His military legal team had already arranged Angela's release on bail. The heavy metal doors opened with a buzz. Angela walked out, looking tired but unbroken. Marcus, she fell into his embrace. He held her tightly.
Let's go home. The drive back to Brookside Street was quiet. Angela stared out the window. Processing everything that had happened. Marcus explained about the evidence and internal affairs investigation.
"You really found proof? " she asked. "Bank records, videos, corporate documents, everything connecting Hol to Vision Heights. " Jenkins said, "It's enough for criminal charges. " Angela squeezed his hand. I knew you'd figure it out. They pulled into their driveway. The house still showed signs of the police search.
Scattered papers, overturned furniture, damaged doors, but neighbors had tried to clean up what they could. Mrs. Carter hurried over from next door. Angela, thank God you're home. The elderly woman hugged her fiercely.
We've all been so worried. Other neighbors emerged from their homes, gathering on porches and sidewalks. Someone started clapping. Soon the whole street joined in, celebrating Angela's return. "You showed them what this neighborhood is made of," Mr.
Patterson called from his front steps. "We're not letting them push us around anymore," added Mrs. Rodriguez, who had brought over a casserole. "Inside, Marcus and Angela worked together, straightening up their home. The physical labor helped release some of their tension.
I kept thinking about you in that cell, Marcus said, writing a bookshelf. I kept thinking about Mrs. Carter, Angela replied. They would have gone after her next if we hadn't stopped them. They ate Mrs.
Rodriguez's casserole at their kitchen table, almost feeling normal again. The street was peaceful as sunset faded into evening. Neighbors dropped by with food and support, sharing stories of their own run-ins with Holtz officers. Internal Affairs has everything they need, Marcus assured everyone. Jenkins said they're moving quickly on the investigation.
Around 10:00, the last visitors headed home. Angela showered away the jail's lingering feel while Marcus secured the house. "They were finally alone, able to really talk about everything. "I was so scared for you," Marcus admitted, holding her close. I knew you'd find a way to expose them.
Angela traced the familiar planes of his face, but it's not over, is it? No. The investigation could take months. Hol will fight back. At least now people know the truth.
The neighborhood isn't afraid anymore. They settled into bed, emotionally and physically exhausted. For the first time in days, they could rest knowing they had solid evidence against Hol. The quiet street felt almost peaceful. Angela had just drifted off when harsh lights suddenly blazed through their windows.