Jack Napier found it hard to believe that he could shed his name so easily. He no longer had a connection to the father he never loved. He was a Wayne now.
"Jack Wayne." he whispered to himself.
Hearing it filled him with pride. It was hard to believe that this was real. He pinched himself, he had to be dreaming.
"Ow!"
His arm was sore. The pain was real. It wasn't a dream.
"Are you okay dear?"
"Yes ma'am."
Jack looked over at Thomas and noticed he spoke with kindness in his voice. He knew that this wasn't someone he had to fear. Jack could tell that Thomas seemed to be genuine. This was the first man other than Gordan that he could respect. They finished talking and Thomas signed the last paper. Then he put his hand on Jack's shoulder and smiled.
"It's official."
Jack smiled as well. Miss. Alice scooted her chair back. It scraped against the floor. She stood and walked over to Jack. Thomas nudged him to stand and Alice gave him a big hug. Her eyes were filled with joy. Tears started to stream down her face and she smiled.
"I'm just so happy for you." She said in a sobbing voice.
"These people are good people, don't give them any trouble." She whispered.
She gave him a stare that he quickly recognized. Jack knew this was a good thing. A once in a lifetime opportunity. She grabs his face and pulls his forehead down. Alice gave him a kiss. Her red lipstick was imprinted on his forehead. She took a tissue and wiped it off.
"Whoops." She chuckled.
Thomas asked Jack to get his stuff ready. He told him that he would be back later. Thomas smiled and then walked into the hall. He pulled the door closed. Thomas stood there and then he looked around. His mind flashed back to when he was a child here. It was just like it was yesterday. Him and Frank were talking about why he was leaving. His mind projected the memory in front of him.
"Why do you have to go?"
"Because my grandmother needs me."
"But I don't want you to go."
"I know but I have to."
"Why?"
"It's not that I want to leave you but she is the only living relative I have left."
"You said that we're brothers. You said nothing would ever change that."
Frank was crying and wiping his eyes. Thomas squatted and he put his hand on Frank's head.
"Yes, we are brothers and nothing will change that. I promise I'll come back for you. Just wait."
The memory faded and Thomas felt a tear run down his cheek. He wipes it off and Pamela could see the pain in Thomas' eyes. They made her feel sad.
"Hey Mista. Are you okay?" She asked.
"Yes, I'm okay. Thank you for asking."
Thomas smiled and Pamela smiled back. He walked over to the door. His fingers clasped around the handle. He looked back once more. Everything about this place was a memory. Thomas wished he could have spoken to Frank one last time. He would have said "Sorry I'm late Franky."
The handle clicked as he squeezed it. The door opened and Alfred was waiting at the bottom of the steps. Thomas approached the car and Alfred opened the car door. Thomas got in. Alfred walked around to the other side and sat in the driver's seat. He grabbed his shofar's hat off the dash. He squared it up with the back of his head. Alfred then put on his gloves.
"I see that you got a paper."
"Yes SIr."
Thomas grabbed the Gotham Tribune from the seat next to him.
"Check out page three, Sir. There's something that you might want to read."
Alfred gave him some time. Thomas flipped to the third page. The title read The Demon of Gotham. It was written by Lisa Trane. He could see that Ricky was her main focus. The article seemed to expose him as some criminal mastermind. Thomas wasn't surprised that someone finally called Ricky out. He smiled and put the newspaper down. Alfred turned the key and the engine started up.
"So, how did it go, Sir?"
"It went well Alfred."
"That's good to hear."
Alfred pulls away from the curb and goes down the street.
"So when do we pick up Master Jack?"
"Well, I was thinking around noon. That should give him enough time to pack his stuff."
"Oh, I see."
Alfred could see Thomas' smile in the rearview mirror.
"So, where do you want to go now?"
"Let's go home."
-*-
Jack comes out of the office and he sees Harley leaning against the wall. She blew a bubble and it popped. Harley pushed off the wall and stood up. Her eyebrows raised and her eyes got big.
"So, What did the richest man in Gotham want from you?"
"He wanted to adopt me."
His response threw her off a bit. He could see the shock on her face. She shut her eyes and shook it off. Harley couldn't accept it or believe it. He had to be joking.
"Yeah right J, you're such a Joker. What did he really want?"
"I'm not kidding. They brought me to the office and sat me down. Mr. Wayne said he wanted to offer me a normal life."
"What do you mean?"
"I'm saying we talked and at first I was a little resistant to the idea. But then I thought about what Officer Gordon said to me."
"What did he say?"
"He said that chances are right in front of me and that they were just waiting for me to take them. I realized that he was right. If I didn't take this chance now. What other chance would I get?"
"So you told him yes?"
He nods his head. Harley's heart sank. She felt somewhat abandoned. Harley knew this was a good opportunity for Jack but deep inside she wanted to be involved in this life changing decision. She wanted to know what this meant for their relationship and she wondered why Jack didn't ask her before making this decision. How could he go off the whims of a cop? She thought Jack was selfish. How could he do this to her? How could he do this to them? So, she bottled up her feelings for now and she put on her best smile.
"That sounds really good J."
She fought every urge to cry. Jack was so clueless. He couldn't see that this was tearing her up inside.
"Do you really think so?"
"Yeah."
Her voice cracked. Harley's eyes darted away from his view. Then she had to ask the question she didn't want to ask.
"So, when do you leave?" She said slowly.
"In an hour or two. I'm not that sure. He didn't say."
She thought that she had at least a day but a couple of hours is not enough time. Her face turned red. Harley's emotions were overlapping each other. Jack started to notice a change.
"Are you okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine." She said sternly.
She turned and ran down the hall.
"Where are you going?"
"I have something to do."
"What?"
She didn't turn back around. Her tears were now visible.
"Harley!" He screamed.
Harley opened the door to the stairwell and the door slammed. She went upstairs to the girls floor. She slouched against the wall and slid down to the floor. She felt so embarrassed, she didn't want Jack to see her like this. The tears just kept on falling. The door at the bottom of the stairwell opened and then it slammed back.
"Harley!" Jack screamed again.
"Stop! Don't come any closer!"
"Why!"
She could no longer disguise her feelings in her voice.
"Please Jack."
"Okay, okay. What do you want me to do?"
"Just give me some time."
Jack left and Harley tucked her head between her knees.
-*-
(Ding, ding) The bell chimed as the door opened. The sign outside read, Eat Your Phil. This used to be one of Gordon's favorite joints. He was surprised that this place was still around. It was named after his good friend Phil Paulsky and it was the place where he proposed to his wife. Gordon looked around the diner and everything brought back memories. He took in a big whiff. The food smelled really good. His stomach started to growl and he couldn't wait to eat. The diner was busy. All the booths were filled, there were people sitting in the corner, and around the counter. Gordon quickly sat down. His stool was wobbly. He scooted forward and it stopped. Gordon could hear the sound of pots and pans clanging in the back.
"I'll be right there!" Phil yelled.
"Okay." Gordon said.
Gordon wasn't in a rush because this was the end of his day. Phil emerged from the back. He was bald, short, and chubby. He walked over to the grill and flipped two patties. His left hand reached behind him and he scratched his back.
"Just give me a minute and I'll be right with you." He said that to let Gordon know he hadn't forgotten him.
"No worries."
The man grabbed the dingy towel off his apron and he wiped off his spatula. He placed a burger in front of each of the men who sat on the opposite side of the counter. Phil turned to face Gordon. His eyes got big and his smile was wide.
"Gordon!" He yelled with his growly voice.
Their hands clasped and he gave Gordon a huge hug that almost lifted him out of his seat.
"Hi, Phil?" Gordon said. He gasped for air.
"Sorry about that." Phil said as he quickly released his grip.
Gordon rubbed his arm and chest. Phil was so happy to see him that he didn't realize how tight he was holding. The last time Phil saw Gordon was when Gordon, his wife, and their new baby boy moved to Gotham.
"So, how long has it been? Two years, three years?"
"Try five."
"Five years!"
"Yes."
"Wow, "
Phil shook his head.
"So Gordon, what brings you back?"
"A case."
"Knowing you it must be dangerous."
"A little bit but at least I'm not following leads in Gotham."
"That's true."
Phil knew that Gordon Was right. Gotham's crime rate was one of the worst. A newspaper article once said that crime in Gotham had increased by 80 percent since last year. With the increase of mob like activities the police have been very busy.
"So are you heading to a funeral?"
"No, why?"
"Then what's with the suit?"
"Oh that. I'm a detective now."
"A detective, I bet that's better than working the beat?"
"Yes, but it is just as demanding."
Phil poured some water on the hot grill. It smoked a bit and then he grabbed a spatula. He started scraping the surface.
"So, what have you been up to?"
"Nothing much, just working."
"At least you're keeping busy."
"That's true but sometimes I need a break."
"I hear that. A break would be nice."
"So, how's your wife and children, Phil?"
"Julia is doing well and believe it or not Jacky and Pauly are 15. They are taller than me now."
Phil lifts his hand to demonstrate their height. Gordon didn't find it hard to believe because Phil was only five foot three.
"So, how's Barbra?" Phil asked.
"She's doing well but she's started dropping hints that she wants to have another kid."
"And?"
"I'm not sure if I'm ready."
Phil chuckles.
"That's understandable. I don't think anyone is truly ready.
Gordon nods his head. Phil looked straight into his eyes and put his right hand on his shoulder.
"My friend, you are not getting any younger. The clock is ticking and you don't want to wait too late."
Gordon knew exactly what he meant. He was finding it harder to keep up with Jr. these days and he didn't want to be too old before having another kid. Maybe they could have that perfect nuclear family. He thought having a little girl might be nice. Gordon sighed and Phil poured him a cup of coffee.
"So, what would you like to eat?"
Gordon stared up at the menu board that hung from the ceiling.
"Hmmm."
He smacked his lips.
"I think I want breakfast tonight."
Phil grabs his pad from his pocket and a pencil from behind his ear.
"I'm ready."
His pencil pressed against the paper.
"I'll take some eggs."
"How would you like them?"
"Sunny side up but not too runny."
"Okay, what else?"
"I want some biscuits and some gravy."
"Do you want white or brown gravy?"
"White of course."
"Of course, anything else?"
"Yes, I would like a big slab of ham."
"Gordon I'm not sure if I have any more ham but I'll look. If I have some, It's yours."
"You're the best Phill."
Phill nods and smiles. He started to head back to the refrigerator. Then he saw Pauline strolling toward the building. Gordon reached to his left and grabbed an ashtray off the top of the stack. The bell chimed above the door and a few more people wandered in. A woman dressed in diner attire came trucking through the door. Her purse was flopping against her waist.
"You're late!" Phil said in a harsh tone.
"Sorry Phil!"
"Your shift started four hours ago. This is the third time this week. If you can't get here on time. I'm going to have to find someone who can."
"But my babysitter was late again."
"Then find a new babysitter."
"I can't do that, I can't afford that."
"That's not my problem. My customers are hungry. They're walking out because no one is able to help them. That's my money going out that door."
Pauline grabs her apron and puts it on. She frowns in frustration. Gordon looked at Pauline. He couldn't quite place it but he was sure, he knew her. Pauline walked in front of him and then it clicked. He remembered where he saw that face. Pauline refills his coffee.
"Excuse me Miss."
"Yes, sweetie?"
She turned and faced him.
"You wouldn't happen to be Pauline Morgan?"
"Yes, why?"
She looked into Gordons eyes and he looked familiar.
"Are you Jim?" she said very unsure.
"Yes."
"Oh my goodness I can't believe it's you."
Gordon was no longer the tall slender man she knew from her childhood. His hair is now gray and he looked much older.
"How are things going?" Gordon asked.
"I'm doing well."
"And your family?"
"My brothers and sisters, they all moved to Gotham. My mother passed away last year."
"Sorry to hear that."
"Don't be. She died peacefully. I couldn't ask for anything more. Mom always appreciated the help that you and your wife gave us. We were just happy with the years we got with her. It came to us as a surprise that she was hiding her sickness. She didn't want us to worry."
Gordon frowned. Pauline grabbed a pen and a pad. She shoved them into her apron. Phil cleared his throat. She looked at him and he pointed at his watch.
"Well, I have to get back to work. It was nice seeing you again."
"You too."
Pauline grabs a pot of coffee and heads toward the other tables. Phil cracks two eggs and drops them on the grill.
"So Gordon, how do you know Pauline?" Phil wondered.
"Some years ago, I helped her family out when her father died. It was during the winter of 53."
"I remember, that was one of our worst winters?"
"Yeah."
"So many people died that year. I believe her father had just come back from the war."
"That's right."
"Good people like him are so hard to find."
"He was the type of person who would give you the shirt off his back."
"In the end he was a hero. He saved that little girl and I can't believe that the driver only got a slap on the wrist."
"He was the mayor's son, of course he only got a slap. Yeah and a good man died because of him."
Phil lowered his head. Then he looked over to Pauline.
"Man, life sucks sometimes but she still turned out to be a good kid. Her mother raised her right."
"Yeah, it seems that way."
Pauline got out her pad and pencil.
"Hi cutie, what can I get you."
She had a big smile on her face. You could tell she really enjoyed her work.
Phil throws the biscuits on the grill and he stirs the gravy. A chair scrapes back against the linoleum floor. Someone stands up.
"See you later Phil!" A man yells.
Phil looks, smiles, and waves his hand. He finally heads to the back. Gordon reached into his back pocket and pulled out his handkerchief. He took off his glasses and huffed. The glass fogged and he wiped the lens clean. He folded the handkerchief and put it away. He collapsed his glasses and placed them on the counter. His fingers rubbed the two red indentations on the sides of his nose. Gordon took out a black case. The initials J and G were engraved on it. This was a present from Barb. She had gotten him a nice cigar case for their anniversary. Gordon opened the case and there were five cigars, a lighter, and a cigar cutter neatly arranged inside. Gordon took out a cigar and clipped off its end. He held it sideways and slid it across his nose. It had that sweet smell of tobacco. This had a soothing effect. Gordon grabbed his lighter and struck his finger across the igniter. The flame jumped up and he lit his cigar. It glowed. Gordon took in a big draw and he slowly exhaled. He took in another drag and tilted his head back. Gordon blew out the smoke and it was in the shape of a ring. He tapped the end of the cigar into the tray. Phil walked back into the room.
"You're in luck my friend, I had one piece of ham left."
Gordon's mustache puffed out as he grinned. Phill threw the meat on the grill. He could smell the food cooking and his mouth started to salivate.
"Hey Phill, do you have a paper?"
"Yeah, I think so. Here you go."
Phill hands him the newspaper. Gordon opens it. He flips and stops on the third page. In big bold letters the title read The Demon of Gotham. His eyes were captivated by that phrase. It was an article written by Lisa Trane.
"Local crime boss Ricky Hands is said to be linked to the most recent crimes. People say that he is planning something big and he is leaving no loose ends."
Gordon kept on reading and he found that she confirmed some of his suspicions. He found this article quite helpful. Gordon knew that if he was going to get anywhere with his investigation. He was going to need Lisa's help. He hit the paper and smiled. Phil brought over his plate and sat it in front of him. Gordon dug in right away. Everything was even better than he remembered. It was so good that he found himself licking the fork. He wanted to lick the plate but he didn't want to look like an animal.
"You out did yourself Phil."
Phil threw his towel across his shoulder and smiled. Gordon smashed his cigar into the ashtray and handed Phil the newspaper.
"See you Phil?"
"Alright, don't be a stranger. Tell Barb hi."
"I will."
-*-
Berk pulls up and parks in front of Edmond's. It's a tailor shop in the south part of Gotham. He goes in and an old man points to the back. Berk heads straight to the office. There is a bookshelf to the left. He stands in front of it and places his hand behind it. There was a click. The shelf slid to the side. Steep steps led down to the basement. He was now at the entrance of the tunnel. It was dark down there and it had a musty smell. Berk approached a big metal door. It had a slot in it. He tapped the door rapidly three times and then a single time. The slot opened and a pair of eyes peered out.
"What's the password!" The man asked.
"Gotham Nights." Berk said.
The door opened.
"Did anyone follow you?"
"No."
"The boss is a bit on edge. So watch your words."
"What else is new?"
"The meeting is that way."
Berk enters the room.
"So, nice of you to finally show up. Have a seat."
"Sorry Mr. Ricky."
"Berk took off his hat and sat down. Seated at the table were 4 of Ricky's most trusted men. Ricky was pacing and ranting.
"That braud thinks that she can blackmail me! Slander my name! I want her dead!"
"How boss?"
"Just shoot her."
That's going to be hard with the cops watching our every move."
"I don't care! Why do I pay this bastard right here if I can't do as I please?"
He points at Berk. All eyes were on him.
"What do you want me to do Mr. Ricky?"
"Kill her."
"But Mr. Ricky I'm a cop."
"And how is that my problem?"
"Well I guess I can call in a few favors. I know a person who can take care of this."
"I don't want some random street lacky handling my business. I said I want you to kill her. Do you understand?"
"Yes sir, I understand."
Berk's nerves were on edge. Collecting money was one thing but murder was completely different. Ricky liked pushing barriers. He wanted to see if people would stick to their morals or if they would break under the pressure. To him Berk was just another corrupted pig to manipulate. He knew that Berk lacked the courage to do something so bold but he knew his circumstance. Ricky knew if he offered enough money Berk would do it. Berk's wife was very ill and he didn't have the money to pay her bills. He wondered how he could live up to Ricky's expectations and still look his wife in the eyes. Rick enjoyed seeing that troubled look on his face. He watched him as he squirmed.
-*-
The time had finally come. It was around noon. Jack had finally finished packing. He made his rounds to the floors. Jack gave Mike his switchblade and Mike gave him a big hug.
"I'm going to miss you boss."
"I'm going to miss you too, big guy."
Jack gave Pamela a postcard. He told her he used to dream of going somewhere far away. He used to dream of going on adventures like Rick Rogers but now that he's older his dreams have changed. Pamela Li's eyes got big. She liked the beautiful plants on the postcard. Pamela told Jack that she wanted to grow that funny looking tree someday.
"Thank you!"
"You're welcome."
Pamela Li smiled as she ran off to show the other girls the postcard. Jack could hear the girls say oohs and ahhs. He looked around the room but he couldn't see Harley anywhere.
"Pamela Li, have you seen Harley?" He asked.
Pamela shook her head. Harley's best friend came through the door. She saw Jack talking to Pamela.
"You jerk!" She screamed.
Jack was shocked by her outburst.
"What did I do?"
"You made Harley cry?"
"What are you talking about?"
"She's up stairs crying. I assume it's because of you.
"Is she still up there?"
"Yes."
"I'll go talk to her."
Jack ran out the door and went up the stairs. At first he didn't see her. Then he heard a sniffle followed by mumbling. There she was at the very top of the stairs. She was sitting right in front of the iron room.
"Harley, why are you crying?"
"Get away!"
"No, I'm not going anywhere. You said that you were happy but you are clearly not. What's going on with you?"
"You're right Jack, I'm not happy. I tried so hard to be excited for you but I'm not. Yesterday it felt like we were on top of the world but today I'm not sure. I don't know what our futures hold? I'm so scared of losing you."
"I'm scared too."
Hearing those words wasn't enough. Jack reached into his pocket and he pulled out his favorite pack of cards. He pulled out the one that was really worn. The Joker was printed on it. There was writing written across it. He placed it in her hands.
"But Jack, this is the card that your mom gave you. I can't take this."
She tried to hand the card back to him. He pushed the card back into her hand. Harley gave him a big hug. This gift gave her some comfort. She understood his true feelings. Jack grabbed her hand and they headed down stairs. They headed outside to sit on the steps.
-*-
"Hello this is the operator. How may I help you?"
"Yes, can you get me the Gotham Tribune."
"Yes sir, one minute."
He could hear the operator's voices in the background.
"Hello, this is the Gotham Tribune. Who is this?"
"My name is Detective Gordan. I'm trying to reach Lisa Trane."
"Okay, one minute please."
"Hello, this is Lisa Trane, star reporter of the Gotham Tribune. How can I help you?"
"Yes, this is officer Gordan."
"How may I help you sir?"
"I'm trying to see if you can help me out with my investigation."
"Sure what do you need?"
"I was hoping to meet up with you and talk to you about Richard Hands."
"Of course. Where would you like to meet."
"At Mary's."
"Yeah, I know that place. When and what time?"
"Let's say two days from now. Around 6 am."
"That sounds great. I'll be there bright and early."
Gordan smiled and hung up the phone. He might finally have a break in the case. Lisa's boss stood in the doorway of her office.
"So, what was that all about?"
"It was a detective."
"And what did he want from you?"
"Information about Richard Hands."
"Lisa be careful. Richard's eyes are everywhere. Your life is probably already in danger."
"I know."
Her chief gave her a stare.
"I will."
-*-
Berk leaned over the hospital bed and pressed his lips against his wife's' head. Seeing her like this, he felt lonely. For him these two years have been the hardest. Gordon is now a detective and Meredith can't even say hi. Berk wished he didn't have to take out a second mortgage but without it he wouldn't have been able to pay the first round of medical bills. Every night she lays there in an eternal sleep. He was told reading to her helps her. Even though she can't respond, she can still listen. Sometimes she squeezes his hand. He smiles because he knows she's still in there.
"Goodnight Meredith." Berk said quietly.
She could hear him and she wished he could hear her. Meredith was a prisoner in her own body. If her disease didn't kill her, her heartache would. Berk grabbed his hat off the table next to her bed. He turned off the light and opened the door. He paused for a bit. He looked at her and smiled. Berk closed the door. His footsteps could be heard rippling down the hallway as his feet pressed against the linoleum floor. Berk came up to the nurses desk and tapped.
"See you later Ann and thank you for letting me stay a little longer tonight."
"No problem. I'll see you later."
Berk tilts his hat. He walks to his car and takes out a cigarette and he leans against the door. Berk looks up. The stars were beautiful, he liked how each one of them silhouetted against the dark blue sky. Meredith would love this, he thought to himself. Berk took another drag. His mind was so busy. There were so many things to think about. Especially the guilt he felt inside and the morals he promised to uphold. How could this have happened? It was just one night of weakness. That is all it took for him to throw it all away. It came at a time when he didn't know how he was going to pay for anything. Berk was scared and desperate. The lowest of low. The devil approached him and at first he said no but he needed the money. Never in a million years did he believe he would work for Richard Hands but the money he got from him kept the bills paid. Without the money, the doctors say she wouldn't have made it. He would have lost the house, he would have lost his wife. Berk couldn't imagine a life without her. That's why morality meant nothing to him. He would gladly relinquish it, he would do anything for Meredith. Richard put murder on the table. It had to be done. A life for a life is what he told himself. His nerves finally settled. He hopped into his car and he drove to the Gotham Tribune. Berk parked across from the building. He needed a good vantage point so he could make an escape plan. Berk gets out of his car and he decides to grab a cup of Jo from Maries. Now he had his thinking juice. He looked to see how long the block was. Berk noticed that this would take too long to run. The space around the Tribune looked to open. There would be too many witnesses. That meant he couldn't park in front. He took a sip from his cup and he didn't notice another officer coming out of the door. Someone placed their hand on his shoulder.
"Berk!" A policeman yelled
"Geeze Zuss!" Berk said as he jumped.
The man laughed.
Berk turned to see who it was.
"Finnegan! You know I almost shot you."
"I know but you should have seen your face."
"Funny funny , so funny."
Berk wiped off the coffee on his jacket.
"Sorry about that."
"Yeah, yeah."
Berk squinted his eyes and he took a drag of his cigarette.
"So Berk, what brings you to this part of town."
"I just went to Gotham General to visit Meredith."
"Oh. So, how is she?"
"I'm not sure. The doctors keep on saying the same thing over and over again. They can't tell me when she's going to wake up."
"Man, sorry to hear that."
"No, it's okay."
The police radio started blasting from Finnegan's car. It sounded really urgent. Finnegan knew he had to go.
"Hang in there Berk."
Finnegan was gone and there were no more distractions. He finally spotted a vantage point. So he went to check it out. There was an alleyway in between the buildings. He saw there was another street on the other side. Berk walked until he reached it. He thought that this could be the perfect place to park his car when he runs. Berk already had Lisa's schedule and he knew when she would arrive. That meant the sun wouldn't be shining in the alley. He would have a perfect opportunity to shoot her from there. Berk now had a plan. Something in his head was telling him not to do it but he pushed it aside. This was for his wife. He would do anything to save her, to speak to her. Berk knew he would have to carry this sin to his grave. 6 o'clock is when everything will change.
-*-
Alfred pulls the car up in front of the orphanage. Jack and Harley are sitting on the stairs together. Alice see's Thomas' car from the window and she rushes out of her office toward the door. The door burst open and Jack and Harley looked back.
"Jack, get your stuff. Hurry now."
"Yes ma'am."
Harley got up as well. Alfred was now on the other side of the car. He opened the door and Thomas stepped out. Above him kids peered out of the open windows. He could hear their voices.
"Thomas, he went in to get his stuff. He'll be right back."
"Does he need any help? Alfred can give him some assistance."
"I don't think that is necessary."
"Oh, okay."
Thomas finally noticed Harley standing there.
"Hi. I don't believe we've met. I'm Thomas Wayne."
She looked him over and smirked.
"I know who you are." Harley said with a sass."
"Harley!" Alice said in shock at her rudeness.
"No, it's okay. I think I understand."
Harley's facial expression said it all. It said you don't know me. Thomas changed his approach.
"I remember you. You were the girl standing outside of Miss. Alice's office earlier."
"Yeah, what's it to you?"
"Nothing, I'm just guessing since I saw you sitting with Jack. You are probably his girlfriend."
"I am." She snarled.
"Why do you sound so angry?"
"I'm not." Her voice lowered.
"Girl, don't be rude to Mr. Wayne." Alice said.
"It's okay Alice."
Alice didn't look okay. She looked slightly disturbed.
"I get it. You don't know me and I don't know you. That's fair. My wife and I aren't bad people. We will take care of Jack. I don't want to come between you. Why don't you come over tonight. We'll have dinner and you'll see we mean no harm. You coming will probably make him happy. So, what do you say."
Harley knew he was actually trying so she agreed.
"I'll come."
"Great, we will see you tonight."
Harley could hear the kindness in Thomas' voice and she knew he was genuine. Jack finally came out with suitcases in hand. Alice rushed over and gave him one final big hug. He nearly dropped everything. Mr. Lyle and Sharon came out. Sharon put her hand in front of her eyes to block the sun. Jack noticed that Harley was quiet. He walked over and grabbed her hand. Her heart was racing. She looked him in the eyes and they kissed. It felt like she was putting her whole heart into it. He smiled.
"I'll see you tonight Pudding." Harley said.
"Yeah, I'll see you tonight." He paused after hearing his own words. Wait, one minute. Tonight?"
He was confused.
"Mr. Wayne invited me to dinner."
Jack looked over at Thomas and then back at Harley. He was happy she was coming tonight. Jack let go of Harley's hand and he picked up his suitcases and headed towards the car. Jack looked back at all the faces of the kids and the grownups. He especially looked at Harley. Jack could still feel her lips against his. His heart was telling him to stay but he knew it was too late for that. Alfred took a firm grip and pulled his luggage out of his grasp. He placed it in the trunk. They got into the car and Alfred closed the door. Mr. Lyle was dancing a weird shimmy. Miss. Alice was crying and Sharon was feeling a little jealous. The kids were chanting his name as the car pulled away. He knew his life as Jack Wayne had just begun.
-*-
Seeing Jack drive off still made Harley feel empty inside. She still didn't have an answer to her problem. Harley wondered what would happen to them? Would they be able to see each other? Or would it be better for her to cut ties with him. Her idled mind was getting the best of her. She was so deep in thought that she didn't realize that Miss. Alice had wrapped her arms around her. Her guard came down without her knowing. With a heavy heart she couldn't help but to cry.
-*-
Jack sat in disbelief. It was hard to believe that this was actually happening. Thomas decided not to say much. He just let him take it in. Jack felt a little over anxious. He usually hated change but something was different. He wondered if they would like him? He knew only time would tell. The car approached the gates. Alfred rolled down his window and pressed the button to the intercom that stood in front. A man's voice came from the speaker.
"Hello, how can I help you?"
"It's Alfred, open the gates."
"Yes sir. Right away sir.""
The large cast iron gates loomed above. They slowly opened and Alfred drove to the main entrance. It was a big circle drive. The mansion had a gothic look. Big gargoyles sat on the various corners of the building. The double doors both had circular copper plates on them. A W sat in the center of each of them. Alfred pulled to the front and parked. He came around and opened the back passenger side door. Jack and Thomas got out. Alfred walked up to the door and pulled the large metal ring that was attached to a rope. There was a loud chime that sounded like church bells. The front door slowly opened and in front of him was a long Persian rug. On one side of the rug stood a butler and on the other side stood two maids. Alfred lined up with the other butler. The men bowed and the women curtsied. Martha and Bruce Wayne stood at the end of the rug. Bruce was dressed in a little sailor outfit. He felt really uncomfortable and he tugged at his collar and his mom smacked his hand. Thomas cleared his throat and the servants stood in attention.
"Introduce yourselves."
"I'm Alfred."
"I'm Miss. Mayweather."
"I'm Mr. Tom."
"And I am Sally."
"Everybody, this is Jack. From this day forward he is a Wayne. So, please treat him as an extension of me.
Martha clears her throat.
"Forgive my none introduction. My husband sometimes lacks manners."
She gives Thomas an intense stare. He tensed up.
"As you know I am Martha Wayne and this is my son Bruce Wayne. Say hi Bruce."
"Hi."
"Jack, I expect great things from you." She said in a harsh tone.
"Martha!"
She glares at Thomas again.
"As I was saying. I expect great things from you. From this day forward you are Bruce's older brother. Do you understand what that means?"
"Yes, I believe so."
"Good, we are family now and that means we protect each other. I know about your past and that is what it is. My husband sees potential in you and that means a lot young man. You may not want to call me mom or mother but you are now my son."
Bruce ran up to him and gave him a big hug. Something inside of Jack felt different. He felt this sense of belonging. His arms were now embracing the little boy around his waist. Jack looks at Martha.
"I won't let you down ma'am."
"Good, now that that's settled. Miss. Mayweather will assist you."
Thomas' shoulders relaxed. He was glad that Martha accepted Jack. He felt a little nervous.
"Miss. Mayweather!"
"Yes, ma'am."
"Show Jack to his room, run him a bath, and get him a fresh change of clothes."
"Yes, ma'am."
"Mr. Tom."
"Yes, sir."
"Please take Jack's luggage to his room."
"Yes, sir."
-*-
Hours passed and the day was nearing an end. Harley was a mess. She didn't know what to wear. Most of her clothes were very tattered and worn. None of them were as polished as the Waynes. Pamela Li came bursting through the door. She ran over to Harley and she began pulling on her arm.
"Pamela let go. Why are you pulling on me? Can't you see I'm busy."
"Come on. Follow me."
"Pamela, didn't you hear me? I said let go."
She yanks her arm away from her. Pamela huffs.
"What is it? Where do you want me to go?"
"Miss Alice wants you. She says she has something to give to you ."
"Like what?"
"I don't know. She said someone dropped off a package."
Harley wondered what it could be. She's never received a package before.
"Come on!" Pamela yelled.
She grabbed Harley by the arm again.
"I'm coming!"
They ran out the door and went down the stairs. They soon reached Miss. Alice's office. Harley knocked.
"Come in." Alice said.
Harley opened the door and Pamela ran off to play. Alice grabbed the package off the desk.
"Here."
She tossed it to her. Harley caught it with one hand.
"What is it?"
"I don't know but it has your name on it."
Harley was amazed by the fancy wrapping. It had a gigantic bow around it and the paper sparkled. The wrapping was so pretty she didn't want to tear it. Miss. Alice was getting impatient. She just wanted her to open it.
"Girl, stop gawking at it and unwrap it already!"
Harley took a deep breath and she ripped into the paper. There was a piece of white tissue paper wrapped around something red. She unfolded it. Alice put her hand on her chest and her mouth was wide open.
"That is gorgeous." She said.
Harley held the dress in front of her. It was beautiful.
"Wow."
Harley stepped in front of the mirror that hung on the back of the door. She pressed the dress against her body and twirled.
"Are you just going to stand there and twirl around with it or are you going to put it on?"
Harley pulled it over her head and scooched it down past her waist. Miss. Alice got up and adjusted it a bit.
"There. It looks good. What do you think?"
"I don't know. It's nice, I guess but it doesn't feel like me."
"Well, we haven't done your makeup and hair yet. I think you might change your mind."
"I don't want to look like some type of easy girl."
"Trust me, you won't. I will keep it tasteful. Don't you want to see Jack rendered speechless?"
"I do."
"Then let's get to work."
Miss. Alice grabbed her makeup, a comb, and a can of aerosol.
"Do we have enough time?" Harley asked.
"Let me worry about that."
An hour had passed and the car finally arrived. The sun sat low in the sky. It was a perfect night. Alfred honked his horn and Alice peered out the window.
"Your ride's here."
She opened the office door and Harley followed.
"Now remember to mind your manners and act like a lady."
"I will."
The front door opened and Alfred was standing by the car.
"Good evening ladies."
"Hi Alfred."
"Right this way madam."
Harley looks at Miss. Alice.
"He's talking to you, not me."
Harley walked towards the car and got in. She felt nervous. Alfred said nothing the whole trip. Harley was thinking about what Alice had told her. She was told to mind her manners but would she be able to. She didn't know. Before she knew it the gates at the Wayne mansion opened. Alfred pulled through the circle drive and parked. They went up the stairs and he pulled the doorbell. It sounded like church bells. The two big doors opened and Jack stood there decked out from head to toe. His hair was slicked back and he had a dozen roses in his hands. Jack's heart started racing and his jaw did indeed drop. Harley looked stunning.
"You look amazing."
"Why thank you pudding. I like this suit on you, it makes you look very handsome." Harley smiled and closed his jaw with her finger.
Jack handed her the flowers. Mr. Tom led them to the big dining hall. They were seated across from each other. In front of them were their plates. They were covered with silver plate toppers. Sally sat out the silverware and glasses. Miss. Mayweather lifted the lids off the food and Alfred poured the drinks. There were so many forks and spoons that Harley and Jack didn't know where to start. They didn't know which one to grab. So, they both picked a random utensil and started eating. Through the night Harley was asked many of the generic questions. They wanted to know where she was from and how she and Jack met. She answered them to the best of her abilities.
Harley observed Jack. She wanted to know if he fitted in or if he could truly be called a Wayne. Jack did fit in and that scared her. He looked like he'd always belonged with them. For most of the night Harley felt like an outsider, even though Jack made sure she was included. Jack looked happy. She thought that it might be better if she ended the relationship now. Harley didn't want Jack to realize that he didn't need her. Something like that would be devastating. The Waynes could give Jack everything he wants and needs. Harley questioned why he would need her? The night felt endless and holding a conversation was becoming meaningless. She started just nodding her head and smiling. Harley wanted to run away from this feeling of melancholy. She felt like she couldn't breathe. Jack thought she was starting to feel distant but he didn't know why.
"Are you okay?" Jack asked.
"What? Yes, I'm fine pudding." She said in a fuzz.
She could feel their eyes staring at her but she knew that it was just her paranoia.
Harley liked the Waynes. They seemed to be nice people. They were better than any family she'd ever been adopted by. That's why it would be easier for her to let him go. She took another bite of food and smiled at Jack. The voice inside her had already decided. She had to do it. Harley knew it might hurt for a while but he would have a better chance at life without her. She had to get out of here.
"Pardon me, ma'am."
"Yes dear."
"Where is your restroom?"
"Miss. Mayweather."
"Yes ma'am."
"Can you show our guest to the restroom?"
"Yes ma'am."
Harley gets up and grabs her purse off the chair.
"Follow me."
She follows her and the maid points to the door.
"Thank you."
"Your welcome madam."
Harley went inside and then closed the door. Miss. Mayweather returned to the dining room. Harley reached into her purse and pulled out a folded letter. She tucked the Joker card in between the folds and she wrote To My dear Jack on the outside of the paper. Harley held the letter up to her lips and she kissed it. She propped it upon the mirror and she made her way to the window. The window opened enough for her to fit through it and she snuck away into the night.
-*-
Berk awoke abruptly from his sleep. He was slouched over his recliner. A beer barely grasped in his hand. His wife beater had a big brown stain on it and the stubble was visible on his face. Berks eyes gazed up at the clock. It read 5:01 AM. He almost overslept. He got to his feet and put the beer down on the end table next to his chair. Berk went to the restroom. He ran a comb through his hair and brushed his teeth. Berk looked like he aged about ten years overnight. He felt clammy and nervous. There was a gun on the dresser. It was the one that Ricky had supplied him. It was wrapped in a cloth. He grabbed it and headed toward the door. The Mantra in his head was "I'm doing this for my wife."
-*-
Gordon was excited. This was finally going to be the day he might make a break in his case. The bed bounced as he got up. Barb rolled over and looked at the clock.
"Where are you going this early in the morning?"
"I'm going to meet the reporter I was telling you about."
"That was today?"
"Yep!"
Gordon put on his pants, his shirt, and his suspenders. He was humming a jazzy tune. Barbra hadn't seen him this happy for a long time. She went back to sleep.
-*-
Lisa had a folder and her purse sitting neatly in a chair in the corner of her room. Her hair lay safely in her nightcap. She could smell the scent of freshly cooked bread wafting through her open window. A cat jumped on her bed and meowed and purred as it rubbed its face against hers.
"Okay, Okay. I'm getting up."
Lisa placed the cat food in its bowl and started to get ready. This morning was going to be a new start. She finally found someone who believed her. Lisa had so much information. She had risked so much to get it. Now she knows it was all worth it. Lisa puts on her makeup and brushes her hair. She bent down and patted her cat Sylvester. Lisa grabbed her purse and folder. She headed out the door.
-*-
The street was dark and the sun hadn't risen yet. It was a few minutes till 6 AM. Berk parked his car. He unwraps the gun and tucks it into his jacket pocket. He gets out and looks around no one was on the street. He heads down the alley and waits at the end. He was right, He is completely hidden by the darkness. So he sits and waits. Gordon arrives at Mary's around the same time. He wanted to sit by the window so Lisa could see him. He already had an ashtray and his first cup of coffee. Gordon knew she would be coming from the west parking lot. So, he looked out the window. Instead of looking toward the parking lot he looked at the alleyway. He didn't know why but he felt so much discomfort. It felt like something was lurking there. His gut just knew. He didn't know it was Berk he sensed but Berk almost freaked out. Was Gordon looking at him? No, there was no way. How could he anyways. He was hidden by the cover of darkness. Lisa parked her car. She grabbed her purse and the folder. Her hills clanked against the concrete. Berk could hear her coming. He cocked his gun. This is for my wife he repeated to himself. Gordon could see something sticking out of the alleyway; he couldn't quite make it out. Could it be a gun? He saw Lisa approaching and he got outside as fast as he could.
"Lisa watch out!" He yelled.
She didn't hear what he said. Lisa just smiled and waved at him. Then there was a bright flash and a pow. It came from the object he saw. Lisa collapsed to the ground. Her hands were still latched around the folder. Berk ran quickly down the alleyway. He jumped into his car and sped off. Gordon ran over to Lisa and she seemed delirious. Blood was gushing out. The bullet had passed through her upper torso.
"Take the folder. They want the folder." She said in a breathy whisper.
Gordon scooped her up and he ran her to his car. No one else came to her aid. Mary was the only person around. She was now standing outside. Her hand was over her mouth. Gordon propped her body against him and his back door as his hand grabbed the handle.
"Take the folder. Take the folder." Lisa gasped for air.
"Take the folder. Take the folder." She said again.
Gordon finally got the door open. He gently laid her in his back seat. He went to stand and she grabbed his hand and shoved the folder into it. He took it and placed it in the front seat.
"Lisa, I'm taking you to the hospital." Gordon said.
Lisa didn't hear him. She was gasping for air. She was going into shock. Her eyes were bulging. She was flailing her head from side to side. Gordon closed the door and then got in. His sirens screamed as his wheels squealed. He swerved dangerously down the road. Lisa started speaking gibberish. Gotham General was now in sight. He called in the incident over the radio but he didn't have a description of the assailant. It was too dark to get a good look. The only thing he knew was it was a man. Gordon pulled in Front of the hospital. His sirens were still blaring. He got out and he took her out of the back. She had lost a lot of blood, she was barely coherent. The nurses saw him with Lisa in his arms. One went and grabbed a gurney. He gently laid her on it. The nurse took over. The head nurse grabbed a towel and she was applying pressure on the wound as they rolled Lisa back. Gordon tried to follow but they pushed him back. He could hear Lisa whisper "The folder, The folder." They told him to back off once more. He sat and waited in the lobby.
-*-
Berk did it. He shot her in the back and he wasn't sure she was dead. His hands reeked of gunpowder and the gun laid in the other seat. His car swerved across the road. Berk unlatched the door to the glove compartment and he grabbed his emergency flask of whiskey. He wedged it into his driver's hand and he unscrewed the top. Berk put the flask to his lips and he took a big swig. The liquid burned like fire as it ran down his throat. He spilled a little as it dribbled down his cheek. Berk wiped his face with his sleeve and put the top back on the flask. Then he threw it in the seat next to the gun. The glare of headlights flashed in his face as cars passed by. Berk rubbed his eyes. He looked half crazed as the paranoia settled in and he couldn't forget Gordon's stare. It felt like he was looking at him even though he was far away. Berk was hidden by the cover of darkness. No one could have seen him. His chest hurt a bit as his heart beat hard. Berk jumped at every sound. He was glued to his cop radio. Berk felt like every siren was for him, he felt like he was being pursued. Berk started smoking one cigarette after another. He was smoking like a chimney. Berk needed to get off of the streets. Home was the only safe place he had and he was glad it wasn't that far away.
-*-
After Harley left Jack was devastated. It was Miss. Mayweather who discovered that she was missing. Martha had her to check on Harley when she didn't return from the bathroom. The elderly maid had knocked on the door and found a letter on the sink leaning against the mirror. That is when Miss. Mayweather felt a breeze and she noticed the open window. The theory was Harley snuck out when she went to the restroom. Everyone was surprised to see that Miss. Mayweather came back standing alone. She was holding the letter that Harley wrote. The maid handed the letter to Jack. It said To My Dear Jack. Red shaped lips were on the paper as well. Jack noticed something wedged in the folds of the letter. It was the Joker card he had handed her earlier. Jack's heart dropped and he asked to be excused. He returned to his room to read the letter. Harley said she felt like this was a good opportunity for him and she felt that she was in the way. She asked him not to look for her and to live his life. Jack's heart was broken. He didn't come back from his room. Alfred checked on him several times and he wanted to be left alone.
-*-
Gordon used the hospital's phone to call his wife. Barb still wasn't up yet. Her hand fumbled over to the phone and she answered.
"Hello."
"It's me."
"What's wrong?"
Her voice sounded concerned.
"I'm at the hospital."
Her heart dropped thinking the worst.
"Are you okay?"
"Yes, I'm fine."
She felt relieved.
"What happened?"
"They shot her, Barb. There was nothing I could do."
"Who got shot Jim?"
"It was the reporter I told you about, it was Lisa Trane."
"Oh my. Is she alive?"
"I'm not sure."
They talked for a bit on the phone and the doctor approached him.
"Ben is here. I got to go."
"Gordon be safe."
"I will."
"I love you."
"I love you too."
Barbara hung up the phone.
"So, how is she, Ben?"
"Lisa is not out of the woods yet, she's lost a lot of blood. The bullet just missed her heart. We are going to have to monitor her."
"Is there anything I can do?"
"No, not really. Jim, we will call the precinct if anything changes."
"Okay."
The doctor left and Gordon went back to his car. He flopped into his seat and slammed the door out of anger. He placed his right hand over his face and it pushed up to his hairline. Gordon looked over to the passenger seat. The folder she handed him was there. It had her bloody handprint on it. This was the thing that she deemed more important than her life. She believed that Richard wanted it. Gordon grabbed it.
"What have you gotten yourself into Lisa?" Gordon said to himself.
He opened the folder. There were documents, photos, receipts, layouts, and a journal. The journal was a play by play on how she obtained her information. She went under cover a lot. One of her aliases was a person named Lila. He read that she obtained the layout for something called the Apocalypse of The Policeman's Ball. Gordon found it. It was folded up. On the backside of it was a list of five places that were going to be bombed. They listed the police station, the court house, the mayor's residence, the tribune, and the Grand Ballroom. Gordon unfolded the big piece of paper. It showed where bombs were to be placed in the ballroom. The only thing he didn't know was when it was going to happen but he wasn't going to wait around for it to happen. With this Gordon was going to be ready.
"Richard Hands, I'm going to take you down."