Adam had been gone for two hours. Chris knew his husband was having a very important talk with John Cena. However, he started to worry, because it had been so long. Chris tried to concentrate on forecasting, but his eyes kept flicking towards the Helmsley's hotel room.
Seth knew how worried Chris was when the Dean of the Meteorology Department of the University of Oklahoma, Norman, couldn't draw an outline of the United States. When Chris failed a fourth time, Seth laid a hand on Chris' arm.
"He will be alright, Chris." Seth spoke in a soft voice with a smile to match.
Chris looked at Seth. "Thanks, kiddo. I do hope so. I guess you're starting to learn that Adam is a very sensitive person. Sometimes, I forget just how sensitive. I should have realized this would stir up a lot of painful memories… for all of us. I'm sorry you three got dragged into it. But, I am glad you guys are here. You've made our little family better. Say, help me out, print off some map outlines for me. No point in wasting paper." He gave Seth a wink.
Seth laughed. "Um… I already did. By the way, it's a scan of your drawing." He handed Chris a small sheaf of papers that had US outline maps on them.
Chris grinned at Seth. "Kiddo, you're the best. Now, I don't know what I would do without you. I know Adam feels the same about Dean, and Hunter with Roman. Now, let's see if I can figure this forecast out." He took the map outlines and ruffled Seth's black and blond hair.
Dean and Roman were curled up together on their floor bed and watched a movie on Dean's laptop. It was a good way for the two of them to relax. Shawn and Hunter sat with Officer Phillips and played cards. Beth, however, always had her ears turned for any noise from outside.
Everyone looked up when Adam came back into the room. Adam's face had an unreadable expression.
Adam first handed Shawn back his phone. "Thanks, Shawn. Sorry I used so many minutes. I'll recharge it for you. John sends his love and wishes us luck for our chases. He said he actually misses it, but is happy not to be out on the road." He then went to one of the coolers and pulled out a root beer.
Adam opened the can and took a long, deep sip. He then sat next to Chris on the bed. He laid his head on his husband's shoulder. He waited for Chris to finish the complicated math formula he worked on.
Chris finished his math and Seth quietly got up and joined his lovers to give Chris and Adam space. Roman and Dean grinned as Seth slid in between them.
"Feel better, baby?" Chris asked softly as he laid his papers aside. Forecasting was forgotten for the moment.
Adam nuzzled against Chris. "Yeah, I do. I really needed that. John knew exactly how I felt. He actually said he was surprised I hadn't talked to him before this. He said that I had to realize it for myself. But, it all boils down to it isn't my fault about Drew or Morrison. John said it took a lot of therapy and self discovery to understand that Brock did what he did of his own accord. Brock and Drew made their own decisions. They could have chosen differently. Morrison too, is responsible for himself. So, while I still feel bad, it is not my fault. I still have a lot to think about. I've also decided that we aren't letting Morrison stop us from doing our job. Guys, I'm sorry I flaked out a bit and threatened to leave. Dean, if you're up for it, we can develop some pictures tomorrow." Adam didn't know what else to say. John had helped him a lot, and told Adam to just get on with things. Letting Morrison have any control was letting him win.
"I'd love that, Obi Wan." Dean's reply was simple. He would do whatever Adam wanted.
Chris kissed Adam's temple. "I'm glad you were able to talk to John. Don't worry, Kitten. We'll get through this together."
Adam nuzzled Chris again. "Yes, we will. John said that's why Randy hasn't healed yet. Randy is giving Brock all the power because Randy won't let it go. John said until Randy does let go, Brock wins, even from the grave. I am not going to let Morrison do that. So, let's just do our thing." He spoke firmly. Nothing was going to destroy the family or their work. Morrison would not win.
Hunter sighed. "Shawn and I… well, Randy has to do what he has to do. We can't do it for him. I'm glad you realize that Adam. I am proud of you. The look on your face was the same look Randy had the last time we spoke face to face. It scared me." Hunter smiled when Shawn laced his fingers with his.
"I'm sorry, Hunter. I was being stupid and selfish. Now, let's forget it. Chris? Still on track to chase on Tuesday?" Adam asked as he pulled himself together even more.
Chris smiled. "Yes, Tuesday. I don't have the twitch, but, you know how that can change." He was halted when Beth's radio beeped.
"Phillips, Peters. I'm reporting that so far, all is good. Any problems with you?" Frank Peter's made his two hour check.
Beth responded. "Peters, Phillips. Everything is good. Need anything?"
"I would love some coffee, if it's not a problem. Oh and a bottle of water for Flash. The humidity gets to him." Frank responded. He sounded perfectly calm and normal.
"Not a problem. I'll be right out." Beth replied. She was already at the cooler for the water. Shawn got a Jericho Storm Chase, Inc. travel mug and filled it with coffee for Officer Peters.
Chris stood. "I'll go with you, if you don't mind. I want to feel the weather."
"Oh, me too, please." Seth stood as well, he hated being cooped up.
Beth gave a chuckle. "Sure, come on. Just stay with me." She let Seth carry the bottle of water.
When they left, Dean laughed. "Poor, Sethie. He can't stand being cooped up. Normally we'd be at the pool or something. Don't pay any heed if he gets a bit salty."
Adam laughed as he pulled out his laptop. "Chris is the same. That's why he can't stand to have the door closed on the ROW."
The rest of the evening passed quietly. Despite the events of the day, and being crammed together, everyone slept deeply.
Monday morning dawned to a hot, humid, cloudless day. Hunter, Roman, Dean and Chris put the two mattresses back in their proper places. Shawn didn't think housekeeping would appreciate finding them on the floor.
Beth Phillips took a shower and when she came out of the bathroom, she was in the clean uniform the Sargent had sent. She had a cup of coffee and a bowl of cereal with the Helmsley's.
"Well, I guess Kenny will be staying with you. You will like him, he's got a good sense of humor. He also knows a lot about severe weather, like Sarge said. To be honest, I will miss you all. You have been so nice to be with." Beth spoke warmly to the storm chasers.
Shawn refilled Beth's coffee cup. "It's been nice having you with us. You made us feel safe and secure. Thank you."
Seth looked up from his bowl of cereal. "Beth, don't take this wrong or as an insult, but, having you here… was kind of like having my mom around. You did make us feel safe. Thanks." He had a light dust of blush on his cheeks as he went back to his breakfast.
Beth smiles. "I am not insulted, Seth. I take it as a huge compliment. I'm glad you felt safe, after all, that is my job. Don't worry, you will feel just as safe with Officer Omega and he will fit right in. And, you aren't getting rid of me. I will be working with Sarge..." She paused to sip her coffee.
Beth swallowed and spoke again. "I know you've heard this a million times, but be careful chasing those storms. You're doing wonderful, important work. Don't ever let anyone or anything stand in your way. Leave Morrison to us." She gave a firm nod to the seven storm chasers.
"Don't you worry, nothing is going to stop us. Thank you, Beth and thank you for the work you do. You stay safe too. Dean, when we finish breakfast, we will develop some pictures. We can start with the sepia. I ordered some sepia toner, for overnight delivery. It should be here soon. Gotta love Amazon. I just wish they had sepia film stock." Adam gave Dean a wink. He too went back to his breakfast.
Everyone looked up when the Jericho's hotel room phone rang. Officer Phillips nodded for Chris to answer it.
"Jericho… oh… yes… yes, someone will be there in a few minutes… thank you… you have a good day too… bye." Chris chuckled as he hung up the phone. "It was the front desk, your package is waiting." He spoke to Adam.
"I'll go get it." Dean and Adam spoke at the same time as they both stood.
Beth stood. "No, I'll get it. You stay put. I'll knock six times, then three when I return." She checked her weapon and left the room.
Roman gave a little laugh. "Sounds like we're in the middle of a spy movie. You know, like that red fox trots quietly at midnight." The others laughed.
"Seth, if it can be arranged, I want to work in the ROW today. I want pre-storm data. We need all the data we can get to compare. Why did this system produce a tornado and that one not. Maybe comparing the day before will help. I also want to start recording after storm data. Do storms break up the same? Does the way a storm breaks cause or prevent storms later or the next day? I'd say let's try recording for an hour after a storm. We have to start expanding research parameters." Chris spoke in a thought filled tone. He wanted some answers this season.
Seth made notes in his notebook. "Sounds good. The more research the better. I'm all for it. You know, the more and more possible variables that we think of… well, maybe butterflies are the answer. I did some research. Did you know the nineteen twenty five Tri-State tornado occurred three days after one the biggest Monarch Butterfly migrations? Maybe millions of flapping butterfly wings stirred up and mixed up the atmosphere and caused the tornadoes?" Seth gave a shrug.
Chris looked at Seth's laptop and the research he'd done. Before Chris could speak, Beth Phillips returned. Hunter opened the door after the coded knock. Beth carried a medium sized box in her hands.
Dean took the box. "Thanks, Beth. Adam?" He looked over at his mentor, who also looked at Seth's computer.
Adam smiled at Dean. "Bathroom. Get our stuff and we'll get started. Um, Shawn can we use your bathroom? Less chance of accidental door openings at the wrong time." He looked at the preacher with big hazel eyes.
Shawn nodded. "Of course. Just clean up after your done." He gave Adam a wink. Adam could be messy at times and Shawn liked neat and clean.
"No problem. Thanks. Chris, Dean and I are going to vanish for a while. Developing." Adam spoke softly to his husband, and gave him a kiss.
Chris smiled into the kiss. "Okay, babe. Have fun. Seth and I may go to the ROW, but only if it's safe, I promise. Have fun." He returned Adam's kiss.
Adam laughed softly. "I will. Gonna teach my Padawan how to develop sepia. Be careful about the ROW. When we get some time, I'll tell you more about my talk with John. I am alright now, no more stupid thoughts, I promise." His words were a soft whisper in Chris' ear.
"I'm glad, Kitten. I know you miss John. Maybe we can go up to Boston during the semester break and visit. Now, go teach." Chris gave Adam another kiss. Adam got up and went to develop pictures, and Chris went back to his computer.
Beth spoke. "Sarge called while I was out. He's sending Officer Omega at eleven. Also a new K nine unit will be on patrol. Sarge is just about to question Styles. I'm sorry to say, there is no sign of Morrison yet. Sarge thinks he is still in Dodge City. Said it was just a feeling, but nine times out of ten, his feelings are right. He said Morrison may not have a plan, and he could be waiting to see what happens with Styles. So, that's it for now. Kenny may know more when he gets here." Beth gave a shrug. There wasn't much to report. She knew her boss as frustrated that Morrison was still at large.
Hunter sipped his coffee. "It is what it is, Beth. Cowards hide. Hunger and thirst will eventually drive him into action. I have every faith you all will nab him." He gave Beth a nod of respect.
"I hope so. Maybe Styles will have an idea of where Morrison could be. Although, I think Sarge feels that Styles was used. Hopefully questions will soon be answered." Beth gave another shrug.
"Listen, will there be a problem if Seth and I go out to the ROW to work?" Chris asked the police officer, brow arched.
Beth shook her head. "I doubt it. The K nine officer will be out there. Kenny would love it. Oh, one thing you need to know. Kenny is a fantastic police officer and takes his job seriously. However, he has a wicked humor and can come across as saucy, but he really isn't. He has a heart of gold and is one the bravest men I know. Two years ago, he took a bullet in the arm when he pushed his partner out of the way during an armed robbery. So, though he may not come across as not being serious, Kenny Omega is deadly serious." Beth spoke with a laugh, but she meant what she said.
"Sounds like a good man. Helps too that he won't be afraid of storms." Hunter spoke up from behind his newspaper.
At exactly eleven, Beth's phone rang. After a brief conversation, Beth went and opened the door. She greeted Officer Kenny Omega.
Kenny had collar length, curly blond hair and stood at six feet in height. He was muscular and lean. He was dressed in jeans and a tee shirt. Omega carried a DCPD gym bag and a backpack. He had a very impish grin on his face. You never would have suspected he was a police officer.
Beth introduced Kenny. Adam and Dean had come out long enough to meet the new arrival while their film processed. "Kenny, meet Adam and Chris Jericho, Hunter and Shawn Helmsley, Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose. Guys, this is Officer Kenny Omega."
Kenny smiled and firmly shook hands with all seven storm chasers. "It's an honor, a real honor to meet you. I have followed your work for a while. I can't believe I finally get to meet you. As excited as I am about this, please understand that my one and only job is to make sure John Morrison bring you no harm. I take that responsibility seriously." The impish grin had vanished and was replaced by a serious, intense look. Now, Kenny looked like a cop.
Chris spoke. "We're glad to have you with us, Kenny. Welcome to the Jericho Storm Team. I'm sure with you on the job, we will be safe. Well, make yourself at home." Chris instantly liked Kenny. There was just something about him.
"Thank you. You know, I'm from Winnipeg. I started out as a Mountie. I moved to the mid west because of the weather. So, I guess we have a lot in common." Kenny put his bags in the corner as he spoke.
Chris laughed. "No wonder. I knew there was something familiar about you. I should have known that "Peg" accent." Now he understood why he liked Kenny.
Adam grinned. "Toronto here, well Orangeville. Please don't think Dean and I rude, but we've got to get back to work. We are developing film in the far bathroom...so… keep out. That goes for all of you. We are at the dangerous part for accidental light exposure. Sepia is even more touchy to light. We gotta go." The timer on Adam's watch chimed out. Dean and Adam hurried back to the Helmsley's bathroom.
Kenny laughed. "Good. That's what I want, for you all to just carry on. Now, Beth. The new K nine unit is on duty. It's Tim Wilson and Finn. Sargent Miller wants you at the station before you go home. He won't keep you long. Oh, Pastor Helmsley, this is for you." Kenny reached into his backpack and pulled out a holstered weapon.
Shawn took the weapon from Kenny. "It's just Shawn, and thank you. This is really nice." Shawn noted the pistol was a Glock .22. He knew the gun, he had one at home.
"Sarge said it was the best for you. If you will just sign that paper, Beth can take it with her." Kenny pointed to the paper that was tucked into the holster.
Shawn pulled out the paper and unfolded it. He and Hunter both read it carefully. Hunter gave Shawn a nod of approval. Shawn signed the paper and handed it to Beth.
Hunter spoke. "Is there someplace where we can get some shooting practice? All guns, even if they are made the same, shoot differently. Shawn needs to try it out."
Beth thought for a moment. "Tell you what. Come to the station with me. We have a range at the Department. I can either bring you back on my way home, or the Sarge will have a cruiser bring you back. I agree, he should practice. Kenny?" She looked at her fellow officer.
"It's fine with me. I also agree. Like I said, just act like I am not even here. But, I may ask questions about your work." Kenny's impish grin was back. He was just a naturally happy person.
"Chris, is it alright with you?" Hunter looked at their leader, brow arched.
Roman spoke up. "I would like to go as well. I'd like some practice with the taser."
"Sure, it's fine with me. I actually think the more normal we act, the better. Seth and I want to go out to the ROW to work. Will that be a problem?" Chris looked at Kenny. He would do what was easiest for the law enforcement officer.
"As long as Jim is alright with it, it's fine with me. You're right, the more normal things are, the better. You can go out when Beth goes. I'll stay here with your husband and Dean." Kenny gave Chris a nod.
Chris returned the nod. "Beth, give us five minutes to get organized." He and Seth began to shut down their laptops. Chris packed all his papers in his leather briefcase. He smiled at the case. He'd bought it at the same time Adam had bought his electric blue leather pants. It was a good memory.
A few minutes later, everyone but Adam and Dean were gone from the Jericho's hotel room. There was another exception, Kenny Omega remained in the room. He pulled his own laptop out of his backpack. Kenny checked his email and social media. For now, all was quiet.
At the Dodge City Police Department, Detective Sergeant Ken Miller interrogated AJ Styles. AJ was dressed in an orange prison jumpsuit, blue plastic sandals and was in handcuffs. It wasn't because he was dangerous, it was that Sergeant Miller wanted AJ to know the fear of going to prison. It was harsh, but it worked.
AJ sat with his head in his hands. Detective Sergeant Miller fired questions at the storm chaser. "So if you knew the first gun was real, why did you not think this one was?"
AJ rubbed his face. "Because I was too taken in by his… he… he had me so convinced. The Guymon police have the gun he used. I thought he'd gotten a paintball gun this time. He said he didn't know the first one was a real gun. I didn't think he would buy a second disguised gun. I was a fucking fool." AJ wasn't sure if he was mad, sad or both. All he knew was his little pet had betrayed him in the worst way.
"Alright, so it's a paintball gun. You were still willing to just shoot someone? Knowing the damage a paintball could do? Why Styles? Why would you agree to do that?" Miller was stern.
AJ sank even lower in his chair. "Because I believed him when he told me it was a college revenge prank. He made me believe Adam had paint-balled his car and damaged it. John also said Adam had covered him in paintballs. He looked so… helpless when he told me. I felt sorry for him. I promised I would help him. As I said, I was a damn fool." AJ spoke like he was totally defeated.
Miller knew there had to be more. "Styles, that really didn't answer the question. So let me rephrase it. Why were you so anxious to help Morrison? Why, Styles? Why were you so anxious to harm Jericho?" He was nearly nose to nose with Styles.
AJ looked at the Sergeant. "Because he looked at me with those big brown tear filled eyes and asked me to help him. I fell for it, hook, line and sinker. Not even you could have resisted him." He palmed his face again.
The Detective scoffed. "I have better at home. No, Mister Styles, I can't believe you would do something like that without a good reason. Why were you so anxious to hurt Jericho?` Answer me, Styles." Ken had raised his voice, but he didn't shout.
AJ exploded. "Because I hate him! I hate Jericho! He always gets the best video, makes the most money, gets all the glory! I want him… " He didn't finish his thought. He suddenly felt like the lowest worm in the garden. His eyes filled with tears, but he didn't cry.
"So you did it because you are jealous of Jericho and his husband? So Morrison played on that. Turned your jealousy into his revenge for McIntyre. Now, he left you holding the bag. Shows how much you really meant to him doesn't it? So, I'd say you don't owe him anything. Where is Morrison? Where is he hiding?" Miller had gone back to a softer tone, but was still firm.
AJ realized, for the first time, that JoMo had really used him. Totally and completely used him. He also realized something else, he'd fallen in love with John, and now he was gone. He had been a gigantic fool.
AJ looked Miller directly in the eye. "I don't know where he went. I honestly don't know. The plan was to prank Jericho and run back to the car. That's all we talked about. He could be any where. I know he didn't have a key to our hotel room." He hung his head once again.
Detective Sergeant Ken Miller sat back for a moment. He knew Styles told the truth. The man had no idea where John Morrison had gone. "Alright, Styles. I believe you. If and I mean if you're released, what will you do? Do I need to worry that you will seek more revenge on Doctor Jericho and his team?" His brow arched highly as he stared hard at AJ.
AJ's flew up as he looked at Sergeant Miller. "I may… have to… but… I was… I didn't know. I wouldn't do anything to Jericho or anyone else. I never want to be in a hell hole like this again."
Sergeant Miller gave a chuckle. "Oh Mister Styles, this is paradise compared to Lansing State Prison. That is a hell hole and you could be headed there for aiding, abetting and harboring a fugitive, or possibly even attempted murder..." Miller then went on to tell AJ everything about John Morrison and his questionable activities in Los Angeles.
"...so, you weren't the only one charmed. After his narrow escape with the law, he went to Florida. That's where he met McIntyre. I dare say he probably used him as well, or would have. He must have done some research, and discovered your dislike for Jericho and used it to his advantage. Morrison used you, Styles. How do I know you won't go out and seek revenge for your pain. How do I know your jealousy of Jericho won't drive you to do something stupid again? What will you do if Morrison comes to seek your protection and help? Miller again spoke in a firm voice, with a stone face.
AJ's mouth hung open. He couldn't believe all the thing his once precious pet had done. Stripped, porn films, and a suspected drug smuggler. His heart was shattered.
"I would turn him in, he's broken my heart. No way would I help him, not now. I realize how being jealous of Jericho is stupid. I won't go near them..." He didn't know what to say. AJ knew one thing, he wanted nothing to do with John Morrison ever again.
Miller sat back. He took a sip of his now cold coffee. He quietly observed AJ Styles. He saw the moment the man had broken. As soon as he'd mentioned porn and drugs, AJ cracked. Ken took another sip of coffee, he wanted Styles to stew for a while. How Styles would feel after some time had passed.
"Sit tight, Styles. I'll be back shortly." Miller stood, and picked up all his papers. He tossed his Styrofoam coffee cup into the trash. He left the room and made sure Styles heard him lock the door.
Detective Sergeant Ken Miller smiled when he entered his office. Beth Phillips was there, a fresh pot of coffee brewed. "Hey, Beth. You know me so well. I won't keep you long." Ken sat at his neat but file and paper covered desk.
"It's fine. I got a good sleep. I'm going to wait for Shawn, Hunter and Roman. Shawn wanted to test fire the Glock. They are at the range. I told them they have an hour." Beth explained as he poured two cups of coffee as the machine finished brewing.
Ken took the cup Beth handed him. "Thanks. Good idea, those are smart men. Kenny settle in?"
Beth sat down in the chair she used when she worked in the office. "Like a dream. He and Chris were like long, lost friends. They are both from Winnipeg, Canada. The others seemed to like him too. So, what's up with Styles?"
"Cooling his heels in the interrogation room. I want it all to sink in. I gave him the full story on Morrison. He broke when he heard about the porn and drugs. I want him to understand what will happen if he helps Morrison. I don't think he wants anything to do with him, but, I've decided one more night in jail will reinforce that." Miller explained as he filled out some paper work on Styles.
Beth nodded. "Oh, here is the paper from Shawn on the loan of the weapon. What do you think Styles will do regarding Jericho's team? Jealousy can make a person do things they wouldn't normally do." She laid the paper on the desk.
Ken put the paper in a file folder with JERICHO TEAM printed on it. "He said he would stay away from them. I got him to admit to being jealous, so that is a first step. The AJ Styles that we have seen on video, is not the man sitting across the hall." He spoke in deep thought. He really felt Styles had been duped by Morrison. Was it fair to punish someone for that?
Beth looked at her boss. "So, not going to lay attempted murder charges on Styles?"
Miller sighed. "Would it accomplish anything? Morrison is the real criminal here. I honestly believe Styles didn't know the gun was real. As far as he knew, the only gun Morrison had is at my brother's station in Guymon. It never crossed his mind Morrison would have a second disguised gun. Hell, I'm a Detective and it's confusing. Morrison had to have bought two guns in Amarillo, or he knew Anderson would be in Guymon and he got it there. Morrison has a lot to answer for. Why the hell can't we find him? My gut tells me he's still in Dodge City, but where?" He tossed his pen down on the desk and sipped his coffee.
Beth smiled softly and laid a kind hand on the Sergeant's arm. "We'll find him, Ken. You know, you could bargain with Styles. Drop all the charges if he cooperates..." She was cut off by Ken.
"That's a brilliant idea, Beth. You should be in this chair instead of me. Yes, Morrison might go to Styles for help. If he thinks he can still control Styles. I just wish I was really sure Styles wouldn't fall for Morrison's charms again. He would have to wear a wire, wouldn't risk it without one. Why don't you and I go have a talk with Mister Styles?" Ken smiled at Beth and stood.
When AJ heard the key in the lock, he quickly swiped his eyes and sniffed. The cops didn't need to see that he'd been crying. AJ hung his head when the Detective and his aide walked into the room.
Detective Miller flopped AJ's file folder down on the table as he and Officer Phillips sat. Beth put a cup of coffee down on the table.
"Thought you might like a cup." Beth spoke in an almost motherly tone.
AJ managed to look at Beth with a very small smile. "Thank you, I need it. So, what's going to happen to me? Guess I am facing attempted murder? Detective, I honestly thought it was a paintball gun. Yes, I was willing to plaster Chris and Adam, but only with paintballs, not bullets. Bring me a Bible and I'll swear on it, or a lie detector and I will pass it." AJ had the look of a desperate, broken man. His eyes still held unshed tears.
Miller gave a nod to Phillips. Beth moved her chair to better face Styles. "No need for that. Mister Styles we have a deal to put to you. If you are willing to cooperate with us, we are prepared to drop the attempted murder charge."
AJ looked at Beth, a faint glimmer of hope in his eyes. "What… would I have to do? I'll do anything. I just want to forget I ever met that little bastard."
Ken and Beth exchanged a quick glance. The Sergeant's look told Beth to continue. "We want you to help us catch Morrison. We have a feeling he is still here, in Dodge City. He has done a good job of hiding. We think he could be waiting to come to you for help. If he feels he can still control you, he will seek you out. If you treat him like normal, we can move in and arrest him. You'll be wearing a wire, to keep everything on record. You do this and we get Morrison, you will be a free man… with a few conditions." Beth explained it openly and with total honesty.
AJ took a sip of his coffee. He hated the feeling and sound of the handcuffs around his wrists, he never wanted that feeling again. He put the cup down and looked Officer Phillips in the eye.
"I will cooperate. I want that bastard in jail. He… he… I… loved him. I was just… at first..." AJ's voice cracked as he tried to speak. His cuffed hands shook as he sipped his coffee.
With another nod from Ken, Beth unlocked AJ's handcuffs. "Tell me, Mister Styles. At first you what?" Beth again had a motherly look and tone.
AJ rubbed his wrists. "I… thought it would be nice to have a cute little thing in my bed for a while. It can get lonely sometimes. He didn't seem to mind and he didn't get scared of the storms. I figured after a while, I'd kick him out. But.. he… I… fell in… love with him… I even… started looking at… engagement rings… I was a fuckin' fool. He was the one using me. He can… rot in jail. God, I was such a fool. Who could ever love me?" AJ shattered. He put his head in hands and sobbed. He didn't care any more if they saw him cry.
Miller looked at his watch, then over at his aide. Beth had taken Styles into her arms and held him. Sometimes other things were more important that being a stern police officer. Ken scribbled a note, and passed it for Beth to read. He quietly got up and left the interrogation room.
Beth glanced at the note. "Take your time, work out the details. I'll get the Helmsley's and Reigns back. See you in an hour or so." Beth returned her focus to AJ. The man just needed someone who cared.
At the Jericho's hotel room, Detective Sergeant Miller spoke to the storm chasers. "...so, we hope he will cooperate and be the bait that lures Morrison out of hiding." He finished explaining what had happened the police station. However, the Sergeant left out the more personal parts of AJ's confession, there were something that didn't need to be told.
Chris spoke up. "I hope it works, and I hope Styles won't blow it. Do you think he really is telling the truth? He won't runaway with Morrison?"
"No way. Styles will be wired and of course, watched. Yes, Chris, I do believe he is telling the truth.. Let's just say the AJ Styles you know is gone. The Styles we have now is a broken man. All we can do is hope Morrison comes out of hiding. So just hang tight and live and work as normally as possible. You are in good hands with Officer Omega and Dead Eye Shawn. He scored higher on the range than our best marksman." Ken Miller gave a pointed look to Kenny Omega.
"Well, I had to be out shot sometime. Glad you're on our side, Pastor." Kenny winked at Shawn.
Sargent Miller talked with the storm chasers a bit more. Before he left, he also spoke to Omega then the K-9 team. He knew the Jericho team would be safe and secure. Now he had to finalize everything with Styles.
Would Morrison come out of hiding or was he simply waiting for the chance to attack again?