"I'm sorry you had to see that. Are you okay?" Don knows he couldn't all the time be literally with the other, especially not when they both have their own cases to deal in different cities far from each other. But hearing about the sudden turn in Milos case and what Free went though was close to make him just sit in his car and drive there. The idea not been able to control the situation or be closer was eating him alive. But like during the training kid wasn't really alone. This time there were two who Don trust with him. Who will take care of things when Don can't. What Don could do was hide his own frustration and hear other out, be supportive. The case there is important step forward. A change to learn and grow.
"Everyone is apologizing. It wasn't that big of a deal, really..," Free clicks his tonque, acting cool but at the same time feeling very happy from others concern. His phone was on speaker mode while he was watching TV and greedily eating his late night noodle meal. The hotel room they were in was large enough fitting two huge bed, Free sitting on the other while the other bed was full of Nadins clothes and other travelling items she had spread around earlier today.
"Stop lying," is all older man intend to even say to that incredible fool sounding statement, to make his point clear. Kid might act all untouched now when the situation was over, but pretending he was fine with everything was the same as denying. "We will talk about it later. When you are back. Try to get some rest."
Free hums. Just accepting that silent judgemental advice. Indeed there was no way it didn't bother him, most likely he will not get any sleep tonight because he will just recall all what he saw. Even thinking it made him sick. Anxious. Distressed. It was something he would definitely like to just forget, never get back to those memories, just like he has done so far. But facing it properly was what he should do. That was the difference between his past self and the stronger person he's trying to be today. He can't ran away forever. That was what both Don and Milo were trying to teach him.
"If you can't sleep, take these," Milo throws a pack of medicine on the bed in front of Free after younger end his call. "We need to be on the move after ten." That mean they have around eight hours until they have to leave.
"What is this?"
"Hypnotics. Sleeping pills."
"Like KOs?"
"No. But they help you sleep," man clears out and gets back to type with his laptop. He was sitting at the table next to the window, wearing an earpiece and going through the video material they got today, making notes. Even when Free was now done with his part for the day and permit to take his rest, his superior is still working hard. Looking like he isn't even planning to get any break any time soon.
People in charge, the responsibility they have on them was huge. In a way Free still couldn't understand the outline of how widely and organized CID actually work. Sure, he can relate how stressful it can be. To have everything under your control and if you screw up the mess and the fault will be yours. Frees own experience about that from when he still live in streets felt very overwhelming back then, constantly keeping him on his toes. Still it was nothing compared to what he see people under CID undergo. And the fact they were doing all this willingly. Just because someone needs to do it. Some, like Don and possibly Milo here, were even enjoying working under that pressure what Free dislike. Because they were skilled enough to handle it.
The more Free learn the more he could see how little he still knew. How ignorant he actually was, especially half a year ago and even during the hotel case. He might have been a pro survivor in his own streets but only he saw back then was just those streets. The bubble he once live in has cracked widely since the day he left Kerdon behind him. Yes, Free has always been ready to do anything for his goals. But compared to someone like Milo Frees present self couldn't possible take the role of someone holding a whole case together. He lack severe amount of know-how. Even when it sometimes made Free feel very envious because he kind of hate to follow orders, he knew his place here and was even happy to follow someone worth following. First it was Don. Now Milo. They both were simple great at what they do. "You are not gonna sleep?" Free casually wonders out loud while starting to check what the medicine pack contain.
"Trust me, I would if I could. But it's not in my control," Milo lets out a deep sigh and shows a hand gesture younger to stop bothering him now. Not so sure was Milo sounding displeased because he want peace and quiet to concentrate or because of what Free said, young man plan to do as he was encouraged and head to sleep. Honestly, Milo look tired, but in someway he always does. To think man had a hangover this very morning, get here before Free and Nadin did even when it was quite early still, put everything ready for them, spend the day monitoring while planning their next plan as they learn more.. How he still have any energy left to keep going without sleeping now? If one needs to sacrifice his sleeping hours to be able to keep up with the workload, Free was happy to pass.
- - - - -
A quiet tapping sound was the first thing Free could hear when he gradually woke up from his deep sleep. Without the rising sun light coming from the window Free might have slept even longer. Usually he would not have get this good sleep in an unfamiliar place like this, but the medicine he took last night sort of drop him in so deep sleep he doesn't even know when he fall asleep. That medicine definitely worked.
What Free was eyeing now was the man who was still working at his laptop. Like Free has seen Don doing multiple times, Milo too looked very concentrated while he was working, having this very serious and cool look on his face. And as usually he wasn't looking tired at all even after all-nighter.
The bed next to him wasn't full of clothes anymore, but there was a person sleeping under the blanket. Nadin had come back sometime during the night and was now taking his well-earned rest after her nightly adventure. Her messy hair and the fact she was sleeping in her underwears, not in her pyjamas which were now openly laying on the floor, tells something about in what condition she came back. Apparently heavy work like being an investigator requires heavy fun during your day offs; even when Nadin must be undoubtedly older than Milo, they both have that incommon. They could take their time and get back to work just like that. That was called experience. Free wasn't so sure could he do the same. He normally never drink beer enough to get sick in the first place. And the more he drink the more tired he become.
When Free turns on the bed, stretching his tired body, Milos sharp eyes turn to look at him. "Awake? I got you breakfast," he nods toward the small table area on the other side of the room while getting back to writing. "And more formal clothes. We don't want you stand out too much when we go in."
What Free knew so far they will head to the local police station and meet the one who was locally in charge of the case here in Z city, giving Milo his official support during the investigation. Since this wasn't the first time CID has given a helping hand to their neighbor, the ZCU under Midside Police Department, the cooperation between these two was very functional. Especially with CIDs seventh unit who has the most amount of freelancers under them. But it requires formalities, of course. Like having official meetings together and let others know how the case is proceeding. That way even when CID was technically in charge of the case, they could use local police governments help and organize different approaching methods to get the best results. Just like CID would give their support to ZCU if they ever work in CIDs territory.
The whole idea of meeting some local cops inevitably made Free nervous and charged. He might know people from their own station and get along with them but cops were still cops. Something Free spite from the deeps of his heart. Even when he was now working under CID, that doesn't change the fact he was looked down by many. His bad experience fight strongly against if someone ever dares to claim otherwise. He needs time to get used to people, to trust them in everyday level.
Well, only Frees own attitude and efforts in the field would talk for him. He wasn't here to fawn. But simple work. Do as Milo need him to. That all would be reflected back to Don. For who he was here in the first place.
"Should I know something? Before we go?" young man asks then with his dry voice, slowly forcing himself up from the bed. The headache he has was minor but it was there. Outcome of the drinking. And the after stress thanks to that hectic night. When he was fully going with his role in an unknown environment.
Milo gives denying hum without moving his eyes from the screen. "Not really but I will give you aheads. Eat first."
"People from ZCU are more old-fashioned when it comes to practices," Nadins tired voice suddenly speaks under the blanket, making both guys in the room look toward her. "If you think they are like us, forget that."
"You mean not corrupted?" Milo snorts back, getting back to work, intently teasing Nadin with his frank comment. What ever his reason was to say something like that out loud inevitably induce some heat between these two.
And Nadins deep sigh made it clear how she took others statement. But rather than giving some back, she simple ignores him, pointing her next words to Free. "The biggest reason they outhanded the case over was the lack of manpower. Since it was involved with drugs it's automatically directed to the special research team, under ZCU, just like in CID it's usually us, the seventh unit," woman clears out. "They are full, the case stays 'open' and anyone under the friend zone can voluntarily take it. That's why Milo, under CID, is a blow to their crotch."
"So in their eyes we are intruders?" Free asks, more like stating it out, wiping his eyes to really wake up here. "Even when we all work in the same field? Help out?"
"Right. Some feel it hurts their pride. First of all Milo is damn young to be an investigator. With you by his side they will take you as a joke.."
"I don't care what they think..," Milo points out. Full of self-confidence. "And neither does Free. Where ever we are there will always be people looking down on us because of our age or how we look. Or what gender we are." The last note he point to Nadin, who, as a woman, has definitely experienced it all too too well.
"I just want Free to be ready..," Nadin waves her hand, turning side. Even when she was all tutor-mood at the moment she wasn't planning to get up just yet.
"No, I get it," youngest hums, quite understanding how other was worried he might not be ready to suddenly get a cold treatment from people who call themselfs as police officers and how other was very aware he would not be that surprised from it. And Free has to stand with Milo with this. It was exactly like Milo stated; this wasn't new to him. Not before, not now and not in the future.
"Royally, if I didn't take this case it would have sit unsolved for a while," now Milo finally leaves his laptop alone to take a more relaxed pose, looking Free. "We freelancers can take one case at the time and use our full time to solve it. If I find enough evidences, my client, in this case the CID, either gives me their full support or takes it fully over and starts more extensive investigation with more people in. Either way, our existence in the modern crime research benefits everyone, in every field. Those who have no experience can only see it as a threat against their own working methods."
"You can say that so cocksurely because you are basically the reason we have freelancers in CID in the first place," this time Nadin sounds a little proud even, just verifying the fact. She pushs herself up to sit, brushing her long messy hair away from her face while turning to look at the young man on the neighbor bed. "Milo is genius. Really. Even when he sometimes doesn't act like one."
"How genius should act then..?" older guy sniffs and stands up. "What ever, you will be fine when you are with me. All you need to do is answer their questions." After stating so he heads toward the restroom. "I repeat, eat. We will leave soon."
"Roger," Free nods, following others leave. Then he turns to look at the woman and asks quietly. "You guys don't get along?"
"We do. But he is a loner. Does things in his own way," Nadin fastly declines with a smile. "But when he doesn't put up a show he is actually very innocent. I guess that is why Don trust you to go with him. In a way, you two are similar. Cocky. Stubborn. And of course very handsome. Girls can't get enough from you." Free smirks to her comment, feeling flattered since he took all that as a praise. But to get young man down off his high horse, Nadin fastly adds the rest. "But compared to him you are a novice. Try to outsmart him, you will lose. So do as he says. He knows what he is doing."
- - - -
The base of the Midside Police Department was this traditional single-storey brick building with wide parking area around it. Even when it seem very low compared to other modern office buildings Free has used to see in X city for example, it's huge size made it look undeniable sublime. Four flagpoles with blue-white-red flags and wide stairs to the main entrance welcome the comers, along with the huge sign with the name 'Midside Police Department' right above the doors.
When X citys South Region Police Station located basically in the middle of the city, just stone's throw from a park and other buildings like one shopping center and an old bank, this station stand far from the main city, even having its own junction. The reason must be the fact the state prison located in the same area, way further from this main building where Free and Milo were heading right now of course, but you could still see it from the parking lot.
The centrally located lobby wasn't as showy as it was back at home but you could definitely tell this was a police station. The waiting area opened on their left, having two vending machines and blue sitting areas. Next to the front desk was another doorway. Behind that opened more familiar looking office area, full of officers with their local uniforms on. Unlike their CID building this was a main police station, so it was understandable to see officers with uniforms. But since Free hasn't used to that a bit he grow even more nervous the moment they step in.
Instead of going inside from the main doors, they turn right to walk this long white hallway toward the areas designated for police personnel and administrative staff only. Like it was with CID, this building also have their own divided areas for different units. To Free not needing to go in the same area as civilians and those so called normal cops was kind of reliefing in a way. But the people from ZCU might be way worse so it might not be any better. And the more further they walk in the more anxious Free felt. Thinking to be locked in these walls with cops who were not on his side slowly eat his confidence. But the guy walking in front of him couldn't look more cooler.
Milo fastly greets the lady on the other desk while showing his badge and stating the reason of their arrival. When woman asks them to wait while she makes a call, Milo turns to face Free again, making sure younger wasn't that petrified yet. "You look pale. You okay?" he asks smiling. Free just hums. But of course he couldn't totally hide his tenseness. "They are not gonna eat you. Relax."
"I try.."
"Think them as people from seventh unit. You wrap them all around your little finger with a Christmas song. You might be the youngest here but you are not the foolest, not even near," Milo reminds the younger, trying to bring back some spirit in him.
Again, Milo was very aware of everything Free has done. Even being able to use that to cheer him up, to manipulate his mood. That work. In an instant Free could find his usual attitude and shake his fear away. If any place, this definitely wasn't even near the worst he's been in. And if he thought it through this should be a child's play when he wasn't even the bad guy here. His own imagination was just making things worse here. "Wow, you are good with this..," Free tsihs and actually shows out a smile. This was his way of thanking the other. And Milo was satisfied seeing other got some color back in his face.
"That's my job," man says while once again turning his eyes on the woman who was now pointing them to go in from the side doors. Their request was confirmed and they were expected. "As your mentor, I will not fail you. No matter what you learn from others, my way is the best. Just stay close." And Milo walks in, Free closely behind him.
This area was just another office area, desks after other, windows with decorated bars which was actually quite ironic. People here don't wear any visible official clothes so they must be investigators like people from CID. But they only pass that area, leaving some curious stares behind them while following this woman further in. Even when Free was wearing dark, simple clothes and having a cap on his head to halfly hide his face, people in could easily spot a young man among adults. And the older guy walking ahead wasn't that unnoticeable either. They definitely draw attention here. Either because they were simple outsiders or they were from CID, totally outside the city.
"Sir. It's CID," this middle aged lady calls with a smile after opening the door and leading their guests in. The room was a single main office with a large desk on the left and a meeting area with a table and eight chairs on the right. Both back walls were basically total bookshelfs, filled with law books and other literatures. The wall next to door was window-based, showing a clear view to the other side, to the office area with desks. But even when the wallarea around the window out was quite big, the window itself was more common side. That combo leave more white wall to lighten the color of the otherwise dark brown room.
The older man who has stand up by now to greet them was despite his old-looking face very tall and mascular, at least as tall as Kiho. His serious look with a smile was at the same time very chilling and friendly. Those eyes have seen a lot during the time serving as a law enforcement officer. In a way just his strong presence made you silently show some respect. "Mr Raahinen. I'm Chief Oaks. Welcome to MPD."
Milo shakes the offered hand. "Thank you, sir. It's our pleasure to be of help."
"Strong shake. I like that."
This was all old-fashioned formality. What was just must to deal if you ask Milo. "Half Finn, sir. We learn manners from young age," younger shares proudly, using very strong voice. Just like that Milo look very natural while talking with the older man, like no matter what situation he was always in his comfort zone.
After a forced short conversation about Winter War and Soviet Union, and of course the current Russia-Ukraine War, man finally made it possible them to move on. Before Chief would get ahead and meet the young man who was patiently standing at the door, Milo rushes to introduce them. "This is our Junior, Free Palenne."
"Yes. I looked your files," Chief hums approvingly when taking a hold of youngers hand to shake. This time his hold is distinctly more tender, even when Free himself tried his best to copy what he just heard and saw, squeeze hard. "Using SEs as young as you is quite immoral, even depraved perhaps. But I think some things are meant to overlook when it comes to our field. If all parties are on the same page knowingly, that is." Mans voice was very gently but even Free could read behind his act he wasn't that pleased to see this young man for real. In paper it was more easier to accept.
"He wouldn't be with me if he didn't know his purpose here," Milo points calmly out.
Man hums. While intently eyeing Frees bright blue eyes. "It's a shame to be so used to cruelty you youngsters just accept it too lightly nowadays. We used to rebel against. Had no need to take over real men job, let those so called men sit confortable behind and watch from their monitors. Like dragging war zones in our streets. You speak yourself or let others speak for you?"
"Just respect olders when they are talking. I know my place," Free doesn't let others confrontational and cold sounding words stump him. He could read the room. And actually sincerely respect others frank way to act. So his honest confident smile was how he react to other. Straight language was better than doublespeaking.
And his bold answer made man laugh. "I like you. Please, both, sit down." Showing example oldest sits down, pointing a water can and drinking glasses in the middle of the table his guests to satisfy their thirst if needed. While Milo starts to unwrap his bag, older focus on observing the youngest. "I must confess this is the first time ever under my command anyone using an actual SE in the case. Of course there are people under cover all the time but.. The term itself is quite misleading but very apting," Chief nods and shakes his finger toward Free, smiling. "No records. No official pay checks. You just come and vanish. Someone else takes a credit from your work while you settle for your thin money pile from unmarked drug busts. That is basically where the money comes from, right? Everything can be rewritten in papers when no one's interested."
Milo doesn't directly answer. But doesn't deny either. "That is not my job to question. Can't take sides."
"Sure you can. But it will be just easier adapt than speak out. Like all of us, in some point..," and after saying so Chief changes the subject like nothing was ever discussed. "Originally there was no need you guys show up like this here but since the situation has changed this was our only way to make this official. Because we play by the rules. Munn will be here soon. We appreciate your help with his case."
"That's the least we can do," Milo sures. He has nothing to object here. Only one here who quite couldn't keep up what was going on here was Free. And his slightly confused look was very honest when Milo rushes to explain. "There is another case we encounter. We have the same suspects. So we will share some informations."
Right. Free doesn't need to hear more to know what kind of case it must be. He was basically drag off from his cover the moment he found that girl.
The look on young mans face didn't really change but the air around him felt very dense suddenly. Wasn't that hard someone experienced like Chief to see through his impassive mold. Even when this kid was so called SE, he was still a kid. "How young are you?" man bluntly asks.
Before giving his short answer Free sighs out, not hiding how sick of hearing that question he was. "Sixteen."
The lack of politeness in his voice definitely verify this kid doesn't respect his elders or was very selective who to show it. An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth, like. To even think to use such a naive and immature person as an agent in the first place fight every rule Oaks revere. But you can't judge a book by its cover. What Oaks heard from Munn, about the case what they have been investigating for weeks, this kid found crucial evidences for them during just one night. Making it finally possible them to move on. Without a SE like him, the investigation would have taken more time still or possible end up unsolved at worst. This time it was worth to play this roulette. "Gang background?"
"No.."
"Killed someone?"
Since Milo doesn't intervene this sudden questioning, Free just answers calmly. "No..."
How exactly kids become someones putting their lifes at risk for the sake of others when their own life hasn't even begin yet? In the middle of the modern civilization? As outcasts, unwanted, usually in this point they have done something criminally to find themselfs turned to soldiers, figuratively. Other than just be born in the bad environment. "You have no criminal records. Which I hardly doubt. Come on, I'm curious. What did you do?"
Now Free needs to check from Milo what he was supposed to do. But man just waves his hand. They were just waisting time here anyway, while waiting the other part arrive. Of course professionals were curious about new operational models, how exactly they born and how they work. Speaking honestly inside this room wouldn't change anything. "I stole some jewels..," is Frees straight answer. That's basically how it was. When he get caught.
Chief Oaks snorts. "Only jewels?" he shakes his head. Would anyone put an underage go through something like this just because of a financial debt? Instead going to juvenile jail he choose to work like this? More questions just pops up. Social workers must have been well blinded or brided to let this happen. "And they made you a SE?"
"I volunteer.."
Like any unbelievable case this either wasn't that black and white. Young man talks like he isn't afraid of anything so he surely seem suitable for his role. Not many kids, were they from gangs or simple having other criminal backgounds, could act this calm. Kids were kids, how ever they try to pretend. Inexperience basically glow from them, as overly confident act or straight defiance. Stupidity usually walk hand in hand with their every action. They think nothing could stop them. But this one 'knew his place', as he said earlier. This humbleness, knowing with how he should fight with what he was given made him more smart than other kids his age. "You say you did. But aren't you really here because you have no choice?" Chief teases, wanting to enlighten this young man to think with his own brain, make him realize the reality.
Just when Milo was about to intervene, Free notes with raising his hand a little he was okay with others way to show his straightforward but prejudiced opinion. Man doesn't like underages working like this when he sees it very immoral. Because they were fragile in his eyes. Innocent. Free couldn't but agree. He understands the feeling of wanting to spare some from seeing the ugly reality. Thinking what all he has seen in streets, where kids were nothing but commercial goods, something to use.. He protected Tim and Dino from all that, making sure they had as normal life as he could possible offer while living in that house. "I said I volunteer. The only choice I don't have is not listen your bullshit," Free points out while wearing his usual innocent-looking smile. Fortunately his Boss was sharp in the past and made it clear from the beginning Free would eventually face people like this man who will doubt his role and his whole existence. Just like they have once looked down on Don. "But I don't let that affect my work. Do I.." Free could read between the lines. What he hates the most is be called a kid.
"Come on, Free. Apologize," Milo scolds the other but doesn't really hide his smile either. "He didn't mean to insult you."
So they both lack some manners. Maybe his way of approaching was indeed too attacking and he deserved the bark. When Free politely apologizes, Chief sighs out and turns to look at the man who was walking toward his office, older now waving a permission him to walk straight in. "I get the feeling you are indeed right where you belong," Chief snaps back to kids sassy comment and looks at Milo. "You need something, you will get it. This is Lemuel Munn. He is the one requesting your assistance."
Milo might have been prepared to see this familiar face here but Free definitely wasn't. That is why young man stay staring the guy when he walks in, fastly noding toward Milo before meeting eyes with Free. And a wide smile is how man greets him. "Lemuel Munn. Zs crime unit. I appreciate your help." Or Lector as he was known among the students. No wonder the air around him smelled cops. He was a cop.
"Milo Raahinen. And Free here you have already met," Milo casually introduces, without even looking his younger subordinate who gives him an angry glance. Maybe it wasn't that necessary but Milo could have hint about this before they came in here and met the guy. Now Free wasn't sure how to act anymore.
"Yes. During my night round yesterday," Lector recalls out loud and sits down across them, next to his Boss. "We already exchanged some words earlier on the phone but I wanted to meet in person." Instead of talking to Free anymore, he actually meant his last words to Milo. Albeit still looking both of them. "May I see what you recorded?"
"It's all in here." Free watchs as his superior searchs out this small USB flash drive and hands it to Lector who immediately attacks it in his laptop. "Lets get to the point. I understood you have some kind of proposition to us," Milo adds.
"After I've go through your material we will call them all in. We have now enough evidences to search them legally out. Against kids the pressure is the most certain way to make them confess the rest," man notes and finally raises his eyes from the screen. "The more shit we can get on them the faster they'll break. So it's only natural we work together from now on. You too need a confession."
Milo hums. "True. I have a pretty clear vision what happened. In both cases. All I need is someone speaking out." And since their suspects would all be gathered here soon, they have no choice but grill them here. Once they will be in they can't run.
"We originally investigate Tania Wests raping case, but that drop quickly. She claim she was drugged and raped by Benjamin Park but she didn't either go to the physical examination nor could tell exactly what happened 'cause she doesn't actually remember anything," Lector explains while opening a printed case file on the table others to see. "I have known Benjamin years. Cocky little bastard with a smile of an angel. If he is good with something, then blaming others. Got away from robbing a store cashier when two of his friends talk for him, taking all the blame. Cashiers testimony was nullified. But I know a scumbag when I see one.." He opens another case file. This time it was about the case Milo was investigating. "When there is smoke there is fire," Lector turns to look at his Boss, smiling. "Because I state openly my opinion about Benjamins involvement they cut me off."
"Nothing indicate he has anything to do with his friends deaths. Because you took it too personally your request was forbid," Chief tsihs back and stands up. His presence wasn't necessity so he decide to leave rather than stay listening that nasty criticizing. "The source of drugs were not found. If non of them come forward, with you or not, the case would have stay open anyway. We will see later. Be free to use my office." Then he calmly opens the door and leaves.
"I agree they did everything by the book," Lector admits then, sighing out.
"It gets frustrating when nothing comes out. I get it," Milo states, recognising others state of mind. But doesn't really care about the squabble between these two. It has nothing to do with them being here now. "Even more when the ones above you tie your hands because they have to follow the protocol. But we are not above the law either. It's out job to use our limits the best we can."
Lector snorts, laughing inside when needing to here scolding from someone younger than him. But other has a point. So he gets back to explaining his side of the case. "We are hearing Kenner Addyman as we speak. He already confessed sexually assaulting his ex-girlfriend, simple because there were many witnessing their argument and seeing him walking out the room. Thanks to you we even have a video proof of that," now Lector looks at Free. "With her he used simple violent. Getting too angry was his motive. But he had some tranqs with him. Said he get it from Noel Borthwick.." That was what first made him connect this case with Benjamin. And reach out to Milo.
"KOs," Milo explains to Free, teaching him casually in case other didn't know what they were talking about. Noting if Tania is speaking the truth she was most likely drugged with same drugs.
From Noel? Not from Benjamin? Of course Free knew Noel was the one who gave his brother the drugs. Guy himself confessed it. But he really was involved with tranqs too? He knew about what kind of videos they were sharing? Somehow Free doesn't want to believe that. "And Maya? And the other girl?" he asks then out loud, not so sure from who he should even ask.
"Maya?"
Milo searchs his bag and shows the phone Free used last night to download that app and getting Asters contact informations. "The home owners son let Benjamin use the house exchange of videos. Girl in other clip was at the party yesterday. She might not even know such a video exists," man clears out and lets other see what kind of videos they were talking about. "If we get access in Benjamins phone we can read out suspects involved sharing those videos. And possible who filmed them.. You will get the whole picture after watching the recordings."
Lector shows disgusted face when he fastly goes through these two videos. While doing so he takes his own phone and makes a call. "Take his phone and check everything. Chat history. Photos. Videos.. Bring it to me," and after stating so he ends the call and straightens his back while landing Milos phone on the table. Taking this silent moment to add everything together in his mind. They have to identify who those people in videos were. Piling everything together will take some time. "I didn't know about other girls.."
"It's very likely this kid also gave Benjamin and his friends access to his fathers garage where they stole his companys products. For exchange of those videos," while opening the record files with his laptop Milo reports what he knew so far. "According to Aster, the son, there is more. Two in the video with Maya were Joshua Madson and Cameron Heald, two of our drug victims." Those three were all connected to the videos. It was also very likely this group delute the drugs themselfs. Everything was linking together.
Companys products? Like color appliers?? "You found the pinks??" Free awes, wanting to double check what he just heard.
Milo hums. "I will tell you everything later, in better time."
So basically they have solved everything already? Exactly when that happened, Free himself has no clue. Suddenly all felt so overwhelming, like the whole yesterday was just a distant dream. Was it all really over now? Did they win?
"They have done this systematicly?" oldest wonders, now looking the screen Milo turned around him to see. A dark clip was not showing much but there was a quiet talking between two young man. Starting with a simple question about how other was convinced to borrow his parents place to have a party. That was Frees voice, talking with Aster on the balcony.
And soon Lector too could recognize young mans voice, glancing him from time to time now. The way Free talk in the video, really sounding truth to his role, made even Free himself get goosebumps. How excited he could sound when other showed him those videos.. Hearing it afterwards felt very wrong. So wrong he couldn't but drop his calm mask and start to feel pretty nervous while turning his face away, pretend he wasn't even in the room. If that was someone elses voice Free would have definitely bought that act. It sound so real.
"You will call Noel in to question him about what Kenner said? They might not know we are after them. It's our change to get them all in without them having time to warn each other. Benjamin, Noel.. There is also a guy named Pete Ross, I'm sure you know him too," Milo speaks out his plan. "I'm not an interrogator type. Can I leave that to you guys? Instead I go verify my own leads and find those girls for you." Lastly he hands copies of his own research. "My report so far."
That would actually save some time. "My group is at the house still. They can pick anything out for you. Tell them you spoke with me," Lector writes down a phone number and gives it to Milo with his own business card. "We will deal things here." An adaptive cooperation with this guy felt very easy and natural. No needless speculating, just people understanding their roles and going with it. Like they have been working together years.
When Milo stands up, Free instinctively follows him. But gets interrupted. "If you don't mind, he will stay here," Milo smiles and looks at Lector, pointing Free. "Use him as you wish. He is good putting on a show."
Free gives Milo very confused look, gets almost petrified. Other was going to leave him here alone?? His honest shocked face was hilarious to see, but Milo doesn't back off. "You are currently best friends with that Aster kid. If I were Lemuel I would throw you in the waiting room with that group, to make sure they can't make up plans. You might even learn something new when you are with them." The rest was definitely a hint for Lector who actually just hums for approve, reading the situation. No one would question why Free was asked to come here with the rest because he was indeed the one founding that girl.
That sound pretty reasonable request. But since Frees spirit at the moment is quite mixed he isn't so sure how he would get back to his role just like that. This time he knows so much more. And like Don told him after their last case, the less unnecessary details he knows the better. That lesson made so much sense now.
"If I'm gone too long, I will call Nadin, to keep you company later. This man is in charge of you until that," Milo adds and packs his laptop with him. Then gives Free this last glance before leaving.
After Milo was gone, Free turns to look at the man sitting across him. Lector too was eyeing him, but soon turns his focus back on the screen, this time adding earpieces to wear. "Need anything to drink? Eat?"
"No, I'm good," Free casually answers with a quiet voice. Which made man smirk. Kid was acting as cold as before. Were he now in his role or not.
"I will send clips to my team and go through some myself. If I find something I need your clarification is that okay? Also, his idea was good. When we will call them in, if it gets to that I apprechiate your help."
Unlike Chief Oaks, Lector doesn't waste his time to question him. Doesn't doubt could Free really do it or anything. Man simple trusts Milos words and Frees skills after this short meeting. Which was quite fresh to hear. Giving Free more his confident back. "Sure. I mean, yes sir.."
- - - - -
About two hours later Free was still patiently sitting on his chair, reminding himself how he halfly slept during night shifts back in his training time without totally falling asleep. When before it was utterly impossible him to fall asleep in a place like this, his current self could take a nap basically anywhere. Since this was a police station, he felt more secured even. Which too was very ironic.
Lector's been making and receiving phone calls every now and then, building the chain of events from small details. Some people from the area next door came here a while ago, with Kenners phone. Apparently a few more videos were found and the case start drawing more attention among other investigators. Thanks to that more people start paying attention to the young man sitting in their Chiefs office. And it didn't take long them to figure out from where he was, causing them state their own opinions out loud. So loud Free had no problem to hear them.
People were openly discussing about CID taking over a case which originally belong to ZCU, them mocking the system by sending some youngest members instead of more experienced ones. Suddenly what Nadin was trying to tell Free earlier was getting real right in front of him; without an actual reason behind he became their target of mockery. Not that Free was giving a damn about what they say. But this was the first time ever he witness people who he assume to all be somehow superior-like acting like idiots without common sense. The competition over social status is ultimately the same in any environment, apparently. Live or die, pick your side.
Even when Free was just trying to ignore the talk from outside, the man sitting with him was fast to grow sick and take action. Lector leaves his place for a short moment to close the door while giving people gossiping outside an angry glance. "Don't mind them," was all Lector states out while walking back at his seat.
"I didn't," Free notes and shortly closes his eyes again. Feeling glad he wasn't the only one here who think they were annoying.
" 'Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom, and with all thy getting get understanding'," Lector wrap up his thoughts about his colleagues's manners, but Free doesn't understand his point a bit. So guy fastly adds more. "Proverbs 4.7 from the Bible."
Bible? They were suddenly having religious talk? "I don't believe in God.."
"It really has nothing to do with God. It's about using our brains," man keeps, taking a more relaxed pose while eyeing the young man. Now that he was interrupted, a short break might do good. "When we choose to judge one rather than try to understand them first, we'll trap ourselfs between our egos and our beliefs. We'll become insufficient. And that fights against everything we are as research officers. We need to stay sharp. To be able to fight against another human being. To outsmart them." He points Free, showing a smile, expressing his approval. "What I saw, you are one of an actor. You think fast. You act fast. And you have a natural talent to charm people to like and trust you. Compared to those bitches out there, you belong to that group I have faith in doing your job as you are expected. You nailed it. Good job."
Was this guy.. praising him? Slowly Free straightens his back and clears his throat, politely noding. "Thank you.."
And how honestly embarrassed this cool kid could become after some compliment. Maybe some of that act under cover wasn't that fake. He just uses his genuine personality to mold in. "No, thank you. For punching him. From all of us who can't do that," Lector shows even wider smile now, talking about the incident what he saw in the recording, Free boldly attacking Kenner after realizing what guy had done. "That is why your role is the hardest. Yours who go all in."
Growing even more puzzled Free can't but hum back. He knew what he did was definitely improper and he kind of just lost it when the whole situation got under his skin. But that someone he basically doesn't even know was now thanking him from doing so felt conflicting.
Since other looked like he doesn't know how to react correctly without sounding too inappropriate in front of him, Lector decides it was time to stop informalities and get back to work. Without his own people around young man was constantly charged. Talking about the case should make him more relaxed again. "Aster Evans is coming in with his parents and their lawyer. We will separate them and ask John Evans about his company. During that time Aster will be with you in the waiting room. Noel Borthwick will be send there too when he arrives," Lector starts to open their plan, to fill him in, while showing ID photos of each of them. "They are called in to verify the course of events last night. About Kenner and his ex, Sofia Jane. And about you assaulting the suspect." Before Free could even react to that last sentence, Lector rushs to explain. "Don't worry. If he ever really decides to sue you after all what he himself did, I will personally wipe a floor with him. It's just another excuse for you to be there. We can't reveal the real reason yet so they won't warn each other and shut down."
Okay. Since it was kind of Milos suggestion in the first place Free has no objections. This was his last change to hear Noel himself too. Maybe get him speak out. There was no way guy was anything like Benjamin. Or that Kenner. Noel and Pete were just people drag in that drug circle by their friends. Just like Aster. One or two bad apples ruining the whole harvest.
"You okay with that?"
"Sounds like a plan," Free hums, this time showing very motivated spirit out. When it's about work he could really feel more confident than against personal questions. His work role was his shield to stand the unknown.
"Great," Lector smiles. And starts to prepare for their next move. If everything goes as planned, starting tomorrow only thing left is to finish up both their cases and leave the rest to the prosecutors. The feeling of standing so close to the finish line but fearing everything could still blow up was both extremely excruciating and satisfying.