Chapter 9: Freedom
"And with the arrest of Gooner Stanze, a supposed underground crime boss, as well as Isaac Tantail, a fraudulent officer, Mauville has taken its first step towards becoming a safe haven for its residents. After the capture of the serial burglar almost a year ago-"
Adam closes the news app on his phone. He had been keeping up with the news to try to gauge what the police had been up to since his arrest, but the news didn't tell him much about his own situation and he could only get so much information from Detective Vega. He wasn't allowed to ask any questions about his investigation or anything, so as far as how much progress he'd made, he was in the dark. He did see that a crime boss and his associates were taken into custody, but he wasn't sure what that had to do with him.
However, he wasn't too worried about it. He was growing accustomed to living with Seth, Klaus, and Howie, though he rarely ever saw the Sneasel. So even if the Detective took his time, the only reason he'd want him to find the truth would be so his name could be cleared.
Speaking of Seth, Adam notes how different Seth had been acting since they returned from their vacation a few weeks ago. He had begun to get more… clingy. Adam hardly left the house, but now instead of Klaus waking him up to begin work, it was Seth. Seth was also insistent on following him around all day while he did his jobs. Adam didn't mind because the Zoroark stayed out of his way, and made conversation rather than toying with him like before. Finally, he would surprise him with more frequent little gifts. In the few weeks after their vacation, he's been given 4 gifts a week. They've mostly been gift cards and little things like a nice bracelet and a necklace.
He even started making Klaus serve him breakfast in bed. He had to tell Seth that he didn't want Klaus to do that, because he felt like it was a little excessive as they were both servants, and Klaus was a friend. He may have done it before, but it was temporary and Adam was sick at the time.
He found the behavior a little strange, but he wasn't going to complain. It made Seth seem somewhat charming, in a funny way. He was slightly hopeful, since he realized too late that he had feelings for the Fox. He simply couldn't imagine Seth being interested in him, however. Even with him indulging in his feelings on their trip, Seth seemed to want to keep things passive, so Adam decided to do the same.
He was currently sweeping the hallway upstairs as these thoughts flooded his mind. He decided to shake himself out of that train of thought before it ruined his good mood.
It helped that he heard a knock on the door, the possible guest grasping his attention. He went to check to see who it was, but upon reaching the foyer from the top floor, he noticed Seth was already there, and had opened the door. Who was there shook the Lycanroc internally.
Standing at the front door were Chief Hogan, who was holding his police hat, and Detective Vega. Seth leans on the doorframe.
"Morning officers, how can I help you gentlemen?"
Chief Hogan nods as he shuffles a bit.
"Good morning Mr. Zenabrin. Erm, may we speak with Adam Stonehide?"
Seth tilts his head to the side a little.
"Mind if I ask why? Adam hasn't caused any trouble since he's been here, surely he isn't in any trouble right?"
Victor takes a mental note of how somewhat defensive Seth was being. He questions why he would genuinely have concerns about why they'd be there to see Adam, or if there was something to hide. Regardless of which it was, he'd respond in earnest.
"We merely wish to speak to him about the current situation surrounding his case. I'm sure you know about how I was investigating his arrest. We're here to inform him of the conclusion and what we've discovered."
Seth smiles, and steps aside, gesturing for them to come inside.
"Ah! Well then come in. I'll have him come down in just a second, please wait in the living room. It's just down the hall."
The two make their way down the hall as Seth heads upstairs to find Adam. He knew he must have heard the doorbell and was listening. He found him clutching onto himself upstairs, no doubt nervous.
"Adam? You alright?"
Adam sighed.
"I just… I knew this day would come, I'm just nervous about what they're going to say, that's all."
Seth puts a paw on his shoulder. He didn't want to say it, but he was dreading this encounter, because he knew what it meant. However, now wasn't the time for that. He would be happy for Adam, no matter what happened.
"I'm sure they have good news. Don't worry. Let's just go and get it over with, the sooner we do, the sooner it'll be finished."
Adam nods, and begins to walk downstairs. Seth walks behind him slowly.
They make their way to the living room, where the Chief and Detective were already waiting. As Adam enters, Victor feels the urge to smile, or wave, or do something to greet him, but he refrains. This was serious.
Seth and Adam take their seats across from them. Victor turns to the Chief, and they both stand. The Chief and the Detective both bow their heads, and the Chief speaks up.
"Adam Stonehide, on behalf of the Mauville Police Department, I would like to formally apologize for your treatment and wrongful arrest. We have prepared compensation, as well as a public apology and clearing of your name, we only ask that you allow us to explain what Detective Vega uncovered in his investigation."
Adam was speechless. He didn't expect an outright apology. Usually police and government officials were backhanded when it came to admitting wrongdoing. But, because they were being so sincere, he accepted.
"S-sure."
They sit back down, and the Chief gestures for Victor to begin. Victor pulls out some files, and places them on the table.
He recounts the entire investigation to Adam, describing his findings. He informs him of Ethan's arrest, his currently ongoing trial, and his decision to be sent away for their safety. He tells him of the underground crime syndicate that Ethan was a part of, and how they used a mole in the police force to Hypnotize the officers and the Chief, using a mixture of the moves Hypnosis, Taunt, and Charm, in order to frame Adam as a way to prevent Ethan from leaking secrets, and how they used his life to threaten Ethan and keep him from turning himself in. Finally, he informed him that they determined that all the evidence that had been gathered regarding Adam turned out to be planted, and that they arrested the crime boss involved, the main culprit behind Adam's case, and rooted out the criminals using New Mauville as their base of operations.
All of it left Adam speechless. He wouldn't have believed someone could Hypnotize an entire police force if the Detective hadn't showed him the files he brought along.
They detailed how a Persian, Adam remembers him as the officer the Detective spoke to the day they first met, had infiltrated the force using his Hypnosis, and everyone was convinced he had worked there for an extended period of time.
"So…all of this happened…because Ethan was involved with an underground crime group? I was wondering why I was treated so unfairly, and why things felt so off. That explains it, I suppose."
Adam wasn't happy to learn any of that. He also wasn't sure how he felt knowing that Ethan had wanted to turn himself in so he could go free, but didn't in order to protect him, even if it was his fault he was arrested in the first place. His chest began to feel dull. Detective Vega slid an envelope across the table towards Adam.
"There's also this letter, addressed to you Adam. Ethan asked me to deliver it to you, before he left."
Adam grabbed the envelope and eyed it. Before he could open it, Chief Hogan cleared his throat.
"Now that that's taken care of, I would like to personally apologize for everything that's happened to you Mr. Stonehide. Not only was your case actively being sabotaged, but apparently hard evidence and testimony was stolen long before you were taken into custody, like the video footage Mr. Zenabrin had submitted. I promise you that our protocol is meant to be fair and lawful and it infuriates me that someone would make us act out of turn."
Adam smiles sheepishly. He had every intention of chewing out the entire police force for his harsh treatment, and he was still a little peeved about it all, but it wasn't their fault they were manipulated.
"It's alright, I guess. I'm not happy about it but, you guys were just doing what that psycho wanted you to so... I can't really hold it against you. I'm sure if he hadn't gotten involved…things could've ended differently."
Upon hearing this, Seth's ears finally perk up. He knew all along that Adam wanted things to turn out different, but he didn't think he'd outright say it. It was yet another reminder that he was never staying with him because he wanted to. He feels himself growing anxious, and shuffles in his seat.
Chief Hogan nods in agreement.
"Yes of course. Your kindness is much appreciated. I've already taken the liberty of having your record cleared, as it was deemed false information. As well as clearing your name with your previous landlord, your neighbors, as well as your school. You are no longer required to perform community service, and are free to resume your normal life."
Those were the words Seth hoped he didn't have to hear anytime soon. He knew it was wrong of him to wish for Adam to stay longer, even moreso because it was literally restricting his freedom, but he couldn't help it. He didn't want Adam to leave. As they continue speaking, Seth silently slinks away. As he opens the door to leave, Klaus floats in, holding a tray of drinks.
Adam is relieved, and Chief Hogan continues.
"Finally, all that's left is for you to stop by the station to claim your compensation check. I've already arranged for you to appear on the news, for us to announce your innocence publicly so that you'll no longer be seen as a criminal. You'll then be free to go back to being a functioning citizen, rather than working as a servant here."
Adam chuckles a bit, feeling happier by the moment.
"Alright, that won't be an issue. And I may have been here as a servant, but Seth never mistreated me, and even went as far as to try to make it homely."
I kind of…wish I didn't have to leave… Speaking of, I noticed him step out quietly. Where'd he go?
He looks around, and Klaus hands him a drink.
"If you're looking for Master Seth, he merely went to handle a business call."
Adam nods and looks back toward Chief Hogan and the Detective. Chief Hogan extends his hand for a shake, and Adam accepts it.
"I'll be taking my leave now. If you wish to handle things as soon as possible, please stop by the station tomorrow. If anything, I'll be in touch. Enjoy the rest of your day."
Hogan steps out, and Klaus follows. Victor felt a sense of pride in his work. He normally took pride in his work, obviously, but this time around, he not only performed his job efficiently and effectively, rooting out the cause of crime in Mauville, but he also freed someone he came to like, and he was less restricted when it came to interacting with said person. Adam turned to him with a smile, making him smile in return.
"I just wanted to say, thank you, Detective. For everything. Thanks to you, I can move on with my life. You kept your promise, while also proving my innocence. I appreciate it wholeheartedly."
Adam couldn't help himself and gave the Detective a hug. Victor smiles while trying his best not to blush as he returns the hug.
"Of course. I was just doing my job. And just because I completed it doesn't mean we have to be strangers. We can always talk or meet up anytime."
Adam nods in agreement.
"Of course! Though I'll have to see. With everything happening I'm likely gonna be busy for a bit, what with school, my stuff, and finding a job again. Once I have a more stable schedule I'll be more than happy to hang out!"
Victor feels slightly disappointed, but he understands. Adam did just get his life back, it would make sense for him to prioritize getting himself together before thinking of leisure. But that's okay, Victor could wait. He merely needed to be patient.
"Sure thing. I'll be heading out as well, the Chief was my ride. I'll see you around, Adam."
Adam smiles as the both of them exit the living room.
"Of course, bye Detective!"
Adam turned away quickly as the Detective walked toward the foyer, he needed to find Seth, he was excited to get his life back on track, but he was bothered by one thing.
Said Fox was curled up in bed. He felt rude for leaving so abruptly and without a word, but he didn't want to listen to them talk about where Adam's life would be going, and potentially how happy he was he finally wasn't chained to him via his sentence.
He wanted Adam to stay. All of his hopes had been crushed in an instant, and there was nothing he could do about it. He couldn't make Adam stay, he'd no doubt want to continue on with his own life.
He feels a familiar pain in his chest. He felt it before when the thought of Adam leaving crossed his mind, but this time it was real. He felt the same pain when his friends stopped talking to him as a kid, or when one of his servants quit after he pranked them, or when he realized he'd be all alone in Hoenn while the rest of his family was in Unova. But this was worse. He felt like he was being left alone again, but on top of that, he felt like a piece of himself was leaving as well.
(A week later)
Adam had finally finished thinking. He had already got the important things out of the way. He went to the Police station to get his name fully cleared on the news. He was very nervous when the reporter, a Lopunny, interviewed him as he'd never been on TV before. But she was nice and didn't pressure him or grill him. He got his tuition paid with the money he received for his time lost, re-enrolled into college, and he went and secured his things in his old apartment. He had them in a storage unit for now, as he wasn't sure where he'd be going, and said goodbye to his neighbors.
All that was left was to talk to Seth. He wanted to discuss his plans now that he was no longer required to work for him as a servant. The issue is, he hasn't seen him since the Chief and the Detective visited. Last time he went this long without seeing him it was because he was going to work to give him space. But this time felt different, Klaus had been bringing his meals to his room three times a day, so surely he's just been in there. He didn't think Seth did anything worth feeling guilty over, he would've learned about it by now. He was left wondering why the Zoroark holed himself in his room for a week.
He reached Seth's room, having followed Klaus. He explained that he was worried about Seth, and that he wanted to speak with him about his living arrangements. Klaus asked if he was planning on leaving, but truthfully it depended on what Seth had to say. Klaus opened the door, with Adam behind him.
"Master Seth, I've brought you your lunch once again. I'll just place it on the table. Also, you have a visitor."
Klaus did as he said, and got no response. He takes his leave as Adam walks past him. Adam didn't get a response either, but he didn't care. He walked toward the obvious lump under the blankets and crawled underneath them. There was Seth. He was sitting upright, his arms relaxed against his legs and his face looking down hopelessly. Adam sighed and laughed a little. Seth was such a baby.
"Seth, what's wrong? Why have you been avoiding me? I've been worried."
The Zoroark didn't say anything, and only turned away. Adam growls and puts his paws on Seth's shoulders, making him look at him.
"I'm serious! What could possibly have made you this upset?"
Seth finally sighs, and looks at the Lycanroc sadly.
"Well…at this point I'm surprised you're even still here."
Adam backs away a bit, shocked by his statement.
"What? What do you mean? Why wouldn't I be?"
Seth rubs one of his arms softly, still avoiding eye contact.
"I.. you were talking about how you could finally get your life back, and how you wished things could've been different. I just thought you would've left by now."
Adam sighs, honestly being hurt that Seth felt that way.
"Well for starters, I don't think anyone would be happy having been framed for a crime they didn't commit. But that's the only thing I wish ended differently. I don't feel any regret having come here, I told you that before, remember?"
Adam crawls next to Seth and bumps his shoulder with his own.
"And even if I did leave, do you honestly think I'd just go without saying goodbye?"
Seth holds his arms and turns away a little.
"I don't know- I…I just thought you'd want to leave as soon as possible. I was so used to you being here but… You don't have to stay here anymore, you've no obligation to do so. You can leave whenever you want…"
Adam's eyes widen, realization finally hitting him.
"Were you…upset because you thought I was leaving... and you figured I would leave as soon as my name was clear? "
Seth doesn't say a word, only nodding in response. Adam chuckles a little, confusing the Fox.
"Well if you'd have talked to me, you wouldn't have felt that way, heh."
Seth raises a brow, and eyes him curiously.
"What makes you say that?"
Adam tilts his head to the side with a wide smile.
"I've been trying to think of a way to ask if I could stay here! I was gonna offer to make some sort of arrangement, where I could stay and work as a servant until I got another job, then I could stay here and not mooch off of your money. We could've thought of something together if you had just talked to me, you goof!"
Seth looked up, trying to assess if there was any hint of mischief or trickery. He didn't want to get his hopes up only for this to be some kind of cruel joke or even a dream.
"You…really wanna stay?"
Adam smiles and nods.
"I thought about it, it would be pretty lonely for both of us if I left. You may have Klaus and Howie, but I'd be by myself again, and it'd be hard to imagine my life without you guys in it."
Seth feels his lip quiver. He pulls Adam into a hug and cries softly, making the Lycan laugh.
"You big baby. You wanted me to stay that bad?"
Seth hugs him tighter. Of course he wanted him to stay. He would've been torn apart if Adam left, that's the thing he's been trying to avoid for the last week. He thought that if he stayed in his room he wouldn't have to watch Adam walk out of his life. But now, not only did the Lycanroc of his affections want to stay, he also had more time.
"Of course I do, I love- having you around."
Adam nods and pats his back.
"I love being here with you guys too. All that's left to do now is to get my stuff from my apartment out of storage and rearrange my room."
Seth sniffs, not letting Adam go, making him laugh.
"Can we stay like this a little longer?"
Adam pats one of his arms before sighing with a smile.
"*sigh* Sure."
(Later that evening)
Adam eventually settled down in his room for the night. For the first time in a week, he felt like he could relax. From receiving the news of his name finally being cleared, to getting himself re-enrolled in his school, and even appearing on a public announcement stating that he was innocent and being absolved of all his crimes on live television, he's been busy all week.
Then just today, he finally got to speak with Seth, and they decided together that he would work and do chores while he stayed, and Seth would pay him like normal, but he wouldn't be considered a servant. Seth apparently didn't want him to feel chained to this place, he wanted it to feel like home, so while he got paid for doing his normal work, he would be considered a guest of the house. Adam was insistent on doing his fair share of work, so that Klaus and Howie wouldn't think of him as a Master of the house alongside Seth. The last thing he wanted was for Klaus to start calling him Master Adam.
He turned over in bed with a yawn. As he did so, he eyed an envelope sitting on his bedside table. Then he finally remembered, Ethan had sent him a letter. He sat up quickly.
I was so busy this week I completely forgot!
Part of him still harbored resentment for Ethan for running away that night, causing him to be in that shitty situation in the first place. If he had stayed, things might have been different.
But another part of him wants to give him some slack. For one, if that psycho Persian was willing to go to such lengths to frame him, he very well could've done so and gotten Ethan out of custody. Not only that, but according to Detective Vega, Ethan really did try to make things right after Adam was arrested, even though he was prevented from doing so for their own safety.
He sighed and stood up before grabbing the envelope. He laid back down and opened it, then began to read it carefully.
Adam,
I wanted to start out by saying, I'm sorry. For everything. Since this is the last chance I'll get to reach out to you, I'll be completely transparent. I was lying to you about most of what I was doing while we were together. I was never going to Mauville College or taking night classes, which I'm guessing you figured out by now. I really was working during the day, but the truth behind my night life is much more complicated. All I'll say is that I owed a lot to the wrong person, and if I involved you, it'd only serve to put you in danger as well, which is the last thing I wanted.
As for what happened that night, every fiber of my being regrets running away. I've spent my whole life running from something, be it the police, or the consequences of my actions, but I'll never forgive myself for running from you that night. I never wanted you to get involved with that part of my life, and maybe you wouldn't have if I'd have been honest with you, even once.
I just wanted things to be better for us. To keep that amazing smile of yours secure. To be your sanctuary in this all too dangerous world of ours. But in doing so I brought the danger right to you, and made you bear the brunt of it. I can't say I'm sorry enough to make up for it. All I can do is atone.
And finally there is one thing I never lied about, which was how much I loved you. You were the one thing in my life that brought me joy and happiness when I thought feelings like those were works of fiction. It's because of that love, however, that I'm never going to see you again. For your safety, as well as mine, I won't say where I'm going, but just know that I'll always be thinking of you. Even if you don't forgive me, I'll always love you.
-Ethan
Adam's paw slowly lowers, making him drop the letter on the bed. After reading the letter, it was as if all of his bottled up feelings about Ethan had finally surfaced.
He may not have talked to anyone about it, but he was hurting about Ethan for a while. They had dated for an extended amount of time before these things happened, and he harbored so much pain after feeling betrayed by someone he loved. He was so hurt and angry that he refused to cry over him. There were even nights where he'd lie awake, thinking about their time together, and it always ended with him being upset at how it was ruined because Ethan had lied to him. But now, he just feels like he should at least let it out for the sake of moving on, and for the sake of forgiveness.
As the tears flowed from his eyes, he folded the letter again and put it in the drawer in the bedside table. He wanted to keep it, since it was likely he'd never see Ethan again.
He might have had a rough time at first, after being arrested, and framed, and losing his boyfriend, but because of all of that, he met Seth, and that's something he'll always be thankful for. Even with his love for Seth blooming and growing, he'll never forget the love he had for Ethan.
He wiped his tears and turned over with a smile. Ethan always was a hopeless romantic, so this letter was extremely fitting. That's one of the many things he'll miss, whenever he thinks of him.
At least now… I can remember you fondly…
He turns over, and falls asleep, enjoying a peaceful rest.
(End Chapter)