Page 40 of The Fate of Us

I never thought this day would come. That I would finally reach this goal I didn’t think I would achieve after we lost Rosie. But here it is. I might have failed this test twice already but this one feels different. Everything feels different. I don’t know if it’s because of Anna or if I have finally put my past behind me. Of course Anna has a lot to do with that.

I round the corner of the block and slow down to a brisk walk to cool down. I check my watch. I only have an hour before I have to head to the police station and find out. I run inside and take a quick shower, the cold water cooling me down but doing nothing for my nerves.

I pull the nicest suit I have out of my closet. I slowly button up each button on my shirt before tying the black tie around my neck. I slip the navy-blue suit jacket on and step into my bathroom. I comb my hair back and take a deep breath.

I got this.

I pat Brutus on the head as I walk out the door and slide into my cop car. If I pass I won’t be driving this vehicle anymore. It almost feels bittersweet.

As I pull into the station I have a handful of texts from my partner.

Niko:I hope you failed. I don’t want a new partner.

Niko:Everyone around here sucks.

Niko:I can’t believe you are leaving me.

Niko:I hate you.

Niko:All jokes aside. You got this, man. Congratulations.

I smile as I read his texts. I will miss that kid. Of course I will still see him around and will work with him on cases as needed. But I’ll miss the relationship we’ve built the last few years together as partners. Of course, If I do get this I’ll also have a new partner and a new relationship to build. But I am glad I have the department at my back. I originally was going to be a county detective as it is hard to get a spot with APD but someone retired last month and they haven’t filled the position. My sergeant tells me the department wanted it to be me but I think he is lying.

Me:You’ll probably get stuck with a rookie. Sucks to be you.

I laugh as I walk into the station. He was a rookie when we became partners after my old partner retired and I gave him a ton of shit. It’s only fair he gets to do the same now.

I head into the small conference room I was told to go to. I am the first one here and I tap my foot anxiously on the ground as I wait for my sergeant or the chief of police to walk in. My phone buzzes in my pocket. It’s a text and a picture from Anna.

Anna: Can’t wait to celebrate with you tonight. I love you.

The picture is her holding a pair of handcuffs.

Fuck me.

My dick stirs in my pants just as the door opens to the room and the chief of police walks in. I force my dick down as I stand and shake his hand.

“Noah Taylor, I never thought I would see the day that you finally made the decision to become a detective.”

I shake his hand and we both sit down as my sergeant walks into the room followed by Sergeant Willows, head of the detectives. “It was a long time coming, sir.”

“And he deserves it more than anyone. One of the best cops on the squad.” Sergeant Ames sits down with a folder in his hand and a box. “Want to do this or shall I?”

The police chief gestures for Ames to continue. “Officer Taylor, it is with great honor I present to you your new badge.” My breath catches in my throat as he opens the box and hands me the gold emblemed badge. “Congratulations. We are proud of you, Detective Taylor.”

I blink back tears, not letting them fall as I grip the badge in my hand. I make a silent prayer to Rosie, letting her know this is all for her.

The police chief clears his throat. “Noah, you had some of the best scores I have ever seen anyone have on this exam. I know you will make a huge difference with the department and with the city of Asheville. It’s with great honor I offer you a position here with us at Asheville PD as a detective.”

I grip his hand in a firm handshake thanking him for everything, the opportunity, his trust in me, the job. He goes over the expectations and everything I need to know, what the next few weeks will look like as I adapt into my new role.

* * *

By the timeI get home, I only have a few hours before the party starts. Niko and my brothers planned a celebratory party for me because they all said they knew I would pass. And I am excited to celebrate with them. The huge weight that I’ve had on my chest for years is finally gone. I did all of this so I can protect others from what happened to Rosie. And I know she is looking down on me, happy that I made detective.

I set my keys and phone on the kitchen counter before letting Brutus outside. I shout out Anna’s name but don’t get a response. Her car was in her driveway so I know she is around. Maybe she is at her old place, packing up a few more things to move over.

I head next door and walk in, shouting her name again so I don’t scare her but she doesn’t respond.

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