Case #47: Video

[19centconstable]

[George looks rumpled and unshaven, although it still hasn't improved his mustache much: it still looks more like a stain above his lip than anything. He's broadcasting hurriedly, and groggily from his cabin.]

I wasn't...did anyone happen to...was mother here?

Comments

Re: Spaaam!

[19centconstable]

[George lets him be for a moment, then quietly asks:]

Detective?

: Spaaam!

[lastmanstanding]

...I won't ever escape it will I? The things I did. I have to apologize and accept it. I was a hero and I threw it away by being stupid.

Re: : Spaaam!

[19centconstable]

[George blinks.]

Well...yes. Although I don't think you ought to call yourself stupid.

Re: : Spaaam!

[lastmanstanding]

But that's what I was. I was stupid.

[he studies him] ...you really don't think I'm stupid. You're so...so nice. and a cop. Most of us are... [he speaks slowly, trying to decide how best to phrase it] Most of us are egotistical maniacs by my time. guys...obsessed with the badge and the gun and the prestige.

Re: : Spaaam!

[19centconstable]

You made poor decisions. A clever man may still do that.

[George frowns.]

But I have met other police here, Detective, and I just can't believe that that is so. There have always been, and will always be bad apples in every bunch, but they don't spoil the other apples. And often, if you take the bruised or wormy bit off, the apple can be perfectly edible again.

Re: : Spaaam!

[lastmanstanding]

...clever?

[Hoffman looks truly touched.]

...George if I go what happens to you? Did.. [he frowns] Did you ever decide on a deal?

Re: : Spaaam!

[19centconstable]

I didn't. After you've graduated, I'll be assigned to help someone else. Perhaps I'll glance in on things at home.

Spaaam!

[lastmanstanding]

[Hoffman breathes deep] ...Do you think I could be a warden?

Re: Spaaam!

[19centconstable]

I do think so, Detective. Don't you?

Re: Spaaam!

[lastmanstanding]

...I can try.

[his voice is firm. He stands.]

...I can try but I think there's something that I need to do first.

[and he flops back] Jesus Christ I don't know if I can.

Re: Spaaam!

[19centconstable]

The apology?

Re: Spaaam!

[lastmanstanding]

[He looks at him balefully.]

...What if she wants to kill me? I mean what if she leaves and loses her deal? I've watched her at dinner.

I did that George.

Re: Spaaam!

[19centconstable]

Yes. And you're attempting to talk yourself out of this.

It is something you can do. It won't be easy or pleasant, but it is right.

Re: Spaaam!

[lastmanstanding]

[Hoffman breathes deep and stands.]

....I want a drink.

Re: Spaaam!

[19centconstable]

That won't make it easier.

Re: Spaaam!

[lastmanstanding]

[he smirks.] I know. Doesn't mean I don't want one.

[he straightens] ...Thank you George.

Re: Spaaam!

[19centconstable]

You are welcome, Detective. And godspeed to you.