Chapter 59

Nick

When I hear the address come over the scanner, I know I shouldn't respond, but I'm the closest one to the scene. Something churns in my gut telling me not to respond. It's been two weeks since Darren moved in with us. We're finally getting into a routine, and I think he's learning what it's like to have people who care about him. He's more trusting than I ever was, and I hope it lasts. I know I'm learning what it is to care for other people too. But this? I really shouldn't do it.

"Is there anyone closer than me, dispatch?"

"Negative Nick, you're the closest. There's been another call about him disturbing the peace."

Fuck me running.

"Show me as responding."

"I'll be about five minutes behind." I hear Ransom.

That gives me a little bit of comfort, but I know this isn't going to go smoothly. Pulling into the neighborhood, I feel the cloud of despair fall over me, a darkness that I just never can seem to get away from. That darkness is why I sleep outside sometimes.