Discovered

Chapter 11: Meeting My 'Brother'

As soon as I changed into my street clothes, I handed the dress back to Mom, who was packing her suitcase in the back of the car. After putting it away in her luggage, Mom gave me a warm hug then hopped into the front passenger seat.

Uncle Seth and Dad were just marching back into the car when Grandma gave the men bear hugs and watched as they boarded in the car. As soon Dad looked at me, he gave me a hug then stroked my curls.

"Where are you guys heading off to?" I asked, looking at the heavy luggage. "I am going to Europe," Dad answered. "Your mother is flying back home, and your uncle is staying with you." Pulling the suitcase from out of the trunk, I set it in front of me and dusted away the wooden debris that sprinkled on the fabric.

As Dad recited his instructions, Uncle Seth gave him a confused stare. "I thought Mom is taking care of Cleo." he said. Dad let out a sigh then told him that it was necessary that he should stay with Grandma and me.

"Just in case something bad happens," Dad insists. "Cleo is solving a crime, the least she could do is ask you for some help." My hazel eyes shone at my father. Despite Xavier's threat, Dad still believed that the killer is still out there. And, he wanted me to experience it.

For awhile, Uncle Seth threw up his arms in annoyance and let out a sigh. "Fine," he said. "But this is only because, Cleo and Mom deserves protection." Dad gave him a pat on the shoulder then hugged him tight. "Also, I want an apology." Uncle Seth added. "You know, for spraying me in the eyes like a criminal."

"I'm sorry," Dad responded, releasing him. "There, are you feeling any better?" Uncle Seth smiled then nodded in acceptance. As soon as Grandma, Mom, and Dad hopped into the car, they waved goodbye then drove off.

I watched sadly as the red Volvo departed. "Don't worry Cleo," Uncle Seth reassured. "I'm sure your parents will meet you again." I let out a quiet sigh then stared into his brown eyes. "Uncle Seth," I began politely. "Would it be okay if you can take me to the police station?"

He looked at me as if I was a diseased rat. "Cleo," he replied with an annoyed tone. "I don't think you understand, but you do know your father strictly forbid you to-" "I'm not going to meet Xavier," I interrupted sternly. "I want to see Wallace Gerald."

That only made Uncle Seth even more concerned. "Why?" he asked. "I don't think he did it," I answered. Uncle Seth crossed his arms then shook his head furiously. "That's not a reason," he sighed. "That's just an excuse."

I ran my fingers through my hair then bit my lip anxiously. "I don't think Wallace has something to do with Grandpa's murder." I responded. "Neither does Mom or Dad. And besides, based on my observations, Wallace is a good kid in a good Christian home."

Uncle Seth stared at me flatly. I pinched the bridge of my nose then sighed again. This is getting ridiculous, I thought. I knew he will never take me. But even though I was frustrated with him, it doesn't mean that I hate my uncle.

"Fine," he groaned. "We'll go to the police station. But if Xavier is there, do not go near him." I watched as he take my hand then took me off of the perfectly trimmed lawn and onto the sidewalk.

I could tell that he hated going to the police station, he hated my stubborness, but most importantly, he hated it when he has to keep telling me that Wallace Gerald was the murderer.

He lead me across the field of well-kept houses and avoided enraged cars. It was apparent that Uncle Seth didn't change out of his manicured suit and tie, but he didn't care.

We passed houses, markets, and stores until Uncle Seth stopped at a tall, navy blue building with glass windows, a glass door with black lettered stickers that spelt out Police Station. Cars, large and small, fit comfortably in the parking lot like a huge puzzle piece.

It took us about three hours, sliding through the cracks of the puzzle until we were in front of the glass door. I pulled the metal knob of the door then walked inside. A wave of black coffee and smoke greeted me.

Cops are walking back and forth, either dragging a criminal to their prison or getting coffee from the break room. Papers were spilling on the blue floor, like confetti.

Dark wooden walls were covered in old portraits of cops and missing children posters, To my left, a glass board covering in black permanent marker. Seems like the cops were figuring out another case.

In front of us was a reception desk with papers and files stacked higher as pancakes. Behind the desk was an old, weary cop making busy calls. Uncle Seth inhaled the scent of old coffee and smoke then breathed it out.

"I love the smell of childhood in the morning," Uncle Seth beamed sarcastically. I raised my eyebrow in response then tugged his arm. "Come on," I urged. "Let's talk to Wallace, and get out of here."

Uncle Seth bobbed his head then followed me up to the reception desk. As soon as the cop was finished with his call, he flicked his grey eyes at us. "Hello," he greeted. "How may I help you?"

I took a deep breath then asked if I could see Wallace. "Are you a relative?" I wanted to say no, but remembering that the truth will prevent me from accomplishing my goal, I bobbed my head up and down.

"Yes," I answered. "I am his sister, Mia." Uncle Seth smirked at my lie, but didn't say anything. Much to my surprise, the cop bought my lie as he lifted his withered body out of his chair and led me to a room where the police kept criminals.

Walking down the narrow path, I steadied myself behind the officer until I saw a teenaged boy clenching his hands against the bars and looking down at the floor. The officer stopped in his tracks and snapped his fingers at the boy.

"Wallace," he grunted. "Your sister is here." However, the boy tilted his head looked at the officer in confusion. "Huh?" he asked. Immediately, I gave him a small wave. "Hey bro," I greeted nonchalantly. "How are you doing?"