Can You Keep A Secret?

16. Lorenzo

In the small town of BrookSville, it's almost comical how tragedy seems to occur more frequently than in the bustling streets of a big city. Who would have ever thought? But amidst all the chaos and confusion, the burning coffee from this little cafe was able to soothe my sore throat and keep me awake. It's amazing how something as simple as a cup of coffee can bring comfort and clarity in the midst of a storm.

As I sat in the cozy interior of the cafe, I couldn't help but reflect on the irony of the situation. After months of aimlessly patrolling the streets at night, my boss finally realized that we were heading down the wrong path. And it was my job to record every detail and piece of information from my conversation with Leah- Sylvie’s aunt. It's funny how people tend to give and sell misinformation and exaggerated ideas, and yet the ones in charge, like the police, often have no idea what they're doing. They just hide behind their badges and titles.

The barista, who also happens to be the owner of the shop, saunters over to my table and eyes my briefcase as she picks up my cup of coffee. "Working hard, aren't we?" she quips, balancing the tray on her hip with ease. The dark circles under my eyes could have been a sarcastic response, but I managed to muster a few words. "That obvious huh?" I sigh, glancing down at the papers strewn across the table. "How about I pour you another cup?" she offers, and I gratefully accept, appreciating the distraction from work.

"How could I say no?" I grin as she turns to walk away. Just as I'm about to dive back into my work, the door swings open and a man in his 50s, gray hair and puffy figure enters in, cigarette in mouth and leather jacket slung over his shoulder. "Knew I'd find you here," he smirks, plopping into the chair across from me. I scan the room, wondering if he's got the right person. And then I look closely and realize it's my boss. "Stop people-watching, it's embarrassing," he scolds, forcing me to focus on him. The barista returns with my coffee and gives a curious glance at the now-occupied chair. "Well, well, well, if it isn't Joanne," my boss exclaims, standing to give her two friendly kisses.

"Philip? Is that really you?" she gasp, clearly taken aback. They seem to have a history that goes way back. I can't help but stare at them, completely bewildered as they interact. I never would have guessed that my boss was capable of...having friends. Or anyone for that matter. Joanne catches my gaze and explains with a smile, "We went to school together. We were classmates and good friends." As they finish catching up, Joanne heads off to get another cup of coffee, leaving us alone. My boss settles back into his seat, his expression turning serious.
One minute he's all friendly, the next he's as serious as a heart attack. "Good morning, boss," I stutter, trying to keep up with his mood swings. He rolls his eyes and takes a drag of his cigarette, gesturing towards me. "We're not at the station, just call me Philip."

What? This morning kept getting weirder by the second. I quickly pack up my papers and lock them in my briefcase. He notices and inquires, "Did you document the information?”
"Yes, I was just reviewing it for the second time," I reply, but he raises an eyebrow, clearly not convinced. My face must have given me away. "Why do I sense some lying in those words?" he probes, leaning back comfortably. "I suppose I've been a bit too focused on the case." I confess with a chuckle.

He stares at me intently, lost in thought. But what was he thinking about? If I had a superpower right now, I'd definitely choose mind-reading to find out what was going on in his head. When my boss goes quiet, it usually means he's trying to figure something out.
I can't resist asking the burning question. "Am I in trouble?" He stubs out his cigarette and takes a sip of his coffee, enjoying the taste mixed with cancerous flavor.

"You know, after twenty years of serving this town, I've seen guys like you come and go." Oh no… I knew what this was about.
It was definitely about me leaving. My heart races, my pulse quickening. I couldn't afford to lose this job, it was all I had left. My purpose, my reason for still being here. I had gotten too involved in the Sylvie case. I should have known better than to let myself get dragged into the situation. After speaking with Leah, I should have immediately informed my superiors and got back behind the screens. They had made it clear that I was not allowed to express my own opinions. "Serve with a smile and wish them goodbye," their voices echoed in my head, reminding me of my place and how it now cost me my job at the station. "Boss, if I'm intruding-" I began to apologize and beg, but he cuts me off.