Crow's Nest [✓]

Chapter 34

Thomas wandered the streets of Brooklyn, seething with anger and frustration. He was still replaying the argument with Harry in his mind, the words cutting deep.

He glanced around the city, noticing the familiar sights and sounds. But even the hustle and bustle of the busy streets couldn't distract him from his thoughts.

He kept walking, not really paying attention to where he was going, the weight of the situation weighing heavily on him.

He walked for what felt like hours, the city passing by in a blur. He didn't know where he was going, he just needed to keep moving, burn off his anger and frustration.

Eventually, he found himself in William Lockwood's neighborhood.

He reached William's house and rang the doorbell. A moment later, the door swung open, revealing William, still in his sleepwear, which unlike Thomas, was just his boxers.

"Thomas, what a surprise! Come on in, son." William said stepping aside to allow Thomas inside.

William led Thomas into the house, gesturing for him to sit on the couch. "So, what brings you by at this time? And why do you look like you're about to punch a hole in something?"

Thomas dropped onto the couch, rubbing his temples. "I had a disagreement with Harry," he explained, his voice weary. "We had a big argument. He's pissed at me for working with Flint, but I don't see any other choice."

William leaned back in his armchair, running a hand through his unruly hair. "Working with a gangster like Flint? That's a risky move, Thomas. I can see why Harry would be upset."

Thomas nodded, knowing the truth in William's words. "I know, I know. But what else am I supposed to do? The Russians are a serious threat, and Flint is the only one who knows where to find the Doc."

William studied Thomas for a moment, seeing the worry and determination in his eyes. He knew Thomas was a good detective, loyal and sincere.

"I get that you're trying to do the right thing," he said gently. "But you're also putting yourself in danger by working with someone like Flint. You're playing with fire, Thomas."

"I know that," Thomas replied, frustration creeping into his voice. "But I can handle it. I've dealt with my fair share of dangerous people before. I can handle Fl-"

"You're not hearing me," William interrupted, his tone firm. "It's not just about you handling it. It's about what working with Flint could do to your career, your life."

William leaned forward, his expression serious. "You're a damn good cop, Thomas. You've got a bright future ahead of you. And if you get caught working with a criminal like Flint, that all goes down the drain. You'll be disgraced, your career over. Is that a risk you're willing to take?"

Thomas paused, knowing William was right. His career meant a lot to him, it was what he had worked for his whole life. If it was ruined because he made a deal with a man like Flint, it would be devastating.

"I... I don't know," he admitted, his voice low. "I just want to stop the Russians and keep Brooklyn safe. I didn't think much about the consequences."

"That's the problem," William said gruffly. "You rarely think about the consequences of your actions. You act first, think later. It's going to get you in trouble someday, son."

"I know, I know," Thomas muttered, feeling like a scolded child again. "But this is just one time. This is an exception, I swear. Besides, it's just Flint. I can handle him."

"Just Flint?" William repeated, raising an eyebrow. "This is the same Flint who's involved in drug trafficking, money laundering, and who knows what else. You're talking about one of the most dangerous and slippery bastards in the city. You're in over your head here, Thomas."

"Don't you see?" Thomas pleaded, desperation creeping into his voice. "I don't have a choice. Without Flint's help, we won't get to the Doc, and the investigation will be at a standstill. I'm doing this to keep Brooklyn safe, even if it means working with someone like him."

"You're too damn noble for your own good," William sighed, shaking his head. "Noble and stupidly stubborn. You won't listen to reason, will you?"

"You can call it what you want," Thomas replied stubbornly, crossing his arms. "But this is something I've gotta do. I'm gonna find the Doc, stop the Russians, and solve this case. No matter what Harry or anyone else says."

Thomas rose from the couch, heading towards the door. "I appreciate the advice, William, I really do. But I've made up my mind. I'm gonna see this through, no matter what."

William let out an exasperated sigh, running a hand through his hair. "You're gonna give me a heart attack someday, you know that?" he called after Thomas.

Thomas chuckled, despite the situation. "Can't make any promises, old man. You'll just have to get used to it."

"Yeah, yeah, get outta here before you drive me crazy," William replied gruffly, a flicker of a smile on his face. "And watch your back, son. You've got a tendency to attract trouble."

Thomas shot him a grin. "I'll be fine, don't worry about me. I always land on my feet."

With that, he turned and left the house, back onto the dark and quiet streets of Brooklyn.