Guardian Angels

Chapter 33

The precinct was abuzz with the usual cacophony of phones ringing, officers discussing cases, and the clacking of keyboards when Lieutenant Clara Mitchell walked in, her presence commanding immediate respect despite the physical toll her recent ordeals had taken on her. She made her way to Sam's desk, a slight limp in her step a testament to her injuries but doing little to diminish her authority. 

"Sam," Clara greeted, her voice carrying a mix of gratitude and seriousness. "I wanted to personally thank you for holding down the fort while I was out of commission. Your efforts have been crucial in keeping the city from falling into complete chaos, especially with Eli Solomon's attacks."

Sam was still buried in paperwork that has piled up in the wake of recent events. She looked up, a hint of surprise on her face, quickly masked by a professional nod. "It was a team effort. We all did what we had to do, Clara. I'm just glad you're okay and back."

Clara leaned against Sam's desk, her expression turning contemplative. "Speaking of Solomon, I've heard that Alex Mason has finally put an end to his reign. Solomon turned himself in, though more out of desperation than any sense of guilt. However, he's proving to be a difficult prisoner—refusing to cooperate, demanding a list of high conditions for his negotiation."

Sam's interest piqued, though she maintained a neutral expression, understanding the delicacy of the situation. "Sounds like a tough nut to crack," she commented noncommittally.

"That's precisely why I'm here, Sam. I have one last favor to ask before I fully take back the reins," Clara said, her gaze locking with Sam's. "I want you to interrogate Eli Solomon. Given your contributions to thwarting his plans and your known interrogation skills, I believe you're our best shot at getting him to talk."

Sam paused, the request stirring a complex whirlwind of thoughts within her. The irony of the situation was not lost on her—Clara, unknowingly, was asking Alex Mason herself to interrogate Solomon. Yet, she recognized the opportunity and the responsibility the request carried.

"Clara, I'm honored you'd think of me for this. That's... not a small talk. But I understand the importance," Sam replied, the decision made. She understood the importance of the task, her mind already turning over the possibilities. "I'll do my best to get Solomon to open up."

"Thank you, Sam. I knew I could count on you," Clara nodded, a weight seemingly lifted off her shoulders. "It's not going to be easy, but if anyone can get through to him, it's you. This could be the break we need to dismantle what's left of Solomon's network and maybe even get a lead on those higher up the chain." Clara walked away to continue her recovery and preparation for her return to duty, leaving Sam to ponder the upcoming interrogation.

Sam couldn't help but feel the gravity of the moment. She was ready to face Eli Solomon, not as Alex Mason, the vigilante who had brought him down, but as Sergeant Sam Gray, tasked with unraveling the criminal mastermind's secrets for the sake of justice.

As Sam entered the interrogation room, the atmosphere was charged with tension. Eli Solomon sat across from her, exuding a mixture of defiance and desperation, his lawyer by his side, a physical barrier between him and the law. A lengthy list of demands lay on the table between them, a testament to Solomon's belief that he still hold some cards.

Sam, however, was undeterred. She had played this game too long, knew its rules too well, and as Alex Mason, she held the upper hand—though that was a card she couldn't openly play. She cast a brief glance at the list, then casually set it aside, her expression one of mild curiosity rather than concern.

"Quite the wishlist you've got here, Mr. Solomon. But let's start with something that caught my eye—the money rewards," she suggested, feigning innocence. "I'm curious, don't you think, why a man of your... stature... would be in urgent need of money. You're a successful 'businessman,' after all."