tell him how much I appreciated what he did for me please Palmer opened his mouth and looked around the office quietly contemplating harmony continued to stare at him as seriously as possible all right he finally said caving in he stepped away from his desk pulled out a key from his pocket and nodded for her to follow him harmony walked along behind him preparing herself as best she could room sounded and Hartmann he stepped in through the door as it shut behind her she saw him sitting chained to the table in full prison fatigues he looked completely exhausted his hair was greasy and unkempt and the bags underneath his eyes gave the impression that he hadn't slept in some time he blinked a few times as if waking up from a trance and looked at her confused harmony took a few steps toward him and stopped this is she began not seeming able to find any words she looked down at herself and tried to act calm this is kind of weird for me I'm sorry he stared at her intently I heard that harmony stumbled over her words again why was she finding it so difficult to talk I heard that you were leaving and I just wanted to say thank you for saving me she knew the words sounded empty from the moment they left her mouth here she was apologizing and acting like everything was alright they both knew it wasn't he stared at her a moment and then nodded he welcomed he returned this was unfair and harmony knew it she felt terrible why was she standing there getting off scot-free while the real hero was getting left to the Sharks what was she even doing here saying thanks see you in prison harmony stared at her feet just get it over with let him know you're thankful and move on that's all you can do she took a step forward extending her hand a handshake might have been goofy but it was the only thing she could think of to get the point across he held up his hand as if to stop her and the sound of his arms reaching to the end of the chain filled the room right Harmonie thought handcuffs the shake could have been thought out better harmony withdrew her hand and he leaned back letting out of soft laugh thank you he said quietly what for harmony replied confused he stared at her for a moment shook himself and smiled there coming by in everything harmony nodded no problem she heard the buzzer sound and harmony turned to leave is that really it's she turned to look at him once more I'm harmony by the way she said quickly Wade it's very nice to meet you Wade same he said roughly nodding after one more moment of looking at each other harmony walked out of the room and was led back to the main lobby by Detective Palmer thirteen Wade sat chained to his seat in the prisoner transfer vehicle and stared out the window as he looked out across the open fields he couldn't help but yearn to be outside walking through them and listening to the sounds of the countryside you never quite appreciate your surroundings until you learn they're about to be taken away Wade thought to himself as he leaned his forehead against the window he had only been in Munich for a short time but having it all taken away from him so suddenly felt cheap and seemed cruel harmony the name had been played through his head almost a million times as had their conversation Wade didn't know exactly what to think he had spent over 900 days in prison and hadn't received a single visitor and yet just a few hours after finding himself behind bars again a girl he didn't even know had taken time out of her day to check up on him she had been more of a friend to him than anyone else and most importantly she thanked him while the bullet was meant to be a catalyst for Wade receiving some amount of peace being thanked to done that and more he had made a difference in the world he had changed something the world was for all intents and purposes a small amount better because of his actions could he have found what he felt was missing could this have been what he was waiting for could he have found a reason to live a motive to stay alive perhaps suicide hadn't been the answer that he was looking for but just an easy way out did the answer really lie in such a small town one thing was for sure he didn't want to die anymore his mind was active again and he knew he had managed his stumble upon something that could end up turning his entire life around Palmer dried his hands off with a paper towel he stared at his reflection in the men's room mirror of the police station trying to find an answer the words of harmony echoing throughout his consciousness there must be something that you can do was there Palmer had thought about the question all afternoon he couldn't stand to see a kid like Wade sent off to prison even with his past record something about him just clicked with Palmer It was as if Palmer saw a bit of himself in Wade he understood where he was coming from Palmer had looked over his file and without question he had seen and lived through an unbelievable amount of hardships the kid had been through more than some people ever experienced in their entire lives and he wasn't even in his 20s it might have been that Palmer had felt bad for him or that he agreed with Wade about the unfairness that the law often allowed for but for whatever reason Palmer couldn't shake the feeling that he was still somehow able to help him he had thought long and hard and had finally come up with an idea it was a one-in-a-million shot but it would be better than doing nothing Palmer had worked overseas with an agent who hailed from Boston he had always talked to Palmer about retiring from foreign work and returning to America to head up field operations with the NYPD Palmer hadn't spoken to him in a year and a half and had no idea if the man's vision had ever come to reality but it was worth a shot he didn't have his phone number but Palmer figured if he spent enough time on the phone with his old co-workers from the Bureau he'd be able to track the man down was it guilt that was fueling him the fact that he had been the one to arrest Wade to discover the kids warrant and place him in custody if he hadn't run the routine background check Wade could have gone on his way and no one would have been the wiser he would still have a shot at the new chance he had been wanting could the cause of all of Palmer's stress simply be that he had taken Wade's chance away he didn't know for sure and Palmer reckoned that he would never be able to answer the conundrum fully but it all boiled down to one question could he fix things Palmer walked back to his desk silently and sat down opening up a small black folder that he kept in the very back of his desk he picked up his phone and punched the number nine to get an outside line it was Now or Never Palmer found the number he was looking for in the folder and punched in the first digit welcome back mr. Wade Wade was sat down onto his chair in the questioning room and took a breath he was finally back in New York and just as expected a monster of a headache was awaiting him he said across from his parole counselor officer McDaniels it hadn't been very long at all since waited last spoken to him on the phone and made the promise not to get himself into any trouble things hadn't quite worked out so well after that phone call and Wade knew he was going to catch an unimaginable amount of heat Wade remained silent his McDaniels looked him over he was flipping through Wade's tattered file sighing heavily it's just strange to me he began weight swallowed why someone would spend three years of their life acting as upright as you did to get let out early if their only intention was to get sent back as soon as possible the officer's voice was cold and stiff wasn't exactly my intention Wade said coolly he had had enough of people criticizing him he was going to take this opportunity to fight back no matter how futile it would be your conduct says otherwise McDaniels started my conduct Wade shot back I saved a girl from getting shot you skipped parole the very same day you were released McDaniels broke in his voice becoming harsher with each syllable you broke the law you somehow have managed to lose all of the paperwork sent to you if that doesn't really matter anymore since you're going right back to you cell Wade stood his ground somehow saving a life seems to mean a lot more to me than it does to anyone else he said to finally the fact that you broke the law in order to get into that position to begin with makes your actions no matter how heroic null and void McDaniel shouted he threw Wade's file onto the table you're 18 years old you got no ambitions no plan no discipline and most importantly no respect for the law and those four things mean a lot in my book Wade through his chained hands into the air what you expect me to do he yelled back you stuffed me in some shoddy apartment somewhere downtown that I end up getting robbed dad allegedly you expect me to return to society with next to no money no belongings but the clothes on my back no help no support but a job at a factory I probably would have been fired from regardless look I get it you got dealt a bad hand but that's too bad because a lot of us are McDaniels answered adding you're not sitting in front of me because of your lack of help you're here because you threw what help you had a side broke the rules and crossed state lines don't expect me to feel too much sympathy oh come on Wade responded I cross state lines and I get treated like I killed a guy I wonder why that is silence filled the room Wade broke his stare with McDaniels and looked down at the table Wade you have any goals any dreams any idea of what you want to do with your life McDaniels asked pointedly Wade gave a half-hearted and quiet laugh to himself actually I do McDaniel's said his hands on the table and watched Wade intently share it with me I want to help people help people Wade moved uncomfortably in his seat and I want to fix problems I want to rescue people in trouble officer McDaniels item carefully clarifying you mean you want to be a hero Wade shook his head roughly no I just want to be the good guy but it seems like after doing that I'm being treated like a bad guy officer McDaniels and Wade stared at each other Wade put it all on the table he had presented the reason he found his new calling his purpose but it was beginning to look like he wouldn't be able to fulfill it Palmer stood on the front porch of the Wallace residence and rang the doorbell he straightened his suit jacket and took a step back trying to put on his best smile he would need all the help he could to pull this thing off and harmony Wallace was the biggest piece of the puzzle none of it would work without her support Palmer just hoped she would be up for it after a few moments the front door unlocked and Palmer came face-to-face with harmony detective Harmony's face seemed as if it was instantly drained of all color Palmer looked at her trying to be as friendly as he could given the circumstance mind if I speak to you for a minute he asked harmony took a step outside when a voice came from her end of the doorway harmony honey who is it harmony shot a look inside worried palmer held up his hand five minutes he said quickly she didn't have much time to a spawn to him because immediately an elderly woman appeared in the doorway may I help you she asked suspiciously Palmer placed a hand on his front pocket and pulled out his badge yes ma'am I'm detective Dan Palmer with the Munich Police Department I was wondering if I could speak with Miss Wallace Palmer saw harmony opened her mouth to protest but her mother quickly smiled oh yes of course come on in Palmer entered the house and followed mrs. Wallace toward the residences living room where an elderly man sat in a wheelchair the man turned to look at him dan he heard the man say quietly dan Palmer Palmer halfway didn't believe it he looked at the man doing a double-take mr. Wallace he asked his old schoolteacher mr. Wallace chuckled lightly and moved towards him my goodness boy come on in he said brightly harmony looked over at Palmer confused you two know each other she asked Palmer smiled and mr. Wallace was a professor of mine in high school I of course Wallace why didn't I make the connection Palmer turned to her me of course you'd be his daughter Palmer watched as his former English teacher inched towards him in a wheelchair well you've certainly become quite a man mr. Wallace chuckled detective you say yes sir Palmer nodded mr. Wallace laughed to himself I always knew you do well Dan so is my daughter in any sort of trouble palmer looked over to harmony who stared back at him with the type of expression that could only mean he doesn't know uh no sir palmer lied I actually just needed some information from her concerning the daycare she works at we've had some calls and I'm just saying if she knows anything that I need to mr. Wallace studied Palmer for a quick moment I see well have at it he said join us for lunch Palmer held up his hand saying I'd rather not I need to get back to the station as soon as possible rain check if you sure with a quick goodbye Palmer headed out the front door with harmony and tow he turned around to face her looking at her seriously you haven't told them what happened have you he charged concerned harmony waved him off saying I've got everything under control why are you here Palmer took a moment to get his thoughts together are you still interested in helping Wade he asked Palmer was surprised at how quickly her expression changed from pure frustration to pure curiosity I well yeah I am how I looked at her I pulled a few strings and called in some favors and managed to get the parole board that sentenced Wade together for a short hearing if you testify that Wade saved you and was acting in the interest of the public good then we might be able to get his sentence shortened testify harmony asked unsure of herself Palmer put his hands up to try and reassure her it'll just be a room of board members nothing too big I can prep you on how to give your statement what things you should say what things you should leave out they might ask to question you but we can run through that as well would you be willing to Palmer held his breath awaiting the moment of truth surprisingly harmony nodded of course when do we start Palmer smiled I'll give you a call later today about it okay harmony nodded as he began to leave okay thanks detective Palmer gave her a quick wave and headed towards his police cruiser have good afternoon he called harmony returned his wave and walked back into her house smiling Palmer turned the key in the ignition and pulled out as quickly as he could the hard part was over and everything had gone far smoother than he had originally predicted but it wasn't over yet he would need a hurry to make sure everything else went according to plan chapter 14 harmony sat with detective Palmer in front of the large group of board members in New York City her first time out of state had been quite underwhelming to say the least she had spent the entire time in transit with Palmer and had spoken very little to him she wasn't allowed to go anywhere and she needed to be near him at all times she didn't mind it too much however it wasn't like this was a vacation her only purpose for being in the city was to help wait and it did taken quite a stretch of the imagination to sell her parents on the idea that she would be gone for two whole days as hectic as the traveling had been the big moment was even scarier for her the detective had run her through the entire process several times over but it was different in front of such an important group of people at first glance they didn't seem all that thrilled to see her or the detective and it finally dawned on harmony that it was this group of people that had put Wade in jail in the first place she could reasonably understand that they would all be upset about having to go to work on a weekend just to hear her talk and a shy voice about what had happened Palmer had been amazing for her to watch she was shocked at how professional and eloquent he presented himself as if he had been through this routine plenty of times before he spoke with a strong voice and left little room for argument in the things that he said when the floor was finally given to her she leaned up to the microphone and hesitantly made eye contact with them her nerves were starting to get the best of her but she told herself to relax and remember the purpose of her being there she was in the room to help save Wade just as he had saved her he had put his life on the line for her the least she could do was tell her story she gave one last look to Palmer who nodded to her smiling and then she turned to speak why were prison cells always the same color weight had been to more than one prison in his lifetime and for some reason each time he was placed into a Cell the wall was always painted the same boring color was there a manual out there for how to build monotonous prisons or was it just the cheapest paint on the market he lay on his bunk and sat up to look outside his cells barred window at the prison's work yard his prison status was listed as processing technically and younger adults were kept out of general population for their first month at the state pen in other words he had about 30 days of safety before being forced to dive headfirst into true prison life he wasn't in juvie anymore the chances of murder rape and abuse were much higher here and it was only a matter of time before he would be thrown into the middle of it Wade dug in his pocket and pulled out the one item they had allowed him to keep a small black leather notebook he had picked up in Munich he opened it up to the first page and took out his small prison issued writing pencil he placed the lead on the page looked up to the ceiling he quickly scribbled the one word that he couldn't get out of his head harmony Herta buzzer and the door to his cell slid open a security guard stepped up to the doorway and looked in got a visitor Wade Wade picked himself up off of the bed who on earth would want to see him did anyone even know he had been transferred to prison any idea who it is Wade asked the guard simply shook his head and motioned for Wade - follow him Wade rose to his feet in bewilderment and was escorted out weights at restlessly in his chair in the middle of the visitation room looking around the entire area was empty save for a few guards which was highly unusual he had toyed with the idea that she had come to visit him but he quickly cut off the train of thought not wanting to be disappointed chances were that it was McDaniels wanting to tear off another strip in front of him yet again wait honestly didn't know how much more he could take going to prison was hard enough he didn't need a lecture about it every two hours the door to the visiting room opened and Wade turned his attention to the man entering there wearing a full suit and tie with a bright smile on his face was the detective that had arrested him weighed half wanted to jump up and kick him in the chest but he held back his anger toward the man that had taken him out of society detective Wade said loosely trying to keep himself calm Palmer the man finished it's kind of hard to remember what are you doing here Wade spoke cutting him off sharply adding New York's a little outside of your district Palmer held his hand up as if trying to make peace oh I'm not anywhere near my jurisdiction to be a threat to you Palmer took a seat and Wade sighed heavily he wanted to go back to his cell the only thing worse than having to listen to McDaniels was listening to the man that it sent Wade back to the confines of prison what do you want Wade said signaling Palmer to get to the point Palmer looked at him and smiled I'm just dropping by to tell you that we managed to get your sentence reduced to a week Wade's brain stopped in its tracks a week how harmony and I testified before the parole board at a hearing Wade looked at Palmer Herrmann he was here Palmer continued speaking they came to the conclusion that your active civil service was enough to kick out your parole violation and they're prepared to give you another chance at recidivism they were letting him go Wade almost didn't believe it he had been facing three more years of time and yet because of a single hearing it was dropped to a week so what happens to me now Wade asked Palmer leaned back in his chair quite comfortably presumably you'll be released back to where they first sent you except you're not going to be getting any free passes next time around Wade stared up and disbelief was he really going to get another chance thank you he told Palmer hey don't think me thank yourself palmer began he leaned forward and locked eyes with Wade but understand this risking your life as a free man by skipping parole of all things is stupid don't do it you don't have to keep living in pain there are people out there millions of them that have it worse than you do you're blessed no matter how bad things may look sometimes no matter how alone you may feel you want to start feeling something besides pain you start living you start making your life means something find something to live for and live for it because everything else it's just scenery flying by Wade looked into Palmer's eyes and understood they were connected they had both lived in pain they both had their doubts but Palmer had somehow found a way out and now he was trying to be the guiding light for Wade good Wade of given Palmer too tough of a break Wade nodded at him Palmer returned in kind and stood up as he made his way towards the rooms exit Wade couldn't help but smile it seemed that things were beginning to look up chapter 15 Wade walked out of the front entrance a week later and rubbed his wrist gently he hoped that would be the last time he would wear handcuffs he turned back around and took a last glimpse at the outer walls of the prison promising himself he would never be back things had changed since his last time outside at first he had felt as if he had nothing to live for nothing to spend his time achieving nothing to make him happy or at peace things were different now Palmer had convinced him that he could change he could keep living Wade turned towards the city street and began walking towards his waiting cab he had surrendered himself to the fact that he had nothing tangible to live for but he didn't care because for Wade life wasn't about finding pleasure and peace he had decided that even though he could never make himself fully happy he could spend his life committed to making sure others were even though he would walk through the earth yearning hopelessly for some type of total satisfaction he could do everything in his power to help the people that he met along the way and for the moment that would suffice Harmonie pedaled down the road gaining more and more speed flying by the people that she passed while turning onto her Street looking up at the sky she closed her eyes and let go of the bikes handlebars and lifted her arms up outstretched she continued pedaling down the empty road with the wind blowing against her face if her encounter with Wade had taught her anything it was that life was too short to waste by being unhappy she was going to make sure that she spent every day doing things she enjoyed and she wasn't going to let anyone keep her from accomplishing her goals she would take life one day at a time and be thankful for what it was worth because she had learned all of it could be gone in an instant she wasn't going to be unappreciative of her blessings any longer she was setting her sights firmly on her dreams and she wasn't going to slow down she finally opened her eyes set her grip back on the handlebars and shot downhill Palmer sat next to Morgan at the police station filing papers he hadn't told anyone about the favor he had pulled for Wade and he didn't intend on ever doing so wasn't for them to know Palmer just hoped that Wade would take his advice and get on the right track he would give his parole officer a call in a few months to check in meanwhile he had other things to worry about the hearing for the drug dealer was later that afternoon Morgan and he had been up all night compiling everything they could about the crime they had a solid case and Palmer was confident that the crook would be facing serious jail time Palmer lifted up Harmony's initial report scanned it quickly and placed it in the cases binder everything was starting to fall into place his full performance review would be on Monday morning Palmer knew that a lot more was in store for him but he wasn't going to let that distract him he would cross that bridge when he came to it for now he was going to finish his job a lot of people had helped to bring the dealer in and it was up to Palmer to make sure that their efforts weren't for nothing he turned around to face Morgan and held up his coffee mug they both toasted smiling and continued their work Wade exited the taxi and began to walk down the street first things first he was going to get some new clothes when prison fatigues were easily more comfortable than the clothes you wore in public it was time to visit the general store he could use some toothpaste too and deodorant wouldn't hurt either as he crossed the street and turned the corner towards his apartment he stopped dead in his tracks and looked up in awe thick smoke and flames stretched out into the sky where his apartment now sat in a pile of rubble fire crews were at the scene all shouting at one another and spraying the walls of the destroyed building with large OSes fire trucks were backed up in droves next to the former building doing their best to fend off the fury of the blaze Wade looked at disbelievingly at the wreckage he had no words silently he made a fist stared down at the ground looked back up to the apartment and left [Music] yeah that's it if you've made it this far I salute you and you have my most sincere apologies I don't know what you were expecting out of a book written by a teenager but there you go I promise you that the next book I publish will be far better on a more serious note thanks 500,000 subscribers seemed impossible but here you all are every day I'm gifted the awesome challenge and privilege of making stuff knowing that I have so much support from all corners of the world take care you

Channel: AustinMcConnell

Views: 202,552

Rating: 4.9355178 out of 5

Keywords: austinmcconnell, austin mcconnell, fallen angels, welcome to munich, young adult series, audiobook, 500k, 500k subs, thank you, charlie wade, harmony wallace, dan palmer, missing mozart publishing

Id: ZL-RXfAjC-k

Length: 119min 58sec (7198 seconds)

Published: Wed Jul 18 2018