Unexpected 3: Alonso, Gone

Chapter 20: Serenity

Inglewood Park Cemetery, 6:00 am

Trees were moving to the cold breeze of the early hours of the morning. One could definitely appreciate the sounds of birds chirping, wind blowing softly, and just pure serenity. Away from the city buss, and the stressed lifestyle that kept people going in a hurry, usually in a bad mood. None of that mattered here.  A place to lay the dead, and visit from time to time.

That time was now for Street, as he couldn't pass on the moment to come talk with the best foster mother he could ever had growing up, and a big brother that always looked after him. It was thanks to them that he was able to survive the system, and become the decorated officer he was now.

He made his way through the narrow quiet roads, and parked his bike to the side. Then, he removed his helmet and placed it on the seat.  He looked at the two arrangements of white lilies that he had strapped to the back seat, worth just over $50 dollars. He figured he could use one for paying respects and another for a possible apology. (hoping he had that chance!) He went ahead and removed one of the assortments carefully as he admired the beauty of the bundles. He knew the way. He took his time to the site because he knew very well he needed to let everything out!

He bent on one knee in between his foster mother and brother's tombstones. He recited everything that had happened to him starting with the events on Sunday at Long Beach. He told everything, down to the last detail. It felt so good! He knew this was more of a monologue than a conversation, but he felt at peace. Tranquility.  Serenity. Tears ran down as he felt his heart beat calmer, more steady. It just felt good to be heard, even if it was by the wind.

Forty five minutes had passed. He gathered himself, wiped his face with a cloth, and said his goodbyes. He walked slowly back to his bike, which stood just as he left it. He took five steps towards it and felt the presence of someone following him.

"Beautiful day, huh?" Street was startled by the deep male voice coming from behind him. He jumped out of his skin, took out his gun and pointed it at the direction of the voice, all in one notion.

He stopped when he saw Hondo standing in front of him. "Jesus Christ, Hondo!" he complained, as he lowered the weapon slowly trying to catch his breath.

"Relax, kid. I didn't want to disturb you before." Hondo said as he got both hands out of his pockets and walked slowly towards Street.

"How long have you been here? How'd you know?"

"Your pal Keagan spotted you speeding south on Western Avenue. I remembered you mentioning this spot the day you visited your moms some time ago, same day you met with Nate. I didn't want to interrupt, so I been silent here for like 20 minutes."

Street nodded as he looked up at Hondo. He turned to his bike and grabbed his helmet.

"Can we talk?" Hondo asked politely

Street nodded again, as Hondo gestured to move to the side of the small road.Street followed him, after placing the helmet back in his seat.

"Luca, Deacon and myself, we worried about 20 Squad. We worried bout you and Chris."he paused as he noticed Street's gaze was afar. Hondo crossed his arms and continued, "Street" he called, as the officer turned to look at him directly,"Talk to me, man."

Street hung his head, and remained quiet.

"What I wanna know is what did you tell Chris that pushed her to the point of lashing out on both Deac and myself?"

Street jolted back, a surprised look on his face. "Woah! She did what?"

"Yeah, when you left the room, she pretty much kicked Deac and myself out. We ain't filing no complaint or nothing, Street. We just wanna know what's going on." he paused, "You and I, Street? We talked. I thought you was clear on what you wanted to do. Was I wrong?"