Justice for Rex: The Unseen War of a Delta Force Commander Against Corrupt Cops

For years officer Gregory Callaway and officer Anthony Miller did whatever they wanted every traffic stop was a trap every complaint disappeared they ruled through fear knowing no one could touch them until they harassed the wrong man a black man walking his German Shepherd through a quiet neighborhood a man they assumed was powerless just another face they could intimidate when he didn’t submit when he questioned their Authority they escalated harsh words became threats threats became violence and when his dog stepped forward one of

them reached for his gun now Malcolm Hayes a Delta Force operative with Nothing Left to Lose is coming for them the officers thought they understood power thought their badges made them Untouchable but they have no idea what’s coming Justice will be Swift and painful before we go any further comment where in the world you are watching from and make sure to subscribe the afternoon sun cast Long Shadows over the quiet Suburban Street its golden light filtering through the trees that lined the neatly paved sidewalks Rex’s Paws tapped rhythmically against the concrete

his ears flicking at the distant hum of a lawn mower the occasional chirp of birds hidden among the branches his leash hung Loosely in Malcolm’s grip the German Shepherd moving in perfect sync with his owner alert but relaxed it was was a beautiful day one of those rare moments when the world felt still uncomplicated Malcolm took a slow breath inhaling the crisp scent of freshly cut grass feeling the weight of the day ease just slightly this walk was part of his routine a simple pleasure after long weeks spent traveling for work he had

been away longer than usual this time overseeing security operations overseas now that he was back he wanted nothing more than to enjoy the little things a quiet walk with Rex the feeling of the sun on his skin the comfort of home yet even as he savored the moment he was aware of the eyes it always happened a car rolling to a slow stop at a nearby intersection the slight movement of a curtain in a second story window a jogger who hesitated just a little too long before continuing past Malcolm had spent most of his adult life in

high-risk environments where survival depended on reading a situation before it unfolded out there it was about identifying threats enemy combatants hidden explosives unseen dangers waiting in the shadows here in the place that was supposed to be home it was different subtler less overt but no less real he felt it in the way strangers eyes lingered on him just a second too long in the way some clutched their purses a little tighter in the way a man walking his golden retriever had crossed the street last week without ever making eye

contact he had done nothing but exist and still it was enough to make people uneasy it was ironic really he had spent over a decade in the most elite counterterrorism unit in the world the US Army’s Delta Force he had operated in places where stepping into the wrong alley meant never stepping out again where trust was a luxury he couldn’t afford he had taken down Warlords dismantled terrorist cells protected people who never even knew they were in danger and yet here in his own neighborhood the place he had paid for

with Blood Sweat and sacrifice he was the one who didn’t belong a car turned the corner ahead creeping forward at a pace that felt too deliberate Malcolm glanced toward it already knowing what he was about to see the black and white p job The Familiar shape of the police cruiser the low humming growl in Rex’s chest was so soft that no one else would have heard it Malcolm gave the leash a small tug easy boy his voice was calm soothing Rex obeyed instantly his head tilting toward Malcolm as if reading his

expression the cruiser slowed as it pulled alongside him matching his Pace then came the voice afternoon Sir Malcolm stopped walking turned turning toward the vehicle with measured ease his posture was relaxed his expression neutral no tension no challenge afternoon officer he replied keeping his tone polite always polite the driver officer Callaway leaned against the open window his expression unreadable but his eyes assessing cataloging searching his partner officer Miller had already stepped out of the vehicle his boots crunching against the pavement as he position IED himself just a few steps

away close enough to intimidate far enough to claim it wasn’t intentional they weren’t here for a friendly chat you live around here Callaway asked tilting his head slightly his voice was casual too casual yes Sir Malcolm answered without hesitation Callaway’s lips twitched like he wasn’t expecting the automatic respect that’s so funny don’t think I’ve seen you before Malcolm offered a small polite nod I travel a lot for work security Contracting overseas just got back a few days ago Miller scoffed under his breath shaking

his head security Contracting that’s some kind of fancy way of saying mercenary Malcolm let out a soft chuckle as though he wasn’t the least bit offended let them think they had the upper hand not quite he said keeping his voice friendly private security for high-risk environments I consult for agencies and corporations help train teams for emergency response Callaway nodded slowly but there was something in his expression that didn’t sit right well he said shifting slightly we got a call about someone looking suspicious in the neighborhood figured we’d check it out Malcolm raised a brow but kept his

tone even I see I wasn’t aware walking my dog was suspicious Callaway smirked you’d be surprised what people think is suspicious these days Miller took a slow Step Closer his eyes dropping to Rex who was still standing calmly but watching the officers with quiet intensity that’s a big dog Miller commented feigning interest trained yes sir trained for what Malcolm let the questions settle in the air for a moment still maintaining his relaxed stance he knew where this was going obedience protection he’s very

disciplined Miller nodded slowly as if weighing the words then Callaway shifted the convers going to need to see some idea it wasn’t a request Malcolm knew his rights he could ask why he could refuse he could stand his ground but he also knew exactly what kind of men he was dealing with of course he said smoothly already reaching into his jacket moving slowly deliberately Rex let out a barely audible Rumble shifting slightly closer Callaway’s eyes flicked toward the dog and Malcolm didn’t miss the way his fingers twitched near his belt wo there Miller muttered his voice just a little

sharper you might want to keep that thing under control Malcolm’s jaw tightened just slightly but his voice remained level Rex is fine he’s well trained Callaway chuckled under his breath yeah we’ll see about that something about the way he said it made Malcolm’s stomach tighten it was the tone the unspoken promise of what was coming next he pulled his wallet out carefully holding it up Callaway barely glanced at it before waving his hand dismissively nah I think we’re going to need you to step over here for a second just a few questions Malcolm exhaled

slowly carefully don’t give them an excuse he gave Rex’s leash the lightest tug signaling the command to stand down then he stepped forward and that was when everything changed Malcolm stepped forward moving with deliberate calm his wallet held out for them to take Rex’s leash remained steady in his grip his stance unchanged but the dog’s body had tensed just slightly an imperceptible shift that only Malcolm would have noticed he could feel the weight of the officer’s scrutiny the way their eyes tracked his every movement how Callaway’s smirk barely masked the sharp

edge of control he was trying to exert over the situation Miller took the wallet with a lazy sort of arrogance flipping it open like he expected to find something damning inside his fingers traced over the identification card his lips twisting slightly before he turned it toward Callaway well look at that Miller mused shaking his head we got ourselves a real life Soldier Callaway took the wallet from him glancing at it with an unimpressed expression Delta Force huh his voice carried that same casual disdain as if even Malcolm’s service to the country

wasn’t enough to earn a shred of basic respect that’s supposed to mean something Malcolm didn’t react he had learned long ago that men like this wanted a reaction craved it fed off it any sign of irritation or Defiance would only give them an excuse to push harder so he remained as he was calm polite immovable it means I’ve served he said his tone even measured and now I work in security Consulting as I mentioned earlier Callaway let out a small chuckle shaking his head before handing the wallet back to Malcolm in a way that forced him to step closer to take it it

was a small thing but Malcolm recognized it for what it was a power play he took his wallet back tucking it into his jacket without breaking eye contact that’s so Callaway drawled because what I see is a guy walking around a neighborhood where people don’t seem to recognize him and you know how it is folks around here get nervous when they see someone they don’t think belongs there it was they weren’t even bothering with subtlety anymore Malcolm tilted his head slightly his expression unreadable I do belong I live here yeah Callaway folded his arms stepping just slightly

closer then you won’t mind answering a few more questions would you Malcolm remained where he was neither retreating nor advancing I believe I already have Miller scoffed under his breath adjusting his belt I don’t know Callaway something about his attitude don’t sit right with me guy seems a little tense don’t you think Callaway smirked yeah almost like he’s got something to hide Malcolm took in a slow breath centering himself resisting the natural urge to respond he had been in more hostile situations than he could count had faced Warlords insurgents men with bombs

strapped to their chests enemies who wanted him dead and had every means to make it happen yet in all those years he had never felt quite this level of restraint tightening around him like a vice because here in his own country in the very place he had fought to protect he wasn’t seen as a man who had served as a citizen with rights he was a threat a problem to be handled and Rex knew it the dog had been trained to read situations to recognize tension to detect when his handler was in danger and right now though Malcolm remained still Rex could sense that something was

wrong his ears were up his gaze locked on the officers his body language shifting from relaxed to alert Callaway noticed you got that thing under control he asked motioning toward Rex with a tilt of his chin Malcolm tightened his grip just slightly on the leash he’s fine he’s trained Miller narrowed his eyes yeah trained for what Malcolm kept his expression neutral protection security he follows commands Callaway let out a low whistle shaking his head a dog like that all trained up to attack dangerous thing to be walking around with don’t you think he’s not trained to attack Malcolm corrected his patience

thinning despite himself he’s trained to defend yeah Callaway’s smirk widened and what exactly does he think you need defending from huh the words sat between them heavy with meaning Malcolm said nothing Miller EX hailed through his nose shaking his head I don’t know Callaway guy’s got a big dog won’t answer questions seems real on edge he took another step forward this time intentionally closing the space between them I think maybe we need to go ahead and bring him in just to be safe Malcolm could feel Rex’s tension spiking the leash pulling just slightly as the German Shepherd adjusted his stance

muscles coiled prepared he could sense what was happening could could feel the shift the moment just before a situation spiraled out of control you don’t need to do that Malcolm said his voice carefully measured I’ve cooperated I’ve shown my ID there’s no cause to detain me Miller gave an exaggerated shrug maybe but see I just don’t like the way this is going and I think we need to make sure everything checks out Callaway tilted his head I think we’re going to need you to turn around put your hands behind your back just for our safety you

understand Malcolm’s jaw clenched ever so slightly but his voice remained calm I haven’t done anything yeah Callaway smiled stepping closer then you won’t mind it was a test a deliberate calculated provocation and then Miller reached out a hand on Malcolm’s wrist firm insistent Rex’s snarl cut through the air like a blade instantly both officers hands went to their weapons Malcolm moved without think in ing a shift of his arm a fluid motion redirecting Miller’s grip without Force stepping back even as he held Rex’s leash firm grounding the dog before he

could move whoa whoa whoa malcol said quickly his voice calm but sharp with authority he’s reacting to your aggression stand down but they weren’t listening Miller had already drawn his gun his face Twisted into something Malcolm had seen before fear disguised as control get that dog back Callaway barked stepping away his own hand hovering over his holster Rex was still in place but his entire body was taught his instincts screaming his eyes locked on the men who now posed a clear and present danger to his Handler Malcolm’s pulse slowed his training kicking in

every single variable flashing through his mind in an instant this wasn’t going to end well Malcolm rayed his hands slowly Palms facing outward his voice even firm controlled listen officers I live here you saw my ID my address is on it there’s no issue Rex remained still but Malcolm could feel the leash tightening in his grip his dog sensing every inch of his unease every shift in the atmosphere every note of tension vibrating in the air this wasn’t just some routine stop it had never been one and now with hands near holsters with voices sharpening with the slow creeping

dread rising in Malcolm’s chest it was clear that these men had already decided how this was going to go Callaway’s smirk had disappeared replaced with something colder more calculating then control your damn dog Malcolm exhaled slowly keeping his hands raised refusing to let the irritation break through refusing to give them even an inch of what they wanted Rex is under control he hasn’t moved he’s on a leash he’s trained and he hasn’t attacked the only reason he’s reacting is because you I don’t give a damn what you think boy Miller snapped his voice cutting through

the space between them like the crack of a whip I said control your damn dog Malcolm’s fingers twitched not out of anger no he had buried that emotion deep locked it away in the part of him that had learned long ago that losing his temper in moments like these could be a death sentence it was discipline calculation training that told him that right now every movement every breath every single thing he did was a potential trigger for something he couldn’t undo officers please I am complying Malcolm said carefully lowering his voice just slightly trying

to take some of the Heat out of the moment you saw my ID you know I live here my dog is restrained I am not resisting so tell me what exactly do you need from me right now Callaway took a step closer his hand still twitching near his holster his expression twisting into something Malcolm recognized instantly he wasn’t just looking for compliance he was looking for an excuse you think this is a game Callaway sneered his voice Rising now you think think we give a damn what you think I don’t care who you are where you live or what you do right now you’re a threat

and that mut of yours a damn liability Miller moved another inch forward his boots grinding against the pavement you want to keep talking or you want to do what the hell you’re told Rex let out a low warning growl Malcolm shifted his weight slightly angling himself just enough to keep the officers in view while also maintaining his control over Rex you’re escalating this situation officers I am standing still my dog is standing still the only aggression here is coming from you stand down now Miller barked his voice sharp commanding filled

with something just a little too eager Malcolm’s heart pounded not in fear but in frustration in the suffocating knowledge that there was nothing he could say no amount of reason that would shift the path they had chosen for this moment Callaway gestured aggressively at the ground put that mut down make him sit now Malcolm kept his movements slow calculated he turned his head just slightly giving a quiet controlled command Rex down immediately Rex lowered himself to the ground his body stiff but obedient his ears flicking back slightly sensing the forced nature of the order

Miller scoffed shaking his head oh now you want to listen Callaway wasn’t satisfied his hand dropped lower toward his holster leash shorten it make sure he can’t move Malcolm’s jaw clenched but he obeyed gripping the leash closer keeping Rex locked in place his breathing steady his Focus unwavering Callaway exchanged a glance with Miller something silent passed between them something unspoken but heavy an agreement a decision Miller exhaled slowly rolling his shoulders like he was shaking out tension we’re done playing around turn around hands behind your back Malcolm

stiffened his voice dropped to something lower quieter but still controlled I’ve done nothing wrong Callaway’s smirk returned yeah and yet here we are Malcolm didn’t move he knew what would happen if he turned around the moment he gave them his back he’d be in cuffs shoved against the pav and whatever excuse they wanted to use afterward would be built off the fact that he resisted even though he hadn’t turn around Miller ordered again taking a step forward Rex let out a deep rolling growl both officers hands shot

to their guns control your damn dog Miller shouted Malcolm’s voice snapped sharp and authoritative he is controlled not good enough Callaway yelled back his fingers tightening on his weapon Malcolm felt felt the shift the moment before the moment the hairs on the back of his neck Rose the air seemed to still The Heat Of The Sun suddenly distant the world shrinking to just this space this street these men who had never once intended to let him walk away from this moment with his dignity intact Miller moved first his hand jerked toward his

gun Rex reacted before Malcolm could even process the movement a offensive Instinct a split-second reaction the very thing the officers had been waiting for a single bark sharp quick a warning then the shift of muscle as Rex tensed Malcolm barely had time to process the movement before it happened The Gunshot rang out splitting through the air like a crack of thunder the leash jerked in Malcolm’s hand and then Rex stumbled the world slowed the sound of blood roaring in Mal ‘s ears drowned out everything

else the officer shouts the distant noise of a car engine the voices of unseen neighbors who had been watching from the safety of their Windows all he saw was Rex’s body jerking back the shock in his dark brown eyes the way his legs faltered beneath him as his body gave way no Malcolm’s voice didn’t even sound like his own his knees hit the pavement before he even realized he had moved Rex collapsed against him him his weight heavy too heavy and Malcolm’s hands were suddenly slick with warmth with life slipping away far too fast a low pained whimper escaped from Rex’s

throat his breathing shallow uneven Miller still had his gun raised his face a twisted mask of self-satisfaction and mock surprise Callaway simply shook his head exhaling through his nose told you he was a liability Malcolm barely heard them everything inside him went still Malcolm barely registered the voices around him barely processed the shift in movement the shuffle of boots against pavement the crackle of a distant radio transmission his entire world had shrunk to the warm crumpling weight in his arms to the sharp ragged breaths tearing

through Rex’s throat to the way his dog His companion his brother in arms his protector was struggling against the inevitable refusing to let go even as his body failed him stay with me Malcolm whispered his voice raw horse breaking on the edges his hands pressed desperately against the wound warm blood seeping between his fingers pooling onto the pavement staining his clothes his skin the world around him turning red as his vision blurred with something hotter darker more consuming than anything he had ever felt before I got you boy stay with me please Rex’s eyes were still on

him still alert still searching his face as if waiting for a command waiting for Direction but there was no Battlefield no Mission no threat to eliminate just pain just confusion just the Deep unspoken bond between them unraveling too fast for Malcolm to stop it he could feel the Tremors racking through rex’s body the rapid panicked rise and fall of his chest the small strangled sounds escaping from his throat as if he wanted to respond to tell Malcolm he was still fighting that he would always fight but

the strength was fading slipping like sand through Malcolm’s grasp like something he had no power to hold on to you’re okay you’re okay Malcolm muttered his hands shaking as he stroked Rex’s head his fingers slipping over Over The Damp fur cradling his dog’s face as if he could keep him grounded keep him here you’re strong buddy just hold on just damn it Rex don’t you quit on me the officers were talking he could hear them but they didn’t matter their voices were nothing but distant meaningless noise

like the buzzing of insects irrelevant and Hollow against the sound of Rex’s slowing breaths against the pulse of Rage rising in Malcolm’s chest like a tidal wave violent and uncontainable then Rex let out a final shallow exhale and his body went still something inside Malcolm snapped he lifted his head eyes burning blood smeared across his hands his forearms his clothes his breathing hitched then turned to something deeper rougher Jagged with Fury his entire body trembled but it wasn’t with grief it was

something else something hotter something breaking loose from the deepest part of him something Primal something that had been chained down for too damn long you his voice was a growl a threat an unfiltered burst of hatred coiling around his words barely contained barely human he surged upward pushing away from Rex’s still body his hands clenching into fists his entire stance shifting rigid braced ready you killed him Miller flinched but Callaway just sneered shaking his head like he was dismissing a child’s tantrum that’s on you big guy should have controlled your damn dog the world

turned red Malcolm lunged not thinking not planning just moving just acting just giving in to the raw vicious undeniable Fury tearing through every inch of him he wanted to feel his fists sink into flesh wanted to break something wanted to tear them apart the way they had just torn his world apart the sharp brutal snap of electricity slammed into his spine his entire body seized muscles locking nerves igniting in blinding unbearable pain as the taser voltage ripped through him stealing his breath stealing his strength sending him crashing back to the ground his body

convulsed pain exploding through every nerve his vision white hot with Agony his jaw locking as the current overpowered every thought every Instinct leaving him helpless thrashing against the pavement unable to move unable to do anything but feel and then they were on him boots pressing against his arms against his back pistols leveled at his head voices shouting demanding barking orders like he was some wild animal they needed to put down stay down don’t you move hands behind your back now Malcolm gasped choking on his own breath rage

and grief crashing into his chest like a wrecking ball every part of him screaming to fight back to break free to do something anything but submit but they had guns they had already killed Rex and if he moved again if he gave them even the slightest excuse they do the same to him his body trembled his muscles still twitching from the taser but he forced his arms behind his back his fists clenching so tightly his nails dug into his own Palms hard enough to draw blood the weight of a knee pressed between his shoulder blades grinding him down suffocating humiliating yeah that’s

right Callaway muttered his voice dripping with satisfaction that’s where you belong Malcolm let out a raw guttural scream it wasn’t a sound of pain it was rage pure and undiluted thick with grief with helplessness with a fury so deep it felt like it would burn him alive you killed him he roared his voice cracking breaking shattering under the weight of everything that was spiraling out of control you murdered him his voice was hoarse but he kept yelling kept screaming as if he could force the world to listen as if he could

undo what had just been done through sheer force of will but no one listened Callaway yanked him up by his arms the metal of the Cuffs biting into his wrists his grip rough punishing Miller holstered his weapon watching with something between amusement and indifference as Malcolm was dragged toward the squad car his body still trembling with unspent Rage with grief too big to contain he fought against it against against the hands shoving him forward against the Injustice burning like fire in his throat against the unbearable reality that Rex was gone

that his best friend had just died in his arms and there wasn’t a damn thing he could do about it but the metal door slammed shut behind him and he was trapped alone the sound of his own ragged Furious breathing was the only thing left and then slowly something else settled in something colder something sharper something that felt like steel locking into place they thought this was over they thought they had won but Malcolm wasn’t just some man on a walk with his dog he was in the Delta Force and one way or another he was going to burn their world to the ground the cold steel of the handcuffs

dug into Malcolm’s wrists biting deeper with every shift of the vehicle as it rumbled down the road it Sirens silent its passengers indifferent to the man Shackled In The Back his chest still heaved his breath uneven his pulse a war drum hammering against his ribs his entire body a raw frayed nerve that hadn’t stopped vibrating since the moment that gunshot had shattered the world his fingers twitched against the unforgiving metal muscles still spasming from the lingering effects of the taser the aftershocks of forced compliance still pulsing through his veins his jaw

achd from how tightly he had been clenching his teeth his throat raw from the screams they had ignored from the pure undiluted rage that had poured from his soul and yet had done nothing nothing to change the fact that Rex was gone he could still feel the weight of him still see those dark eyes filled with loyalty filled with trust look look at him in those final moments waiting for a command waiting for him to fix it to protect him to stop the inevitable from happening he had never felt so powerless the cruiser jerked to a stop the doors swung open Callaway’s hand

wrapped around his arm like he was dragging a corpse from a ditch yanking him forward with a force that sent a jolt of pain shooting through his shoulders the moment his boots hit the ground Malcolm forced his body to steady itself forced the Tremor in his limbs to vanish forced himself to bury the raw burning Storm still clawing at his insides not here not now they wanted a reaction they had gotten one when Rex fell they wouldn’t get another Miller smirked as he stepped out adjusting his belt with casual arrogance the kind of

swagger that came from knowing he could take a life in broad daylight and suffer no consequences welcome to your new home for the night he drawled giving Malcolm’s shoulder a hard shove toward the station doors try not to get too comfortable Malcolm didn’t respond he kept his posture straight his eyes forward his mind reeling calculating searching for a way through the fog of Rage that had settled in his chest like a dying fire still smoldering waiting to ignite the booking process was a blur of cold fingers snapping off his cuffs of

ink pressed against his skin a fluorescent lights humming above him as the weight of everything settled in his bones his mug shot was taken with Rex’s blood still on his clothes on his hands the evidence of his loss turned into nothing more than another box checked on a form that meant nothing they led him to a holding cell a small stale room that smelled of sweat and old regret its walls lined with the ghosts of men who had sat there before him staring at the same cracks in the ceiling wondering how they had ended up on the wrong side of

Justice Malcolm didn’t sit he didn’t Pace he didn’t close his eyes he waited time blurred minutes bled into hours the anger didn’t fade but it shifted cooling hardening into something different something more dangerous and then the door opened a familiar voice firm clipped burning with barely restrained Fury get your damn hands off of him Jasmine Malcolm exhaled slowly as his sister stormed into the room her heels striking the tile like gunfire her presence a force of nature that even the officers escorting her seemed reluctant to challenge she was dressed in full

defense mode power suit sharp angles a glare so sharp it could slice through bone you’re done un holding him she snapped shoving a stack of papers into the nearest officer’s chest without looking at him unless you want the lawsuit of the century I suggest you unchain your egos from this moment and let him walk out of here Callaway appeared in the doorway arms crossed Amusement flickering in his gaze relax sweetheart he said voice oozing false charm we were just having a conversation with your brother had a little misunderstanding earlier Jasmine turned

so fast her hair barely had time to catch up a misunderstanding she repeated her tone a loaded weapon is that what we’re calling it now Miller leaned against the doorway grinning he got aggressive ma’am we had to make sure things didn’t escalate Jasmine’s laugh was sharp humorless you mean you shot his dog assaulted him and threw him in a Cell because you thought he looked out of place in his own neighborhood Callaway Shrugged could have gone worse the temperature in the room dropped Malcolm finally spoke his voice quieter than it had been all night

but laced with something that made even Callaway’s smirk flicker it will for the first time the officers hesitated just for a second then Callaway snorted shaking his head take him home counselor but I’d tell him to keep his head down if I were you this city isn’t too kind to troublemakers Jasmine’s eyes burned but she didn’t respond instead she turned to Malcolm her fingers wrapping around his wrist her grip firm steady the first anchor he had felt since this nightmare began letun go she said softly

Malcolm followed her out pass the other officers who barely spared him a glance pass the walls that had already erased him past the men who believed they had won the night air hit his skin but it didn’t feel freeing nothing did Jasmine exhaled rubbing a hand over her face before turning to him her expression shifting from Fury to something heavier something laced with grief I’m sorry she whispered I know what he meant to you Malcolm’s jaw tensed but he didn’t respond he couldn’t the words weren’t there not in a language that could

express what had been ripped from him but Jasmine wasn’t done you need to let me handle this she continued her voice firm pleading you need need to let me take this through the courts through the media through every legal damn Avenue we have do not it won’t work Malcolm said quietly Jasmine hesitated Malcolm it won’t work and they both knew it the police owned the system they controlled the narrative they had already set it in motion already buried any chance of accountability beneath layers of bureaucracy and false reports and

manufactured justifications the courts wouldn’t save him the law wouldn’t save him Justice wasn’t coming not the kind Jasmine was hoping for and so Malcolm did something he hadn’t done in years he let go of the idea that the system would protect him and he let something else settle in something colder something inevitable days later the house was Silent not the peaceful kind of Silence not the sort of quiet that came with Solitude or rest this was absence the kind of Silence that clawed at the edges of a man’s mind that sat heavy in the air pressing in

from all sides the kind that made the world feel off balance like something had been torn away and left nothing in its place Malcolm sat at his kitchen table staring at his hands his fingers resting Loosely around a coffee mug he hadn’t touched Rex’s leash sat coiled on the counter the absence of weight at his side of of movement in the room of quiet steady breaths that weren’t his own left a void so deep it felt like the floor itself would give way beneath him Jasmine stood by the window arms crossed

watching him carefully you haven’t slept Malcolm didn’t answer you haven’t eaten either she added her voice soft careful still no response Jasmine sighed dragging a hand down her face before stepping closer I know what you’re thinking that made him exhale a slow humorless sound that barely registered as a laugh he finally looked up at her his eyes dark tired Hollow in a way that hadn’t been there before do you Jasmine hesitated something unreadable flickering across her face they had always been close had always understood each other in ways most siblings didn’t but now as she looked at

him as she saw the shift that had taken place she wasn’t sure if she recognized what she saw I know you she said carefully I know how you operate I know that if something doesn’t make sense if something is broken you fix it if there’s an enemy you eliminate it that’s how you’ve always been that’s why you were so good at what you did her voice softened but this isn’t a battlefield Malcolm his jaw clenched feels like one she exhaled stepping closer lowering her voice as if gentleness alone could reach him could pull him back from wherever he was slipping into listen to me the

system is slow but that doesn’t mean it’s useless we’re filing a case I have connections with reporters activists Watchdogs this isn’t going to just go away people will hear about what happened the pressure will build and they’ll have to act Malcolm’s gaze didn’t waver no they won’t yes they will it takes time but it works they already Clos the internal investigation Jasmine her breath hitched her hands curling into fists what Malcolm’s voice was calm detached in a way that didn’t match the fire in his eyes they wrapped it up this morning no misconduct no disciplinary

action no charges Justified Force Jasmine’s entire body tensed her expression twisting between disbelief and fury they she cut herself off pacing toward the window pressing at hand against her forehead as if physically holding back the words that wanted to escape of course they did of course they she turned back her voice sharp that doesn’t mean we’re done we can appeal we can take this higher we can no Jasmin his voice was steady final she shook her head no you don’t get to say that not after what they did not after what they took from you this isn’t over Malcolm leaned forward resting his forearms on

the table his fingers lacing together his gaze never leaving hers they took everything from me in a matter of seconds but you’re telling me to wait to hope that the same system that let them walk free will suddenly find accountability it’s never had before you’re telling me that if I sit still if I trust the process maybe in 6 months or a year there might be a hearing a slap on the wrist a forced resignation maybe but Jasmine you and I both know exactly how this plays out her throat bobbed her breath unsteady we have to at least try

I did try he said his voice quieter now but no less intense I tried the moment they put me in cuffs I tried when I told them I lived here I tried when I showed them my ID I tried when I Stood Still when I spoke politely when I didn’t resist when I begged them to see me as human I tried Jasmine his voice faltered just slightly and Rex still died and I still went to jail jasman clenched her jaw her eyes shining with something between frustration and sorrow Malcolm leaned back exhaling slowly I’m done trying she stepped forward lowering

herself into the chair across from him searching his face what are you saying Malcolm tilted his head slightly as if contemplating the weight of the words before speaking them aloud I think you already know her fingers gripped the edge of the table Malcolm I’m not asking you to be okay with it he cut in his voice still impossibly calm too steady for what he was about to say I’m just telling you where I stand and where this is going Jasmine’s breath trembled her eyes searching his face for something doubt hesitation a sign that there was still a path she could lead him down

still a way to turn him from from whatever was unfolding in his mind but she saw nothing just resolve cold unshakable unwavering she swallowed hard her voice quiet brittle if you do this there’s no coming back Malcolm held her gaze I don’t want to come back a silence stretched between them thick with everything they weren’t saying finally Jasmine exhaled slow and measured before standing smoothing out her Jack ET with steady hands I’ll call you tomorrow Malcolm nodded she hesitated for just a second longer her fingers twitching slightly at her sides as if she wanted to reach out wanted to grab him Shake

him pull him back to the brother she knew before all of this but instead she turned and walked out the door Malcolm waited until the sound of her car engine faded into the distance before he rose from his seat moving toward the counter his hands hovered over Rex’s leash his fingers brushed p over the worn leather tracing the familiar feel of it the weight of memory embedded in every inch then slowly deliberately he picked it up and coiled it tightly in his palm not as a leash not as something that would ever be used again for what it was meant for

but as a reminder a promise a war was coming and Malcolm was ready the bar sat at the edge of the city far from the well-lit streets where Callaway’s uniform still carried weight here nobody cared that he was a cop here he could be exactly the kind of man he had always been Reckless arrogant unafraid Malcolm had been watching him for days learning the rhythm of his vices the way he drifted into the same seat at the bar like clockwork the way he leaned in too close to women who weren’t his wife the way he tossed back whiskey like it was

water drowning himself in the filth of his own existence he had no idea he was being hunted Malcolm sat in the corner of the bar Hood low his drink untouched as he watched Callaway stumble his way through another night of indulgence the man was predictable and predictability was a weakness he had parked in the same alley behind the bar the one with no security cameras no street lights the perfect place for a man to disappear for a few minutes without anyone noticing Malcolm was going to make sure Callaway

disappeared just long enough for his world to start crumbling Callaway laughed loudly a crude obnoxious sound slapping the back of the bartender like they were old friends he swayed slightly his balance compromised from the five drinks he had already downed his words slurred but confident like a man who believed nothing bad could ever happen to him Malcolm exhaled slowly finishing his drink in one slow sip before rising to his feet he let Callaway move first let him feel the false sense of security that came from being in familiar territory Callaway didn’t even glance

around as he stumbled toward the back exit muttering something under his breath as he pushed through the door stepping into the dark alley beyond the moment the door swung shut behind him the game began Malcolm followed silent as a shadow his breath steady his pulse slow his muscles coiled with the kind of patience only men like him knew how to wield Callaway had no idea he wasn’t alone the cop fumbled with his keys cursing as they slipped from his fingers clattering against the pavement he grunted leaning forward to retrieve them Malcolm struck a hard precise kick to

the ribs sending Callaway crashing to the ground his head bouncing against the pavement with a sickening crack the man let out a sharp gasp hands scrambling against the concrete his confusion instant and absolute what the Malcolm didn’t let him finish a steel toed boot slammed into his stomach knocking the air from his lungs leaving him gasping like a fish on dry land there was no hesitation no wasted motion no mercy Malcolm grabbed Callaway by the collar dragging him up just to slam him back down the back of his skull bouncing off the asphalt again dazing him leaving him

too disoriented to fight back Callaway groaned his body limp his fingers clawing at Malcolm’s arms desperate weak who Malcolm grabbed a fistful of his hair and yanked his head back bringing his mouth close to the man’s ear his voice was a whisper low and deadly you don’t get to know who I am he murmured not yet Callaway shuddered Malcolm released him letting him drop hard against the pavement he stood over him watching as the man tried to move tried to make sense of what was happening tried to pull himself together it was useless Malcolm crouched down tilting

his head slightly his voice still eerily calm you like to play judge jury and executioner don’t you he mused it’s easy when you’ve got a badge isn’t it easy when you’ve got a system that protects you when no one ever Fights Back Callaway sucked in a sharp trembling breath his hands curling into fists you you’re dead you hear me his voice wavered shaking beneath the bravado you don’t the next punch was Swift calculated sending blood splattering across the pavement that was for all my black Brothers and Sisters You’ve

harassed and beat he said Callaway choked spitting red onto the ground his body curling inward Malcolm let the silence stretch let the pain settle in deep before speaking again his voice was softer this time but no less terrifying this is the last time you ever walk away from something like this he said because after tonight I’m going to take everything from you your job your reputation your family your safety and when there’s nothing left you’ll wake up every day knowing that somewhere out there I’m watching you Callaway let out

a choked ragged breath Malcolm leaned in this is just the beginning and then just as suddenly as he had appeared he was gone Callaway remained on the ground bleeding shaking his heart pounding with a terror he had never felt before for the first time in his life he was the one being hunted Callaway lay on the ground his body aching in ways he had never experienced before pain was something he had always inflicted never something he had to endure but now the pavement beneath him felt like quicksand every attempt to move sending sharp reminders of the blows he had taken his ribs screamed with each shallow breath

his face was slick with his own blood and his head throbbed so violently he thought he might pass out his fingers trembled as he pressed his palms against the pavement trying to push himself up his vision swam street lights blurring into hazy orange Halos his heartbeat pounding in his ears drowning out the distant sounds of traffic from the main road the alley was empty silent whoever had done this to him was gone and yet Callaway felt no relief the man’s words echoed in his skull low and measured cutting deeper than any of the blows he

had landed this is the last time you ever walk away from something like this because after tonight I’m going to take everything from you a slow unsteady breath rasped through Callaway’s throat his stomach twisting in a way that had nothing to do with his injuries there had been something unnatural about the way the man spoke so certain so absolute like he wasn’t just making threats but promising inevitabilities and the worst part Callaway believed him with a grunt he forced himself upright his legs shaking beneath his weight his back pressed against the brick wall for

support his fingers fumbling against his pocket for his phone the screen was cracked smeared with blood but it still worked he dialed it rang twice before a voice answered Jesus Callaway it’s 1 in the morning Miller’s voice grumbled thick with exhaustion what the hell do you I need backup Callaway rasped cutting him off his breath uneven now there was a pause on the other end then a sigh where are you back alley behind oays Callaway muttered reaching up to wipe the blood from his brow some son of a jumped me didn’t see his face he he hesitated the words getting caught in

his throat he had never hesitated before he what Miller’s voice was sharper now more alert Callaway swallowed licking his cracked lips he knew me Miller he knew my name he knew everything another pause longer this time everything he said Callaway exhaled squeezing his eyes shut for a moment before opening them again he said he’s going to ruin me that he’s going to take everything from me Miller scoffed but there was a flicker of unease beneath the dismissal probably some drunk idiot trying to talk big

you’re still standing aren’t you Callaway forced a bitter laugh but it felt Hollow you don’t get it this guy wasn’t some Thug looking for a fight this was different Miller groaned the sound of rustling sheets and movement coming through the phone all right sit tight I’ll be there in 10 the call ended Callaway leaned his head back against the wall staring up at the dark sky above him his chest tightening with something unfamiliar it wasn’t just anger it wasn’t just pain It Was Fear for the first time in his life he wasn’t in control Miller arrived exactly when he said would pulling into the alley

with his unmarked car headlights washing over Callaway’s battered form he stepped out dressed in casual clothes his badge hanging from his belt his gun at his hip the hell happened to you Miller muttered taking in the sight of him Callaway groaned pushing himself off the wall you think I did this to myself Miller gave him a once over before glancing around the alley scanning the Shadows you said you didn’t see his face no Callaway muttered flexing his fingers wincing at the soreness he came out of nowhere moved fast knew exactly where to hit

military fast Miller frowned so what some pissed off veteran with a grudge Callaway exhaled sharply I don’t know but he wasn’t just some random guy looking to start trouble he knew me he knew about us he knew what we’ve done Miller’s expression darkened his jaw tightened in then we find him Callaway let out a humorless laugh yeah and how do you plan on doing that we don’t even have a description Miller stepped closer Voice Low someone comes after us we shut it down that’s how this works whoever this guy is he made a mistake he left you alive that means he left an opening

Callaway was silent for a moment then nodded forcing himself to straighten yeah yeah you’re right Miller glanced at his phone I’ll make some calls see if we can find anything Callaway nodded again but his mind was still trapped in the alley still reping every word his attacker had spoken this is just the beginning Miller clapped him on the shoulder but Callaway barely felt it somewhere out there the man who had done this to him was watching waiting planning and Callaway knew with a certainty that sent ice through his veins that he had already lost control

Malcolm had expected them to retaliate but what interested him was how they would respond he had anticipated Panic the erratic desperation of men who believed themselves Untouchable only to realize that something unseen something stronger had set its sights on them they had spent years praying on the weak operating under the illusion that their Authority was absolute that their uniforms shielded them from consequences now stripped of their security forced to reckon with the reality that they were being hunted they had no idea where to

begin so they did what men like them always did they found someone else to blame Malcolm sat in his car across the street engine off his seat reclined just enough to avoid drawing attention his camera lens was trained on Callaway and Miller as they moved with the kind of aggression that only came from Fear they weren’t handling this the way an officer would handle an investigation no interviews no proper protocol no reports being filed this was retaliation Callaway was still limping slightly a bruise creeping from beneath his collar his face stiff with pain but it wasn’t

just the beating that had broken him it was the unknown he had been attacked in a way he had never experienced before helpless powerless eaten in the shadows without ever seeing the man who had done it and that had shaken him deeper than any bruise ever could they had stopped outside a rundown boxing gym the kind that never advertised the kind built for fighters who didn’t just train for sport but for survival it wasn’t surprising Callaway and Miller had a long history of targeting strong outspoken black men in their Precinct men they viewed as a

challenge men who never bowed their heads Malcolm’s eyes flicked toward the entrance of the gym as the door swung open revealing a familiar face Terren Briggs tall built like a linebacker his presence commanded attention without effort he was a well-known figure in the community a former amateur fighter turned youth Mentor one of the few men who had always stood up against exactly the kind of officers Callaway and Miller were Malcolm remembered reading about the time Briggs had filed except massive force complaints against them 2 years ago after a violent baseless arrest the

charges had been buried beneath red tape dismissed as resisting arrest but Malcolm had seen the photos the bruises on briggs’ ribs the split in his eyebrow the raw abrasions on his wrists from the Cuffs that had been tightened just a little too much and now Callaway and Miller were back staring him down like they were searching for something their eyes eyes sharp expectant Malcolm lifted his camera zooming in the conversation was tense from the start Calaway stood too close his arms crossed his chin tilted upward in the kind of posture

that dared a man to retaliate Miller kept shifting his weight glancing at the street like he expected someone to be watching Briggs wasn’t intimidated he never had been he leaned against the door frame of the gym wiping sweat from his brow his expression unimpressed as Callaway spoke Malcolm couldn’t hear them but he didn’t need to the body language told him everything Callaway was demanding something his gestures sharp impatient Briggs shook his head then smirked saying something that made Miller step forward teeth bared in frustration Briggs pushed off the door

frame standing taller making it clear that he wasn’t backing down Malcolm adjusted the lens capturing every second Miller took another step but Callaway put a hand on his chest stopping him he turned back to Briggs his expression darkening a warning Briggs didn’t Flinch he just laughed Callaway’s hands clenched at his sides but he said nothing else he turned on his heel motioning for Miller to follow they left without another word their shoulders stiff their Pace tight Malcolm exhaled lowering the camera just slightly so that was their plan they had no leads no

idea who was responsible so they were going to find the strongest black men in the community and shake them down waiting to see who flinched cowards Malcolm watched as Briggs muttered something under his breath shaking his head before heading back inside the gym Callaway and Miller however weren’t finished they got into their car and Malcolm tailed them keeping three cars behind always in their blind spots they weren’t looking looking for him they weren’t careful the next stop was the apartment complex where Dwayne Carter lived Malcolm knew that name Carter had been another victim of Callaway and

Miller’s abuse pulled over on a bogus traffic stop 6 months ago dragged out of his car accused of having a weapon that had never existed he had been arrested beaten in the holding cell charged with assaulting an officer even though the only injuries that night had been his Malcolm sat in silence watching as Callaway and Miller approached the front door knocking hard enough to Rattle the frame the door opened after a few seconds and Carter appeared rubbing his eyes clearly just waking up they didn’t waste time Callaway shoved the door open wider stepping inside Uninvited Carter

tensed confusion morphing into irritation but he didn’t fight back he knew better Miller entered behind him blocking the exit forcing Carter back toward his own kitchen Malcolm adjusted his camera zooming in through the window their expressions were sharp accusing Carter was Defensive hands raised slightly in that universal sign of compliance they were interrogating him Malcolm’s fingers tightened around the camera Callaway said something then pointed at Carter’s arms his physique his posture they were profiling him in real time looking at his build his

strength already decid deciding that it made him guilty of something Carter’s jaw clenched and then he did something unexpected he laughed Callaway’s face darkened instantly Miller took a step forward invading Carter’s space Malcolm took a deep breath steadying his hands he didn’t need to intervene not yet this wasn’t about stopping them in the moment this was about documenting everything he had everything he needed they were digging their own Graves and Malcolm was going to bury them Malcolm had followed

them long enough to know their methods Their Fear had turned to desperation and Desperation made them Reckless they had no suspects no Direction no tangible way to fight back against an enemy they couldn’t see so instead they did what cowards did best they attacked blindly hoping to hit something he watched from three cars behind as Callaway and Miller drove in tight circles through the city stopping only to intimidate men they had once arrested men they assumed might be capable of the kind of calculated brutality that had left Callaway broken and afraid but fear had made them

impatient and impatience had made them sloppy Malcolm knew what was coming before they did they had been targeting men like Briggs and Carter because they had power physical strength the ability to fight back but when that didn’t get them any answers they would would switch tactics they would look for someone else someone like him he saw it in the way Miller hesitated before turning onto a familiar Street in the way Callaway leaned forward eyes narrowed as the house came into view they thought they were being subtle but Malcolm had been

waiting for this moment he had been preparing they were coming for him and they had no idea that he wanted them to Malcolm had spent two nights preparing the house not the obvious security measures no that would make them suspicious instead he had staged it in a way that made him look vulnerable a half full Whiskey Bottle left visible on the coffee table unopened mail stacked halfhazard on the kitchen counter a gun safe carefully left slightly a jar just enough to suggest negligence the cameras had been positioned perfectly hidden in plain sight in places no cop would ever think to check because they never

thought they needed to the front porch light was left on the side gate unlocked an invitation Malcolm sat in his living room his phone resting on his knee his breathing steady as the knock came sharp demanding he rose slowly keeping his movements relaxed keeping the illusion intact the cameras were already recording another knock this time harder Malcolm unlocked the door swinging it open to reveal Callaway and Miller standing ing on his porch Malcolm said keeping his voice even something I can help you with Callaway smirked but it didn’t reach his eyes there was no

friendliness in it just the thinly veiled pleasure of a man who thought he was back in control mind if we come in Callaway asked Malcolm leaned against the door frame that depends you got a warrant you going to shoot me this time instead Miller chuckled you got something to hide Malcolm tilted his head letting just enough Amusement slip into his expression to keep them off guard not at all but I like to keep things legal you understand Callaway’s smirk widened yeah legal funny thing about that isn’t it Malcolm said nothing

just waited and Callaway took the bait before Malcolm could react not that he tried to Callaway’s hand was on his chest shoving him back into the house Malcolm staggered knocking into the side table The Whiskey Bottle clattering to the floor he heard the door click shut behind them Miller exhaled through his nose shaking his head you know what’s funny Malcolm we’ve been looking into something real interesting stuff Malcolm stayed where he was keeping his body language relaxed keeping his expression Blank That’s So Callaway circled him

like a predator that thought its prey was already beaten yeah see we’ve been thinking the guy who did this to me he wasn’t some Street Thug he was TR trained the way he moved the way he hit real professional stuff Malcolm didn’t react but here’s the thing Callaway continued taking another slow step forward not a lot of people are trained like that unless of course they had the right kind of background Miller leaned in like Delta Force Malcolm let the silence stretch just long enough to make them uncomfortable then he did exactly what he had planned he laughed it wasn’t

forced it wasn’t nervous it was a slow deep chuckle one that made Callaway’s expression flicker just slightly the smallest crack in his confidence you think I beat your ass Malcolm asked shaking his head his Amusement genuine Callaway if I had you wouldn’t have walked away from it Miller’s jaw tightened but Callaway recovered tilting his head that’s a real interesting response Malcolm Malcolm exhaled rubbing his jaw like he was just another tired man trying to get through a conversation he wasn’t interested in look I don’t know what’s going on with you two but I

had nothing to do with whatever happened to you Callaway’s smirk returned yeah well see we don’t really believe you Malcolm saw it before it happened the shift in weight the slight tensing of Callaway’s shoulder the way Miller’s fingers curled into fists and he didn’t fight it the first punch landed hard against his his ribs the impact sharp and brutal Malcolm grunted stumbling backward but he didn’t resist didn’t defend himself he let it happen another punch this time to his jaw his head snapped to the side pain radiating

through his skull his body wanted to react to counter to break them but he kept his hands loose his stance slack Callaway grabbed the collar of his shirt yanking him upright not so tough now are you Malcolm let his body body sag just slightly breathing heavy playing the part perfectly you done he rasped Miller sneered for now Callaway shoved him hard against the wall stepping back with a satisfied smirk stay out of our way Malcolm because if we find out you had anything to do with this you’re not going to like How It Ends and just like that they were gone Malcolm stayed on

the floor for a few seconds his ribs throbbing his lips split his entire body screaming at him for letting them do it then slowly he got up he walked to his laptop pulled up the camera feeds and there it was everything he needed the moment Callaway and Miller had sealed their own fate Malcolm sat in front of his laptop the dim glow of the screen reflecting in his eyes as he replayed the footage the bruises on his face had already started to fade but the ache in his ribs still lingered a dull constant reminder of what he had had endured to

set this up every punch every shove every smug insult from Callaway and Miller had been necessary now he was about to make sure it all paid off he watched as the video played out again the clarity was perfect the camera placement had been meticulous ensuring that there was no ambiguity the moment Callaway pushed his way inside the moment Miller closed the door behind him the moment their arrogance their unchecked power was laid bare Malcolm exhaled slowly the first step had been getting them to act on Instinct the

second was making sure their instincts got them killed he opened a secured folder on his computer scanning the collection of files images and reports he had compiled over the last few weeks every unjustified arrest every excessive force complaint every time a victim had been silenced Callaway and Miller weren’t just corrupt officers they were the the rot inside the department the kind of men who thought power was their Birthright and now he was going to take it away from them he drafted the first email attaching a carefully edited version of the footage not everything

not yet just enough to stir the pot the footage would circulate it would spread to the right eyes the ones inside the department who had been waiting for an excuse to purge their ranks but had never had enough evidence Malcolm wasn’t giving them evidence he was giving them a weapon he leaned back cracking his knuckles exhaling slowly the emails were sent the storm was coming but first Miller still needed a beating Malcolm had spent days studying Miller’s schedule tracking him the same way he had Callaway but unlike Callaway Miller wasn’t Reckless he was angry Twitchy

looking over his shoulder gripping his gun a little tighter than before Callaway had taken the first blow and Miller knew he was next but that wouldn’t save him Malcolm watched from the driver’s seat of his car parked a safe distance away from a bar Miller had been frequenting for the last few nights not a place cops usually drank this was a dive a hole in the wall where no one asked questions Miller had been there for 3 hours Malcolm knew why the man was unraveling the department had been whispering there were rumors that Internal Affairs had been asking about

Callaway about past arrests about misconduct complaints Miller wasn’t stupid he knew if Callaway went down he was going with him Malcolm had made sure of that he tapped his fingers against the steering wheel his mind already working through the next steps he didn’t need to trick Miller into a fight the way he had with Callaway he just needed to wait until the bastard was drunk enough to make a mistake and Miller was getting there the door to the bar swung open and Miller stumbled out shoulders hunched tension etched into every line of his body he looked like a man walking

toward a noose Malcolm exhaled slowly rolling his neck it was time he exited the car keeping his steps measured silent he let Miller move first waiting watching following the drunk cop wasn’t heading home he was too Restless too pissed off instead he was walking through the alley behind the bar a shortcut to the parking lot where his car was waiting Malcolm followed him into the dark he had chosen the location now he was choosing the moment he let Miller take a few more steps before finally speaking long night Miller froze Malcolm saw the way the man’s shoulders

tensed his body going stiff his instincts screaming at him that something was wrong slowly Miller turned his eyes narrowing in confusion before flickering with recognition you he muttered Malcolm didn’t move you look tired Miller Miller’s fingers twitched near his waistband near the gun he had no doubt been keeping close since Callaway’s attack what the hell do you want Malcolm tilted his head slightly keeping his voice calm I want you to understand something Miller sneered yeah and what’s that Malcolm took a slow step forward you’re done Miller stiffened the

silence between them stretched thick electric then Miller scoffed shaking his head forcing out a laugh you’re real confident for a guy who let us use him as a punching bag Malcolm exhaled slowly yeah funny thing about that Miller’s smirk faltered just slightly Malcolm took another step forward Callaway was just the beginning he said his voice softer now almost casual but you I’m going to take my time with you Miller’s nostrils flared his hand jerking toward his gun he never got the chance to pull it Malcolm struck first fast precise and then Miller was falling the last thing

he saw was Malcolm standing over him waiting for him to get up so they could really get started Miller hit the pavement hard the impact rattling through his bones his lungs gasping for air that refused to come the moment his body crumpled he knew this wasn’t like Callaway’s beating this wasn’t a message this was personal he tried to push himself up but before he could move a boot slammed down on his wrist grinding his hand into the rough asphalt pain flared white hot up his arm and he let out a strangled grunt stay

down Malcolm said Miller recognized the voice even through the haze of adrenaline and the ringing in his ears he knew exactly who it was and for the first time in his miserable pathetic life he felt real fear he struggled anyway his instincts kicking in years of unchecked aggression telling him to fight to take control to dominate but he was too slow too drunk too reliant on a badge that wasn’t here to save him Malcolm moved first his fist driving into Miller’s ribs hard a perfect precise strike between bone and muscle designed to hurt designed to linger

Miller choked on the breath that had been ripped from him wheezing as his body seized from the impact you remember me now don’t you Malcolm murmured his voice impossibly calm measured Miller coughed trying to twist free but Malcolm grabbed him by the collar yanking him upright just enough so they were face to face look at me Malcolm ordered Miller’s swollen eyes blinked up at him his breath ragged his lips cracked with blood recognition flickered followed by horror you Miller rasped Malcolm’s grip tightened say my name Miller swallowed his throat clicking in the silence you

don’t want to do you Malcolm continued because if you say my name it means you know exactly why this is happening it means you remember what you did Miller’s jaw clenched defiant even as his body betrayed him shaking beneath Malcolm’s grip Malcolm exhaled sharply then then leaned in Voice Low deadly you shot my dog Miller flinched you remember now don’t you Malcolm continued his voice softer now almost like he was speaking to a child I bet it felt real good at the time didn’t it real easy just another kill another thing you could do because no one was going to stop you Miller coughed his body shaking harder

now whether from pain or teror Malcolm didn’t care but I’m not like the people you target Miller you should have known that Malcolm’s grip tightened on his shirt his voice turning cold I don’t forget I don’t forgive and I don’t let things go Miller tried to speak tried to form words but Malcolm didn’t give him the chance the next punch shattered his nose Miller let out a garbled yell blood gushing down his face his body spasming from the sheer force of the impact his head LED back against the pavement a wet

gurgling sound escaping his lips Malcolm didn’t stop he made sure Miller felt every bit of what Rex had felt every kick every punch every ounce of suffering Miller had inflicted on others was repaid tenfold by the time Malcolm finally let him go Miller was a heap of broken flesh and shattered arrogance but Malcolm wasn’t finished he crouched down beside him his breath steady his voice quiet this is just the beginning Miller let out a low trembling whimper Malcolm’s lips curled into something that wasn’t quite a smirk remember how I said I don’t forget Miller didn’t answer

he was barely conscious Malcolm stood stepping back leaving Miller sprawled in the filth of his own blood and failure good and then just like that he was gone by the time Miller clawed his way back to his car Malcolm was exactly where he needed to be in inside a fully booked Casino it had been part of the plan all along Malcolm walked through the lobby passing security letting the cameras catch every step every angle every detail of his face he made small talk with the Pit Bosses played a few hands of blackjack even let himself lose a couple of rounds just to make sure he was memorable then for the Final Touch

he walked right up to the bar tapped his knuckles against the counter and ordered the strongest drink they had rough night the bartender asked Malcolm let out a short easy chuckle something like that he lifted the glass in a small toast took a long Sip and smiled let the whole damn Casino see him let every camera record him let Miller crawl his way back to the precinct and scream his name into the void because it wouldn’t matter by the time the cops pulled the security footage by the time they went looking

for proof all they’d find was Malcolm Hayes sitting at a bar sipping whiskey surrounded by a hundred people who could swear he hadn’t left their sight all night Miller knew the truth Callaway would know too but they couldn’t prove a damn thing that was the beauty of it Malcolm drove home with the calm Precision of a man who already knew what was waiting for him he had played his part set every piece exactly where it needed to be the next move wasn’t his is it was theirs the flashing red and blue lights were visible before he even turned onto his street two patrol cars parked at the curb four officers

standing near his driveway one of them was already looking toward his approaching vehicle Malcolm exhaled slowly not in Surprise not in fear but in quiet satisfaction they had taken the bait he pulled into his driveway and shut off the engine his movements were controlled deliberate designed to show no resistance the officers were already moving before he had even stepped out of the car Malcolm hay one of them said voice sharp authoritative rehearsed Malcolm gave them an easy nod that’s me step out of the vehicle Malcolm didn’t argue didn’t hesitate he unbuckled his

seat belt opened the door and stepped onto the pavement his expression unreadable one of the cops a stocky officer with a tight jaw and an even tighter grip on his belt stepped forward turn around and put your hands behind your back Malcolm’s lips curled slightly you sure you want to do this the officer’s face twitched a flicker of uncertainty flashing in his eyes but it was gone just as fast do it now Malcolm Shrugged then turned letting them cuff him without so much as a word of protest the cold steel bit into his wrists but Malcolm barely felt it everything was happening exactly as it needed to they

guided him toward the patrol car one of them reciting his rights but Malcolm wasn’t listening his Focus was on the house across the street the one where an older woman his longtime neighbor stood on her porch arms crossed eyes narrowed she had seen him come home she had seen the cops waiting for him and when the time came she would tell them exactly that it was all part of the plan AI the drive to the station was uneventful the officers spoke but Malcolm didn’t respond he just sat in silence his expression calm his posture relaxed by

the time they pulled into the station’s back lot the shift in atmosphere was palpable the department was tense Restless something was coming and they all knew it they led him inside passed rows of desks where officers glanced up from paperwork their gazes flickering between Malcolm and the ones escorting him some confused some expectant he was taken to a small windowless room the kind that had seen countless interrogations before him the walls were bare the table scratched from years of use a single overhead light flickered slightly casting sharp Shadows they left

him there Malcolm waited 15 minutes passed before the door opened again Captain Holt stepped inside his presence alone enough to change the air in the room he was a man who carried Authority like a weapon who never spoke without knowing his words carried weight he dropped a file onto the table and took a seat across from Malcolm his fingers tapping once against the surface you know why you’re here Hol asked Malcolm leaned back slightly tilting his head not a clue Holt exhaled through his nose slow and controlled he opened the file flipping through the first few pages before sliding it toward Malcolm inside

were pictures images of Miller and Callaway beaten bruised humiliated one of Miller lying in his own blood another of Callaway staggering into the precinct barely able to stand Malcolm didn’t blink Holt watched him carefully two officers were attacked in the past week both of them beaten within an inch of their lives both of them convinced they know exactly who did it Malcolm raised a brow that’s so Holt leaned forward slightly you want to tell tell me where you were last night Malcolm smiled there it was the

question he had been waiting for he let the silent stretch before answering sure I was at the Bellagio casino floor main bar you’ll find the security footage matches up exactly with the time Miller was getting his ass handed to him funny how that works huh Holt’s expression didn’t change but Malcolm caught the slight flicker in his eyes you think this is a game hold asked Malcolm Shrugged no but I think you’re wasting my time Hol didn’t respond instead he reached into the file again pulling out another document this one a printed email Malcolm already knew what it was

the leak had begun Holt’s jaw tightened as he placed the paper in front of Malcolm the first batch of footage Callaway and Miller breaking into Malcolm’s home the body cam failures the violent arrests the buried report had already started making its way through the right channels by now journalists would have it whistleblower groups the public defenders who had been fighting against the corruption in the department for years but had never had solid proof now they did and it was all coming out while Malcolm sat here cuffed

to a chair looking completely and utterly Untouchable Holt stared at him his fingers pressed together I don’t know what kind of game you’re playing but you’re making a mistake Malcolm met his gaze without hesitation no you made the mistake Holt’s fingers twitched but he kept his voice even you think this ends with them you think this doesn’t go higher Malcolm smirked oh I’m counting on it a knock on the door interrupted them a younger officer peaked inside looking hesitant uh Captain you need to see this Holt turned irritation flashing across his face not now sir it’s about

the officer hesitated then lowered his voice it’s everywhere the footage the emails the Ia reports it’s it’s already on the news for the first time Malcolm saw it the moment Hol realized he had lost the captain’s jaw clenched he turned back to Malcolm but there was nothing left to say the door opened fully and a Second Officer stepped in sir we need to release him Holt did move Malcolm leaned forward slightly you should uncuff me now Holt’s fists clenched at his sides but he knew the damage was already done a few moments later the Cuffs clicked open Malcolm stood rubbing his wrists then

straightened his shirt he gave Holt one last look next time Malcolm said Voice Low almost amused pick better men then he walked out and outside the station the world was already burned earning Malcolm stepped out of the precinct into a world that had already turned against the men who once ruled it it had only taken hours but the shift was absolute the moment the footage had gone live the Breakin the assault the history of corruption the proof of coverups there was no stopping the storm it spread faster than the department could contain igniting social media flooding news

stations pulling reporters to the front doors of precincts demanding state ments that no one inside was prepared to give and at the center of it all the name on every headline Malcolm Haze not as a suspect not as a criminal as the man who had exposed the rot now as he stood on the precinct steps he wasn’t the one being hunted the real criminals were a swarm of journalists pushed forward the moment he appeared cameras flashing microphones stretching toward him the air was Electric the shouts blending into an incoherent

Roar of questions Mr Hayes do you have anything to say about the footage of the officers attacking you in your own home do you feel Vindicated now that the truth is out Malcolm ignored them instead his gaze locked onto the two men standing on the sidewalk surrounded by reporters caught in the chaos of their own downfall Callaway Miller the former stood rigid his usual arrogance replaced with thinly veiled Panic Miller on the other hand was barely holding himself together his face still marked from the beating his swollen lip pressed into a

tight line they looked at Malcolm and Malcolm looked right back it was the first time they had been forced to face him without power without their badges acting as Shields without the certainty that they were Untouchable and they knew it Malcolm stepped forward moving through the crowd as the reporters real realized what was happening their cameras now trained on the moment the confrontation everyone had been waiting for for once Callaway had no words Malcolm stopped just feet away from them his expression unreadable his silence

louder than anything he could have said Miller was the first to crack you set us up he spat voice Horse Wild this whole damn thing Malcolm smiled slow deliberate you did this to yourself Miller fli Ed at the words rage flashing across his face he stepped forward a reflex a remnant of the old days back when intimidation had weight but the moment he moved the reporters surged in closer the world watching waiting and he realized too late that there was nothing left to intimidate Malcolm with not anymore Callaway let out a bitter breath

his shoulders tight enjoy it while it lasts Malcolm tilt Ed his head slightly enjoy what Callaway’s jaw clenched your little moment this won’t last forever Malcolm chuckled and it was the sound of a man who had already won because he had this isn’t a moment he said softly Callaway’s nostrils flared this is the rest of your life Malcolm continued his voice steady certain you don’t come back from this neither of you there’s no promotion waiting for you no cushy retirement no friends in high places who are going to sweep this under the rug you’re done Miller exhaled sharply through his nose his whole body

screaming with the need to lash out to push to fight but there was no one left to fight for him no one left to cover for him no one left to protect him Malcolm turned slightly glancing toward the cameras making sure the world could see them then he leaned in just enough for only the two of them to hear you two always thought you were the strongest ones in the room his voice was soft calm mocking turns out you were the weakest Callaway exhaled slowly his gaze flickering toward the reporters toward the police station behind them toward the walls closing in from all sides he

said nothing because there was nothing left to say Malcolm stepped back see you around boys then without another glance he turned and walked away leaving them to drown in the ruin they had built with their own hands later that evening Malcolm sat in his living room the remote in his hand flipping through the channels every station had the same story Callaway and Miller officially terminated from the force no pension no severance no quiet exits the department had rushed to distance itself throwing them under the bus with record-breaking speed the police chief had given a cold

scripted press conference condemning their actions swearing change it was pathetic it was perfect Malcolm sipped his drink as the screen cut to a live shot of Callaway pushing through a mob of journalists outside his home his face tight with barely contained rage what do you have to say about the accusations against you one reporter asked Callaway didn’t answer how do you respond to the leaked evidence of your misconduct another pressed still nothing the camera angle shifted slightly and Malcolm caught a glimpse of Miller standing beside him his expression a

mask of barely restrained Fury good let them feel it the way he had felt it the way every victim before him had felt it the camera cut again this time to a news anchor her expression polished professional Malcolm Hayes the man at the center of this case was briefly taken into custody before being released without charges malol ‘s lips twitched slightly though many have speculated about his possible involvement in the officer’s recent Attacks An airtight Alibi and multiple Witnesses have cleared him of any suspicion however

when asked for comment the screen shifted to footage from earlier that day Malcolm standing outside the precinct staring into the cameras do you have any message for the officers who were fired he had only said one thing they got what they deserved Malcolm clicked the TV off the city was still buzzing people were still talking still demanding more still waiting for the next steps the world had turned against them but Malcolm knew it wasn’t over yet Callaway and Miller had lost their power they had been humiliated disgraced and thrown out of

the force but Malcolm hadn’t done all of this just to watch them slink away into the Shadows free to live out their lives in quiet Exile they needed to rot in a cell and to make that happen he had to keep pushing he spent the next week ensuring the evidence wouldn’t just linger in the court of public opinion but would be used to destroy Callaway and Miller completely he filed formal complaints with internal affairs not just about the attacks on him but about everything every false arrest every unjustified beating every body cam failure every abuse of power this wasn’t

just about revenge this was about about setting a precedent making sure that when corrupt officers were caught they weren’t just fired they were convicted and once Malcolm put his name on those complaints once he went public with his testimony there was no going back he was stepping into the courtroom and Callaway and Miller were going to prison the department tried to resist it they tried to distance themselves tried to make Callaway and Miller seem like isolated bad apples but the public didn’t buy it

every day protests formed outside the courthouse activists demanded that Callaway and Miller be charged social media exploded with comparisons of how quickly the system moved against civilians but stalled when it came to dirty cops and then the breaking point a grand jury was convened the charges conspiracy misconduct excessive force aggravated assault IL leg Al search and seizure and the most damning of them all attempted murder because Callaway and Miller hadn’t just abused their power they had beaten a man inside his own home unprovoked thinking they would

never be held accountable now they were and Malcolm was going to stand in court and make sure of it Malcolm had avoided them since the Fallout hadn’t needed to see them again but they came to him 2 weeks after the grand jury announced he stepped out of a cafe and found Callaway waiting for him no cameras no reporters just them Malcolm sighed tucking his hands into his pockets you sure you want to do this Callaway’s face was hard his jaw clenched he looked tired Hollow whatever you think you’re doing it won’t stick Callaway muttered

you don’t know how this works Malcolm exhaled slowly shaking his head no Callaway you don’t know how this works Callaway scoffed but it wasn’t real confidence anymore you think they’re really going to send us to prison cops don’t do time Malcolm took a step closer voice calm measured they will when I testify Callaway’s jaw twitched you think you’re a hero Malcolm tilted his head slightly I think I’m the reason you’re standing here scared the words landed for the first time in his life Callaway was afraid Malcolm leaned in

lowering his voice you know what’s funny Callaway didn’t move you’re not even the worst one Callaway frowned slightly Malcolm let the words settle then stepped back hands still in his pockets see you in court he walked past him without looking back Callaway didn’t follow because he had already lost the legal battle was set Callaway and Miller’s lawyers tried to fight the charges tried to spin it as overreach tried to argue that Malcolm had instigated the situation but the footage spoke for itself the evidence was overwhelming and Malcolm was the key

witness when the trial date was set the headlines were brutal ex cops face criminal trial in brutality case former officers accused of assaulting man in his own home New Era of accountability the city had never seen something like this but they were about to Malcolm adjusted his suit in the mirror his expression unreadable the next time he saw Callaway and Miller it would be in court and when the judge handed down the sentence he would be watching the courtroom was packed journalists filled the gallery their pens tapping against

notepads their cameras poised for the moments that would shape the headlines for weeks activists and Community leaders sat in silence their expressions tense their presence a testament to how much this case meant Beyond just one man at the front the prosecution team flipped through files their confidence steady their strategy set and then there was Malcolm seated at the witness stand his posture was upright controlled his expression unreadable he had been in High Press situations before but this this was different this wasn’t War this wasn’t an enemy hiding in the shadows

this was Justice unfolding in broad daylight across the room Callaway and Miller sat at the defense table their faces masks of fed indifference but Malcolm saw the tension in their shoulders the way Miller’s fingers twitched at nothing the way Callaway exhaled just a little too sharply when the judge entered the room they were scared and they should be the baith called the court to order and the judge an older man with sharp eyes and a voice that brokered No Nonsense gave the usual instruction the charges were read aloud each count

Landing heavier than the last then the prosecutor stood adjusting her suit jacket before stepping forward your honor the state calls Malcolm Hayes to the stand Malcolm stood stepping forward he raised his right hand took the oath sat back down and then for the first time since this all began he spoke his Truth where it could never be ignored again the prosecutor approached her voice clear steady Mr Hayes can you state your full name for the record Malcolm Hayes and your occupation I work in private security formerly US Army

Delta Force that got a reaction a ripple in the gallery a shift in Callaway’s expression a tightening of Miller’s jaw Malcolm didn’t look at them the prosecutor continued Mr Hayes do you recall the events of the night of March 4th Malcolm’s hands rested on on the table in front of him I do can you walk us through them he exhaled slowly collecting himself then he began I was walking my dog his name was Rex he was a German Shepherd 6 years old trained loyal he was my best friend my family the words came easily too easily like

they had been waiting to be spoken for far too long I had just gotten back from a long shift I liked taking him out late it was quiet peaceful we were just passing through the neighborhood when I saw the headlights behind me a police cruiser slowed down I didn’t think much of it at first until they got out the prosecutor nodded who do you mean by they Malcolm didn’t hesitate officers Callaway and Miller for the first time he looked at them Callaway’s jaw twitched Miller’s eyes darted away the prosecutor stepped closer what happened next they told me I

didn’t belong there his voice was steady unwavering they asked me where I was going asked me for ID I stayed calm told them I lived in the neighborhood gave them my address they saw it on my license they still didn’t believe me he felt the silence in the room shift they started pushing aggressive questions accusations Callaway kept his hand on his gun the whole time Malcolm exhaled I didn’t raise my voice I didn’t resist but it didn’t matter the prosecutor nodded can you describe what happened with Rex Malcolm clenched his jaw this part hurt the most he could tell something was wrong dogs no he stepped

forward not aggressively just protective I told him to stay back he listened his voice tightened just slightly but Miller drew his gun anyway the gallery stilled I told him there was no threat that Rex wasn’t a danger but Miller didn’t care he swallowed staring Straight Ahead refusing to Blink he pulled the trigger anyway a pause a long heavy pause Malcolm exhaled sharply one shot straight to the chest Rex didn’t even make a sound he just dropped the tension in the room was a living thing the prosecutor gave him a moment then softly

what happened after that Malcolm exhaled slowly I lost control I screamed I stepped toward him toward Rex and that was all the excuse they needed they tackled me beat me tased me you were arrested yeah Malcolm’s voice darkened they didn’t charge me though because they had nothing they held me for hours then let me go and then what happened Mr Hayes his gaze sharpened they came back more murmurs in the gallery the prosecutor nodded stepping closer can you clarify what you mean Malcolm’s fingers tightened days later they showed up at my house no warrant no cause just

two men who didn’t like that I had challenged them his voice was low now steady deadly they forced their way inside they attacked me in my own home do you have evidence of this Malcolm glanced at the screen beside them it’s all on tape the prosecution team tapped a remote and the footage played every second of it the moment they shoved their way inside the punches the threats the way they thought they were Invincible Untouchable Malcolm didn’t watch he had already lived it he kept his gaze forward staring into nothing Callaway and Miller watched though and

they knew just like everyone else in this room that it was over the footage ended the prosecutor turned back to him do you believe officers Callaway and Miller should be held responsible for their actions Malcolm didn’t hesitate yes why he finally turned looking them dead in the eye because they are criminals the words landed like a hammer Miller’s fingers curled into fists Callaway stared at the table his face tight the judge exhaled slowly I think we’ve heard enough for today the baliff called the court to recess but Malcolm

knew this wasn’t a break this was the beginning of the end the courtroom felt heavier now weighed down by the gravity of everything that had been laid bare the world had seen the truth and now all that remained was the question of whether the system would do what it had always failed to do deliver Justice Malcolm sat at the witness table his posture straight his hands resting lightly against the polished wood as the defense took their turn Callaway and Miller’s attorney was a sharp-dressed man with a voice that carried the kind of forced confidence only a man with a

losing case could muster he moved toward the center of the room clearing his throat before looking at Malcolm with the careful calculation of a man grasping at straws Mr Hayes he began his tone overly polite you’ve been through quite an ordeal haven’t you Malcolm said nothing he had learned long ago that silence was often more powerful than words the lawyer took that as an invitation to continue first you’re accused of something you didn’t do then your dog he hesitated for a fraction of a second choosing his words carefully

was shot then you were physically assaulted it must have been traumatic Malcolm jaw tightened slightly it was the lawyer nodded as if that was what he wanted to hear would you say that trauma has influenced your perspective on these events Malcolm exhaled slowly recognizing the play they were going to try to make him seem emotional unstable someone seeking Revenge rather than Justice he met the lawyer’s gaze voice steady my perspective doesn’t change the facts the lawyer smiled thinly feigning patience of course but trauma can shape how we interpret events don’t you think Malcolm tilted his head slightly you

don’t need my interpretation you have the footage the words landed like a slap and the lawyer’s expression flickered with frustration that footage does not show the full context Malcolm raised an eyebrow are you suggesting there’s a context where two officers forcing their way into my home and beating me is acceptable the murmur in the gallery was immediate the judge raised a hand for silence the lawyer’s jaw clenched I’m suggesting that emotions are running high and sometimes that can lead to misunderstandings Malcolm let the

silence stretch then said voice slow deliberate you think I misunderstood getting punched in the ribs or was it the taser maybe it was when they dragged me across my own floor the jury was watching him carefully now their expressions Shifting the lawyer knew he had no ground left but he wasn’t ready to concede you’re a trained fighter Mr Hayes Delta Force Special Operations that makes you dangerous doesn’t it Malcolm let out a quiet breath through his nose only to people who deserve it the room stilled the lawyer took a step back lips pressing together no further

questions Miller’s hands twitched as he sat beside his lawyer his face pale his nerves fraying with every passing second he had counted on the system protecting him but he wasn’t protected anymore Callaway usually the louder of the two Sat stiff his fingers clasped so tightly together that his knuckles had gone white he wasn’t making eye contact with anyone they had known how this was going to go the moment Malcolm had spoken his first words on the stand the prosecution stood again smoothing down her blazer

your honor I would like to recall officer Callaway to the stand a ripple of movement Callaway’s lawyer whispered something urgently in his ear but Callaway didn’t fight it he stood slow methodical walking the long humiliating path to the witness chair the prosecutor waited until he was seated then she took her time flipping through her notes before finally looking at him officer Callaway former officer Malcolm murmured under his breath Callaway flinched the prosecutor nodded slightly as if acknowledging the

correction former officer Callaway she amended smoothly let’s talk about your history with excessive force complaints Callaway’s throat bobbed I the prosecutor cut him off 17 17 separate complaints in the past 6 years every one of them dismissed she looked at the jury would you care to tell us why Callaway swallowed again I I did my job the prosecutor stepped forward tilting her head slightly your job Callaway hesitated police work is dangerous we don’t always have time time to she cut him off again her voice sharp now to

follow the law Callaway’s jaw clenched but he didn’t answer the prosecutor turned back to the jury you know what’s interesting none of those complaints ever saw a courtroom until now caway shifted in his seat the weight of his downfall pressing in on all sides the prosecutor let the moment breathe before her final question do you believe you are above the law officer Callaway his face Twisted slightly no the prosecutor’s lips curved just barely good she turned back toward the judge no further questions Callaway slumped back

his career his reputation his power gone and then it was Miller’s turn the prosecution wasn’t kind to Miller they hit him harder than Callaway because Miller had been the one who pulled the trigger the one who had killed Rex the jury watched as the prosecutor played the body cam on audio from that night the cold sharp crack of The Gunshot the sound of a dog’s body hitting the pavement the recording played the silence that had followed the moment where Miller could have backed down where he could have admitted what he had done but instead they heard his voice

dog shouldn’t have moved Malcolm didn’t look at Miller didn’t even acknowledge Him because Miller wasn’t worth looking at the prosecutor turned her voice a quiet dagger do you regret shooting Rex off officer Miller Miller hesitated for too long then finally he muttered it was justified the jury hated him for it the prosecutor nodded slow and deliberate no further questions the judge exhaled rubbing his Temple we will resume tomorrow for closing arguments court is adjourned the baith banged the gavl but everyone in that room already knew how

this would end Callaway and Miller were going to prison and Malcolm was going to watch them disappear the courtroom was Silent not just quiet dead silent the kind of Silence that felt like it had weight pressing down on the room as everyone waited for the inevitable the defense had collapsed under the sheer force of the evidence the truth suffocating every last excuse Callaway and Miller had clung to now there was nowhere left to run the judge shifted slightly rubbing his brow clearly exhausted by the circus this trial had become but Malcolm could see it in his expression he had already made his

decision before they got there though the attorneys had one last chance to speak the prosecutor a woman who had never once fumbled a question stepped forward first she didn’t bother with notes didn’t need a script her argument was already written into the broken bodies the stolen dignity the years of unchecked brutality that had been dragged into the light over the past several days she looked directly at the jury her voice clear there are some cases that are complicated she said cases where the law is murky where the truth is Tangled where the line between

right and wrong is thin a pause this is not one of those cases she turned slightly her gaze sweeping over the gallery over the journalists over Callaway and Miller before finally landing on Malcolm you have heard the testimony you have seen the footage you have watched over and over again as two men men who were given power men who were trusted to protect this city used that power to destroy lives Callaway stared at the table Miller’s hands twitched this is not about one bad decision the prosecutor continued this is about a pattern of violence a pattern

of abuse a pattern of corruption that was only stopped because one man refused to be silent she turned back to the jury her voice razor sharp you have the power to finish what Malcolm Hayes started she stepped back that was it no theatric no unnecessary words just the truth the defense attorney stood but he already knew he had lost his argument was rushed Hollow he tried to frame Callaway and Miller as victims of an overzealous system tried to cast doubt where none existed but his words were flimsy weak the desperate grasping of a drowning man

when he sat back down he didn’t look at his clients because he already knew their fate the judge exhaled the jury will deliberate he banged the gavl the room stirred as people stretched murmured whispered predictions but there was no real suspense everyone already knew what the verdict would be they didn’t take long barely an hour later the jury re-entered the courtroom the judge asked if they had reached a decision the Forman stood a man in his 50s with sharp eyes and an even sharper sense of justice yes your honor he handed the paper to the baith who passed

it to the judge the judge read it nodded once and turned back to the room in the matter of the State versus Gregory Callaway and Anthony Miller on the charge of excessive force he glanced at the jury how do you find the defendants guilty a ripple moved through the gallery a quiet sharp in inhale from Callaway Miller flinched but said nothing the judge continued on the charge of illegal search and seizure guilty on the charge of aggravated assault guilty it continued count after count charge after charge guilty guilty guilty by the end Callaway’s face had

lost all color Miller was gripping the table so hard his knuckles had gone white the judge let the weight of it settle before speaking again I will now deliver the sentence sing he leaned forward slightly resting his hands on the bench Mr Callaway Mr Miller you abused your positions of power you violated the public trust you brutalized the very people you swore to protect and when confronted with your crimes you did not show remorse you showed arrogance his voice dropped slightly quieter now more dangerous I have no sympathy for

you Callaway swallowed thickly his face tight with something between anger and panic Miller shook his head slightly as if still refusing to believe this was happening the judge turned his gaze to the courtroom the public has watched this case closely they have seen firsthand what happens when men like these are given unchecked power and it is my responsibility to ensure they never hold that power again a pause then finally for the crimes of excessive force aggravated assault and attempted murder I hereby sentence Gregory

Callaway and Anthony Miller to 25 years in federal prison without the possibility of parole the room erupted some gasped some cheered some sat in stunned silence disbelieving that Justice had actually been served Callaway sank forward his head in his hands Miller’s mouth fell open slightly as if he had been expecting some last minute reprieve that would never come Malcolm Malcolm just watched he felt nothing not satisfaction not Joy not Triumph just finality they were done they would never walk free again never wear a badge again never hurt another

person again and that was enough the judge banged the gavel court is adjourned as Malcolm walked out of the courtroom the cameras were waiting journalists rushed forward shouting questions Mr hay do you have a statement do you feel like justice was served do you have any regrets Malcolm stopped for just a moment he thought about Rex about the night in the street about the cold silence that had followed about everything it had taken to get here he looked directly into the cameras his voice steady they got what they deserved then without another word he walked away

and for the first time in a long long time he didn’t look back the cemetery was quiet the kind of quiet that didn’t feel empty just still a place where time seemed to slow where the weight of the past settled into the ground like Roots where voices from yesterday still lingered in the air malcol walked the familiar path hands tucked into his jacket pockets the late afternoon Breeze cutting across his skin he had been here before but this time was different this time there was nothing left unfinished he stopped at The Headstone small simple but permanent Rex loyal to the end

Malcolm exhaled crouching down running his fingers along the cool Stone hey boy the words came out low rough almost hesitant he let the silence stretch before he spoke again voice steady this time it’s done the wind shifted slightly rustling the grass beneath his boots he tilted his head as if expecting to be sitting there beside him tongue out tail wagging looking up at him with that same quiet understanding he always had you were right about them Malcolm murmured right from the start you knew what they were before I did before I even realized how far they’d go he let out a slow

breath his fingers tracing the engraved letters but I made them pay for it Rex I didn’t just get Justice I took them apart Peace by piece step by step you’d have loved it his lips twitched slightly but there was no humor in it just the cold satisfaction of knowing every single thing that had happened had been because of him I set it all up perfectly he continued voice lower now Callaway Miller I didn’t just beat them I made them drown in it I let them taste real fear for the first time in their miserable lives I let them think they

had a chance let them tell themselves they could get away with it let them try to crawl back out his fingers curled into a fist pressing lightly against the stone and then I ripped it away the words came out harder now sharper but not angry just truthful I made them feel weak I made them feel small I made them feel exactly what they put you through before they put that bullet in you he leaned back slightly rolling his shoulders they never even saw it coming not at first they thought it was just bad luck thought it was paranoia thought

maybe someone else was setting them up and when they finally figured it out a short exhale almost a laugh it was too late his eyes drifted Over The Headstone again fingers brushing absent-mindedly across the grass beneath it you’d have been proud of how I set it up he murmured every detail every angle I made sure there wasn’t a single way out for them I let them beat me I let them think they were winning and then when they were comfortable when they thought it was just going to go away I destroyed them his jaw tightened slightly but not from regret because he didn’t regret it

not a second of it I made sure they’d never come back from it Rex I made sure they wouldn’t just lose their jobs I made sure they lost everything their reputations their power their freedom they’re going to rot in a Cell for the next 25 years waking up every morning knowing exactly who put them there another long pause he tilted his head slightly picturing the way Rex would have sat ears perked up watching him with those sharp trusting eyes felt good he admitted voice quiet her now putting them down like that felt real good he

exhaled sharply running a hand over his face but I guess that’s not what you’d want to hear huh the wind shifted again carrying the faint scent of grass and dirt the evening settling in the sky stretching into deeper shades of blue Malcolm sat there for a while just listening to the silence to his own breath to the part of him that had been so damn loud for so long finally starting to quiet you’d probably want me to let it go he muttered move on he sighed running a hand through his hair I don’t know if I can boy the words came out softer this time more h

he wasn’t a fool he knew this wasn’t some storybook ending where everything suddenly felt right again where the weight disappeared where the scars healed overnight but he had done what he set out to do and maybe for now that was enough he reached into his jacket pulling out the worn photo he had carried with him all these months it was faded around the edges but the image was still clear Rex sitting beside him in the backyard ears up head tilted slightly the sun catching in his fur Malcolm ran his thumb over it then placed it gently against the stone I miss you he said quietly the wind picked

up again the sky shifting one last time before settling into dusk he took a breath deep and steady then stood one last look at The Headstone one last moment to let it sink in then finally he turned and walked away and this time he didn’t look back I hope you enjoyed that story please share it with your friends and subscribe so that you do not miss out on the next one in the meantime I have handpicked two stories for you that I think you will enjoy have a great day