Neighbour

47.

Eddy felt Brett stiffen next to him when his phone interrupted the calm silence between them, a common response when something unexpected happened. It didn't help that the contact info on Brett's phone showed Officer Hahn's details.

"Are you going to answer it?" Eddy asked gently, carefully sitting up a little more. His tone was neutral - not expectant or impatient.

Brett's tongue darted over his lips. "Well... I don't know. I should, right?"

Another few moments of the ring tone, and Brett reached a shaky hand out and hit the green button on the screen, followed by the speakerphone button. He didn't say anything, though he opened his mouth as if he wanted to. When no sound came out, his eyes darted to Eddy for help.

"Hello Officer Hahn," Eddy said calmly. "It's Eddy. I've got Brett next to me."

"Hi Eddy, hi Brett. I just wanted to share some news with you. Is now a good time?"

Eddy looked to Brett, who shrugged a little, seeming unsure.
"What kind of news is it?" Eddy decided to ask, reaching a hand out, offering it for Brett to hold. They had discovered together the calming effect physical touch had on Brett. Gentle physical touch that was.

"It is about Mike."

Brett couldn't help the small squeak that escaped his lips, and his breathing picked up a little. Just hearing his name made him anxious, and he didn't want that after the otherwise great day he had. There was only one kind of news that he really wanted, but surely they wouldn't have already...?

"Shoot," Eddy said softly, deciding for the both of them that just getting it over with would be better. He felt Brett grab his hand with both of his, holding onto it like his life depended on it. Eddy gently squeezed back.

Officer Hahn took a deep breath before speaking.

"We arrested him earlier today outside your apartment building. He is currently in custody, and a judge has decided he will be held without bail until the trial."

"Oh thank lord," Brett squeaked, visibly relaxing and leaning against Eddy. "Thank you, officer."

"Really, thank you. I'm sorry I was... you know, a bit nasty initially..." Eddy added softly. He couldn't believe it! It was finally over! Finally Brett could heal from this, and they could go back to before. Somehow the thought of going back to before stung a little though. Eddy didn't think too much about that for now, and instead just put an arm carefully around Brett.

"Don't worry about it at all. It's time for us to put together everything for the trial now, but I feel confident he isn't going anywhere any time soon. Sleep soundly tonight, you too," Officer Hahn said gently. "Do you have any questions for me?"

Eddy looked to Brett, who shook his head.

"No, no questions. Thank you."