Lucia

Chapter 14: Subject 9

Barry Allen awoke early in the morning, the first day back home after serving time in prison. The soft rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. His gaze fell upon his beloved wife, Caitlin, who was still lost in peaceful slumber beside him. With great care, he eased himself out of bed, being mindful not to disturb her rest.

Barry quietly slipped into a comfortable pair of sweatpants, feeling the familiar fabric against his skin. As he tiptoed out of the bedroom, the floorboards creaked ever so slightly under his weight, a sound that seemed to echo in the stillness of the house. The morning air was crisp and refreshing as he made his way through the hallway, each step a gentle reminder of the new beginning that awaited him.

He gently pushed the bedroom door ajar, revealing the serene sanctuary of his one-year-old daughter, Lucia, affectionately known as Lucy. The walls of Lucy's room were adorned with a soft shade of light blue, sprinkled with delicate snowflakes and twinkling stars that seemed to dance in the gentle glow of the night light. Nestled in one corner of the room was a cozy toddler bed, adorned with the beloved characters Elsa and Anna from the enchanting world of Frozen. Lucy lay peacefully asleep on the bed, her tiny form wrapped in the warmth of her favorite blanket.

Barry couldn't help but feel a twinge of surprise at the sight before him. He marveled at how Caitlin, Lucy's mother, had embraced Lucy's love for Frozen, despite Frost's aversion to being associated with the character Elsa.

Barry gazed at his daughter, Lucy, as she peacefully slept, her chest rising and falling rhythmically. After a few moments, he quietly stepped out of the room, careful not to disturb her slumber.

Walking down the hallway, Barry reached the door to his adopted daughter Marissa's room. As he pushed it open, he was greeted by the soft glow of the light turquoise walls that enveloped the space. The room was adorned with a cozy bed dressed in bold bedding, a sleek shelving unit displaying various decorative items, and a delicate aroma of lavender lingering in the air.

Barry's eyes fell upon Marissa, who lay serenely in her bed, her dark hair fanned out on the pillow. The gentle rise and fall of her chest matched the peaceful expression on her face, a picture of tranquility in the quiet room.

Barry gazed at Marissa as she peacefully slept, her soft breaths filling the room. The time apart from her, Lucy, and Caitlin during his incarceration had left a void in his heart that only their presence could fill.

Feeling the need to freshen up, Barry decided to take a quick shower before heading back to his duties at the Central City Police Department (CCPD). The warm water cascaded over him, washing away the remnants of his troubled past and preparing him for the challenges that awaited him at work. After his shower, he donned his uniform, ready to serve and protect the city once again.

Barry stepped off the elevator at Central City Police Department, the familiar scent of paperwork and coffee filling his nostrils. As he made his way into the precinct, he couldn't shake the feeling of tension in the air, as if the very walls were whispering unwelcome words to him.

Approaching his colleague, Officer Addy, Barry inquired with a furrowed brow, "Addy, what's the situation here?"

Addy met his gaze and replied, "You should have a word with the Captain."

Perplexed and a hint of frustration creeping in, Barry sought out Captain Singh. "Addie mentioned you needed to speak with me," Barry stated upon entering the Captain's office.

"Indeed, close the door," Captain Singh instructed.

Barry complied, shutting the door behind him before advancing towards his superior. "What seems to be the issue that has you at a loss for a solution?" he inquired earnestly.