Working his first assigned missing persons' case, Jackson never anticipated to find dark secrets, kept truths and a new found love for the one girl he can't stand. Will he be able to keep his promise of saving her, even if it means losing himself?
A blaring alarm signaling 5:30 AM begins to echo throughout the bedroom, intended to wake Jackson up. But Jackson had already woken up from his tormenting nightmares about an hour ago. He sighs, hitting the off button to be in silence with his thoughts again. Before he could roll back into bed, a German Shepherd frolicks in with a leash clinging to the grip of his teeth.
"I'm convinced you're an alarm clock disguised as a dog. You're too punctual, Fletcher." Jackson groans before letting out one last sigh to indicate he was getting up.
Fletcher barks, always responding to Jackson in a way before patiently sitting for his vest to be put on. Routine, just like every other day. It's something Jackson found comfort in, solely because it was something he could control with ease. Expecting the same day in and day out leaves little room for anxious hiccups. He begins getting dressed, throwing on dark grey training pants, a lightweight white long sleeve and size 11.5 brand name running shoes that have been actively through any and all weather debris. Getting ready in the morning didn't take him long. He hurried to finish so his lovable, but impatient, German Shepherd could strut around in his Service Animal vest. The difference between Fletcher and a regular dog was the harsh reality that only one could help Jackson during an emotional crisis where it feels like he'd be punished by feeling on the brink of death.
"Let's go. I can't be late for my first day. Could you imagine the impression that would leave?" He reassured an unknowing Fletcher his worries.
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The combination of waking up before the first sunrise through the tranquil transition away from the darkness was soothing for Jackson. Darkness defined his life and tormented him, so running as the sun rose seemed to be therapeutic. That, and the hundreds of medical case studies that link physical exercise to naturally produced chemicals that release into the human brain for temporary relief. Once again, routine was key. He'd always take the same route. Always tapped the same blue mailbox on the corner of Fulton Street, specifically the corner where a faded smiley face sticker rested. Briefly greeted a construction worker in passing as he sipped on his morning coffee without fail. Day after day entailed in the same, which included the avoidance of one of the city's most visited attraction. To most, bridges and large bodies of water are a pleasant experience where you take photos and post it all over social media. He hated the thought of all three.
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