April 4th..

After all odds.. I manage to return at my normal life.

But, was it really that simple?

I went in the garage the night before, just when I met William Berkley for the first time.

The chief told me I was free, out of the mafia's hunt list.

But was that right?

We just let a man who possibly killed someone, able to live out there and probably won't get any consequences.

I felt wrong about this. It wasn't okay for my morals at all, but I was fine to go anywhere now.

No one will try to kill me again, right?

Then I tried to sleep, and after an hour or so.

My eyes closed, and my dream started to appear and it was beautiful.

Me and Maria were sitting on a bench facing the sea.

She tells me.

"We never went out of this city right?"

I look at her and tell her.

"Why would we?"

"I don't know, I feel like you and I should take sometime together before life take us both.."

"Maria.. We are fine here, and I have a job.. I can't let the criminals go away.."

"I know John, I just though.. Maybe a little break would help.."

"I'm sorry.." I said and we stopped talking for a moment.

The sky went dark and darker after this.

I look at the sky, then look at the ground to see Maria's tombstone.

It start to rain, heavily..

And then.. I woke up.

I was in the garage, on the couch. I look at the alarm clock. 7 AM.

I prepared myself and open the garage large door with a buttom.

Then get out with my car, and drive to the police station.

When I arrived to destination, I see Philip walking next to my car.

"Hey John, good to see you."

"Same is to me."

"Let's get a coffee before starting the boring routine."

"You're the one who said that." I tell him.

"Oh, don't look down at me like that John, I am your boss."

"Alright, lets get this coffee." Isaid and close the door of my car.

We both walk to a coffee shop and get our hot drinks soon enough.

Then enter the police station.

"We got a new case today." Said Philip.

"What is it about this time?" I asked.

"A man named Marcus Burme disappeared yesterday. Out of nowhere." He said.

As we walk, William Berkley join us and we all walk together.

"You know where this man was before he disappeared?" I said.

"The forest park, in the middle of the city." Said William.

I look at him and I was shocked by this fact. It was the same place where Philip's daughter

went missing. But the chief didn't react much.

"Anyway, I guess we will look there." I said and sip my coffee.

Nobody looked at me and we all step on the stairs then arrived to the third floor.

We went to the meeting room and discussed all the things about Marcus Burme.

His family who were not really special, his job as a janitor, his girlfriend who was

worried about him for a time, she said he looked like a ghost..

"Guess the ghost is gone." Said Clark, a man who doesn't care much about anyone.

I don't really like him, but everyone seem to appreciate his bad jokes.

"So, the forest park of Big City.. Do you know where he walked before missing?" I asked.

"Sure, he was last seen in the west part of the forest. A woman saw him running away from someone." Said Miranda Aliber.

"Who was that pursuer?" Asked Gabriel Whest.

"The woman said the pursuer wasn't walking normaly. She also said the lights went dark after a moment.." Said Miranda.

"I guess we have yet to find out what just happened." Said Kevin Hartstone.

"So, I will send John on this case. Who wants to join him?" Said Philip.

No one rise their hands, except William Berkley.

"I will assist him." He said.

I didn't said anything. What I imagined about this day was that we were going to investigate an ordinary crime scene.

But as the morning goes by and the time keep moving forward. I felt like my routine won't be the same from before.

It make me think, maybe.. There was something darker inside that city than just drugs dealers, thugs and murders.

Maybe, there is some people that just like to abduct innocents and do the unthinkable to them..

As we explore the forest park, I arrive at the supposed place where Marcus runned away. There was trace

of him there. His shoes were covered in mud. Then he went to the left and then in the woods..

Some branches were broken down.

He hide there, the pursuer tried to find him..

Then there was blood on the ground, he got knocked out.. And the pursuer dragged him out of there.

I follow the track in woods and just when I found an ancient manhole, hidden by leaves..

"You found anything?" Said William.

"No.. You?" I lied.

"I guess this is going no where John." He said and he pick his pack of Blackwood cigarettes.

He light a cigarette just after I try to ignore what I just found.

"Maybe he went away in that direction." I say and point to the right.

"I am not going there." He said and smoke deeply.

Damn it, I guess the man is my partner for real..

"You don't want to split?" I ask.

"No.." He replies.

Then we get called to return and see the chief. I explain the details and we call it a day.

I went to see the girlfriend of Marcus, with William.

She didn't want to talk. But William tell her we have some good news.

I looked at him with disapproval.

William said that we found him and he was in the hospital.

Shanna was all happy and hug him.

Then we get out there and I ask William.

"Why did you lied?" I said.

"What if I didn't lied John.." Tells me William.

And he went back to his home and I did the same.

The next day, it was in the newspaper.

Marcus was found alive on the beach, and everyone was happy to find him.

Case closed.

But I was still not done with this.

April 5..

Today everyone celebrated the return of Marcus Burme.

The man was amnesic, just like Samantha Grimham..

I walked in the hospital that day, look at the man while people were around him.

My eyes crossed his eyes. Then I just show myself to his family.

His girlfriend was happy to see me.

They let me question Marcus.

"Do you remember anything?"

"No sir.."

"Not even what happened the night before you disappeared?"

"Nothing sir.."

I look at his head and saw no concussion, no mark nothing..

It was if the man was new, he looked perfect.

The only thing missing was his memories.

His girlfriend asked me to leave and I left the hospital.

Then I went to the forest park. Where the manhole was.

I take a look behind me, and saw nobody this time.

So, I open it.. And went inside.

It was big enough for three people.

I climb down the old ladder for a long time.

Then arrive at the bottom.

I pick my flashlight and check around.

It's a profond dark maze.

Made out of stones.

Like if I was in another time, I walk in there.

I explore the place and lost track of where I was quickly.

My eyes notice a shimmer of light.

Then I went that direction.

But I hear a hissing from behind, I turn my eyes.

And I saw a big aligator looking at me.

I walk away from it.

Then start to run, fast and turn to the right.

Go far and further away from that thing.

And hit myself against a wall.

I draw one of my colts. The silver one.

I ready the revolver, and look at the direction of where this thing will come.

And the aligator come out.

I shot it down.

And emptied my six shot.

This animal stop moving right on the get go.

My heart pump fast, then slowed down.

I kick the aligator and it doesn't move a muscle.

Then I try to find my way out, but couldn't.

At least for a time.

Just when I was getting tired of looking around..

I find a door.

It was old, made of medal and covered in rust.

I open it, and look inside.

It was an ancient post for some kind of mine..

There was still pickaxes and other old tools there.

I saw a ladder and a minecart with an hole that went very far.

I climb the ladder, and just before I was going to open the doortrap.

My ears noticed some people talking.

"You know they should pay us more for this shit.."

"Shut up, do you even know what will happen if we get caught?"

"Guys, we never had much money to begun with! Just enjoy the treat!"

"Cheers!"

I listen up a bit, not sure of what was this all about.

Then I hear someone down the ladder coming.

"Who the fuck are you?"

I take my other six shot full of bullets and prepare to shoot.

"May I ask the same?" I tell the man.

The man grab my leg and try to pull me out.

I shot him in the head.

"What was that?" says one of them up there.

The body of the man drop down the ladder.

I put my six shot in the holster and hurry to go down.

Then just at the moment I arrive down the ladder, they open the doortrap and start shooting.

I avoid just in time the bullets and run in the maze.

"GET THAT FUCKER!" The leader yells.

I run and go deep in the maze.

Try to remember my track, then saw the old ladder far away.

I run and run to it.

They start shooting at me, but miss again.

Then I finally climb up the ladder and get out of there.

I hear them getting up here.

So I lift a big rock and put it on the manhole.

"Fuck! He put something on top !" Yells one of them as I run away.

After this, I go in my car and drive away from here.

I go in Garry's Garage and try to relax.

I take notes and call Philip.

But he doesn't respond.

I take a moment to think, and I reload both my colts.

My mind was spinning and I keep telling myself that

there was in fact something scary about this city.

Nothing seems at it was..

And I knew that.

Someone is gonna die tonight..

William have something to do with this affair..

And it's look even more uglier than I though it would be..!

I ready my guns and prepare for anything right now.

But then, I get a phone call.

And when I pick it..

I hear her voice.

"Hello John.."

"Jessica?" I said on the phone.

"Yeah John, I heard that you came back from a long break." She said.

My spirit turn back to normal and I stop thinking about everything that just happened today.

"How did you know I was in Garry's garage?"

"Philip told me." She said.

"Pfff.. He said he wasn't going to tell anyone." I replied.

"Can't trust anyone, John.." She says with a laugh.

"Well, I'm glad you tried to call me and all.. But why, why after all these years?" I tell her.

She sighs and said.

"My life wasn't on a right path... Let's say I am a new woman now.."

I look outside while she talk, but saw no one coming. The night is slowly there.

And cars pass in the road.

"You're a new woman? Explain it to me." I said.

"John.. I am far from before.. I am better than ever." She replies with a sad tone.

"Did you stopped taking these pills..?" I said.

"I have.. They were bad for my health.." She replied.

"Yeah, and the company was put into pieces long before you started to take them.."

"I have changed John.. I am no more a drug addict.." She tries to tell me.

"You are lucky to be the sister of my wife.." I tell her.

"She is dead, and you seem to never had moved on.. Am I right John?" She said back.

"Jessica.. Why do you want to talk with me?" I said.

And she hang up.

I was there, expecting anything but this..

Then I put the phone down roughly and sit on the couch to light a cigarette.

I bend my back and smoke. Then check my notes.

I try to figure out where will this leads me.

Cars move in the road, and soon the night goes silent.

I call it a night.

And fall asleep..

I dreamed about some memories from a long time ago..

I was with Maria and her sister Jessica.

Before everything wrong happened.

We were laughing and enjoying the day.

Jessica asked when me and Maria would get married.

I told her it was a surprise.

Maria looked at me and I kneel infront of her and show the alliance.

She was happy, so happy that it marked my memory.

And then I woke up on the couch with the alarm clock set to 7 AM.

April 6..

I took a shower, needed that.

Then brush my teeth and went outside.

As I go in the gas station and buy some cigarettes.

My eyes notice the newspaper Falcon.

"Clark Marrison death at 36 years old. Cause is unknown"

It was Clark from the the police station..

I buy the newspaper too and go out of the gas station to sit on a bench infront of the ocean view.

I try to read but the wind blows a bit too much, so I fold the newspaper a bit.

"Clark Marrison was a good man... Father of two sons... Died while waiting in the train station.

The coroner is checking the cause of death.. Might be a cerebrovasculary stroke.."

My cigarette get blown away by the gust of wind and I stop reading.

This made the day felt like it was no more ordinary.. A young man died..

Then I enter the garage and light myself another smoke.

The phone rings and I answer it.

"Garry's Garage.." I said with a fake accent.

"Is there a John W. Colts in here?"

"Maybe.." I said nervously.

"Good, the package from the Falcon newspaper got delivered today. Tell mister Colts to come pick it up."

"Sure, he is coming." I said with the accent.

"Thank you."

I hang up and pick my coat then drive my car out of the garage.

I went to the post office and get the package. Sign the papers and thank the man

then get out of there.

I get back home, open the box and start reading all the newspaper from 10 years ago right away.

Nobody calls me that day, and probably until monday..

I read everything.. The story of the Jefferson family, how they rised in the science discovery

and made milestone to milestone to finally died in the fire..

Then read the story of the missing daughter of the chief Philip Grimham.

Day she was missing, March 28.. 7 years ago..

Mmmh.. Around the same time from the other case..

I kept reading and reading..

I cut some info that I found interesting and put it on the wall.

Then I see the name of William Berkley as the one who did the investigation..

With Clark Marrison..

The man who just died recently..

Is this coincidental?

Clark must have known..

I need to ask his family, I decide to take a break and wait a moment before making any choice.

The fact that this stories come to light to me and this man died.. William..

William Berkley is covering his track..

But, I cannot prove it..

Then I just put the newspapers back in the box and toss it in the corner of the place. Out of sigh for now.

I try to stay calm, and think about this man that Garry warned me about.

And his last words before I left the cabin..

"He's going to try to rob your soul John.. Be aware of that. This man is nothing out of the ordinary.."

April 28..

The month passed quickly after what happened..

We worked on ordinary cases of robberies..

Grand theft autos.. And more..

Then, I went to the bank that day..

And six men armed with assault rifles entered inside.

I was in the bathroom when they started to rob and yelling.

My instincts took over, and I hide behind a cabinet.

One of them get in the bathroom to check if there was anyone in.

I was at the end of the corner, and he open up every cabinet one by one.

I slowly open the door to slide my revolver through and see the guy.

I shot him down, and hurry to pick his assault rifle.

Then I hide next to the entrance door and wait for

the next one to come in here.

He runs inside and don't see me.

I shot him in the back and check outside slightly.

They are waiting for anyone to get out. I can't go there now.

So I check the window, the walls or anything.

There is a fire alarm in here.

Could help, so I pick my lighter and start it.

The water sprinklers gets on and the alarm begin.

Before leaving, I remove the masks of the two men I killed.

I check their pockets and find the names of both.

Alex Murphis and Johnny Dolas.

Then I shot the window and toss the glass off.

I step outside and get out of there.

I go call the police and tell every details I know.

And after that the bank is completely surrounded.

Soon the men tells the police to give them anything they want,

since they got hostage.

While this was going, we checked the names of the men I killed.

They were known from the police as former swat units.

Who just decided to turn their back from justice.

This wasn't looking good.

Then, one hostage get out, it's a woman.

The leader point his rifle at her and yells.

"This is for my friends!"

"Shot him down is going to kill her!" yells the chief.

*Bang*

May 1st..

It was a gray and sad day.

And it was raining..

"A good soul has ascended to Heaven, and now she rests in eternal peace.."

I don't know what or who I could blame on to this day..

“The family is so deeply saddened by this loss."

Was it me.. Was it the man who pointed the gun to this innocent woman?

Or was it just fate... God.. Or the devil?

"May the memories of your loved one begin to bring comfort rather than pain."

We gathered around the burial of the woman named Melanie Cranne, she was 26 years..

She just started to work in this bank and her fiance was about to give her the ring soon..

It.. Happened so fast..

I remember everything..

The robber, Melanie was crying in fear and than.. He shot her in the back.

After she dropped on the ground, all units shot the man down.

Blood everywhere..

The rest of the robbers give up and surrender.

But it was too late.. An innocent died that day..

“May her soul rest in eternal peace.”

"Amen.."

After the ceremony and the final good bye. We all left the graveyard, I pass close to the tombstone of my beloved Maria

and drop a white rose there at the bottom.

I will come back to place a bouquet when it will be May 31..

May 3rd..

I went in the Wolf's Den and sit there for awhile silently.

Thinking.. Wishing there was something good in this world.

Hoping I was not alone to think the future might be greater without violence.

But in Big City.. Everyone wants to get something..

"Welcome to Big City, were everyone wants to get rich and famous!" Said the commercial on the tv hanging on the wall.

"Can you put the sport channel please.." Ask a costumer in the other side of the bar.

I look at my watch.. 8:46 PM.. Then I sip my rum without caring much of anything..

At this moment, someone enter the bar and walks next to me.

It's William Berkley.

We look at each other for few seconds.

"Mind if I sit here?" He asks so politely.

"Sure.." I said.

Then he sit down and ordered a Wousta Beer. Wish I never heard of..

"What kind of beer is that?" I ask as the barmaid give him the bottle.

"Not a beer expert as I can see.. Can I have a cup please?" He said.

The barmaid give him a cup and he pour some in it.

I take a sip and soon the taste was clear.

It was spicy, sweet and bitter at the same time.

It tasted fine.

"Mmmh, it's good." I said.

"Yeah, it's a beer that came from over the sea. On an isle named Wousta Island."

"Never heard of that.." I replied

"Anyway, John. You don't look happy at all.. What happened.." He said.

"You heard about the bank robbery.. I was there." I said.

"Oh.." He just replied.

"I don't want to talk about it.." I said.

"Then, lets talk about other things.." He just said without worrying too much.

"Pfff.. What do you want to talk about..?" I said and look at him.

"Hum.. Ever heard of Jack Waltazar?" He asks.

"No."

"He is a magician, pretty much known to give hope for people who lost their interest in life.." He said.

"Are you serious..?" I asked.

"Yeah.. I was skeptical too when I heard that.." He replied.

"What does he do in magic.. He does cards trick or cut someone in half?"

"No John.. He show what you really care about." He says.

"Pfff.. Whatever.." I said and sip my rum.

"You don't think I am right about him?" He says.

"No, I just don't have time for magic tricks." I said.

"Then what do you have time for John..?" He replies.

That question made a big silent between us, William was waiting for an answer..

And I wasn't ready to answer anything.. So I said..

"I don't know.."

"Then come with me tomorrow, at 8 PM. We going to see a magic show.." He said.

"I don't really feel well about this.." I said.

"I saw my family members John, those who were dead of course.." He said.

"What?" I asks.

"Well, I guess that's it." He said and chug the beer to the last drop. Then he stand up and try to leave.

"I will come." I say all of a sudden.

"At the police station, at 8 PM and I will drive.." He said then leave.

What was I doing? Was this a good idea..? Or was this just the beginning of a unexpected friendship?

May 4th.

I wake up from a dream, it was about me going on the seven seas and traveling through the world.

Maria was there too, her laugh maked me smile and relax. I was wearing one those white sailor hat

and she said it fits me pretty well.

After waking up from this beautiful moment, I was feeling okay.

I make coffee and start cooking. Then eat breakfast and drink my cup.

Then trim my moustache a bit, it was starting to get a little too long.

But I was careful with it. Then shave my beard enough.

I brush my teeth and took a shower.

Before leaving, I look at the wall and check what I needed to know.

Then I placed a painting on it to hide the whole plan.

Didn't want anyone to see this..

I receive a call from Jessica.

"Hey John.."

"Jessica? How are you.."

"Not so good.. Hum.. I need money." She said.

I hang up.

Then I put on my boots and prepare to leave. I go in the underground train station and arrive soon after

in the police HQ. The day goes on, I do some research in the archive, with nothing that can lead me..

I just search each box of information, documents and for some reasons.. It seem there was something

missing.. I check the Jefferson case. Not much, the missing daughter of the chief.. Nothing either..

It goes on like this for a time. Until I find something.. The case of Tania Milone, missing since 2 years

ago.. Never to be found..

"You are looking for something?" Said someone with an accent in my back.

I look behind and see William Berkley.

"Huh.. Kinda.." I said.

"Come with me. We need to talk." He said.

I put back the box in its place and leave the archive. Then as we go out of there he said.

"I think you need to saw this.."

"What are you talking about?" I asks.

"We have another case of disappearance today."

As we go in the meeting room, people discuss the case of another missing, this time it was a kid.

The picture on the board was a boy named Jake Walter Jr. He was 12 years old.

"When did it happened?" I asks.

"This morning when he got to school, he didn't appeared in class.."

"They check the whole school to find him, but nothing."

"Sounds like a kidnapping more than a disappearance."

"Nobody saw the kid outside too.."

"Well, lets get there." I said.

We went to the school of the kid, we gather in there and investigate anything. But nothing, the kid seemed to

just vanish.. Until I look at a manhole and open it. Then get down there to see the same maze like the other

time..

William Berkley followed me.

"You found something.." He said.

"Yeah, sounds like it. Tell everyone." I tell him.

After that, many units get inside and we found some trace. The boy wasn't there anymore, but we know we could

find him. We arrive at the end and found a ladder. That leads to a facility. As we open it, a group of individuals

are there.

And we saw the kid.

The kidnappers are soon handcuffed and put in custody.

We saved that boy, everyone was happy.

Then we all return to the police HQ, the case was over. The chief asked me if I wanted to go to the bar tonight.

I nodded and said yes.

William Berkley join us and told me to forget about the magic show he talked about yesterday.

"I almost forgot about this, sorry." I said.

"No big deal.." He replied.

Then we celebrate our victory that night, eat some meat, wings, chicken and all that.

We had fun. It was a good day for everyone..

Except William didn't looked so well that night.

Maybe he has an indigestion?

More like he couldn't clone the kid lol!!!

May 11th..

I went to the cathedral that was close to the garage, as I enter there, people are quiet and pray in silent.

My thoughs was I should just do some prayer and leave soon after. But the father notice me while I

sit in the far corner and talk to me.

"Son, I didn't see you for quite a lot.. You are.. John right?" Says the father.

"Yes.." I said a tad nervous.

I remember he is the one who celebrated my wedding.. And.. Did the funeral of Maria..

"You look worried.." He said.

"I don't know where to go in life.." I said.

"We all are lost at some point in life, mister Colts." He said.

"I saved a boy a week ago.. We arrested all the kidnappers and interrogated them all.." I said.

"Did they said anything?" He asks.

"No.. They just explained that they will all be dead soon.." I tell him.

"I see.. Son, life is quite difficult for the just. Don't make it harder to look at it seems already.

You did everything right, and the boy is fine.." Says the father.

"I know.. I just want some truth.." I said.

"We all seek the truth son." He replied.

"I have killed some men.. I am not really proud of it.." I said.

"You are with the law son, do not feel overwhelmed by your guilt.. You did it for justice.." He replied.

"I know.. Thank you father." I said and stand up.

"I pray for your path to be in the right, son.." Says the father.

"Thank you.." I said and left the cathedral.

I didn't pray at all, but I guess the words of blessing from the father helped me out.

As I walk outside and light a cigarette. My eyes crossed the face of a man..

A man that I have seen before, way before years ago..

The man ignored me and keep walking..

I felt like I was in danger, as if a dagger cutted through my heart.

Then I returned to my normal self..

I look at where the man go, but he was gone..

My memories flashed back in time, I sit down on the stairs and keep smoking for a bit.

Then I start to remember..

This man was there when Maria was sick.. In the hospital..

That's all I remembered.. But it felt like a huge deal..

What was this all about..?

May 31..

Six years since she died.. My life have changed from that moment..

And my world is emptier without her..

I arrived at the tombstone and the sun was there this time..

But I remember when it was rainy that day..

Everyone was there, beside one person.

The father said his prayers and give his blessing.

My heart was slowly beating, my eyes were closed

and I imagined her with me.. Somewhere else..

Then I went back to reality and heard a familiar voice..

"I knew you would be there.." Says a woman.

"Jessica.." I look at her at my right.

"You never moved on.. Do you?" She say that and it insult me.

"What are you doing here..?" I said.

"John.." She start saying.

"I hate you.. Everything you did was for nothing.." I said.

"It's not my fault.." She said.

"You never assist to her funeral ! And you never visited her when she was sick!" I start to yell.

"Calm down... I.." She said.

"Don't tell me to calm down..Ever!" I yell.

"John, I am sorry.. I never wanted to hurt you.." She says.

"You dare say that.." I said as I calm down.

"I didn't want to see my sister sick or in a coffin.." She replied.

"You are a coward..!!" I say with all my anger.

"Look, I just want to ask you some help.. Is it that simple?" She said.

"No.. Hell with you!" I replied and deposite my bouquet of roses.

"You have done enough to make me sad today.." I say to her.

"I promise I won't-"

"NO!!" I yells and the echoe of my voice went far in the graveyard.

"John.." She says and start feeling bad.

I turn my back and left her there.

I was too mad to ever talk with her again.

June 1st..

I wake up at 6 AM.. 1 hour earlier.

Had a nightmare, I was chased by some creature I never heard of.

And doubt I can remember what the meaning of that was either..

I prepared my day, and did some research in the box of newspaper.

Read about the mayor and how he planned some change for the future..

He never precised what he meant by changes..

But, I felt like it must be some kind of secret I am not close to know about.

I needed to get close to this man in some elaborate way.

Without getting caught.. And probably avoid to be killed.. Or worst.

My mind was thinking about which way I could go see that man.

The mayor named Henry Waustin was an enigma to me.

And I then I saw a picture of him with William Berkley.

Both smiling and handshaking in a public meeting.

It was 5 years ago.. Just in June 7..

I wasn't there because of the death of Maria.

Mourning her for a long time made me blind from a lot of things.

And before that, she was sick for a long time..

That may explain why I didn't notice anything back than..

Then I see the man next to the two on the picture.

I remember this man, I saw him in the street close to the cathedral.

He was.. A doctor.. In this hospital that Maria was in.

I can't remember his name, but I know his face.

He have blue bright eyes.. And had a smile that gived me the creeps..

He said.. "Everything will be fixed soon.."

That was the last time I saw him, and Maria died the next week..

Why was he on this picture..

I didn't have any clue.. But I felt like the truth was terrifying to know.

The phone rings and I stop looking at the picture.

I throw the old newspaper on the couch and answer the call.

"Garry's Garage.." I said with my fake accent.

"John.. It's me Jessica. I want to talk with you." She said.

"I don't have time.." I replied.

"Listen, I am in trouble.. I need you.." She said.

"What kind of trouble..?" I replied.

"Someone might wants to kill me.." She said.

"Ok, I will pick you up." I said.

"I will wait at the police station." She said.

And I hang up.

I pick her up that day, wasn't too happy about it.

She explain to me everything.

That she own money from a loan shark and that he promise he will kill her soon than drop her body in the ocean..

"You can stay in the garage with me." I tell her.

"That place?" She start complaining.

And I ignore her, we went to a restaurant and eat a bit.

I go call the chief Philip about what is going on and..

Two men enters, big and looking menacing.

I look at Jessica and saw fear in her eyes.

"I will call you later." I said on the phone and hang up.

Then the two men approach her and ask simply.

"Where's the money bitch..!!" Said the one with the long looking hat.

"Hum.. What money?" Said Jessica.

"I said where is the money!" Start yelling the guy.

I walk in their back and pick my revolvers.

*Click*

"Why don't you get outside.. And go out of here." I said.

The man with the long hat look at me and just say.

"Oh.. Wow old man.." He says nervous.

"Get out of here." I said and step backwards to let them get out.

They left the restaurant and run in their car to drive away.

I read the license plaque and note it.

I put my colts in their holsters and sit infront of Jessica, all relaxed.

Then light a smoke.

"You saved me.." She says.

"Whatever." I replied.

The waitress give the bill and I give her a nice tip.

"Sorry for the inconvenience." I tell the woman.

"No harms, no complain mister." She says with a grin.

Then we left, I look around before leaving and make sure that no one follow us.

Make few circle around buildings to check and see some cars going left and right.

No one is following now, so I went to the garage.

"Ahh.. Finally some rest." Says Jessica and she drop on the couch.

"Make yourself comfortable." I tell her.

"Thank you John.. I though I would die.." She says.

"You are fine." I said and pick some water bottle to give to her.

"You don't have beers do ya, John?" She says and pick the bottle.

"Nope."

Wife clone be like....

June 7..

I return to the garage after a long day at work, someone told me the kidnappers of the 12 years old boy, died from

food poisoning in prison.. Which was bizarre, since they said they might all die..

When I open the door of the garage, I see Jessica on the couch and listening to the radio.

She looked at me and asks.

"You bring anything?"

"Yeah, burgers." I said.

"Again?!" She start complaining.

"It's that or nothing." I replied.

"Hufff.. Alright." She says and accept the food.

I pick a chair and sit next to her and listen to the music.

It was a country song from 30 years ago, couldn't know the name

but it was okay to hear a bit. We relaxed there and talk about the old days.

"You know, I remember you used to play guitar for Maria.. She loved it." She says.

"I know.." I said.

"Why you stopped.." She asks.

Then the phone rings and I go answer it.

"Garry's garage, how can I help you?" I said with the accent.

"Yeah, it's Philip.. Not need to fake that bad accent John." Said Phil.

"What accent?" I replied still holding the tone of my voice a little.

"Come on John, I am not that stupid.. Anyway, I need to warn you about something.."

"What is it?" I said.

"Jessica is in deep trouble, someone told me the guy you saw the other day died last night.."

"The one in the restaurant?" I said.

"Yeah, it's not looking good." He said.

"What should we do?" I asks.

"She need to get out of town John.. Soon or later.." He said.

"Okay.. Understood." I said and we both hang up the phone.

"You really have a bad accent by the way.. Who was it?" Says Jessica.

"Philip.." I replied.

I look at her and she seems to know what I was going to say.

"Don't need to tell me.. I don't know where to go John.." She reply on the get go.

"Then why me?" I tell her.

I sit on the couch with her and sighs a bit.

"You are almost my brother.. Even if my sister died.. I know you are a good man." She said.

"And..?" I look at her.

"I feel safe here, with you." She replies.

"I don't really know if I can trust you, Jessica.. But I guess you have to tell me everything now.." I said.

She take a moment to think and then she tells me the details she never said before..

"I was in a twisted spiral that was going downward.. This drug..

My life, my friends, and what was left from my family..

Everything and everyone let me go in that darkness..

I never really wanted to get involved in these sort

of things.. I tried to talk to you a lot..

But you were too busy in your job, or you didn't want to talk to me..

So I did my own work, pay some part of my bills with credits and loans.. And.."

I nodded and started to understand what was wrong now..

"I needed people John.. Good people.." She start crying and hug me.

I let her cry on my arm and gently place my hand on her back.

"I never wanted to go so low in my life John.." She says.

"I understand.." I said.

"And you even left me there.. After all the time I tried to talk to you.." She says.

"I didn't left you.." I replied.

"Then why was I alone.. I felt like no one was there with me.." She says.

"I let you be Jessica, I wanted you to be happy.. But now I see that was not the case.."

She nod and we both understand each other finally.

"I know you have lost my sister and that made you the man you are now.. But please see what

I have been through as well. That drug was the only escape for me.. And it hurted me at the end.."

"I know.." I said.

Then after this, it started to rain all of a sudden.

We hug each other for a time and then I stand up to go to the bathroom.

When I get back there, she wasn't there anymore..

I run outside and see at the distance Jessica sitting on the bench that I used to go to relax.

My only hope was that she was fine right now.

When I arrived there, she look at me and I sit with her under the heavy rain.

We watch the ocean and she kiss my cheek.

"Sorry for what I have done John.." She says.

"It's alright.." I replied.

June 8..

I slept in the car while Jessica was on the couch, I wake up in the morning and prepare coffee for both

of us. Cook some eggs and bacons. She wakes up at the smell of that.

"Mmmh, you always make good things John." She says.

"Oh, I won't be so sure.." I said.

"Your actions say the opposite." She replied and pick a plate then I give her the two eggs.

We eat the breakfast and start the radio.

"Today is your lucky day! We got two tickets to travel over the 7 seas! In a large ship that will pass through

many places you never seen before! Answer the questions and you might-"

*Shhhttt!* Jessica change the channel.

Then a pleasant music start playing.

"Mmmh, better. I hate when people talk in the radio.." She says.

I eat the rest of my eggs and don't say a word. She look at me and say.

"What will we do today..?"

"I don't know.." I replied.

She take a moment to place the empty plate on the small table and then ask.

"Did you get any girlfriend after my sister?" She says.

"Nobody.." I replied.

"Do you still get hard?" She asks.

"Why are you asking that." I said.

"I am just curious.." She smiles and explain.

"I don't want you to feel unhappy, John.." She says and place her hand on my lap.

I stand up and go to the bathroom.

"I am single too John..!" She shout..

I ignore her and try to forget what she is trying to do right now.

I brush my teeth and take a shower.

Then she enter.

"Get out Jessica." I said.

"But I need a shower too." She says and open the door of the shower to get in naked.

For some reason, I just let that slip and we take the shower together.

And then one thing goes to another and we had sex. I never though this could happen..

But it was such a great feeling.

"Mmmmh.. John.."

After the shower, we go on the couch and continue our sweet time together.

"Woaw.." She says as I grip her hips and go harder.

Before we know it, I get a call and stop.

"No.. Not right now." She says.

But I stand up, and she try to hold me down there and fail.

"Why.. Lets finish first." She says.

"But I am.." I said.

Then I grab the phone and she calm down.

"Hello?" I said.

"John, we got a strange case today.." Said Philip.

"Alright, I am coming." I said and hang up.

Jessica frown at me in frustration and said.

"I hope it's more interesting than whatever we were doing.."

I throw her some of her clothes and get ready to go outside.

"Bye John.." She says and bend over to give me a kiss while I was in my car.

I give the kiss back without thinking much.

"Stay safe." I said and drive to the police station.

When I go to the police station, we told me to go somewhere else.

I arrive at the scene, it is in the ancient part of the city.

The chief is there, the coroner and some other people.

As Philip see me when I get out of my car.

He go talk to me and say.

"John, its good to see you."

"What happened?" I asks.

"We found a box.." He said.

"What is in the box?" I ask him.

"There is a severed hand in the box.."

I go check in the box that is on the ground, and there is the hand inside.

"What did the coroner said about it?" I ask Philip.

"It's the hand of a man, caucasian, around his 40s.." He tells me.

"Mmmh, and why is it here?"

"The delivery boy was tasked to send it here. To the woman that is at the door." He says.

"A message? Anything?" I asks.

"There was this letter, but nobody dared to open it." Philip said and he gave me the letter.

I open this and read the message.

"Give us the video tape or we will send other parts of your beloved man."

It was typewritted.. So no evidence to know who wrote this, but then I look at the back.

There was another message.

"You have 24 hours."

The question is, 24 hours from when?

Then William Berkley arrive and talk to the chief.

"Why is John here? This is my case Philip." He said.

I ignore them talking and go ask question to the woman.

"Hello, my name is John. I am a detective.." I said to the woman who was a little bit afraid.

"Hi.. What do you want to know?" She says.

"I want you to tell me if you have any lover?" I asks.

"Yes, Jason.. I didn't see him for awhile.." She replied.

"Mmmh, since when?" I asked.

"Since four days ago.." She replied.

"You didn't open the box right?" I asks.

"No.. But I called the cops because I didn't ordered anything." She says.

"There was a letter in the box, it asked to give a video tape.. Do you have any idea what this is about?"

"Huh.. What do you mean.." She says and walk backward.

"I asked a video tape, do you have one..?" I keep asking.

"Sir.. I cannot.." She start saying, but William interrupt us.

"What is your name?" I asks.

"Sylvia sir.." She said.

"I will take the lead John, get out." Says William.

He toss me away and said to her.

"Sorry, my friend here doesn't know what is going on and he is a bit lost."

I look at him and sighs then walk out of there.

I go see Philip and ask why William is there.

"John, let him do it. Oh, and lets go to the bar. I have to talk to you in private." He said.

"But we are not done here.." I try to refuse.

"Yes, we are. Lets take a break come on." He says and we went to the Wolf's Den.

He explain to me that William really wanted to do this, and etc.

"Then why did you called me for this?" I said frustrated.

"I though you would be interested.." He says.

"Of course I am!" I exclaim a bit.

Then I sip my rum and he drink his beer.

After a time, we discuss some other things.

"So, did I tell you about my daughter? Samantha appearently have impostor syndrome.." He said.

"Mmmh.. Is it recent?" I asks.

"No, it was since she came back.." He said refering the disappearance.

"I see.."

"She never was like this before.. She changed.." He said.

I nod and sip my drink.

Then William enter in the bar and sit with us.

"You got the responsible?" Asks Philip.

"Huh.. Yeah." Said William.

I look at William, I notice he is sweating heavily.

"Did you run to get in here?" I asks.

"Hum.. Yes. No worries." He said.

After talking about the old days and what we saw today. William go take a piss, and Philip decide to tell me something

about this guy.

"Did you know he always seem to find a way in any situation? Even when we are not in duty.. It's.. Baffling.."

"He's a mystery isn't he?" I said.

"Yeah.. I would say more of a weirdo.. But can you trust this guy?" Said Phil.

"Can't tell.." I said.

That night, we find the presumed man who was supposed to have a missing hand. He was on the beach unconscious..

His both hands was there.

Was it all a joke? Was it fake..?

Another case closed with no real answer..

I guess..

But this time.. There was one more box delivered to Sylvia..

June 12..

Four days later..

I told Philip that I was sick and took a day off. I was tired to be around William, he always seem to take

the lead in every case I am in. So, now I got time for myself..

Jessica light a smoke and ask me what I am going to do.

I tell her we will leave soon and explain that she have to live a life by herself.

She said she understood, but feel like she will be far from me.

I tell to not worry, and we call for an appartment that was in a small town 1000 miles from here.

We get an appointment and prepare to leave.

She asks me how we are going to pay for the rent.

I hand her 1000$ and tell her to pay the rent with that and keep the rest to feed herself.

As we get out, I drive to a drive-through and ordered some food.

We eat while we get out of the city.

Then talk about stuff that was in the past.

"How much did you loved Maria?" She asks.

"I adored her, she was the best thing that happened to me." I replied.

"Am I the second best thing that happened to you?" She said.

"Yeah.." I said.

Then we continue talking while the radio was playing music. The view of the mountains and the vast forest was

relaxing. After a long time, we arrived to the town of Redwool.

It was peaceful, no trash anywhere..

I liked it, and Jessica felt the same.

We enter in the appartment that was full of furnitures, and talk to the owner.

Jessica signs the paper and pay the rent from the get go.

The owner left us with a smile and we talk for a moment.

Then I tell her good bye and she kiss me on the cheek.

"Thank you John.." She said.

"Call me sometimes." I said.

"I will." She replied and I left.

On my way back, I listen to the radio and notice that I am finally alone.

It was when I arrive at the garage that I see the value of having someone in my life.

I will miss Jessica..

June 13.

There was a storm that started today, I went to the police station and talk with Philip about

why I don't really like William. He told me that I should learn to appreciate him more and

stop trying to fuck around. Which mad me just close the door and called the day off.

When I go outside, I see none other than William Berkley himself.

"You get off today?" He asks.

"Yeah, I am not feeling well." I reply and walk in the rain to go to my car.

But before I left, William put his hand on the hood and ask me to wait.

I open the window and he speak to me under the heavy rain.

"You should quit while you can, John! It's not gonna hurt you!" He yells while the thunder strike and the light

flashs.

"I think you deserve better than this sort of job!" He keep pushing.

"Get the fuck out of my face Will." I reply.

"Sure thing, see ya John!" He yells and tap my car while I start driving out of there.

Then I went home, and think about everything that happened since I came back from Garry's Cabin.

All this was too much to handle by myself.. I needed people, that's what I realised by myself.

I will call some old friends and figure things out.

Really nice it's more on the easy side but it's nice and refreshing good stuff keep it up

~X~

September 31..

Life goes on.

I made few cases for the majority of my summer.

Nothing worth to wrote about, but still it kept me occupied..

Too occupied..

William Berkley was still out there, doing his business. Doing who knows..

And I didn't know anything at all after all this time..

But I had a feeling.

A feeling that I am usually aware to have when someone is dead close by.

Couldn't tell who died. Couldn't make a case for this feeling..

But October was in the corner.

And I felt like it would be horrific, horrific to believe that such a man could be in this police station

and I wasn't aware of him at all..

Like a shadow.

Sometime, I wonder if there was a way to change this at all.

And then..

Before I could hope for better result.

I found a newspaper in the archive, with the following text.

"William Berkley, found dead.."

There was a photo of him with the description and how he died.

That post was 10 years ago..

October 1st..

What is the truth I am seeking..

Where it is going to send me..

Will I find what I need to in this..

Or will I uncover something that is beyond my control..

What I really knew now, is that Garry was definitly right from the start..

And now that I believe him.. Totally

It was impossible to convince me the other way around.

William Berkley was a clone..

People got killed..

And cloned.

For what purpose.. I still ignore.

But I was sure to find out one day.

I was in my car thinking when suddenly someone knocked at the window of my door and look at him.

William Berkley himself..

"Open up, we need to talk." He says.

I sigh and open my door. Expecting the worst..

"The fact you are still working impress me, old man." He says with a harsh tone.

"I am never quitting.." I said seriously.

"Good for you, John. You are going to be fine with me." He said with a soft voice.

I look at him in the eyes and he look at me back with a glare that was completely the contrary

of what he was speaking.

The only thing that came to me, is that William.. The real one.. Was dead.

And him, this one in front of my face.

Was nothing of human.

"So, I hope you will be safe tonight.." He says with a sarcastic tone.

I rise a eyebrown, thinking of what he just said and then he tap my shoulder.

"Be a good man.. You know how to do that isn't it.. John?" He tells me almost like a whisper that reach my soul.

And before I could say anything. He left.

October 13th

It's friday.

The season of autumn at its fullest.

One of if not the best part of the year.

The leaves fall as I walk in the park,

wearing my blue coat, with the wind moving it.

When I find a bench empty in the park, I sit on it.

Memories went in my mind, I remember her.

My wife talking to me..

"I love this moment, don't you John." She said while caressing my hair.

She was sitting with me and we were just there. Watching time going on..

Nothing was wrong.. That day.. In the past.

I simply nod and looked at my right.

She wasn't here..

I was alone.

With nothing but this memory to remind myself how much I missed her..

A tear in my eye felt down.

My life was in pieces, but I was still there.. Trying to put it together..

I just needed time.

Time to put the pieces all together.. Once more..

The wind pass by, I dry my tears..

Waited for a moment..

Then stand up.

And walk away..

John Colts smoking a cigarette.

John Colts in his hard times.

In the night of friday 13th, I walked in the streets of Big City..

Wandered for something..

Someone..

I just needed someone..

When I arrived to a night club, that was blasting music at full power. I decided to get inside.

The bodyguard looked at me, shrugs his shoulders and let me get in.

As I go in, the atmosphere seem dense. People dancing against each other and even on me.

Men and women of all ages was here..

What on earth was I doing.. I asked myself.

Then I see her.

This woman, a strange but yet beautiful creature.

Waiting at the bar and looking around..

And for a second, our eyes meet each other.

She smiled simply like it was natural and at this moment she asks the bartender a drink.

My mind was different, it felt like I was young again.. And I go next to her at the bar.

Her eyes gazed at me, they explored me head to toe from the instant I was near.

She kept her smile until I ask her the question.

"Do I know you..?"

She stop smiling, and tend her ear to me and I whisper..

"Do we know each other..?"

She just smile and nod.

And I offered her to dance after that.

She smile with her teeth and nods faster.

Then left her drink there and I give the money to the bartender.

We dance, pressing each other.

Getting very passionate in this moment..

Was I even myself anymore..?

She caress my muscles and then we kiss.

After what seemed like an instant, we got inside a motel.

Did everything possible to do together in a bed..

I never felt like this before.

I heard her saying that night.

"You aren't damaged goods.. Mister."

And we made in this point in time some great sex..

"What is your name..?" I asked.

"Alice Garcia.." She says and hugs me in the bed after all this.

"I am John Colts.." I said and tend my hand to handshake.

She grab it and shakes as if it was normal for her.

A minute or two after that.. I light a smoke and..

"Want to do it again..?" She says and put her head on my shoulder while looking in my eyes.

Alice Garcia. 27 years old.

Morning of October 14th..

It's raining outside..

She left before I was even awake, leaving a note on the pillow next to me, with her number on it.

It's says "Call me love."

I put it in my wallet as I get ready to left too.

My stress was gone, I never felt so calm since a long time to be exact.

The moment I got out of the motel, I figured that I was really back in my old life.

She really made me feel different..

I guess I will call her eventually.

October 15th.

My eyes watch the distance, looking at the endless sea.

I am there, but not completely..

I look at the number of Alice Garcia, and wonder if I should call her..

If it was really the time to make another great moment in my life..

But then, I put it back in my wallet.

Still have something left to do here..

In this goddamn world..

Even if I am sick of trying that much. I feel like I have to.

William Berkley, the fake one.

I must know what he is doing..

With preparations, precautions and with some people..

I am alone in this mission.

But soon, not anymore.