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Ernesto Almares is annoyed.
He had been called away from a family game of Monopoly and he was winning.
So he is beyond annoyed.
Except no one would notice that, his face is kept in a neutral expression as he walks down the hallway of the hospital, even managing a small smile and nod at a few familiar faces as he moves through the gathered groups of worried parents. He approaches the harried looking nurse at the desk and gives her a placating smile while producing his badge.
“Detective Almares, I was told Alex Walker was brought in from the White Lotus. The nurse gives him a baleful look and quickly types, her fingers flying across the keyboard. She glances back up and gestures towards the curtained triage area.
“Curtain four. There is already an officer with him.” She directs and moves to help a worried mother who just approached the desk. Ernesto gives the gathered family members clogging the waiting area a long look before heading to the triage area. Expecting to find Kai or even Campo sitting in the plastic chair he’s a little taken aback to see a patrolman staring at the slumped figure of the American on the bed. Alex Walker, former DEA agent and current resident of Cebu is pulling listlessly at the handcuff that’s securing him to the bed, the man’s wrist is red and beginning to bruise. Ernesto glances at the patrolman who stiffens as the detective approaches, Alex continues to pull at the cuff having not noticed the arrival.
“Why is he handcuffed?” Ernesto asks and the patrolman and when he doesn’t respond quick enough, he gestures at the man on the bed. “Can you not see that he’s doing damage to himself?” Before spinning to look at the sullen man handcuffed to the bed. Alex is listless and Ernesto’s worry ratchets up a notch. This isn’t the man’s usual behavior, Alex is nearly always humming with energy, always moving with a slow simmering anger below the surface. He doesn’t think in the two years he’s known the former DEA agent he’s ever seen the man actually sit still. The fact that the usually hyperaware and borderline paranoid former federal agent hasn’t even noticed the detective is alarming.
“He tried to run last time we uncuffed him. Knocked down Baccay, he went to secure the footage for evidence.” The patrolman states quickly and looks painfully scared. Ernesto curbs his annoyance and considers the age of the young patrolman.
“Are you Baccay’s trainee?” he asks abruptly and the officer nods quickly, licking his lips while looking between Ernesto and Alex. Ernesto looks down at the floor and nods, knowing Baccay isn’t a fan of Walker’s and the command to keep him handcuffed to the bed might have been made in haste. Of course, he’s seen Alex fight and his hand to hand is formidable, the power behind his punches evident in the bruises left behind.
“I’ll take charge of him. I need you to give me a rundown of what’s going on.” He states and turns to look once more at Alex, his blue eyes distant as he continues to mindlessly pull at the cuff, a few slurred words slipping past his lips.
“We were called to the White Lotus resort for a disturbance at the bar. Upon arrival there was a fight going on in the bar area. Walker was identified as the aggressor by multiple witnesses and I saw him fighting with the bar back and bartender— injuries have been photographed and the victim statements taken at the scene.” Ernesto nods, the call from Corey about Alex being hauled out of the resort in handcuffs only stated the obvious, but the whole story seems a unreal.
“A fight at the bar doesn’t explain-- this.” He gestures at the American whose given up pulling at the cuff and is blinking slowly at the lights with a distinctly unhappy frown. Alex’s lower lip is split a small dribble of blood snaking its way down his chin. There is a fine sheen of sweat on his face, the blood and debris on his face clumping together. The patrolman gives a weird shoulder movement and continues.
“When we got him out of the resort he just… collapsed. He was covered in sweat and gasping for air and trying to wipe his face. He was uncoordinated and distracted and fell over a curb before I could catch him. Thought it was best to bring him here for a medical check. Nurse came in to take blood and he went wild.” The young man stops and licks his lips and Ernesto runs a hand over the back of his neck with a frustrated sigh, this whole situation is going sideways.
“He went from subdued and spaced out to thrashing, kicking, and trying to evade. It was unsafe for the nurse to proceed. My partner uncuffed him briefly so he could get him hooked to the bed and he took the chance. Punched Baccay and vaulted over the bed--- I tased him.” He finishes and looks between the American and Ernesto, his face slightly pale at the admission of discharging his taser. For a trainee he’s able to sum up the situation without stammering and giving just enough to the detective so he can make his own conclusions.
“Alright, I’ll stay with him for now. You said the nurse was unable to take blood? Why were you going to take blood?” He asks and the rookie is about to explain when the deep baritone of his training officer cuts over him, silencing the younger man. Baccay is a large man with a mug of a face, his dark features craggy with wrinkles and near black small eyes. Alex once remarked that the man had ‘piggy’ eyes and Ernesto can’t help but see the resemblance now as the larger officer squints at him.
“Blood pull was to check his blood alcohol level, the bartender reported that he’d been drinking at the bar and was acting intoxicated when the fight broke out. Walker broke the bartender’s nose and was pummeling both the bar backer and bar tender when we arrived. Upon handcuffing him he was slurring his words, uncoordinated movements and easily unbalanced. Classic drunk.” He states and crosses his massive arms over his chest, putting his weight on his toes before settling into a confrontational stance. Alex gives a huffing sigh and the rattle of the handcuff against the bed tells Ernesto that he’s gone from blinking at the ceiling to pulling at the cuff again, his body beginning to tremble slightly. Ernesto glances at the captive man and shakes his head, the whole thing doesn’t sound right. Alex is many, many things—but a drunk isn’t one of them. Sure, he’s partaken in a beer or two but the man has never been even tipsy never mind a belligerent drunk.
“Nooooo, nah. Not whahht hap’pn maaaaan.” Alex slurs out, his chestnut hair plastered to his face as the bruising from the hits he took begin to darken. Ernesto frowns at the former DEA agent, his expression blank as he regards the recently tased man.
“Alex, can you tell me what actually happened?” he asks, bending to try and catch his blue eyes but the man is swaying now, his eyes closing as he begins to swallow thickly. Ernesto is growing more concerned, he’s seen plenty of drunks and drug addicts, there is something not adding up. Turning back to the two patrolmen he gives them a stern frown.
“I will take him into my custody for the time being. I need you to find the nurse so we can get a blood draw done. He also needs to be checked out from that tase hit anyway. Then you two can head back to the department to file your reports. I’ll bring you the results of the tests when I bring him back to the station.” He directs and Baccay is about to protest, squaring himself to his full height but Ernesto shuts him down quickly, noting how the incoherent swaying of the man on the bed stops abruptly and the blue eyes are focused solely on Baccay, the muscles in Alex’s arms bunching in anticipation.
“No. You will not argue with me. I have given you an order Patrolman Baccay. Take your trainee and go back to headquarters. Write your reports, go over the paperwork for a taser deploy with your trainee. I will bring you the results of the draw when the prisoner has been cleared by medical.” His tone brooks no argument, the stern lines and set of his jaw a clear indicator that he isn’t about to take the insubordination Baccay was about to spew.
“I’ll be talking to Ocampo about you defending your pet American.” He growls and stalks away, gesturing at the younger patrolman to follow. Ernesto gives the trainee a reassuring nod, he’s not a bad kid— just needs a better training officer. Ernesto’s sure he’ll be talking with the Chief soon enough and maybe he’ll raise it then. Once the two patrolmen leave the curtained area Ernesto grabs the plastic chair and drags it closer to the bed, noticing how calm Alex has become since Baccay has left. Ernesto looks the man over and notes the bruised and cracked knuckles on both hands along with the bruising to his face. His whole body is trembling even while sweat is breaking out his arms and face. This isn’t a normal reaction to alcohol and he’s growing more concerned as Alex continues to swallow dryly.
“Detective?” a voice from the curtain stops whatever Ernesto is about to say to the trembling man on the bed. He glances over and gives a smile when he recognizes Alma a veteran emergency nurse. He has seen this tiny steel haired woman go toe to toe with some of the biggest guys in some seriously induced rages and had them polite and meek within minutes. She’s a commanding figure and demands respect, even from the most belligerent patient.
“Alma, I am glad it’s you.” He greets and tries to give Alex a reassure pat on the shoulder but the man flinches away violently, the cuff rattling violently as a flurry of slurred words causing his split lip to bleed again. Ernesto frowns at the reaction and his worry settles into a hard pit in his stomach. Alma doesn’t approach directly, instead moving about the small space both gauging the patient and getting him use to her moving near him.
“Alma, this is Alex Walker.” Ernesto introduces and moves the chair out of the way. Alma gives the man a frowning look, her brown eyes critical from behind her thin wire rimmed glasses.
“The American right?” she asks, her voice clipped and matter of fact.
“Yeah, the American. He owns the Paradise gift shop and helps Kai and I out on cases—kind of a consultant.” Ernesto explains and Alma makes a grunting noise. She moves a little closer to the restrained man who is watching her, blinking owlishly at her but begins trying to back away. Alma stops and glares at the man before sliding her eyes over to Ernesto.
“Is he always so paranoid and jumpy?” she asks, placing her hands in the pockets on the front of her smock and cocking a hip. She isn’t backing away from Alex but nor is she approaching, a tactic Ernesto has seen her use with abused children and flighty elders. Alex stops trying to get his foot on the edge of the bed and settles, a hand coming up to swipe at the hair now plastered to his forehead.
“Not really… he’s a paranoid and tense person generally—came to the island because of hypertension but he’s been cleared by a Doctor Patel over at the military base. But this is extreme even for him. He’s former DEA, I’ve never seen him drink to excess… this isn’t like him.” He tells the nurse honestly. If he was being truthful with himself, he can’t be certain that this isn’t in Alex’s wheelhouse. For as close as their working relationship has become, he doesn’t really know Alex Walker. He has spent time with the man, hung out with him at various events and invited him to join the family outings—but he doesn’t really know a whole lot about the transplant. But he knows it, feels it in his bones that this isn’t Alex Walker.
“Judging by the blown pupils and the sweating I am going to say he’s taken something.” Alma notes and takes one more step, reaching for an arm so she can wrestle a pressure cuff onto the mans bicep. Alex gives a strangled huff and manages to get a foot on the bed and throws himself backward, away from the nurse but his wrist hits the cuff and flops ungracefully onto the bed. Alma gives a cheer and springs quickly to wrap a restraint across Alex’s chest, buckling and ratcheting it down in a smooth motion. Ernesto doesn’t bother protesting the action, knowing he won’t change the outcome. The blood draw needs to be taken, the post taser exam done and it needs to be conducted safely for everyone involved. Alex gives a distressed roar and thrashes violently but Alma pats his forehead and talks soothing to the man, her words forcing him to focus on her as she moves around the bed.
“I’d watch his legs… I’ve seen him break a guy’s kneecap with a kick from those boots.” Ernesto warns even as Alex kicks out uselessly but Alma just takes it in stride. She takes her readings and writes them down on the clipboard while also grabbing the tourniquet and items for the draw. Alex tries to wriggle away, his dazed blue eyes watching her.
“Okay Mr. Walker, I’m going to take a blood sample then I’ll be doing an exam to make sure you’ve got no lasting effects from that taser hit.” Alma informs him clinically before looking at Ernesto and frowning at him.
“You’re employed Almares as my orderly. Grab that cuffed hand and pin it to the side of the bed, I’m going to attempt to get at the inside of his elbow but he can’t curl that arm. Now, don’t hurt him or be overly aggressive and if I say let go, you do it.” She directs and Ernesto is about to protest when Alex stops thrashing and suddenly deflates, his mouth moving but no words are coming out while he stares at the ceiling. Alma gives him a cursory look and frowns and Ernesto is about to ask when she takes a gauze pad from instrument tray and wipes it down Alex’s face, the man flinching away with a sharp gasp of alarm.
“I think we might have found part of the problem.” Alma relates and places the gauze in a plastic specimen baggie before labeling it and handing it over to Ernesto. The detective looks closely, holding the baggie up to the light before using his hand to shade it. On the pristine white of the gauze is a smear of Alex’s sweat mixed with an off white substance.
“I’ll send it to the lab as well, but I think we’ll be able to get a name from the blood draw.” Alma snatches the baggie away and puts it in the emesis bowl she’d use to transport. Ernesto takes a deep breath and positions himself near the man’s handcuffed wrist, regretting what he’s about to do to a man he does consider a friend. Alma slips the torniquet around the bicep and tightens it while Alex struggles against the intrusion and thrashes against the restraints, his eyes wide and unable to focus.
“Almares, grab his wrist above the hand hand just pin it to the bed. I will make quick work of this—luckily he’s got some nice veins to work with.” Alma commands and Ernesto places both hands on Alex’s rigid forearm, the muscles bunching while his hand reflexively opens and closes. He wrestles against the brute strength in that arm and manages to pin it enough for Alma to swoop in and puncture the vein. Alex bucks and gives a curse, insults that his southern upbringing wouldn’t have him saying to a woman if he was in his right mind. The draw only takes a few seconds but for Ernesto it seems to take forever and by the time Alma has backed away and is writing on the test tube and Alex has drifted off again, his eyes aimlessly roaming the ceiling and mumbling.
“Alright, I’ll get these done on express and the results should be back within the hour. I’m suspecting PCP, but the results will tell us for sure.” She states before stepping out of the curtained area to snag a passing tech with direct orders to deliver it to the lab. Ernesto leans closer to Alex to try and catch what he’s saying, the split in his lip dribbling again.
“th'yr druggin' th' gals” he keeps mumbling and tries to twitch away as Alma returns, his usually sharp eyes dulled but moving erratically.
“aangl dusss in tha drak’sssss” he mumbles again and Ernesto looks up at Alma in shock.
“You heard that right?” he asks and Alma gives him a pointed look while she works on the chart, her pen flying over the paper.
“When I came on shift there were three girls brought in by a friend of theirs, all showing signs of being roofied.” She states and moves towards Alex once more, intent on doing a quick physical exam to clear him of any injuries due to the tasing. Ernesto pulls out his phone and hits Kai’s number and moves away from the bed but keeps a sharp eye on Alex and Alma, not wanting to leave the nurse without any help as she begins her examination.
“Detective Mendoza.” Kai answers crisply and Ernesto launches into his explanation without greeting.
“Listen Kai, I’m here at the emergency room with Alex. He’s been arrested for a bar fight at the White Lotus. He’s been drugged with suspected PCP but I’ll know when the test results come back. Alma says that three girls came in with symptoms of being roofied and their still here being treated. I have to stay with Alex till he’s cleared, can you get down here and take statements from those girls? I know it’s your night off but….” He trails off, turning to watch as Alma unbuttons Alex’s shirt so she can get a good look at the site the prongs went in. Alex is twitching and thrashing, his legs kicking at the bed but he’s been secured down tights enough that Alma can do her job without worry.
“Is he alright? And of course, I’m on my way.” Kai responds and Ernesto can hear the musical sound of her car keys.
“He’s feeling the effects for sure and Baccay was the arresting officer.” He can hear Kai’s sharp intake of air but continues before she can get a word in edge wise. “Apparently he tried to escape and he was tased.” Ernesto finishes as Alma’s voice turns to a commanding tone and he moves back towards the bed as Alex begins thrashing violently against the chest strap. Ernesto ends the call and works with Alma to help ease the strap and roll the man to his side just in time for Alex’s vomit to hit the tiled floor while he sags against the bedrail gagging and gasping like a fish. Alma’s lips are drawn down in a sharp frown and Ernesto has to back away from the smell and chokes down his own gag reflex. Alex is shuddering and mumbling, his face bathed in sweat and eyes closed.
“Alright… this changes a few things.” Alma mutters and pushes a button on the wall. She gestures at the handcuff and Ernesto digs in his pocket for the universal key.
“We’re going to move him to another curtain, get him changed out of these clothes because they might be contaminated. Mr. Walker? Hey, I’m talking to you Mr. Walker.” Alma says, reaching out with a freshly gloved hand and taps lightly on Alex’s cheek, the touch causing the man to flinch back. Ernesto releases the trapped arm and he tenses, ready for Alex to make another attempt at running, but the man simply remains on his side and pulls his knees up and curls into a miserable ball on the bed. Alex’s head rests on the bed frame and his eyes are blinking slowly, his hair clumped and sticking up at weird angles. He looks exhausted, the lines and dark shadows under his eyes giving him a haunted look.
“Mr. Walker? Are you with us?” Alma asks and Alex’s eyes focus on her for the first time since Ernesto arrived. He counts this as a good thing, hopefully the drugs are working their way out of his system and he’s becoming a little more lucid.
“Hey.” Kai’s voice draws Ernesto from watching his friend as he shivers on the bed. Kai takes in the other man with wide eyes and turns to look at Ernesto before looking back at Alex. Ernesto gestures for her to follow him as Alma works on getting Alex away from the puddle of vomit and to finish her exam.
“He looks really bad.” Kai remarks with a tinge of concern, her lips tight with disapproval.
“Yeah, he’s not doing great. We’re still waiting on the results but he seems to be coming back around.” He relates and then launches into a summary of the events that ended up with him in custody. “Alma said a girl brought her friends in and their being treated for being roofied, they were at the same bar Alex was at. I have to stay with him as he is actually under arrest for assault, so I need you to take the statement of those girls—then we need that security footage from the bar. Alex makes a statement, it’s slurred and incoherent, but he said something about angel dust in the drinks.” Ernesto keeps a sharp eye on the previously handcuffed man but he’s cooperating with Alma’s ushering to another bed. His steps are unsteady and stiff, the mans whole body still shivering but he’s up and obediently following directions.
“Yeah, I’ll go grab those statements while you get him settled again. Hopefully those results come back soon.” She gives him a thin smile and heads off with a quick glance at the struggling American. Ernesto turns back and finds Alex attempting to ward off Alma from taking his pants, his pale face turned down in a scowl as Alma holds out a scrub top for him. Alex’s bare chest has several bruises from the take down fight they’d gotten into a week prior but the man has several pucker holes from healed bullet wounds and the silvery lines of knife wounds. The pink scar on his side from the final fight with Jace Vargas is just one of many that decorate the former undercover specialist’s upper body.
“Alright Mr. Walker, I have your results.” A fresh-faced doctor announces as he sweeps into the curtained area, his eyes on the clipboard and barely looking at the man. Ernesto is about to pull his badge but the doctor turns to him while still addressing Alex.
“Blood alchohol was zero. You’re man isn’t drunk under the pretense of the law. The five panel however--- it came back positive for PCP. I am worried about his medical history and will be ordering an IV to help hydrate and flush it from his system. I assume this was an accident exposure? I’ve seen quite a few of the local addicts and he isn’t one of them.” Ernesto gives him a nod and is happy to learn that Alex won’t be hitting the drunk tank at the station till he’s medically discharged.
“Any idea of how it got into his system? I know Alex, he isn’t a user.” Ernesto asks and the doctor and the man glances at the clipboard, over to where Alma has finally gotten Alex out of his jeans and into a pair of mint green scrubs and back to Ernesto.
“Considering nurse Alma sent that gauze up with the sample and that he was arrested for a bar brawl at a resort—I’m going to go out on a limb and say he got the drug via mucus membranes. This is a good thing, it means he will probably come through the effects easily. We will monitor him, due to his history of hypertension mainly and get a bag of fluids running to help with any imbalances he might experience while he comes down. I take it you’ll be staying with him till he’s ready to go?” At Ernesto’s nod he gives a thin lipped smile and walks out, leaving Alma to run the IV and Ernesto to watch his friend. Ernesto runs a hand along the back of his neck and gives a groan before turning back to the now scrub clad Alex and an annoyed Alma.
“Alright Alex, you’ve been cleared from the drunk charges. Turns out you’ve been hit with PCP—do you remember how you came into contact with that? Could it have been in your drink? Why were you at a different resort?” Ernesto tells and asks, hating the standing around that comes from babysitting a perp till their released from medical. Alex blinks at him, the mint green scrubs making him look even more sickly but the trembling seems to have slowed down. Alma gestures at the drugged man, wordlessly indicating she wants him to lay back on the bed. Alex stonily watches her, his arms coming to cross defensively but Alma simply pulls herself up to her five-foot status, pushes up her glasses and crosses her own arms while cocking a hip. Ernesto hides his smile behind his hand watching the two stubborn personalities clash. Alma gives him a ‘shoo’ gesture and Alex slowly complies, swinging his legs up onto the bed but refusing to lay back, instead sagging his shoulders and scowling.
“I need to relock you into a handcuff.” Ernesto states, coming over to switch the cuff from his right wrist to the left. Alex gives a grumble but holds his arm out so he can click the metal bracelet over the thick joint and then setting the other to the metal frame. Alex gives a quiet huff and shakes his head, looking at Ernesto for the first time since this whole debacle started.
“Ihm.. Ihm no-not drunk.” He words are slightly slurred and stumbling but their coming back to his usual speech pattern.
“No, you’re not drunk so that charge won’t stick. But you do have assault on those two barmen and assault of a police officer. Those charges will stick because I know Baccay will not let up.” Ernesto tells him and Alex licks at the split in his lower lip. His face is flushed but his eyes seem a little more lucid. Alma brings the items needed for the IV over and Alex turns his attention to her, his frown deepening the lines around his mouth.
“No.” he states and Ernesto shares a look with the nurse. Alex, while still under the influence of the narcotic, is adamant in his refusal. That one word is growled and threatening even as his body tenses.
“Alex, you’re handcuffed to the bed. This is doctor’s orders; you need the IV to help flush the narcotic from your system.” Alma gives him a stern look and continues to get the drip set up without paying attention to the protests. Ernesto leans closer and draws Alex’s attention to him instead of Alma.
“What happened Alex?” he asks and the blue eyes jerk to focus on him and he seems to struggle to form coherent words but the distraction works and Alma deftly sets the catheter and tapes it to his hand. Alex gives a whine of betrayal and jerks at the handcuff petulantly while glaring at Alma. The nurse gives him a sweet smile and pats his arm in a mock soothing motion. She gives a nod to Ernesto and heads out of the curtained area with a promise to return in a little while.
“Corey.” Alex suddenly says and Ernesto cocks his head, unaware of the Paradise Managers involvement with this current predicament and is about to ask for clarification when the gasp from behind him makes him turn. Corey comes through the curtain, her expression sad at the sight of the gift shop owner.
“Oh Alex, what happened to you?” she asks as she approaches the bed, her mouth drawing down in a frown when Alex tries to bring his hand up but is firmly reminded of the cuff. Ernesto intervenes as Alex tries to stumble out an explanation but simply stumbles over his words and grows more frustrated and upset.
“Corey, I can fill you in—how about you step over here with me?” Ernesto offers and gently draws the resort manager away from the drug addled man, the slumping bob of Alex’s head a silent ‘thank god’.
“Do you know why Alex was at the White Lotus?” he asks before the woman has a moment to settle. Corey’s dark eyes slide over to Alex and then lock on Ernesto.
“My friend is the bar manager at that resort, she was telling me how there’s been a few instances of guests not feeling well after visiting this particular bar. I talked to Alex and he offered to take a look into what’s going on—see if he can see anything. I never expected him to end up like this.” She replies and starts wringing her hands nervously while looking at Alex. Ernesto looks back over and finds the drugged American watching them. The pieces are clicking into place, knowing Alex would try to help and would likely uncover whatever nefarious actions were happening at the bar and of course, take the over-the-top action to stop it.
“I think his inner DEA agent kicked in and he decided to stop whatever was going on.” Ernesto smirks and Corey lets out an annoyed huff.
“He was supposed to just look, not go all Rambo.” She grouses but Ernesto can see her kind eyes watch the drugged man worryingly. In the two years Alex has been living on the resort property Corey has softened to the man and his charms. She often tells herself it’s because of the kindness he shows Rita and the other staff members but it’s mainly because out of all the American’s she’s dealt with Alex is the most entertaining to rile up and he’s easy to banter with. She does like the man and worries about him but knows he doesn’t need a mother to hen peck him, so she chooses to be the endearing landlady.
“S’fine Corey, I’m all good, ya know?” Alex tries to shush at the woman and Corey approaches him while he continues to try an placate the woman “jus’ a lil’ acci’dnt” and Ernesto can’t help but snort and shake his head at the pending charges, non-consensual drug usage, and consequence tasing being classified as an ‘accident’.
“I got those statements.” Kai says as she pushes through the curtain, her dark eyes roaming over Alex as he tries to justify his actions to Corey whose trying her hardest to not mother the man, she does offer to get him a blanket and Alex ascents finally. The hotel manager, given a task that she can undertake heads out of the curtained area.
“Alma and Corey are an unholy pair man.” Alex remarks dully from the bed and gives a sullen pull at the cuff. “Oh Hey Kai.” He blinks at the detective before sighing and leaning back against the bed tiredly. Kai looks between Ernesto and Alex, a little taken aback by the withdrawn man but gets herself back on task.
“Our victims are Halina Daza and Kaila Brosas, both girls were brought to the emergency room by their friend Ysabel Cachola who was unable to order from the bar due to being under age. Daza and Brosas were both displaying classic signs of being roofied and Cachola drove them directly here. The girls were celebrating Daza getting into her first college choice and Brosas works at the Lotus as a children’s swim instructor. She doesn’t know the bar staff well as she’s an outside staff member but thought the man mixing the drinks was new. They entered the bar around six fifteen, ordered their drinks and left around seven thirty with both Daza and Brosas showing concerning symptoms.” Kai finishes, her eyes scanning the notepad and her neatly written notes.
“Alex, what time were you at the White Lotus?” Ernesto asks and Alex scrunches up his face, the swelling around his mouth becoming more pronounced.
“a’round siix-thr’tee.” He slurs and gives a tight smirk and tries to look between the two, blue eyes trying to focus. “are th’ girls okay?” he asks and Kai shoots Ernesto a startled look. She moves closer to the bed but stop when Alex tucks his legs away from her with a wild look. She’s done the trainings and knows that PCP can often cause paranoia amongst other unsettling issues. Alex is already a pretty intense, hyper vigilant and paranoid nature so the drug is most likely heightening those feelings.
“Did you see the girls Alex?” Kai asks and Ernesto wants to signal to her not to press too hard because any evidence he gives might not be credible in court due to his altered state. He doesn’t need to worry though because the former DEA agent has zoned out again, his body going lax against the bed and his eyes growing distance with sluggish blinking. Kai looks at Ernesto just as Corey comes back with a blanket and simply tosses it over the man, ignoring the flinch before stepping back with a sad shake of her head.
“Corey, you said your friend is the bar manager at the Lotus right?” Ernesto asks and the woman gives him an affirmative nod.
“Yes, Dalisay. She is most likely still there.” She mentions and Kai snaps her notepad closed with a slap. The younger detective already knows where she’s headed and with a glance at Ernesto he silently agrees.
“I have to stay here, I told Baccay that I’d stay till he’s cleared to be taken booking. But I’d say maybe grab the security video too and Kai, try to see if you can get when Baccay and his trainee arrive. Something about their story isn’t adding up—have you ever known Alex to fight law enforcement? He’s been nothing but cordial and cooperative with all the officers.” Ernesto tells her and the clenching of Kai’s jaw tells him she’s thinking the same thing.
“Alright, I’ll let you know what I find.” And with that she spins on her heel and heads out to investigate. Ernesto isn’t worried, he’s refined her already sharp mind and helped shape her into a top notch investigator, the motivation to succeed is all Kai though and he’s impressed by it daily. The sounds of the emergency room filter around them and Corey makes her departure after tucking the blanket around Alex’s drawn up legs.
“He will be alright. I’m sure he’ll be back to himself in a few days.” Ernesto reassures her and the hotel manager gives him a smile and promises to make sure the gift shop is locked up for the night before leaving. Ernesto hooks his foot around a leg of the chair and sits down, stretching his legs out and entwining his fingers across his stomach. Alex remains zoned out and Ernesto hopes the saline is working to help flush his system enough for them to have a coherent conversation.
Until that happens, he partakes in a favorite pastime—people watching.
Kai walks into the main concourse of The White Lotus and takes a moment to gauge the general feeling of the area. The White Lotus is one of the older resorts on the island and while the owners have tried to upgrade and modernize the guest experience, it’s very much a multi decade time warp of an experience. The guests are of an older client base, ones who aren’t in need of all the trendy and ‘youth’ focuses amenities that places like The Paradise or the newer and bigger resorts offer. With a final glance around she heads towards the main bar area and slows her stride to take in the whole scene. There is a ‘Sorry for the Inconvenience, but the Bar is currently Closed’ sign and she pushes past it and finds the broken glass and stained carpet surrounded by Floor is Wet signs. The bar lights are up and some of the staff are bustling around and are trying to clean up. The staff is tense, their eyes flicking towards her nervously before exchanging looks amongst themselves.
“I am looking for Dalisay.” She announces and one of the servers wipes her hands on the neat black apron and approaches with a wary smile.
“She’s in the back office; I can take you to her.” She offers and directs for Kai to follow. Kai allows her eyes to drift over the scene and purses her lips as they move into an employee only area and stop right outside a small office cluttered with numerous employee rights posters and several Serve Safe mandates.
“Dalisay?” the server asks, popping her head around the corner and gestures at Kai when the older woman looks up from the paperwork she’s filling out. The bar manager is an older woman with a grey streaked bob and half moon glasses perched on the end of her nose. She looks like a severe matron and very much like a teacher Kai once had.
“I’m detective Mendoza, I need to ask you a few questions about the altercation here earlier.” She greets and the older woman gestures at the clear chair across from her desk. Kai sits and removes the notepad from her pocket and flips to a clean page, her pen poised.
“Corey called me and said to expect you. I have the security footage already pulled up and waiting for you to review it. I can also put it on a flash drive or email it to you.” Dalisay informs her and Kai takes a moment to blink, usually she has to ask for any camera footage and basically strong arm to get the information.
“Would you mind doing both? I can give you two email addresses, so my partner who is with arrested party can review everything as well.” She asks and hands over her business card with Ernesto’s information written on the back. Dalisay gives her an affirmative nod and glances at the desktop screen and begins to type, fingers flying across the keys and moments later Kai feels her phone buzz with the incoming email.
“Is that young man alright? Corey said he was law enforcement back in the US and would be a good set of eyes to figure out what is going on with my bar.” She responds with concern before standing to hand a black flash drive across and Kai accepts it with a smile.
“Corey did mention that you’ve been having problems. What’s been going on? I haven’t read any police reports filed.” She asks and prepares to write down the responses. Dalisay gives a sigh and sits back in her chair with a tired slump to her shoulders.
“I would like to say I run a tight ship Detective Mendoza but as of late I’ve had several reports of guests not feeling well after partaking at the bar. They weren’t so bad off that they needed to see the resort doctor but enough to question their drinks package and coming back to the bar.” She begins and Kai gives her a reassuring smile. Delisay doesn’t strike her as someone who shirks responsibility and takes pride in the running of her bar. “Two weeks ago I hired a new bartender, Cristano Torres. He came highly recommended and had numerous references from various bars in Milan. Impeccable resume, well presented and spoken young man.” She finishes and hands over his employment record. Kai scans the information and photo; the young man has dark features and a self-assured smirk in the photo that she instantly takes a disliking too.
“I have no proof of course. He’s been a great asset to the White Lotus but there is just something about him, he’s almost too perfect. A week ago is when the guest reports started filtering in and I started putting two and two together, looked at the time of guest attendance and when Torres was working—it added up even more.” She finishes and Kai hastily writes down all the information.
“So, Mr. Walker came and was observing the bar?” she prompts and Delisay rests her elbows on the desktop.
“I was talking with Corey at the market earlier this week—two old hens pecking over the cabbage.” She laughs and Kai gives a chuckle, having encountered many women talking over various produce at the markets. Everything going on in the neighborhoods can be found out by simply walking through the green grocer and listening to the women.
“She told me that Mr. Walker works with the police sometimes and helps you with cases. I asked her if he would be interested in coming to the Lotus and observe. Offered to give him a voucher for a free drink. I didn’t even know what the man looked like until he leapt over the bar and slugged Torres.” Delisay rubs at her forehead and takes off her glasses.
“I didn’t see it happen, Mr. Walker moved really fast. Torres and he grappled behind the bar, I saw Torres bleeding all over himself. Mr. Walker said something about seeing him do something to the drinks and Torres was yelling about how he was crazy.” Delisay says and Kai nods, flipping to the previous accounts she’d taken from the girls at the emergency room.
“There were three girls at the emergency room that Mr. Walker was taken too. I interviewed them and two of the three were roofied. One of the girls a Kaila Brosas, is an employee here and met her friends around six-fifteen, they left around seven-thirty and went directly to the emergency room for treatment.” Delisay gives a startled jerk and her expression shows genuine shock which then fades into a worried remorse.
“Are the girls okay? Oh my goodness, those poor children. I have three daughters Detective, will they be alright?” she asks and wrings her hands, her concern evident.
“I interviewed them myself and they were in pretty good spirits considering what happened to them. They were receiving fluids to help flush the drug out and were going to be released once the bags were finished.” She relates without giving too much information. Even that small reassurance seemed to put Delisay at ease and the woman takes several deep breathes.
“So, Mr. Walker made a statement about Torres doing something to the drinks while the physical altercation was taking place?” Kai asks and the manager nods and tucks a chunk of her hair behind an ear.
“Yes, I had just arrived to the bar and heard Mr. Walker say it. I’ve got three other witnesses, all waitstaff who will attest to what happened. I have their names and information if you need it.” Kai blinks again, once more taken aback by the preparedness and the older woman can only laugh good naturedly.
“I have been in management for a very long time Detective, I’ve had to deal with similar issues and don’t like wasting everyone’s time by scrambling and getting flustered.” And hands over the papers with the witnesses. Kai takes it and glances at the basic information and nods before tucking them into her notepad.
“I think with the video and witnesses we’ll be able to handle this. I heard that Torres has a broken nose from the altercation?” she asks and Delisay gives a huff of laughter.
“Oh no, just bloodied really well. I have three grandsons; I’ve seen broken noses Detective and that boy will be fine.” And Kai can’t help but roll her eyes with the older woman.
“Alright, I will be filing all the reports and look a little more into Mr. Walker’s allegations. I appreciate your time and the organization; this made it quick and easy.” Kai says and stands, holding out her hand for the manager. Delisay also stands and shakes her hand before motioning for Kai to head out of the office. The two women move out into the bar area and Kai is about to bid her goodnight when the sight of a camera catches her eye.
“Do you have the camera recordings of when the police arrived and after?” she asks, remembering Ernesto’s request. Delisay glances at the camera and then raises a walkie talkie to her face and speaks into it, requesting a member of the resort security to come to the bar. Kai bids farewell to the manager and then turns her attention to the head of security with her request.
Ernesto is flipping through a magazine Alma had brought him when Alex’s voice cuts through the sounds of the Emergency department.
“Hey man.” Is all he says and starts rubbing at his face with the unrestrained hand. Ernesto tosses the magazine on the table and stands, crossing over to the bed with a smile.
“Welcome back Alex.” He says and Alex gives a groan in response but the man seems to be more aware of the world. He frowns down at the IV and moves his arm to trace the line up to the nearly empty bag and gives an frustrated huff. Ernesto is about to say something to head off the next action but the words don’t come as Alex finally feels the bite of the handcuff.
“What the fuck?” he asks, blue eyes narrowing and his expression growing tight, lips twisting with annoyance. He looks around, eyes sliding around in a manner that Ernesto knows means he’s back to functionally paranoid.
“What do you remember?” Ernesto asks as Alex once more pulls at the cuff and starts analyzing it. Ernesto knows he has to step in and distract the man before he simply dislocates his thumb and slips the cuff so he snaps his fingers and draws the blue eyes to him.
“Alex, you’re under arrest right now for assault.” Ernesto informs and Alex scrubs his hand through his hair, causing it to stand up in weird spikes.
“He was drugging the drinks. I watched him. When he put the garnish on the drinks…. I think it was on his fingers when he touched the fruit.” Alex says distractedly, the frown cutting his features and creating a crease between his eyes. Ernesto grabs his notepad from the back pocket and clicks his pen, scribbling a few notes before waiting for the former DEA agent to continue. He knows that technically he should be reciting the Miranda rights, but he’d run through the reports Baccay already submitted and seen those had already been given—even though Alex wouldn’t have been coherent at the time.
“He had something under the lip of the bar, probably mixed with the sugar for the glass rims. Powder with the sugar, sugar gets discarded at the end of the night. Fingers are wet from mixing drinks, dips his fingers into the mixture and applies the garnish. Drug is enough for effects, but not enough to taste. Classic club delivery, he was really smooth with it.” Alex continues and itches at his chest before readjusting the scrub top away from his neck where it had bunched. Ernesto keeps writing but watches the man closely. Alex is far more coherent now, his words aren’t slurred and his eyes are pretty clear but tired.
“Fuckin’ guy, he denied it all too when I told him I saw what he did. Rico Suave, all fake smile and cool as a cucumber--- dosing little girls for kicks. He pissed me off.” Alex states and looks right Ernesto with a wild grin.
“ ‘What you going to do old man?’ So I jumped the bar and popped him one upside the face. Dropped him behind the bar.” Ernesto can almost picture the scene, a young kid oozing confidence calling the blue eyed patron an ‘old man’ just before Alex’s face hardened and he’d already leapt the bar top and lashed out in one solid movement. He’d seen Alex hop the interrogation table to get in the face of a thug and was very impressed with the fifty something year olds menace and agility.
“He got me in the face with a spat of whatever he was using… I felt it hit my eyes and inhaled; it coated my mouth.” Alex recounts dazedly and once more runs a hand over his face, almost in reaction to the memory.
“The nurse already wiped your face Alex. He got you with PCP, just enough to register on the blood test and to seriously mess you up for a bit.” Ernesto confirms and Alex scrunches his face up with an annoyed hiss.
“Hate PCP.” He grunts and tugs once more at the handcuff while absently itching at his chest. “Why am I handcuffed to the bed?” he then asks and Ernesto begins to fill him in on what occurred, keeping a watch on Alex’s expression as he speaks.
“Baccay is the arresting officer.” He finishes and Alex slumps back on the bed with a frustrated sigh and scratches once more at his chest.
“That explains why I’m itchy.” He grumbles and has to force his hand away from the welts left over from the barbs. Ernesto gives him a sympathetic look and pulls his chair closer to the bed.
“I’m going to suspect you’ll be out of here once that bag is done. I’ll have to take you to the station for processing. Your charges aren’t good Alex, I can see about finding you a lawyer.” Ernesto offers and Alex sits up once again, a scowl pulling at his lips.
“A—a Lawyer?” he spits with anger and Ernesto gives him a firm nod.
“Resisting arrest, assault of an officer, assault and battery.” He tallies off on his fingers and Alex looks indignant at the charges and scoffs.
“I did not resist. Baccay’s an ass and he’s trumping up the charges. I didn’t assault him.” He argues and then adds with a predatory curl of his lip “next time I see him, I’ll show him assault.” Much to Ernesto’s amusement and slight horror- he has no doubt Alex will happily teach the patrolman.
“Alex, these are serious charges and we all know Baccay is going to push them.” Ernesto says just as his phone dings with an incoming message. He glances at the screen and reads the paragraph Kai sent before switching over to his email. The video pulls up and Ernesto watches the black and white recording with interest. He frowns as he watches the bartender sets about making a few drinks and would have missed it had Alex not already explained what he saw. It was the briefest flash of the mixers fingers dipping below the bar top before touching the fruit but it was there. Ernesto raises his eyes to look at Alex over the edge of his phone and the former DEA agent gives him a world weary smirk.
“Kai sent you the video right? I know the camera probably would have caught it, but like I said; he was smooth.” Alex intones and Ernesto doesn’t say anything but continues to watch the screen, the small figure of Alex launching himself over the top and slugging the bartender. He sees when Alex flinches back in a split second reaction to the introduction of the drug but the man doesn’t let up, taking a second out of pummeling the bartender to fend off the bar backer who took a swing at him. Overall the attack was seemingly unprovoked, if not for that split second where the mixologist could be seen applying something to the fruit garnish.
“That punk was drugging drinks and endangering his coworkers.” Alex continues from the bed. Ernesto gives him a look.
“Be that as it may… you still assaulted the bartender.” He reminds and opens the second email attachment titled ‘look at this’. The surveillance footage shows Alex in handcuffs being walked out of the bar, his gait wobbly and uncertain as the drug had probably been kicking in by then. On his right is Baccay, his burly arm roughly pulling the retrained man around. The young training officer seems hesitant, his body language telling Ernesto that he’s very uncomfortable with what he’s seeing. Alex’s head is down and his shoulders are slumped as he tries to navigate the steps down with his hands restrained and being hassled. Baccay uses his foot to trip the restrained man, making the move seem like he’s trying to stabilize the man but he purposefully lifts Alex’s foot higher than necessary, causing the apprehended man to stumble and fall, his balance already impacted by the handcuffs and drug coursing through his system. Alex ploughs into the waiting squad car and is roughly manhandled once more, bodily shoved into the squad before the two officers get in and the vehicle drives away.
“Baccay tripped you.” Ernesto says flatly while staring directly at the American transplant. Alex holds his gaze, the sharpness of his blue gaze almost unnerving. Alex is cool and collected, his words when they come are concise and clear.
“He tripped me up and then let me go when I started to fall. I hit the hub in the cruiser, but was really dazed from the PCP exposure—” Ernesto stops him with a hand.
“Alex, you need to wait to tell me what happened. Ocampo needs to hear all this and see the video. As of right now, you are still under arrest until Ocampo can be read in on what happened. This has gone well above me and Kai.” He informers him and Alex’s jaw shuts with a click of teeth but he nods, the blue eyes still watching him steadily.
“I promise Alex, Ocampo will make sure this is investigated fully.” He says and knows that trust isn’t something that comes easily to the man. Having been betrayed by his long time partner, sold out for a payday and then later by the romantic interest who through omission nearly got Alex killed—trust doesn’t come easy.
“That trainee isn’t a bad kid. He’s a decent one, tried to do the right thing but Baccay’s got him scared. That’s not how you train a good officer—fear and menace produce nothing but incompetence and a violent streak.” Alex states and he’s about to say more when the curtain is pulled aside and the doctor walks through with Alma following him.
“Ah, Mr. Walker, it’s nice to see you alert.” The Doctor says by way of greeting and Ernesto can see with switch automatically in the other man. Gone is the tensed and wary Alex Walker, a man whose always watching, judging and scanning every person for intent. He’s a very hardened man but can bluff and bluster his way through any situation, having been an active undercover agent for many years Alex Walker can wear many faces.
“Yeah Doc, the officer here says it was PCP?” Alex asks, his accept coming in heavier as the Doctor walks over and checks Alex’s eyes and reflexes, a totally chill patient and fully complaint although Ernesto can see the cracks forming and how much it is taking a toll.
“Well Mr. Walker I’m satisfied that you’re out of danger from the drug. I’m going to have you finish that bag but you will need to contact your PCP about any further testing or if you have any concerns. As for the barb points from the taser those are very minor, the welts should go down in a few days. I’ll start your discharge papers so by the time that bag is finished you’ll be ready to go.” He smiles and Alex returns it and patiently signs the paperwork Alma holds out to him once the Doctor leaves. Alma looks between the hanging bag and Ernesto before cocking an eyebrow.
“It looks like forty-five minutes, maybe an hour tops.” She says and Alex simply sits back on the bed, trying to keep the mask up but it’s failing and Alma pays the flinching no mind as she works.
“Sounds like a plan.” Ernesto says and sits back down, reclining back and putting his hands on his head. The ding from his phone forces him out of the relaxed posture and he finds a text from Kai waiting.
I have Torres here at the station. He came in willingly to press charges against Alex. I gave him a stack of papers to fill out and put him in an interrogation room.
Ernesto shakes his head, sometimes things fall into place without anyone having to lift a finger. He takes a moment to reflect before setting his thumbs to texting.
Did you say anything to Ocampo about Baccay? Doctor says Alex will be out of here within an hour, just finishing the bag. And hits send before turning back to Alex who is despondently tugging at the cuff around his wrist but is far more relaxed.
“Do you want to talk to Ocampo?” he asks, having already told Alex not to discuss what happened without the Chief present, but also needs to set the correct wheels in motion with Kai at the station. Alex stops his pulling at the cuff and looks at him with an unsure twist to his features.
“Will something happen? You’ve got it on recording but will that be enough? Baccay is a veteran officer, I’m just a blow in.” he asks and Ernesto knows this isn’t the first time he’s questioned the running of Ocampo’s station. Ernesto, whose worked through three Chiefs and watched corruption and coverups can understand Alex’s hesitancy.
“Ike Ocampo came to his position seeking to make the Cebu police a force of good. In his first year he swept through the department and took out veterans like Baccay with a knee shearing scythe. Lots of corruption stopped, many of those old ideals were exposed and flipped once Ocampo took over. Baccay managed to dodge the noose and stay on the low end, but he never advanced higher than a patrolmen despite being on the force for well over twenty years. There is a reason for that, he’s a slippery one, coated in slime like and eel and a bully. But this time, he was sloppy. I can tell you Alex, give Ocampo the ammunition and he will pull that trigger.” Ernesto states firmly and honestly just as his phone dings again. Alex seems to mull his words over while Ernesto reads the short response.
No, thought it best to see what Alex wants to do before saying anything. He is still here, but I think he’s getting ready to wind down and leave.
“Yeah—let’s get him out of the force and get that trainee a better role model.” And Ernesto sends back his response, knowing Kai will have the Chief fully informed before Alex can even begin to fill out the forms for the IA investigation.
“Do I need to be booked?” Alex asks and Ernesto replaces his phone in his pocket before propping his long legs up on the frame of the bed, well away from Alex’s own leg.
“If this works out the way I think it will—no. Torres, the bar tender is at the station right now and Kai left him filling out a stack of paperwork so he can press charges against you. I’m thinking Kai has a plan so let’s not get ahead of ourselves.” Ernesto replies with a coolness that belies the roiling of nerves in his stomach. Alex watches him, his blue eyes flicking between the bag and the detective before he licks at his lips and tries to relax back onto the bed.
Kai Mendoza keys up the video of Baccay’s on her laptop before knocking on the Chief’s door and entering when she hears him call out.
“Chief, I’ve got something to show you.” And the head of police sits back in his chair and gestures for her to go ahead. His jaw tightens as she speaks and by the end of the video Ike Ocampo is having a hard time hiding his anger and elation.
With this video he can finally pull the thorn from his side.
“Oh but wait, there is more.” And then Kai launches into the explanation of what happened at the bar and goes through the video frame by frame.
“And he showed up here? To press charges against Alex?” he asks, leaning back in his chair as Kai picks back up her laptop.
“Yes Chief, I put him in an interrogation room with a stack of papers.” She demonstrates by holding a thumb and forefinger apart. Ocampo tries not to laugh but kicks himself to his feet and puts on his jacket before gesturing to Kai to follow. Kai stays two steps behind, her laptop still open and the video of Torres at the bar still keyed to the spot where he was doctoring the garnishes.
“We are going to nip this in the bud.” He says kindly, pulls at his jacket front and squares his shoulders before fixing his face into a placid, dull expression and pulls the door open.
“Mr. Torres! I have been informed you’ve had quite the night—would you like to tell me about it?” and launches into asking the bruised bartender questions while Kai waits by the door. Almost immediately the bartender launches into a stage performance of innocence, saying how Alex had accused him and then attacked him, a violent crime that left him both embarrassed and feeling violated. Ocampo and Kai listen to it all, Ocampo doing a great impression of a concerned and friendly officer while Kai smiles warmly at the man, showing she’s completely taken with his tale of woe.
“You said that this American tourist accused you of…” Ocampo flips the aimless notes he’d been taking and finishes his sentence while staring at the bartender. “Putting a substance on the drink garnishes.” And Torres jumps right onto that and finishes the account.
“Yeah man, he said I was dipping the fruit into something under the bar.” He states confidently and sits back in the chair.
“Well, that’s a problem, because we have camera footage of you doing that exact thing.” Ocampo states and Kai can see the Torres’ face drain. His eyes widen and he sits up straighter in the chair, dark eyes fluttering between Ocampo and Kai. He’s giving all the classic signs of nervousness and scrambling to figure out what to say next.
“I—I was assaulted and you’re trying to pin a crime on me?” he fumbles out, trying to sound confident but Kai can hear the tremor.
“You probably don’t know this, but the man who you had an altercation with—he is a former DEA agent, well versed in the distribution and usage of drugs. He’s a ten year plus veteran of that agency, this man knows what he’s seeing. Also, the PCP you blew into his face, which I can clearly see on camera, is a clear indicator that you were in possession of the drugs. Along with his eye witness account, plus the videos and all the witness statements and guest reports of not feeling well after being served drinks you made that all points arrows.” Torres’ face continues to grow paler.
“I would suggest that you leave this area. We will distribute your picture to all the resorts and bars in the area. You will not work in or around Cebu because you will be known as a predator. I’m going to suggest to you that you find a new line of work—or better yet smarten up. This is your ONE free pass, if I see your name or your face again, I will be sure to bury you.” Ocampo says in complete seriousness, leaning towards the younger man with a barely contained threat.
“Oh—okay.” He replies with a tremble and Ocampo automatically switches back to his cheerful self.
“Good, now I will take these and shred them. You will leave and find a new line of employment. I would suggest you get that checked out.” He chirps, grabbing the papers that had been diligently filled out before pointing at the young mans face. Kai follows him out of the interrogation room and nods to the patrolman with a quiet “he’s free to go.” Before following Ocampo back to his office.
“Now, as for that other matter…. I need to talk to Mr. Walker.” He states and picks up the phone to dial the number for the IA investigator.
“Ernesto said he should be ready to go within the hour.” Kai informs him, checking her phone incase there is a new message. “Wait, Ernesto just messaged and said they are on the way here.” She informs the Chief and the man gives her a short nod.
“I want him brought to my office.” And then dismisses the woman when he greets the IA agent on the other end. Kai gathers up her laptop and heads back to the bullpen, quickly typing out a message to Ernesto. While she waits she heads for the cafeteria and pours two cups of coffee, making her partners so it’s waiting for him. She’s just sitting down to sip at her own cup when the two men come in, Alex with his usual hyper aware eyes darting to every face and tracking every movement. Ernesto gives an appreciative cheer at the coffee and takes a long haul off it with a happy nod to Kai.
“How are you feeling Alex?” Kai asks as she watches the usually fidgety man perch on the corner of her desk. He scratches at his chest beneath the hospital scrub shit distractedly as he watches a mousy man knock on the Chief’s door and then disappear inside.
“IA guy huh? Those guys never look how you think they should.” He muses tiredly and stops scratching when Kai hands him a sealed bottle of water. Alex rolls it between his hands and then cracks the seal, draining half the bottle.
“Will you three please join me?” Ocampo calls from his office door and Ernesto gives Alex’s shoulder a reassuring pat as the two men follow Kai through the door. The IA investigator introduces himself as Hector Abayon and once introductions have been made Alex is asked to describe what happened during his apprehension, his tone is collected and resigned. Kai cues up the video and the recorded evidence coincides with Alex’s recount. To Ernesto and Kai it’s a clear cut case of Police Brutality, a huge black mark and a coffin nail in any officers record. The AI investigator stands and takes the large file jacket from Ocampo of all the complaints against Baccay. He also has Kai email him the video and then leaves, the whole meeting over within thirty minutes.
“We will take it from here.” Ocampo says and Alex simply nods his head and Ernesto winces slightly as the rough voice cuts through the near silence of the bullpen once the door had been closed.
“We’ll see. Baccay’s an eel.” And he heads out of the station, telling Ernesto he’s just going to take a Jeepney back to the resort and crawl into his bed. Kai wants to offer to give him a ride but Ernesto gives her a firm shake of his head, so she lets him go with a quiet ‘feel better Alex’ and watching as he walks out of the bullpen.
“I know your worried, but he just needs to decompress and to sort it through himself. He’ll be alright, we’ll go visit him in a few days.” Ernesto reassures and Kai tries to not be concerned but she can’t help but be a little concerned. She understands that the man just went through something traumatic and might be rattled, but she hopes it doesn’t shake his trust in them.
Five days later Kai and Ernesto swing by the gift shop on their way to the station for their morning briefing. Ernesto has a white bag filled with cheesy Ensaymada his aunt made up specially for Alex who showed a love for the pastry the time he stayed with them. Kai carries the three coffee’s they’d stopped for on their way to the resort. Together they round the corner and stop when they see Alex standing on the manicured lawn in front of the shop, his movements slow and methodical as he works through an easy kata. Ernesto had taken Alex to a morning Tai Chi class in the local park a few times shortly after they started working together and the man seemed to find enjoyment with the movements. Once the tourist season started up Alex had to stop going so he could man the shop and Ernesto is happy to see he continued with the exercise. It’s a peaceful morning; the ocean is lapping at the surge wall as the high tide begins to recede and the early morning tourists have yet to start out to select their spots on the beach.
“Good morning, Alex.” Ernesto calls as he holds up the bag and Kai places the coffees on the small deck table. Alex seizes mid movement, having not heard the two detectives coming up the path and abruptly turns. He pushes the hair out of his eyes and comes up onto the small porch, taking the last seat across from them while Ernesto pulls the still warm Ensaymada from it’s bag. The American gives him a happy hum as he bites into the fluffy bread, his eyes closing with delight.
“My thanks to your aunt.” He mumbles happily and picks at the bread to open it up so the heat can escape.
“What brings you two here? Not that I’m complaining.” He asks and gestures at the treat of coffee and homemade breakfast. Kai takes a haul off her coffee and then jumps right in, she’s always thought it’s best to rip that band aid off fast instead of prolonging it.
“Baccay was officially relieved of his duty. His pension is gone and he’s being investigated for running a protection racket.” Alex’s eyes widen and then he smiles, an amazed chuckle working it’s way out of him.
“What about his trainee?” he asks suddenly and Ernesto takes over the narrative.
“Officer Guzman is taking over as his training officer. Guzman is an impeccable officer with nearly ten years of experience. He’s the head of the community outreach programs and does a lot with youth groups. I think junior patrolman Aquino will turn out just fine, he has a mandated month of appointments with the department psychologist and should return to duty once those are completed.” Ernesto was happy to see the young officer wasn’t impacted too negatively by Baccay’s brutality and roguish attitude.
“That’s good. He’ll make a good officer; one Ocampo can be proud of.” Alex says as he sips at the coffee.
“Guess you were right about Ocampo, should give him a little more credit. What ever happened to Torres the shmarmy bartender?” he asks and Kai is happy to give that follow up.
“He moved out of his place three days ago. Landlady said he didn’t leave a forwarding address and paid his lease out. Ocampo had me send his photo and information to every bar and resort on the island so he won’t be working in a reputable place.” Alex gives a happy hum at that and the three of them simply sit and enjoy the early morning stillness, the sound of waves cresting a few yards away.
“It’s going to be a lovely day.” Ernesto comments, glancing up at the cloudless sky and basks in the sun for a moment or two.
“Here’s to that!” Alex cheers and hold up his coffee cup and the three of them hit the paper together before Ernesto pulls two more Ensaymada from the bag. The three of them sit out and enjoy their coffees and breakfasts before entering back into the real world once more.
End.
Cargumentluv Thu 06 Mar 2025 05:10AM UTC
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Jacksinmyhead Thu 06 Mar 2025 03:40PM UTC
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