Chapter 21: temporary freedom

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On the other hand, Maxim survived the gunshot wounds, but Clarissa, who was on top of him in the heat of their carnal act, took the bullets meant for him. The shots pierced through her heart, and Maxim could only watch in horror as the life drained from her eyes. The room was filled with a deafening silence as he realised the tragic and unexpected turn their moment of passion had taken, leaving him stunned and covered in her blood.

Dr. Alexander approached the officer at the police station with a concerned expression.

"Excuse me," he began, "I understand the situation, but could I request to provide Bernadette with some comfortable bedding? It would really help her feel more at ease."

The officer looked at him thoughtfully. "I’m afraid we can't allow anyone inside the cell, but we can bring the bedding in. You’ll need to stay outside."

Dr. Alexander nodded. "That’s fine. I just want to make sure she’s as comfortable as possible. Thank you for understanding."

The officer agreed, and soon after, Dr. Alexander arranged for the bedding to be brought to Bernadette’s cell, ensuring she had a more comfortable place to rest while he remained just outside, ready to offer support and care from a distance.

Atty. Santos approached Bernadette, his expression sincere.

“Bernadette, I need to ask for your permission to leave for a while,” he said gently. “I assure you that I will do my utmost to handle your case effectively and to ensure that everything is taken care of properly. Can I count on your trust in this?”

Bernadette looked at him with a mix of gratitude and concern. “Yes, Atty. Santos, I trust you to do your best. Please take care of everything you can.”

Atty. Santos nodded, his resolve firm. “Thank you. I’ll make sure to return as soon as I can and keep you updated on everything.”

Dr. Alexander sat beside Bernadette, his voice gentle as he spoke.

“Bernadette, you’ve been through a lot today. You need to get some rest.”

Bernadette looked at him, tired but appreciative. “I’m not sure I can sleep, not with everything going on.”

He offered a reassuring smile. “I understand, but rest is important. I’ll be right here if you need anything. Try to close your eyes and take a moment for yourself.”

Bernadette nodded, her exhaustion evident. “Alright, I’ll try. Thank you for being here.”

Dr. Alexander placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. “You’re welcome. Just relax and try to rest. I’ll make sure everything is taken care of.”

With that, Bernadette settled back, allowing herself to close her eyes as Dr. Alexander stayed by her side, ensuring she felt safe and cared for.

Early the next morning, Bernadette’s househelper arrived at the police station with a warm breakfast and a set of clean clothes. Dr. Alexander greeted her at the entrance.

“Good morning,” he said. “Thank you for bringing this. Bernadette will appreciate it.”

The househelper nodded, handing over the items. “I wanted to make sure she has something to eat and fresh clothes to change into.”

Dr. Alexander carried the breakfast and clothes to Bernadette’s area. “Bernadette, your househelper brought you breakfast and some clean clothes. I thought it might be nice to have a little comfort this morning.”

Bernadette looked at the offerings with a grateful smile. “That’s so thoughtful. I’m glad to have something familiar and comforting.”

Dr. Alexander helped her with the food and clothes, ensuring she felt cared for as she prepared for the day ahead.

As the day drew to a close, Dr. Alexander and Atty. Santos gathered at the police station, their expressions serious.

Atty. Santos approached Dr. Alexander, saying, “The case has been filed against Bernadette—frustrated homicide for Maxim's case and homicide for Clarissa's case. It’s a bailable offence, though.”

Dr. Alexander sighed in relief. “That’s good to hear. We need to get her out as soon as possible. How are we proceeding with the bail?”

Atty. Santos nodded. “I’ve already started the paperwork. With your support, we should be able to expedite the process.”

Dr. Alexander looked at him with gratitude. “Thank you. Bernadette needs to be with people who can support her right now.”

Atty. Santos smiled reassuringly. “We’ll make sure she’s released today...She will get her temporary freedom from the case filed. I’ll handle the details and keep you updated.”

Later, as the bail was processed, Dr. Alexander and Atty. Santos waited anxiously. Finally, they saw Bernadette emerge, looking both relieved and exhausted.

Dr. Alexander approached her with a warm smile. “Bernadette, you’re out. We’ll get through this together.”

Bernadette, though visibly shaken, managed a grateful smile. “Thank you both. I don’t know what I’d do without your support.”

Atty. Santos reassured her, “We’re here to help. Let’s take things one step at a time. For now, get some rest and we’ll tackle this tomorrow.”

With that, Dr. Alexander and Atty. Santos guided Bernadette away from the station, ready to support her through the challenges ahead.

Dr. Alexander, Atty. Santos, and Bernadette arrived at Dr. Alexander's condominium, the atmosphere a welcome change from the tension of the police station.

Dr. Alexander set about preparing dinner, while Atty. Santos helped Bernadette find a comfortable seat.

“Make yourself at home, Bern,” Dr. Alexander said, handing her a glass of water. “Dinner will be ready soon.”

Bernadette settled into a chair, her expression one of exhaustion mixed with gratitude. “Thank you, both. I really appreciate everything you’ve done today.”

Atty. Santos nodded, taking a seat across from her. “It’s the least we can do. You’ve been through a lot, and it’s important to have some time to unwind.”

Dr. Alexander placed the finished meal on the table and joined them. “I thought a home-cooked meal might help lighten the mood. I hope you like it.”

Bernadette looked at the food with a small smile. “It smells wonderful. I’m really grateful for this.”

As they began to eat, Dr. Alexander chatted lightly, trying to ease the tension. “How about we focus on something positive for a while? Any plans or dreams you’re looking forward to when things settle down?”

Bernadette sighed but managed a soft laugh. “I’d love to get back to my routine and focus on the things that bring me joy. It feels like it’s been forever since I had a moment of peace.”

Atty. Santos added, “We’ll get through this, Bernadette. And when it’s over, you’ll have the chance to rebuild and find those moments of peace again.”

The conversation continued, with Dr. Alexander and Atty. Santos making an effort to provide a comforting and supportive environment for Bernadette as they enjoyed their dinner together.

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