Today, Tomorrow, And Forever
"Tell him to stay away from my wife." His hands shake a little.
"Tell him to stay away from our life." His words slur. His breath smells of alcohol.
"We'll work things out. There's won't be a divorce." Yeah, a little wine is good for health.
The man in front of him remains silent. There's no ring on that Mocha Latte finger. They are living in sin. The man in black. His old Cupcake. Stephanie. Why didn't her mother do something? Why didn't her father say anything? Why do they need to have this conversation? It's awkward, isn't it? He misses Emily's cooking. He knows he's drunk. He once started a fight in this bar. He beat the crap out of a guy he didn't know. He walked away the winner. And now he's suddenly hungry.
"I want her back." He jabs a finger at the photo he printed out from the computer. He feels like throwing up. He raises his voice a little. The double cheese fries were probably not a good idea. "I want her back."
Joe Morelli wants to kill his wife's lover. Joe Morelli has no idea that the man's real name is not Jake Fransico. FBI's witness protection program ruined lives. FBI's witness protection program did wonders for a lot of people. Joe Morelli knows nothing about the boy once named Donovan Sanders. Joe Morelli had to gulp down the vodka. To muster his courage. To clear his thoughts. This is humiliating. Having to ask for Ranger's help. They listen to him. They obey his orders. Joe Morelli is a good cop. Joe Morelli will not bend the law. Joe Morelli is lonely. Joe Morelli is hurt.
"Do something. "Joe Morelli's voice cracks, and trembles. Nope. He didn't burst into tears. He wants a second chance. He has done nothing wrong. He will hold on tight. He will not let go. "You're his boss."
Ranger stands up and leaves without a word.
The music, the laughter, and all the other noises in the bar drown Joe Morelli alive.