The Ninth Circle of Hell

by Sassy Lil Scorpio

Hammond returns to Isla Nublar and finds out everything that occurred during his hospitalization. Wu is miserable working for Dodgson and dreams of escape. Nedry is apprehended right after running into the Biosyn team. Hammond fights for Nedry's freedom on two conditions: convince Wu to return to InGen and bring down Dodgson and his gang. {Sequel to Reign of Chaos Trilogy} {AU}

23. Punishment and Penance

Chapter 23 - Punishment and Penance

"We are all sentenced to solitary confinement inside our own skins, for life." - Tennessee Williams

oOo

Daniel Walker went through a series of gates before entering the prison's SHU with Corey Anderson. Now they were finally in the unit and had to walk down a long hallway to reach the last cell. He wondered if he should've had Dennis Nedry brought to his office to have this discussion, but he was adamant about keeping him secure. The less movement outside of his cell, the better. Going out for one hour rec was one thing; being brought to the warden's office was quite another. They spoke in hushed tones, although the SHU was unusually quiet.

"Is this the norm?" Anderson asked.

"Most of them are out on rec, they only get an hour. The remaining twenty-three hours, they're locked in their cells," Walker said, his eyes scanning the names and numbers on the doors. "You'll see a few inmates still inside."

"How long has he been in this unit?"

"About a month." Walker motioned to three correction officers monitoring the inmates. One was Officer Johnson. "I need you to come with us."

Johnson nodded and followed them.

"When he was brought back, I sent him to the SHU immediately without any explanation. In hindsight, I should've been transparent with him. I've done everything possible to keep him safe and it's still not enough."

Anderson stopped in his tracks. Walker turned around when he noticed Anderson wasn't beside him. He looked over his shoulder and saw Anderson had remained in place, his eyes widened in surprise. Walker left Officer Johnson momentarily and walked back to Anderson. Officer Johnson remained in place, waiting for them.

"What do you mean 'not enough'?" Anderson's skepticism was obvious.

"After what you told me about Dodgson—all the attempts he made on Nedry's life, I wasn't taking any chances. It didn't matter because one of Dodgson's men had already wormed his way into the facility. I'm embarrassed to say I don't know how it happened, or how long he was here before he revealed himself…"

They stood in the middle of the long dark hallway. The SHU was a prison within a prison, and the atmosphere was lonely, cold, and desolate. Steel doors lined both sides of the din hallway in close proximity. Every cell was identical in its tiny dimensions: six feet by eight feet. The cells had no windows—unless you counted the narrow one on the steel door. Everything was the same: concrete, gray, or steel. Black numbers were painted over the cell doors: 016…017…018… Even with the handful of correction officers in the unit and the few inmates still locked in their cells who refused rec, slept on their beds, or did other activities to pass the time (read books, write letters to loved ones)—the mood remained heavy and oppressive.

Walker explained about the peculiar correction officer who made his rounds on the unit and spent most of his time taunting Nedry—Officer Ed James. When Nedry would ask to speak with Officer Johnson or Walker, the answer he got was that he was a "good-for-nothing inmate" who should "shut up and talk to the walls". Nedry wasn't aware at the time that he wasn't an actual correction officer, but someone else far more sinister…

"You never got the messages that he wanted to speak with you about this CO's abuse?" Anderson didn't hide the ire in his voice when he responded to Walker. "What about you?" He turned in Officer Johnson's direction who shook his head silently but didn't add anything to what Walker shared.

"I found out when I ordered a shakedown of this person's locker. My staff discovered two grievance forms from Nedry that were addressed to me. I had kept my distance because I didn't want to draw attention to him. That was a big mistake because it opened the door for this guy's abuse. It also led to Nedry feeling discarded by me, John Hammond, and everyone from InGen. Don't be surprised if he brings that up when we see him."

Anderson and Walker resumed slowly walking down the hall again. They rejoined Officer Johnson and all three men continued down the never-ending hallway. A cold draft was present in the unit. Anderson shivered.

"What ended up happening?"

"The verbal taunts escalated to harassment and intimidation. This guy would watch Nedry from outside his cell, grinning the entire time and calling him by his ID number. At least three times, Nedry woke up in the middle of the night and saw him standing over him and not saying anything. Somehow, he got into Nedry's cell without anyone noticing."

"That's insane," Anderson said, picturing the entire situation. "Who would do something like this?"

"I'm getting to that," Walker said.

He relayed how many correction officers would use an inmate's identification number when an inmate misbehaved or engaged in misconduct—which included back-talking prison staff, fighting with other inmates, and not following orders from staff. This correction officer didn't just use Nedry's number—he went as far as to calling him a snitch.

"Later on, we found out the full extent of what this guy was doing. In one instance, he forced Nedry face first against a wall by grabbing his neck. I saw the video and Nedry had been compliant and cooperative. There was no justification for force being used against him. Then came the threats: 'you'll get your stitches soon enough, snitch'. That's what tipped off Nedry that this guy was working for Dodgson."

Anderson drew in his breath. He remembered the conversations he had with Hammond, Malcolm, and Muldoon. About how Dodgson had many people working for him everywhere…

"The entire situation made him hit rock-bottom, and from there, he went backwards." Walker shook his head, sadly. "All the progress he had made went out the window; he was back to being the same offender when he first stepped foot in my facility. Defiant. Refusing to listen to staff. Mouthy. Sarcastic. He got desperate and committed two infractions to get our attention—and to his credit, it worked."

"What did he do?"

"He covered the door window with his blanket. That's a major infraction. All inmates know they can't cover their windows because the staff must be able to look inside their cells. When an inmate does that, there's no way for us to know if they are harming themselves or if they pose a threat to others—staff or other inmates. I sent Officer Johnson to get him out, but he refused to cuff up."

"He refused to leave the cell. Period," Officer Johnson clarified.

"I found out later why he was refusing," Walker said.

"Which is…?" Anderson admitted to himself that he was curious about what happened.

"Last time this so-called Officer James told him he had a visitor, he pepper-sprayed him and forced him back into his cell. Hours later, Officer Carter came over when he heard Nedry banging on the door. He took Nedry over to the medical wing. The day after that, Officer Johnson walked by and noticed he had covered the cell door with his blanket."

"I told him to take it down, and he said, 'the blanket's staying up'," Officer Johnson explained. "I mentioned writing him up, that what he was doing would get him a ticket—a disciplinary infraction, and he just laughed. Then I told him to put his hands through the slot, and he outright refused. Told me 'go cuff yourself', which really means 'go fuck yourself'. From there, I told Mr. Walker what was going on."

Walker stopped walking to explain. "I had six specially trained officers extract him from his cell. This was after trying to persuade him to cooperate. We tried working with him several times, and all on the same day. He refused every time. He wouldn't take down the blanket, he wouldn't cuff up, and he cursed out the staff—he was at his absolute worst."

"How did it go?" Anderson asked quietly.

"Horrible. He resisted and tried to fight off everyone which ended with him under severe emotional distress, badly bruised, and lacerations on his face. On my orders, they did a shakedown of his cell and found a shank he had made from sharpening the end of a toothbrush—that was his second infraction. It's still in my office."

Anderson's eyebrows rose. "Has he ever been caught with a shank?"

Walker shook his head and started making his way down the hallway again. He walked slowly as if he wanted to delay reaching Nedry's cell. Anderson stayed beside him, while Officer Johnson trailed behind.

"Not until this incident. When I asked him about it, he refused to answer. For a half hour, he sat in the medical wing, dead silent, and glaring at me like he wanted to murder me on the spot. It felt like forever."

Walker stopped to peer inside one cell that was empty of its occupant. Anderson waited until Walker continued onward.

"I told him we could do this all night if we have to—he became agitated when I said that, but still wouldn't talk. I didn't realize at the time that my words triggered a traumatic memory of when his associates kidnapped him."

"What got him to talk?" Anderson remembered hearing the audio recording from the night Nedry left to start his assignment as a confidential informant: Keep fighting, I can do this all night. It happened when Nedry was struggling to fight off Tembo. Hearing that again, especially from Walker, had to be extremely upsetting.

"I kept asking him why he had a shank. He finally said, 'for protection'. I asked, 'protection from who?' This led to another half hour of silence—like a cemetery at night. If you know Nedry, he's not the quiet type. He finally said 'Mr. James'. The rest, as they say, is history…"

Walker concluded what had occurred: "Officer Ed James" was fired on the spot after he readily admitted that he had been planted there by Lewis Dodgson to accomplish the following: sabotage Nedry's chances of regaining his freedom. What was more surprising was "Ed James" was an alias for the man whose real name was Eli Mills…

The imposter had been brought into a separate office after Nedry revealed the full extent of Mills' abuse. Put crushed glass in his food—which was discovered when Nedry frequently complained about sharp burning in his throat, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Slipped a dead rat though his door slot. Pepper-sprayed him after pretending to let him out of his cell for a visit. Refused to let him shower for an entire week. Banged on his cell door at night which interrupted his sleep. Used excessive physical force when it was unwarranted. Threatened, harassed, and taunted Nedry. Kept him in chains for an entire day after he went outside for rec—which was why he refused to go out on rec now… Mills had done other horrendous things when he posed as "Officer Ed James"—but Nedry refused to speak about it. Even now, Walker explained how Nedry wouldn't reveal everything—due to shame, fear, or both.

"I wonder if it's better not to know," Walker said as he continued to lead Anderson and Officer Johnson down the hall.

In the end, Walker discovered why Nedry refused to leave his cell and why he had crafted a shank. He realized Mills was tormenting and pushing Nedry to the point where he would snap. He would harm himself—self-mutilate or attempt suicide—or he would commit an offense so egregious that sentence commutation would be taken off the table. The outcome of either action would be disastrous. Attempting suicide would automatically put him on suicide watch where a fellow inmate had to watch him. Assault with a deadly weapon or attempted murder against a correction officer meant Nedry would be sentenced for a much longer time. Had he stabbed Eli Mills—whom everyone knew as Officer Ed James—this would've sealed his fate. Walker didn't allow Mills to leave the facility as a free man that day. The sheriff's department was called, and he was arrested on the spot.

This wasn't enough for Nedry, who believed everyone was secretly plotting his demise—Hammond and all the InGen staff, Walker, Anderson, and Judge Hoskins. In his mind, they were all conspiring against him. The rapport Walker had established with Nedry, and the trust he had built had been destroyed. Nedry had been moved to another cell in the unit with Officer Johnson and Officer Carter being the main staff members in charge of guarding him. As much as it pained him to do it (because he fully understood the need to defend oneself), Walker penalized Nedry: no outside rec and no phone calls, just straight lockdown 24/7 for an entire week. He didn't want to make it longer as it would be considered excessive and cruel. Nedry would also be charged with possession of a weapon.

"That day, I finally explained that he was in the SHU for his protection and that's when he went on a tirade…" Walker's voice trailed off as he remembered it. "He said no one's keeping him safe, that he has to protect himself—and that he's tired of everyone shitting on him. First with John Hammond overworking him beyond his original contract, nearly ruining his career, and blackmailing him—those were his words. Then with Lewis Dodgson and his gang trying to kill him several times. They left him alive so they could drive him over the edge. Again, his words. He ranted that everyone—including me—wants him dead…" He sighed as he looked down the hallway at the rows of cells on both sides. "You told me everything that happened when he was a confidential informant—it did a number on him. Everything he went through as a CI, and everything before that—Dodgson putting a hit on him, the gang beating, and even when he and Muldoon had been kidnapped—he finally crashed."

"It all caught up to him." Anderson's tone was empty. He tried to imagine what Nedry was feeling and realized he would never want to experience that depth of emotional pain.

"It did—and in the worst way," Walker replied. "I'd go as far as to include all the crimes he committed, which he regrets now. There was a time when he didn't care who he hurt—and he will tell you that—but that all changed after Hammond's stroke. He's said more than once that he's 'all messed up'. It's true…he's a broken man."

Walker kept his focus on the path in the dark hallway and his voice was barely audible when he spoke again.

"He broke down when I told him he'd face charges for the shank—and I've never seen him cry. His crying was silent. He was trying to shove down all the emotions that had burst forth after he said he's being punished for protecting himself." He turned in Anderson's direction as though seeking his understanding.

Anderson thought he was trying to maintain an even tone. Walker's voice indicated to Anderson everything he needed to know. His frustration was palpable—he had worked very hard with Nedry and to see it all go down the drain because of Dodgson's ongoing revenge…

"Eli Mills was finishing what Dodgson started," Anderson said. He found that to be reprehensible, especially because Nedry wanted to get out of the system. Unfortunately, he was still incarcerated—maybe he needed to be placed elsewhere? "What about transferring him to another prison?"

Walker's reply was swift; he had anticipated this question. "I don't want him starting over with a new staff. We know him and he knows us. We know how to handle him if he gets mouthy or out of line. He was thriving before he became a CI. He had a work assignment and was focused and compliant. I was able to work with him. He did extremely well in that one month, more so than the first two years he was here. He was motivated to change, to make better choices, and it showed. Starting over at a new facility would erase all that."

"That's understandable," Anderson said, as he glanced at the individual cells they walked past. One elderly inmate waved his middle finger in the window. "Why was he sent to this facility initially? Non-violent first timers are usually sent to a minimum-security prison."

"It was the length of his first sentence: ten to fifteen years," Walker said, and he explained that the facility housed inmates convicted of various crimes but were grouped together due to the nature of their crimes. He also explained why it was better for Nedry to stay here. "Not all wardens have the inmates' best interest. I hold quarterly job fairs and invite employers to come in from the community, so that the prisoners can practice their interview skills. We're starting a new program that uses the arts to help them learn new ways to express themselves, develop coping skills, and improve their interpersonal skills…creative writing, drama, visual arts, and music. I'm applying for grants, so that we have more funds for an addiction recovery program, a mental health program, and an education program."

Anderson was amazed although he didn't openly say it: Walker truly believed in rehabilitation.

"My wish is for every inmate here to develop skills, so they can be productive citizens. You have to remember that Nedry and other inmates will eventually be released. They will be your neighbor, coworker, and maybe, your friend. Some wardens only focus on punishment. I don't want him serving time under a warden who thinks like that. It would set him up to go backwards, and he's been punished enough."

Anderson nodded. "I appreciate your stance; especially given that there's more punishment than rehabilitation in the system."

"Exactly. Being locked away from your family and friends is punishment in itself. To go back to him though…his situation is precarious. I couldn't tell him everything that was going on when I initially placed him here. He's being kept in this unit for his safety, which was already compromised."

"He's been in the dark this entire time?! Even after what happened with that phony CO?" Anderson didn't know what he felt: dismayed, shocked, saddened… "He doesn't know that there's a prosecution team working right now to get everything together?"

Everything together referred to compiling all the evidence, obtaining all involved parties, the witnesses' names and contact information (mostly from InGen), Nedry's written statement, the audio recordings, and anything else that could be used against Lewis Dodgson and his gang in court.

"I don't think he's aware of that," Walker said. "He was transferred here several days after his last court date—which is unusual considering that last time he was in court he was remanded back here the same day. I think he was under the impression that he would have his sentence commuted right away or that he'd walk out of the courthouse as a free man."

"That's not what happened."

"No, instead he was brought back here, and took the same trip all inmates do—the 'shuttle from hell' as they call it."

Anderson frowned. "No wonder he feels like he's being punished."

"I placed him in PC less than an hour after his arrival. Once an inmate is placed in PC or protective custody, their contact with other inmates is cut off. Our facility is a little more lenient than others with inmates in protective custody though. We take the circumstances into account as to why the inmate is being held in PC, including if it's voluntarily or involuntary."

"And this was involuntary for him?"

"Right."

Anderson considered Nedry's fractured emotional state after all this time.

Getting captured by the police after being on the run for more than a year. During that time, he had committed more crimes—some he deeply regretted. Having to choose between two extremely unpleasant options: perform the potentially deadly task of extracting Henry Wu out of Lewis Dodgson's stranglehold while gathering information—or accept a life sentence. Getting tortured and abused by the group he used to run with—and hearing them take bets on his life. Visiting his former employment for a brief time and being celebrated for bringing his coworker around. By the end of the week, hoping he would be rewarded for his efforts by having his sentence commuted—only to be brought back to prison again. Forced into protective custody after everything that had occurred. Remaining hyper-vigilant because a correction officer turned out to be a mole sent by Dodgson to terrorize him—and possibly kill him. Drive Nedry to suicide or push him to act out in such a way that he would face more charges, thereby eliminating any opportunity to have his sentence reduced. Being aggressively removed from his cell and then punished for protecting himself. Finally, being kept in the dark about everything.

Anderson remembered what initially set Nedry off was Hammond keeping important information from him. Now it was happening again, but on a grander scale. If he were in Nedry's shoes, he would feel both confused and furious about what was happening to him. The sting of betrayal would be constant. Anderson understood why Nedry was "all messed up": he felt exploited and abandoned—especially after doing everything to show that he was a changed man… Anderson listened as Walker explained his current situation.

"I restored his privileges after a week of him sitting 24/7 in his cell. He's already in PC, which is almost the same as solitary confinement, but not quite. He's permitted to make two weekly phone calls, but he's chosen not to call anyone. Same with going outside for an hour of recreation once every other day. He's refusing everything."

"Does he think he's in solitary confinement?"

"No, but he acts like he is. In our facility, PC has more privileges than solitary. No phone calls, no commissary, and no visits are permitted when an inmate is in solitary confinement. In PC, he's permitted all three."

"So, he can refuse his hourly rec and not get written up?"

Walker nodded. "Yes, but once he refuses, my staff won't keep asking him. They won't come back to him if he changes his mind, so he has to wait until the next day or even the day after for rec time. He's permitted three showers during the week—it's the only thing he'll do. He's also allowed two weekly visits, an hour each. Counseling staff is available and will come down to see him, and he's refused that too."

They finally stopped at a steel door that had an index card taped to the outside. Written on the index card in all capital letters was the name: NEDRY, DENNIS. Underneath was a number: 0807-55. Walker gently rapped on the door's narrow glass panel. He pointed inside so that Anderson could see Nedry sitting on the bed. Nedry looked over his shoulder and then turned away when he saw who it was. He didn't want to speak to them, and had resumed his silent treatment, which was worse than him being mouthy and sarcastic.

Anderson had explained to Walker that ever since leaving Isla Nublar, Nedry had maintained the same eerie silence. Anderson didn't restrain him until they were in the helicopter flying over the island. He knew he was taking a huge risk during their time on Isla Nublar, but he did it out of respect for everything Nedry had done and been through—and because of what Robert Muldoon had told him. We need to stop punishing him like he's an unrepentant criminal.

When they got back to California, he was surprised when Judge Hoskins remanded Nedry back to the prison without a court date for his sentence hearing. He had stayed at the county jail for a week before being transferred back to the prison—probably because Judge Hoskins was trying to decide what to do with Nedry. Should he commute his sentence now? Or after the trials of everyone from Biosyn? Anderson knew only Judge Hoskins could make that decision, and Nedry knew it too, but it didn't matter. Everything Nedry was experiencing made him feel like nothing had changed.

"We need to explain to him that it'll take time to set up the trials for all six of his former associates he used to run with. Judge Hoskins wants to have the trials done consecutively, although it's possible that there will only be four trials, instead of six."

"Why only four?" Walker asked, keeping his attention on Nedry, who refused to face them.

"Two of the guys, George Baselton and Howard King, had their arraignments last week and pled guilty to the charges against them—including conspiracy to commit murder. You know they participated in a plot to kill him, right?" Anderson motioned to Nedry, who still refused to acknowledge their outside presence by keeping his back to them.

Walker shook his head and sighed. "I'm amazed that he's still alive, given how much he's been through." He considered what he was about to do. It was unheard of because it never happened, but there's always an exception—and this was it. "Mr. Johnson, I need you to open this door, so that Detective Anderson and I can speak with him," he said, pointing to Nedry inside the cell, who was now laying on his bed, and still pretending to ignore them.

Officer Johnson's eyebrows knitted together in confusion. "Why didn't you have him brought to your office?"

"It's better to come down here. Most of the guys are out on rec, so this was the best time. When do they return?"

Officer Johnson glanced at this watch. "Twenty minutes. It's too risky for you to go in there. You don't know what he'll do."

"He's got a point," Anderson said, agreeing with Officer Johnson.

"You should speak to him outside. I'll restrain him for your safety."

Walker gestured to the steel door bearing Nedry's name, indicating he agreed with his staff's recommendation. He and Anderson stepped aside as Officer Johnson rapped on the cell door.

"Nedry—come to the door and cuff up." Officer Johnson sighed when Nedry sat up and gave him the middle finger. "He's being difficult," he said to Anderson and Walker. He knocked on the door again, louder this time. "The warden wants to speak with you."

"He's still refusing?" Anderson asked.

Officer Johnson pounded on the cell door a third time, answering his question.

"Give him the warning," Walker said, sighing. "I don't want to go that route, but he's refusing because it gives him a sense of control."

Anderson's eyebrows knitted together. "'The warning'?"

"Warn him of cell extraction. We've taken that measure before with him. I don't want to repeat it."

Walker explained the violent and aggressive procedure which Anderson had heard of, but never witnessed: a trained response team would forcefully remove a prisoner from their cell, especially due to the possibility of danger: the inmate harming themselves or others. Sometimes it happened when the prisoner refused to be restrained and leave cooperatively, and after verbal de-escalation techniques failed to work. If there was a threat of danger, then it had to be done. Both prisoners and corrections staff risked getting injured for a variety of reasons: the cramped cell, the prisoner's noncompliance, and the staff's forcefulness. Walker also relayed that cell extractions were recorded on film, in case of lawsuits (specifically the prisoner accusing the staff of injuring them) and for learning purposes. Some cell extractions have even resulted in the prisoner's death…

"It's better if he cooperates. After what he's been through, a second cell extraction would further harm him."

"Then why are we even considering using this as a means to get him out?" Anderson asked, frustrated.

No one answered his question.

The recordings Anderson had heard during Nedry's work as a confidential informant replayed in his mind. Right now, the one that stood out the most was the night Nedry left to meet Dodgson at Carlos and Charlie's and what had transpired. On that note, Anderson fully agreed with Walker.

"Do it now," Officer Johnson demanded, still standing in front of the cell door.

On the other side, Nedry walked to the door, but didn't say anything. He gestured inside of the cell and shook his head, indicating he didn't want to leave.

"This is your final warning. After that, you know what comes next: six of us will go in there and force you out. Make the right decision."

They waited a short time and flinched when they heard a loud bang—Nedry had punched the door on his side. Moments later, two hands were thrust through the slot.

"That usually gets them moving," he said as he cuffed Nedry's wrists.

The hands disappeared and the slot closed. Officer Johnson found the key to unlock the cell door. "Mr. Walker and—" He turned to Anderson.

"Detective Corey Anderson, he knows who I am."

"Detective Corey Anderson. They want to speak with you." Officer Johnson unlocked the door and opened it. "Step out."

Nedry did as he was told and stepped outside of his cell, maintaining a cold silence the entire time.

Officer Johnson closed the door and directed Nedry. "Stand in front of the door—right there."

Nedry obeyed the command, but his defiance revealed itself in his body language. His hands were clenched into tight fists and his eyes were cold and flinty. He breathed slowly, containing his rage that was on the verge of bursting forth. Anderson and Walker stood several feet in front of him, but he refused to acknowledge them or even look in their direction.

Officer Johnson walked down the hallway, about six cells away—far enough to give them privacy, but close enough for him to act in case he needed to.

"Good afternoon." When that didn't elicit a response, Walker tried another approach. "We need to talk, Dennis." He never used Nedry's first name, but for some reason, he thought an informal approach would be effective.

Nedry's head snapped up. "We're not on a first-name basis, Daniel. Go back to your office and tell Officer Johnson to take these cuffs and shove 'em up his ass!" He tried pulling his hands apart in a futile effort to break the chain. When that didn't work, he shouted down the hallway. "I know you heard me!"

Officer Johnson glanced in his direction but made no move towards him.

Anderson watched Walker to see how he would manage this situation. Walker opened his mouth to respond when Nedry erupted in a furious rant.

"All of you are bullshit liars! Judge Hoskins lied! Dr. Malcolm lied! John Hammond lied—even Robert Muldoon lied—right in my face! All this nonsense talk—this stupid babble about sentence commutation so that I could go in there, get Henry, and almost get killed while doing so—only to end up right where I started—in this disgusting shithole!" He kicked back at his cell door.

"Watch your language," Walker said, starting to close the distance between him and Nedry. He was stopped by Anderson who held his arm out, blocking him from going further. Walker knew the gesture was meant to protect him. He followed the cue. "We need to talk about what's going on—you should've been informed from the beginning."

"Yeah, that would be nice, right? Informing an informant of what's going on? I don't need any of you," Nedry pointed accusingly at Walker and then at Anderson, "to explain to me 'what's going on'. I can see it for myself—I'm not blind. You all used me to get Henry Wu back to InGen—especially Hammond. For the first time, I thought I had a real chance at getting my life back on track. For the first time, I believed I had a 'friend'—I'm so stupid!" His laugh was shaky and when he spoke again, his voice cracked. "I have no friends, and no life." At first, he was startled, but then he picked up again. "No matter what I do, I'll never stop paying for my shitty choices. I could get killed a hundred times over and in a hundred different ways—and it still wouldn't be enough!"

Anderson maintained a calm demeanor while Nedry railed against them. Although Nedry's accusations weren't true, they hit him hard, especially hearing the hopelessness in his voice. Nedry was feeling more despondent than angry. He longed to be free from prison—and free from his criminal past. Not being allowed to return to his work assignment and forced to remain in isolation while waiting for the trials of Sonya Durant, Raúl Lopez, Roland Tembo, and Lewis Dodgson to take place—this felt like punishment. Anderson realized it didn't just feel that way—it was punishment to Nedry.

But he couldn't remain free in the outside world while the trials took place. It was a stroke of luck that Anderson was allowed to bring Nedry down to Isla Nublar, but now reality had set in once he was remanded back to the prison. Anderson never forgot Nedry's reaction when he realized he wouldn't walk out as a free man. Nedry had thought he'd have his sentence commuted right then, and instead, the opposite happened: Judge Hoskins thanked him for his "service" and mentioned his sentence hearing was postponed until further notice. Nedry's angry outburst was a culmination of all the abuse he had experienced. The timing was terrible because he wouldn't be met with a compassionate or empathetic response—instead he would be punished. Anderson had been caught off guard and so had Judge Hoskins, who had started to sign a form signifying the adjournment when Nedry's enraged shouting forced him to look up.

"'Thank you for your service'?! I got kidnapped, waterboarded, beaten up, and force-fed spoiled milk. My face was carved with a scalpel. I was told my life is worth ten bucks—while being forced to play a sick game that would only end when me and Henry shot ourselves in the head—that's what you're thanking me for?!"

Nedry had stepped away from Anderson and started to approach the bench when Judge Hoskins ordered court officers to cuff him. Judge Hoskins first directed him to lower his tone. When that didn't work, he indicated he would hold Nedry with contempt of court. Nedry heard none of it and had continued to shout obscenities even as they forced him out of the courtroom. Anderson realized his mistake too late—he should've warned Nedry that it would be some time before Judge Hoskins decided on his case. That would've helped temper Nedry's expectations so that he didn't get his hopes up.

He had been permitted back into the courtroom a short time later, still restrained and surrounded by court officers. Judge Hoskins gave him the opportunity to apologize and amend his behavior. If not, there would be further penalties… Anderson wasn't surprised that it didn't go over well. Even now, in the bowels of the prison, he could hear in his mind as Nedry and Judge Hoskins sparred in the courtroom.

"You told me I'd have my sentence commuted if I got Henry back and Dodgson's group locked up."

"Which I acknowledged."

"No—you thanked me for almost getting killed!"

"I thanked you for your service and postponed your sentence hearing for a later date."

"With no explanation! I did my part, so why aren't you doing yours?"

Anderson had thought it was a fair question…but Judge Hoskins apparently didn't think so.

"You don't get to challenge the authority of this court."

"I just did, dumbass! You perjured yourself—you shouldn't be a judge anymore. Honorable Judge Victor Hoskins? More like dishonorable."

"I'm not entertaining your nonsense. You have an opportunity to apologize and amend your behavior, or—"

"Or what?! You'll hold me in contempt? Give me a freakin' break. I'm not apologizing for your bullshit lies. You're the one who owes me an apology for lying in my face."

"I'm holding you in contempt. Remove him from the courtroom."

Anderson had figured Judge Hoskins would address Nedry's punishment later. Most times, contempt of court was punished by jail time, but being that Nedry was remanded back to the prison, jail time seemed pointless. Even so, when Anderson found out he had been transferred back to the prison after a week in the county jail, it made him wonder if Judge Hoskins had permitted that to happen. Being transferred back to prison wasn't any better…it was worse.

In the facility, he couldn't return to his cell block or resume his work assignment which would help the time to pass quicker. Nedry's safety was a priority as Walker had explained to Anderson—and Anderson understood why: Dodgson had many people on his payroll. Who knew if he had someone else working in the prison? They had caught Eli Mills after Nedry got everyone's attention by committing infractions, but still, it could be anyone: an inmate, a correctional officer, an administrator… Walker didn't want to risk Nedry doing a simple work assignment like mopping down the chow hall—only for an inmate agent of Dodgson's to come out of nowhere and stab him. Or a rogue correctional officer could lead him to an isolated area where a group of inmates waited in the shadows to beat him to death. A corrupt administrator had the power to sign paperwork and have him transferred to another prison.

Based on what Anderson had found out, Dodgson was already causing trouble at the jail he was incarcerated in. The situation with Eli Mills was only the beginning… Even when confined to a wheelchair, Dodgson manipulated both inmates and correction officers into getting what he wanted. He would use his disabled status to his advantage by presenting himself as powerless, while blaming Nedry for his current condition. Yesterday, Anderson had shared with Walker that two correction officers had already been suspended for passing along confidential information about inmates in California's penal system. Anderson didn't get the names of the inmates Dodgson was trying to get information on, but he was certain it wasn't his co-defendants—he was targeting Nedry. He knew right away to alert Walker.

Anderson was yanked back to the present when he heard Nedry still carrying on. He had retreated into his mind in an effort to not respond to Nedry's rage.

"Are you both gonna stand there and stare at me all day?!"

Anderson now looked to Walker who responded with a firm and steady manner.

"You're going to compose yourself before we continue," Walker said while Nedry inched away from his cell door. "Don't move away from the door—go back."

Nedry did as he was told and glared at him the entire time. "I hate this stupid shit. Can't even take a single step without your fucking permission."

"Compose yourself."

Nedry didn't answer. Instead, he tapped his foot rapidly indicating his impatience.

Walker understood why Nedry was upset, but right now, going back and forth with him only fueled his rage. He remembered Anderson telling him about Dodgson's antics in the county jail—how he was getting jail staff to reveal confidential information about Nedry's status. It confirmed for him that he had made the right decision to have Nedry immediately placed in protective custody. Even though his best intentions turned into a personal hell for Nedry, Walker still felt he had made the right call. There weren't many options. Walker wanted him to be productive at his work assignment and to socialize with inmates and staff, but his safety came first. Eli Mills had worsened the situation and now Nedry languished in isolation and had periods of paranoia. His mistrust of everyone was at an all-time high. Depression set in, and sometimes it manifested outwardly as anger. Nedry's sentence hearing would have to wait until all the trials reached completion—which could take months, depending on how slow or fast things went. Walker tried again.

"You're in this unit for your protection—"

"Protection?! You call what that asshole James, Mills, whatever the hell he calls himself—you call what he did to me—'protection'?" Nedry scoffed. "You both like to throw out buzzwords like 'safe' and 'protection' and not back it up. At least with Contreras, I knew where I stood. He saw me as the scum of the earth that deserved whatever I got."

Anderson and Walker exchanged a questioning glance. The name Contreras sounded familiar…Then it hit Anderson: Contreras was the corrupt cop who Dodgson bribed to look the other way while Nedry was beaten and then delayed him receiving medical attention. He wasn't sure if Walker knew about the significance of Contreras and why Nedry compared him to them.

Walker quickly addressed what Nedry brought up since it had to do with Eli Mills. "We took care of the Mills situation, he's no longer here."

Nedry's eyebrows rose. "Where is he?"

"In the county lockup."

"Where he belongs."

Anderson agreed with him but chose not to speak on it. Silence stretched on before Walker continued.

"I can't allow you to re-enter gen pop or return to your work assignment after everything you've been through. You're a marked man, and this is the only thing I can do to ensure your safety." Walker paused, noticing the stabbing glare Nedry sent him. "No one lied to you. I spoke with Judge Hoskins yesterday. Sentence commutation is still on the table, and everyone is backing you up—especially Mr. Hammond, Dr. Malcolm, and Robert Muldoon. They're your biggest advocates."

"No one is backing me up—you're a bullshit liar just like all of them! And don't feed me that line of crap about my 'safety'! Neither of you," Nedry pointed at both Anderson and Walker, "ever cared about my safety. I'm a throwaway prisoner and you connived with Hammond to get what he wanted: Henry Wu back on the island to clone more lizards."

Anderson and Walker exchanged a quick glance. They didn't want to engage Nedry's accusations, and they were going in circles. Something had to be done. Walker considered reaching out to Hammond to let him know what was going on with Nedry. Maybe if Nedry heard from his co-workers at InGen, it would lift his morale. It would be an uphill battle since he believed they were involved in a devious plan to murder him or drive him insane. First, he had to set down a strong boundary.

"One more time: stop with the language. I'm working with you and I'm asking you to work with me. If you keep this up, nothing will get done. Are we clear?"

Nedry shrugged, indifferent.

"I'll reach out to John Hammond to see if—"

"Reach out to whoever the hell you want," Nedry snapped. "It's a waste of time just like me getting Henry out of there was a waste of time. Just tell me my sentence and I'll be good to go."

"You're not being sentenced until all the trials conclude and they haven't even started yet."

"And how long will that be? Another century? I'll be dead by the time Dodgson is tried, which is what you all want."

Anderson decided he had heard enough. He switched places with Walker now. "I'll tell you what's going on, but you're gonna stay quiet until I finish."

Nedry looked from Walker to Anderson, and then a strange laugh erupted from him. "Why should I listen to anything you have to say?"

"Because I have information that will explain what's going on. Are you gonna listen or not?"

Nedry pressed his back against the cell door, refusing to say anything. Anderson took that as his cue to start.

"It's taking time because of the number of defendants involved. All six cases are going to trial: Dodgson, Baselton, King, Tembo, Sonya, and Lopez. Lewis Dodgson will be the last. Baselton and King already pled guilty for conspiracy to commit murder—when Dodgson put the hit on you. They pled guilty to all their charges, so their sentence hearings will take place in the coming weeks. That leaves us with the other four. Are you following?"

Nedry craned his neck so that he was staring up at the ceiling. Walker watched him, aware that he was trying to ignore them and not participate. Anderson didn't let Nedry's off-putting behavior stop him. He knew Nedry needed to hear everything that was going on.

"A team of prosecutors are overseeing the cases: their names are Udesky and Paul Kirby—no relation to Eric Kirby. They plan to subpoena Eric Kirby based on the conspiracy to commit murder charge. Do you remember the prosecutor in your case when you were on trial?"

For the first time since he had stepped outside the cell, Anderson saw Nedry appear interested, his anger subsiding as his shoulders relaxed and he faced them.

"Some guy named Eversoll." He tilted his head as he thought about it.

"Chances are the current prosecutors are collaborating with him to get more information. They want the cases to be airtight so that there's no wiggle-room for anyone from Biosyn to be found innocent or to claim a mistrial."

Nedry hesitated before asking the question. They could tell by the frown twisting on his face that he was still suspicious of them, but all the same, he wanted more information.

"What are their charges?"

"You already know that between all of them they're facing charges for kidnapping you, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, trespassing, property destruction—even the plot to abduct Hammond's grandchildren, they're all being charged with conspiracy to kidnap. Dodgson has the most charges since he's the head-honcho."

When Nedry responded again, they had to lean forward to hear him. "Why didn't Judge Hoskins tell me this? He didn't say anything. Not even 'we'll have your sentence hearing after the trials'. After everything I did, he couldn't give me even a little respect—or the decency to tell me what was going on."

"Don't take this the wrong way, but he still sees you as—" Walker started.

"A con, a criminal…" Nedry mumbled as he stared down at his cuffed hands. He imagined that when Judge Hoskins looked down at him from the bench he sat on, he saw an incorrigible man. "No matter what I do, I'm marked for life."

"You should've been kept in the loop," Anderson said. "I get why you're upset." He hoped validating Nedry's frustration about being kept in the dark would help in further de-escalating him—and encourage his cooperation.

When Nedry asked his next question, he sounded more certain. "Will the prosecution ask me to testify?" He looked up now, expectant, and hopeful.

Walker and Anderson nodded at the same time.

"Do you think it will help my case?"

"I'm sure it will," Walker said. "Thing is, Judge Hoskins wants to hear all the cases, but to speed things up, he and another judge may split it down the middle. That's what I heard around the rumor mill."

"Can I ask one more question?"

By now, Nedry was calmer and paying attention. Anderson and Walker exchanged a knowing glance: Nedry hated being kept in the dark. He despised being made to feel like nothing was changing for him, especially after everything he had done to show he had changed for the better—and everything he had been through.

"Go ahead," Walker said.

"Do you really think Judge Hoskins will commute my sentence? I submitted a written statement and I'll testify against them. I got as much info as I could. Most of them talked except Tembo—he wasn't fooled."

"That won't be a problem," Anderson said. "When it comes to the conspiracy to commit murder—when Dodgson put a hit on you—King and Baselton already mentioned him. They're corroborative witnesses."

"Okay…what else can I do?" Nedry looked at them now, hoping for an answer they could give him that would make being in protective custody more bearable.

"Go out for your hour of recreation," Walker said.

"Rec is in a damn cage!"

"It's all you have right now."

Nedry sighed, exasperated. "I'm not going out there just to pace back and forth like a caged lion in a zoo."

"Yes, it's in a cage and it's not a lot of time but at least you can walk and move around. It'll help release the anxiety you're feeling. You also get two weekly phone calls. Use it to your advantage. If you need to speak to the social worker, I'll send her over."

"Do you really think Judge Hoskins will commute my sentence?"

The fact that Nedry asked the same question twice didn't go unnoticed. Walker and Anderson couldn't say it in front of Nedry, but they were thinking the same thing: it was very sad that he was doubtful of his future after everything he had endured to get Wu out alive and for Dodgson and his gang to be apprehended. It's why he kept asking the same questions. Nedry was losing hope, and his frustration was eating him alive. The situation with Eli Mills had set him back, but now, they wanted him to press forward.

"I believe in hoping for the best and expecting the worst," Anderson said. "Continue to cooperate and I'm sure you'll be okay. That answer's vague, but the truth is this is all in Judge Hoskins' hands. He gave you a harsh sentence before, but once he's seen everything you've done, I'm thinking—I'm hoping," he quickly amended his words, "that he will give you some grace."

No one spoke for a full minute.

"Where do you see yourself a year from now?" Walker asked, breaking the tense silence. "We used to talk about this."

Nedry blinked, confused by his question. "What do you mean?"

"Picture yourself a year from today. Where are you and what are you doing?"

"Lying dead in the cemetery" almost spilled out of Nedry's mouth, but he stopped himself in time. He still couldn't picture his life outside of prison no matter how much he tried. Everything that came to mind was the stigma of his status as a convicted felon: his criminal record always following him. The challenges of finding a decent paying job. Knowing that no matter what he had done to make amends, some people would always judge him and write him off because of his past.

No friends—although Muldoon treated him as a friend when he asked Anderson not to cuff him during his brief stay on Isla Nublar. Same with Lawala when he gave Nedry cleaning supplies after Dodgson had humiliated him in the cafeteria during Biosyn's reign. Then he wondered if Muldoon and Lawala would still be in his corner if he spent the next thirty years behind bars. They might forget him and move on with their lives, so that once again, he was left with no friends. Wu was a friend because they were both traitors and shared traumatic experiences… Nedry didn't finish that thought. When he imagined himself serving a life sentence, it made everything so much worse. His previous work with InGen had a gigantic shadow cast over it. It was the last time he had a position as a systems analyst, and now he feared that he would never regain what he threw away. Regardless of which direction he turned, a dark depression would take over him and there was no way to avoid it.

"What do you want most for yourself?" Walker asked. "What's your number one goal?"

Nedry didn't hear him, and Walker asked him a second time. He couldn't recall the time he had told Muldoon about wanting his computer programming license/certification reinstated. Instead, all he heard were Dodgson's words echoing loudly in his mind: "I should shoot you in your fucking head right now, but death is too easy for you. No, I'll make you wish you were dead."

Nedry remembered all the times he had reached his breaking point from dealing with Dodgson. His body tensed and he tried not to reveal his anger, but his clenched fists said everything. When Walker had told him he'd face a criminal charge for the shank found in his cell, he had cried silently. The last thing he needed was another charge added to his record. Dodgson succeeded in breaking him again, only this time, he wasn't present to witness his lowest point. Sending Eli Mills to make his existence a living hell was more than enough. Then when Nedry tried reaching out to Walker and Officer Johnson, and neither man had responded, he started to spiral downward. Although he found out later that Mills had managed to get hold of his grievance forms before they reached Walker, the damage had been done.

As for Hammond—he had nearly destroyed Nedry's career. Nedry wanted to believe that they had come a long way in repairing their broken working relationship. Hammond had advocated for his sentence to be commuted. Hammond even celebrated with him on Isla Nublar for helping to bring Wu around, but the moment Nedry left with Anderson to return to the States for his initial court appearance, it was out of sight, out of mind. Where was he during this entire month? Focused on opening Jurassic Park to the world. That's the only thing that ever mattered to John Hammond: making money off Jurassic Park. Hammond's silence confirmed that he had lied to Nedry to get what he wanted—and that Muldoon and Malcolm were in on the plan: get Wu to return to InGen. Once that was accomplished, Hammond had no more use for Nedry.

No one did.

His hopes for a second chance, a new start, had blown away in the wind. There was nothing left for him. With all that in mind, he knew exactly what he was thinking. The response he wanted to give Walker was obvious—but he could never say it aloud: he wished he was dead.

If he was dead, he wouldn't have to deal with constant rejection from the outside world or the overpowering shame and self-hatred that plagued him. He wouldn't repeatedly ask himself why he messed up his life so badly. Nor would he remain stuck when his mind went in circles about everyone he had harmed because of his selfish actions. He wouldn't have to exist in this permanent state of loneliness. He wouldn't yearn for friends he didn't have. Nor would he be fearful of enemies who would do any and everything to destroy him. Being dead meant thinking and feeling nothing. It meant escaping from himself…

There had been many nights when he laid awake, thinking on how he would end it all—but he didn't dare mention that to Walker. If he did, he would be placed on suicide watch which he didn't want. Instead, Nedry stared at the ground when he finally answered Walker's question.

"I don't know where I see myself a year from now. All I know is no one's kept me in the loop of what's going on. It felt like I was dumped back here and that's it. Lock me up and throw away the key." He wiped his face, smudging away an angry tear threatening to course down his cheek. "I did everything that was asked of me, and none of it mattered 'cause I'm here again."

"It's temporary, that's what you have to tell yourself," Walker said. "Being here is not forever."

"It feels like it though."

"I know it does, but it's not." When Nedry didn't respond, Walker continued. "You have to come up with a daily routine while you're in PC so that you get through it."

"What kind of routine?"

"Try doing three to four repetitive tasks between meals. Exercise. Organize your belongings. Rest. Read. I'll bring you a notebook and a pencil, so you can write."

Nedry squinted, skeptical at what Walker suggested, but all the same, he was curious. "What should I write about?"

"Your first day of freedom. Who do you see? What do you do? Where do you go?"

Nedry looked down the hallway at where Officer Johnson waited and then focused on Walker. "You weren't trying to get rid of me?"

Walker had a tight smile on his face. "The only way I'd get rid of you is if you walk out of my prison a free man."

"You weren't working with James-or-Mills?"

"Never—he walked out of here in 'silver bracelets' as you call them. I'm working with you—not against you."

Anderson tilted his head as he considered the exchange between Nedry and Walker. Walker truly had a gift for working with offenders. He was firm and compassionate without being a doormat. Most importantly, he was consistent.

"I'll bring you a book later today, along with notepad and pencil. In the meantime, think about who you want to call."

Nedry reconsidered his thoughts on Hammond. Maybe he was wrong to assume Hammond discarded him once Wu returned. Perhaps Hammond was busy focusing on Jurassic Park, which was understandable given how long he had been hospitalized. If Nedry spoke to him, he would know right away where his former employer stood on the matter. He remembered what Hammond shared in the courtroom just before he was released to be a CI. Hammond had advocated for him…so maybe his worst fears weren't reality-based.

He then remembered Malcolm defended him in court in Costa Rica. He advocated that Nedry had tried to make amends to InGen and that he wasn't fully responsible for Hammond's stroke. He was able to get Nedry's charges dropped: trespassing on InGen property and aggravated assault. Malcolm was decent in his book.

Then there was Muldoon. Once his sworn enemy, Muldoon stood up for him when Contreras' brutality was on full display after they returned to the island. The fact that Muldoon had testified against him and they had fought several times—none of this was lost on Nedry. Every act of shared hostility paled in comparison to the deep respect they had for each other now. No one understood it, but it was real—and Nedry always knew Muldoon to be real. He was a flawed man who always strove to do the right thing—including not allowing a corrupt cop to bully Nedry.

On that note, Malcolm and Muldoon probably weren't aware of what was going on with Nedry. And if they didn't know, how would Hammond know? His heart had been encased in ice and now it started to thaw. All three men had believed in Nedry getting a second chance—so he knew he had to give them the benefit of the doubt. Now he knew who he wanted to call.

"Can it be long distance?"

"Now you're pushing it," Walker said, smiling.

Anderson chuckled, but Nedry remained stone-faced.

"I'm serious."

"As long as the receiver accepts the charges, it's fine," Walker said as he now signaled for Officer Johnson to return. "There's some other things you need to know."

Nedry's heart thudded in his chest. He hated being kept in the dark, but now he wondered if knowing information was worse.

"I'm having the eye doctor come to the facility next week. You need new glasses."

Nedry sighed in relief. "That's not so bad."

"I'm also sending you to the county hospital the week after to have a full medical workup."

"Is it necessary?"

"It is. I want you to have a thorough medical examination with labs, x-rays, and bloodwork," Walker said. "After everything you experienced in the past month, I need you fully checked out off-site—for your safety," he quickly added. "I'll have Officer Johnson and Officer Carter take you since they know you and you work well with them."

Nedry was about to protest. He'd much rather have everything done in the prison—it was always embarrassing to leave the prison for any medical appointments due to the department's standard procedure for inmates' transport. Then he realized that Walker had his best interest in mind. Having the exam off-site meant that no one could interfere with his care as Eli Mills had done when he posed as a correction officer.

"Let's end this on a positive note. I'll keep you in the loop of what's going on," Anderson said. "Get in touch with John."

"And take your hour for rec. Stay focused on how you want your life to be once you leave here," Walker added.

"I'll try." Nedry looked up just in time to see Officer Johnson come forward.

Officer Johnson unlocked the cell door. "Step inside."

Nedry started to step inside the cell when he heard Walker behind him.

"Wait—I almost forgot." Walker pulled out an envelope from his pants pocket. "This was found in Mills' locker. He wasn't just stashing away your grievance forms."

Nedry turned around and almost dropped the letter Walker gave him. He felt all three men watching him as he removed the letter from the already opened envelope. He knew from other prisoners that letters were opened by correction officers before the inmates received them. This was to track down and prevent any drug contraband from making its way to the recipient. The letter was brief and straight to the point. Nedry wasn't surprised since that fitted Muldoon's personality. He read the letter aloud.

"Dennis: I told you to put your best foot forward. Next time, do as I bloody say so that you can get out of there. Stop playing stupid games, you've won enough stupid prizes. Robert." Nedry's eyebrows furrowed together in disbelief. He looked up and saw the amused expression on Walker's face. "Is he serious?"

"Apparently so," Walker answered.

"Read the back," Anderson said, pointing at the letter.

Nedry turned it over and read that part aloud. "Always remember that you were the only one (in that crazy group) who gave a damn when it counted most. I'll never forget that, and neither should you. You have it in you to do the right thing—so do it. No excuses. George L." He rolled his eyes, amused. "Those self-righteous pricks are gonna give me an aneurysm."

But his tone didn't match his words.

Even Anderson and Walker could tell that the contents of the letter had an impact on Nedry. When he had lashed out before, he believed he had been forgotten about and tossed aside. And worse, that everyone had lied and manipulated him into doing what Hammond wanted—while letting him rot in prison when it was over. The letter was concrete proof that those on the outside still remembered him. Walker knew from seeing countless inmates' reactions that letters from the outside meant a lot. It helped to lessen inmates' depression and lifted their morale. The encouragement from someone on the outside, who still cared about their well-being, couldn't be understated. This was the boost Nedry needed to get through during the next several months. He folded the letter and started to hand it back. Walker shook his head.

"Keep it, and let it motivate you," he said. "I'm sorry that you didn't get it sooner." Walker meant it.

"Thank you…this means a lot…" Nedry said as he kept the letter close to him and then turned to Officer Johnson, who had held the cell door open.

"Are you ready?" Officer Johnson asked.

Nedry nodded silently and stepped back into the cell. Officer Johnson closed the door, locking it behind him. He waited a moment before Nedry put his hands through the slot.

"I heard what you said back there about shoving the cuffs up my ass," he said, laughing as he unlocked the restraints. "Don't think I wasn't listening to you talk trash again. Just for that, no recreation hour for being a Grade A clown!"

"I was joking, don't be such an oversensitive punk," Nedry called inside from the cell. "Grow a set."

Walker hung back, listening to their exchange. He could tell neither one was being malicious. Nedry had been angry at the time when he said what he did, but Officer Johnson knew not to respond in the same manner.

"This is why I let Officer Johnson work with him," Walker said. "They have a history, and he knows how to handle Nedry's mouthiness."

"Smart idea," Anderson said. They started down the long hallway. It was strangely quiet now. "What book will you give him?"

"As a Man Thinketh by James Allen."

oOo

John Hammond was sitting in his office in the visitor center when the phone rang. He reviewed the six files of potential employees based on whom Alan Grant, Ellie Sattler, and Ray Arnold had interviewed. They had interviewed over five candidates for each position and now they were down to two possible candidates for each position. Hammond thought all six candidates looked promising, but he wanted the best of the best. Crème de la crème, he thought, smiling. For the past month, this was his focus. The phone rang a third time and this time he picked it up. His eyes widened when he recognized the voice on the other line.

"How're you holding up, Dennis?"

Hammond stacked the files and put them to the side so that he could concentrate on their conversation. Nedry's tone sounded terribly off, almost depressed. He was asking if Hammond, along with Malcolm and Muldoon, would return to California when the trials started. To Hammond, the answer was obvious, but he realized it wouldn't be clear to Nedry. He remembered Anderson telling him that Nedry had been sent to the county jail right after showing up in Judge Hoskins' courtroom. A week later, he was transferred back to the prison. This bothered Hammond as he didn't think it was fair for him to be incarcerated again, but once Anderson explained that Judge Hoskins wanted to see if Nedry would continue to cooperate—meaning if he was willing to testify against everyone from his former Biosyn team, including Lewis Dodgson—then he understood the rationale. He also knew that for Nedry's safety, he had been placed in protective custody.

Hammond had spoken to the staff individually about these updates…but he had never told Wu. He wanted Wu to focus on adjusting to being back on the island with the InGen staff…

Prior to Nedry's call, Daniel Walker had updated Hammond on everything that had occurred once he was transferred back to the prison. Hammond's stomach had done cartwheels when he found out that Dodgson had managed to send in one of his cronies to terrorize Nedry… His fear had immediately morphed into anger as he had clenched the phone tightly when Walker explained everything. By the end of their conversation, Hammond was beyond sick and tired of Dodgson. The deranged monster (because he wasn't even a human being in Hammond's eyes) needed to be locked up for the rest of his natural life. Walker had told him to expect a call from Nedry—which was happening now.

"I'm sorry I haven't been in touch—I've been working on hiring new staff. Remember you told me I run the park on minimal staff?"

Hammond smiled, and just as quickly, his happy expression faded, and he frowned.

"Of course, we'll be there. Henry will be there too."

Just at that moment, Wu showed up in the doorway. He was about to step inside and then waved his hand to indicate he knew Hammond was busy on the phone. He could always come back later. Hammond shook his head and pointed at the chair in front of his desk, inviting Wu to sit down. Wu did so and waited patiently as Hammond continued his conversation. As he listened, he thought it sounded like Nedry on the other line, except that he was far away.

"You're not alone…no, we know what's going on. I don't want you to be incarcerated, none of us do. You—wait what?!"

Hammond's eyebrows rose and Wu wondered what Nedry was telling him that had elicited that reaction.

"Well…that's good…if only the rest of them would follow suit and plead guilty…yes, exactly, we would be done with this mess and be able to put it behind us. You'd be out already, I'm sure of it…you're right, Dodgson's not the type to plead guilty…"

Hammond was quiet as he listened to Nedry. Wu wondered what life was like for Nedry after he left Isla Nublar with Anderson. He was ashamed to admit that he had been so focused on adjusting to being on the island again, that he didn't think of Nedry too much. From the sound of it, he was locked up again. A heaviness settled around Wu—Nedry had risked his life to get him out of Dodgson's iron grip and now he was incarcerated? Again?! It didn't make sense. He looked up when he heard Hammond concluding his call.

"You're in the home stretch, don't give up…I know you're tired. We're right behind you…yes, every step of the way…I'll be in touch with Detective Anderson and Mr. Walker…remember your safety is priority…alright…bye now."

Hammond put the phone back on the hook and stared at it for some time before acknowledging Wu sitting across from him.

"How are you doing, Henry?" Hammond tried to sound cheerful, but sadness was present in his voice as it shook slightly. Even his smile, which he meant to be welcoming for Wu, came off forced.

"I'm doing well. Was that Dennis?" Wu pointed at the phone as though expecting it would be Nedry sitting across from him.

Hammond nodded. "Yes, that was him. He's having a very difficult time."

"Why?"

"After he and Anderson left here, he had to return to the States for his court date. He thought he'd have his sentence commuted right away but instead he was transferred back to prison. The warden placed him under protective custody."

"Is that like solitary confinement?" Wu sat back in his chair, disturbed by all this recent news. How come Hammond hadn't told him this before?

"No, he has more privileges in protective custody, although he's isolated there. It's for his safety because of his ties with Lewis Dodgson. It's not a punitive measure, although it sounds like it."

"Oh." Wu's eyes fell to the desk between them. He couldn't face Hammond directly when that name came up. "He can't do his work assignment, have meals with other inmates…?" He tried to recall what he learned about prison life from Nedry.

Hammond shook his head. "He can't do any of those things. He's completely cut off from everyone."

"How come you didn't tell anyone?"

"I told Robert, and he wrote Dennis right away when he found out what happened in court that day. From what Detective Anderson tells me, it was bad." Hammond then realized he hadn't answered Wu's question. "I didn't let you know because you have enough on your plate with getting adjusted again to being back here."

Wu said nothing as he tried to imagine being completely isolated from everyone—even if it was for his safety and protection. He'd go crazy if he had to live through what Nedry was going through. It would be frustrating, especially if he thought he'd be granted an early release or a sentence commutation—only to be locked up and separated from everyone.

"As you know, Dodgson has contacts everywhere. It turns out he sent someone in there to pose as a correction officer to threaten Nedry—maybe even kill him." Hammond paused when he heard Wu draw in his breath sharply. "He had already infiltrated the police department if you remember?"

Wu blinked. He remembered Dodgson mentioning that he had a contact at the prison—and how Dodgson didn't answer Sonya Durant's question if the person was posing as an inmate or correction officer. Now he knew it was Eli Mills… Wu stared at Hammond's desk. His heart thumped hard, and his chest ached. He didn't want to imagine what it was like to be in Nedry's shoes. Someone had been hiding in the shadows, ready to finish him off at Dodgson's orders. Wu was about to question how Dodgson managed to accomplish this, and he realized he didn't want to find out. Dodgson was far more manipulative and cutthroat than he ever imagined. He was ruthless beyond measure.

As far as Dodgson infiltrating the police department…Memories of the police imposters, Oscar Morales and Nima Cruz, flashed through his mind. They had been there the night Nedry had been ambushed at Carlos and Charlie's. Dodgson had wanted to involve them in the kidnapping plot to capture Tim and Lex Murphy. Wu didn't want to remember how Morales and Cruz tried to run him and Nedry off the road during the police chase by purposely rear-ending them. He looked up when he heard Hammond.

"To ensure his safety, Dennis had been placed in protective custody, and it turns out, that's where the fake correction officer was. Thankfully they had him arrested and moved Dennis to another cell. Given what he's done to get you back to InGen, while also getting information for the police—he's high on Dodgson's hit list. He went through a lot more than what I'm sharing, but at this moment, he's doing better compared to before. I'll share this with everyone later, but I wanted you to be the first to know."

"I'm glad he's safe now." What Wu really wanted to say was: I hope he's safer now.

"He is, and I reassured him that we're in his corner. He felt alone, like we had forgotten him and would let him rot in prison."

Wu swallowed hard. He thought he knew what it felt like to be overwhelmed with hopelessness, when he was stuck with the Biosyn team in Los Altos. Looking back, he could've left anytime he chose—but he was too scared to do so. He thought Dodgson would repeat history and send Tembo to kill him. At least he could've tried to get away like Nedry did that time. This time, Nedry had no means of escape and no one to turn to… Wu didn't realize he was trembling until he heard Hammond.

"Whether he's leading the department of research at Biosyn as a cover for industrial espionage or laid up in a hospital bed, Lewis Dodgson is extremely dangerous."

Wu nodded. He didn't need Hammond to tell him that Dodgson was dangerous. He had experienced Dodgson's horrific temper firsthand. He had been present when Dodgson planned Nedry's abduction while making it seem like he would invite Nedry for a personal talk. And he had been roped into the kidnapping scheme to snatch Tim and Lex off the island—all in exchange for Jurassic Park. Even seeing the scars on Nedry's face caused a pit of terror to expand in Wu's stomach. Remembering how Dodgson punched him across the face, how he had accused him of betrayal, and forced him and Nedry to play Russian Roulette… Wu wanted to forget every horrible moment. He hoped in time that he would be able to do so. At the same time, something else bothered him…

He was free and Nedry was locked up.

This struck Wu as extremely unfair. Here he was, back at Jurassic Park, as though he had never left. As though he had never betrayed Hammond and InGen. He could come and go as he pleased. He had his office again and his own comfortable suite in the staff lodge. He had eased right back into his position as chief geneticist—so easily that it seemed like a dream. Like he had never left—never betrayed InGen for Biosyn. Whereas Nedry was right back where he started—serving hard time behind bars. Being made to feel like he was the worst of the worst by society's standards. Because of Nedry's situation, Wu found it difficult to picture himself remaining with InGen. There were other reasons that made him feel this way, but now learning about Nedry's predicament pushed him to make another difficult decision. It wasn't right that Nedry had risked his life to help him, only to be forced into protective custody—even if it was temporary and well-intentioned. Wu stood up.

"John, I have to take care of something—" He had to make up something fast. "I have to check the new eggs in the lab."

"Oh, go and do what you have to do. I didn't mean to keep you here." Hammond smiled as Wu bolted from his seat and left the office.

Wu breathed a sigh of relief when he was certain Hammond wasn't in earshot. He didn't want to go to the labs—that was just an excuse. He needed to get back to his room in the staff lodge, open his laptop, so that he could start writing Hammond a letter. It was only four in the afternoon, and he figured he could go back to the labs after dinner to check on the eggs that hadn't hatched yet. Without a second thought, Wu headed towards the visitor center's entrance. As he crossed the main lobby, he thought he heard thunder rumbling and then the loud pitter-patter of rain pouring down. He had nearly reached the double doors when he heard banging from the other side. Wu reached the doors in time and opened them.

Ellie Sattler stood on the other side; her blonde hair wet and matted to her head. Her clothes were soaked—she had just been caught in the storm. At her feet were two flowerpots containing African violets.

"Come inside, Ellie, it's pouring out there," Wu said, gesturing for her to come inside the visitor center.

Ellie grabbed the two potted plants and stepped into the visitor center. Just before Wu closed the doors, he saw white lightning zigzag across the charcoal gray storm clouds. A crackling sound and then thunder boomed. The rain poured down in heavy sheets.

"Thanks, Henry. It was sunny on the way here, and then out of nowhere storm clouds rolled in…"

"You're by yourself?"

"Lex is playing video games with Tim in the staff lodge. Ian's out in the park with Alan checking on a juvenile stegosaur, so it's just me today."

"Gotcha. Let me see if I can find a towel in the labs. I know that's a random place to have a towel, but we have all sorts of stuff stashed there." Wu turned to leave when Ellie called out to him.

"It's okay, I'll be fine. The water is good for the violets."

"Where do you need the flowers?" He picked up one flowerpot while Ellie used her fingers to comb her hair that dripped water.

"You can bring them to the cafeteria. I have some more in the jeep, but I'll just wait out the storm before going back to get them."

"I can help you—"

"That won't be necessary."

Wu glanced at Ellie, a puzzled expression on his face. Something in Ellie's tone sounded odd. He offered a brief reassuring smile, communicating to her that he was glad to help her out. Ellie returned the smile, but it was forced and not warm. He was going to say something about it when Ellie grabbed the first flowerpot and headed off to the cafeteria with it. Wu followed her. They didn't speak the entire time. It was starting to dawn on him about the significance of this brief interaction… When they got inside the cafeteria, only then did Ellie direct him.

"You can put the one you're carrying over there," Ellie said, pointing at the furthest table on the right side. "I'll run back and get the other ones."

"I'll go with you." Wu placed the flowerpot where she had directed him.

"It's okay; I got it—really, I do." Ellie offered a half-hearted smile this time, and Wu tried to return the kind gesture, but ended up frowning.

She started to leave the cafeteria when Wu decided he couldn't pretend anymore. He sensed her unease around him, and it would be better to address it directly, rather than act like everything was fine. Ellie's answers were short. Her eyes flickered away when they spoke, and her tone sounded like she forced herself to be cordial. It had been this way ever since his return…and it was time to talk to address what had caused the rupture.

"Ellie—Dr. Sattler," he quickly amended. "I need to speak with you about something." What the hell was that?! That was so awkward, and he felt his face heat up with embarrassment. He realized there weren't any perfect words for what he needed to say, but he had to try.

Ellie turned around to face Wu. She stepped back from him, creating distance between them. Even from where he stood, he noticed her swallow nervously. She didn't know what to expect from him…and she didn't trust him. This is what Dennis meant about "punishment" … The thought took root in Wu's mind.

Punishment…consequences…

"I'm sorry for what happened when Dodgson took over…" He took a deep breath as he forced himself to admit his previous actions aloud. "For the time I helped Sonya destroy your greenhouse…I'm truly sorry."

Hearing it stated aloud made it seem so much worse.

That fake smile again. "It's fine. Water under the bridge, you know?"

Wu wanted to believe her, but Ellie's words and actions didn't match up. They hadn't the entire time.

"It's not okay—what happened that day was wrong. I was wrong."

"Don't you think I know that, Henry? What do you want me to say?"

Wu saw Ellie mouthing Dr. Wu. He didn't know what to make of that. He had no idea how to answer her. That's when he realized that nothing he said or did would make a difference. Ellie still felt distrustful of him—and he didn't blame her. He thought she had forgiven him for betraying InGen and aligning with Dodgson. For the cruel behavior he had exhibited when he affiliated himself with Biosyn during that time. Maybe she had forgiven him…but she hadn't forgotten.

"I don't know…what about you and George Lawala?"

Wu wasn't sure if Ellie would respond to his question—but he had to know: what was different about Ellie's connection with Lawala? Since the time he had returned to Isla Nublar, he had noticed Ellie and Lawala talking to each other, getting along, working together… Their rapport seemed natural, and not pretense. It was real, and not for show. Wu realized he had the same thoughts when he observed Nedry and Muldoon talking outside near the cold storage room. Two people who had once held such intense animosity towards each other could get along and respect each other… It amazed him.

And it's what he wanted with Ellie Sattler. He wanted to restore what he had broken—but he didn't know how.

Ellie squinted at him from across the table. "George earned my trust, Henry. It didn't happen overnight."

"How? How did he—"

Ellie's tone was abrupt. "He helped rebuild my greenhouse—the same greenhouse you helped Sonya destroy."

Wu nodded slowly, still at a loss for words. He heard Ellie sigh as she shifted the flowerpot on one table.

"I appreciate your apology, but it takes more than words to restore what's broken between us."

"And what's that?" The words slipped out of his mouth before he could hold them back, and now Ellie stared back at him, horrified.

"Trust, Henry. Trust. You have to earn my trust back. It's not freely given—especially after everything you've done."

Wu opened his mouth to respond, but Ellie cut him off before he could say anything.

"John's notion of forgiveness is nice, but he wasn't here to see you at your worst. I respect his position—but I don't feel the same way…" She shook her head as her voice trailed off. "I don't know if I ever will."

Without another word, Ellie walked past him, leaving him standing alone in the cafeteria. He didn't know where she had gone. Deciding it was best to leave, Wu quietly left the cafeteria and made his way through the visitor center. He saw her near the hallway that led to everyone's offices. Ellie met his eyes briefly and turned away as if something else had caught her attention. He stood there, waiting, wondering if he should say something else—but what? He had no idea, and now he could feel her burning stare, accusing him, condemning him for what he had done in the past—instead of accepting who he was now. Unable to respond adequately, Wu made his way through the main lobby now. He didn't hear her behind him. Relief rushed through him when he saw the doors that would lead him to the front of the building.

He opened the doors and saw that it had stopped raining. It had probably been a cloudburst—those frequently happened on the island. It would be storming one minute, and the next minute, the sun would shine through the clouds. Wu walked down the steps and looked up: the clouds blocked the sun. When he got to the bottom of the steps, he saw the gas-powered jeep and the four flowerpots containing African violets in the backseat. He briefly considered bringing them to Ellie but then decided against it. If he kept trying to assist her with the flowers, it would appear phony. It was better to head back to the staff lodge as he had originally planned.

oOo

Wu sat hunched over his desk inside his living quarters at the staff lodge. The laptop was open with a blank document; he hadn't yet typed anything as he wasn't sure how to begin. He had left his door slightly open, so that it wouldn't come off like he was shutting out everyone. He had done that at Los Altos when he was hiding out with Dodgson and the gang. There was no reason to do that here. He was with family as Hammond had told him when he first returned. Ellie's earlier interaction with him made it clear that some "family" members didn't want him around… She had always been uncomfortable since the day he returned to Isla Nublar, but today was the first time he had pushed himself to address it. He did it, knowing he wouldn't like the outcome, while also understanding he had to accept it. And there was another inner knowing—that Ellie couldn't be the only one who felt this way…

Someone knocked on the door, interrupting his thoughts.

"Come in," Wu called.

Harding entered the room and approached him, but then stopped midway. Wu noticed this had happened with Harding before. It reminded him of Ellie's behavior in the cafeteria: Harding kept his distance. Wu quickly glanced at his shelf, remembering the award plaque the InGen staff had presented to him when he and Nedry first returned: Henry Wu: A Trailblazer in the Field of Genetics. The Miracle Worker of Jurassic Park. He wondered now if he was truly a miracle worker—or if he was holding onto that title because it made him feel better.

"Just dropped in to see when you were joining us for dinner."

Wu sighed inwardly. He had to stop being paranoid. If Harding was inviting him to dinner with Muldoon, Arnold, and Lawala, then it couldn't be that bad.

"In an hour or so."

"Sounds good, I'll see you then."

Before Wu could respond, Harding turned around and left. Wu watched as he walked out in a hurry. He tried not to overthink Harding rushing out—if he did, he would never start writing this letter. Wu sighed as he stared at the blank screen.

Why was he making this decision again?

He wanted to be sure he wasn't running away because of that brief uncomfortable encounter with Ellie. Was he driven by his guilt about Nedry's incarceration and how he had been forced into protective custody? No, he decided. He would write this letter because it was the best thing to do—it was the right thing to do. His dreams of fame and recognition had gotten to his head, leading him to having an inflated ego and betraying InGen. He had been vicious to his coworkers, harassed and bullied them just to prove to Dodgson that he was loyal to Biosyn. Ellie's visible discomfort and Harding keeping short conversations were the consequences Nedry had warned him about. And those were light consequences when he considered everything he had done. They have a right to feel that way, Wu acknowledged. I would feel the same way if the roles were reversed.

But what if those consequences never went away?

Another thought entered Wu's mind: Jurassic Park opening its doors to the world was a real possibility. More than ever before. Didn't he want to be around to see it finally open to the public? To witness little children marveling at the dinosaurs? Wu stared at the blank screen trying to imagine a little boy's delight at seeing a tyrannosaur towering over the electrified fence, or a little girl's joy at watching a triceratops grazing in its paddock. Try as he might, the visions didn't move him. They vanished as soon as they showed up in his mind. That's when he knew what he had to do. Even if Hammond were to tell him great news: that Jurassic Park would open in six months' time with trial visitors as a test run—Wu decided it would be better to leave.

Without further hesitation, Wu started to type his letter with Hammond full name and InGen's corporate address in the top left corner. He purposely left out the date. The opening came naturally to him.

Dear John,

Please accept this letter as notice of my resignation from my position as chief geneticist.

The rest of the letter remained blank. He stood up to go to dinner earlier than planned. He would eat by himself tonight and then finish the letter later. Wu decided he would let Harding know he had changed his plans. It was for the best…just as resigning from InGen would be best for everyone—including him.

oOo

One week later, Wu sat across from Hammond in the older man's office. He watched as Hammond read the resignation letter to himself. Based on the length of time that had gone by, Wu guessed that Hammond was rereading the letter a second time—possibly a third time. He was wondering when Hammond would address him, when Hammond put the letter down on his desk. Hammond faced him now, his eyes shiny, as though trying to hold back the emotions he was feeling.

"I'm stunned…I can't believe it…" Hammond shook his head as he picked up the letter to read it again. Then just as quickly, he placed it down.

Wu wanted to avoid Hammond's questioning stare, but he forced himself to look at him directly. "I have to do it, sir."

"'Sir'…" Hammond said absently, recalling how Wu used to greet him in the labs. It was a sign of reverence and respect from Wu. "You'll be famous at last, Henry. You'll be known for your incredible accomplishments as you should be…I don't understand."

Wu swallowed the lump in his throat as his eyes landed on a framed photo on the wall showing him, Arnold, Muldoon, Harding, and Nedry. It seemed like eons ago when Hammond took the photo. Wu stood between Harding and Nedry, grinning widely and giving two thumbs up. He carried the same photo with him, and every so often, he would take it out and stare at it, wishing that things could be what they were before he and Nedry betrayed InGen. He wanted to go back to the idealistic and naïve version of himself from all those years ago, but he knew that was impossible. Once, we were your magical five, and now there are only three… The thought haunted Wu and he didn't want to ever voice it aloud.

"I've learned that there are more important things than fame."

Hammond listened, but the sadness never left his eyes.

"Loyalty…integrity…honesty…friendship…"

"Yes, those are very important."

"I'd like my resignation to take effect immediately."

Hammond was quiet as he contemplated Wu's request and then an idea came to him. "Why don't you take some time off to think about what you want to do? There's no need to leave so fast."

"But John, my work here is done. You can open Jurassic Park to the world now."

"Not without you by my side. You're my Miracle Worker—you always have been and always will be…"

Wu heard the bend in Hammond's voice. He knew this wasn't going to be easy, but he had to push through. "You can open the park and know that I was behind the scenes. It's better that way."

"Jurassic Park exists because of you, Henry."

"I appreciate that, but I need to leave. I need to take time off to figure out what I want." I need to free myself from both Biosyn and InGen. That was the truth of the matter. The words were on the tip of his tongue, but he didn't dare speak them aloud. "I might come back…" He didn't want to make any false promises. "I just need to figure things out."

"Take however much time you need and know that the door is always open to you. Jurassic Park will always be your second home, and InGen is your second family."

Wu nodded, trying to avoid Hammond's eyes now.

"Does your decision have anything to do with Dennis?"

He looked up when he heard Hammond's question. It felt like Hammond knew exactly what he was thinking and feeling. As though he were able to see through any pretenses he may've used.

"No, but he's been on my mind for some time now."

"Are you sure you're not feeling guilty because you're here on the island, and he's locked up?"

Wu replayed everything from the moment Tembo and Lopez had captured Nedry on Dodgson's orders. All the conversations when Nedry challenged him, the frightening game of Russian Roulette Dodgson had forced them to play, and the strange connection they shared both as traitors and the violence they had experienced together.

"It's partially that," he admitted. His stomach cartwheeled when he thought of the conversation that he and Ellie had last week. It's for her peace of mind, she deserves it.

"You have to remember that Dennis was on the run when he got caught—before he went in to get you out of there. Before that, Dodgson broke him out of prison and from there he came to the island with his group multiple times…" Hammond moved some papers around on his desk as though trying to distract himself. "You know this already, Henry. He's back at the prison, but hopefully it's temporary this time."

"How do you know that?"

"Because Judge Hoskins plans to review his case once everyone else goes to trial."

"He has to wait for Lopez, Tembo, Sonya, and Dodgson to stand trial—before his date in court?" That's so unfair, he thought. Wu couldn't believe it and he wondered how long their trials would take.

Hammond nodded. "Yes, and during that time, he'll remain in protective custody. He has to, for his safety. He'll be helping the prosecution by testifying against Dodgson and the entire group, so that puts him in a very dangerous position."

"I know." Wu felt like they had this conversation before. Hammond wasn't telling him anything he didn't know. Nothing guaranteed Nedry's safety—not even protective custody.

"Why don't we do this…wait until all the trials are over. When Dennis is set to meet with the judge again, if you still feel like going on temporary leave or even resigning, you can do it. I'm hoping Dennis will leave as a free man this time. Also, tell the rest of the park staff. Give them time to grieve your departure, even if it seems early."

Wu thought about it and decided that he agreed. What Hammond proposed was reasonable and fair. He told him this.

"I'm glad you agree, Henry. I just know that they won't take it well—especially Ray. He was so glad when you returned."

Wu didn't want to say anything about how Ellie had behaved towards him the other day in the cafeteria. Even after that time, she was still cold and distant. Or how Harding kept their conversations short. Grant and Malcolm were cordial to Wu, as were Tim and Lex. Lawala made him feel welcome, and Wu figured he appreciated his presence. As someone who had once been aligned with Lewis Dodgson, Lawala understood that it was a tremendous decision for Wu to return to InGen after dealing with Biosyn. Gennaro had always maintained a good relationship with him, but Wu suspected it was because he saw Jurassic Park as a moneymaker—not because he genuinely respected or liked Wu.

Muldoon and Arnold accepted him back with open arms. This was surprising to Wu, given their reactions when he revealed he was aligned with Dodgson. They didn't hide their anger—especially Muldoon. Arnold had been hurt more by his betrayal. Both men were in denial for some time. Perhaps they were more forgiving since they saw the efforts Nedry had made to turn his life around—and how he had risked his life when he abandoned Dodgson and helped InGen. They understood Wu had taken the same risks when he decided to return to InGen. Wu realized Muldoon also gave him a chance because of what he had gone through with Nedry.

"Do you think he'll get in trouble for the Molotov cocktail?" Wu asked, trying to change the subject.

Hammond folded his hands as he considered what Wu asked. "Dennis wasn't in the right frame of mind when he tossed that cocktail—just as you were under duress when you shot Lewis Dodgson—but between you and me…" He leaned over his desk in a conspiratorial manner. "I'm glad he burned Biosyn's old headquarters to the ground, or rather, he tried to. Firefighters arrived on the scene before too much damage was done."

Wu sat at the edge of his seat now. He was tempted to share with Hammond the truth—that he and Nedry had worked together to make the Molotov cocktail—and that he was the one who threw it. He decided who he could share that info with.

"I would pay for the best lawyer to have him cleared of all charges, so that he serves minimal time, maybe even community service, but he's turned down all my offers," Hammond said, shaking his head.

"Maybe it's his way of separating from InGen. He needs to do it, and so do I."

"You're right…that's probably what it is."

A long silence passed before it ended when Hammond sighed in sad acceptance of Wu's news.

"John, thanks for understanding…and thank you for everything."

"No, Henry. Thank you."

"I'm gonna head out and meet with Ray and Robert for dinner." Wu stood up and Hammond mirrored his actions. He turned to the doorway, ready to leave, when he heard Hammond.

"Before you meet with them, why don't you and I take a walk in the park?"

Wu's eyebrows furrowed. He sensed there was something Hammond wanted to tell him, but that he didn't want to do it in the office. He realized his sixth sense was right with what Hammond said next.

"There's something I want to discuss with you alone outside of here…it won't take long, I promise." Hammond smiled as he came around his desk to join Wu.

Together, they silently left the office and headed for the visitor's center's double doors so that they could go into the park.

oOo

Hammond and Wu walked side by side along the dirt road, passing by the paddocks. Every now and then, Hammond would stop to marvel at the dinosaurs. They could be doing the simplest things—eating food, sleeping in the sun, walking around in a herd—it was magical for him. Wu wished he could say he felt the same way, but he didn't. He couldn't explain the numbness that took over him now whenever he saw the dinosaurs. Instead of swelling up with pride for being "Jurassic Park's Miracle Worker", all he felt was shame for how he allowed his success to get to his head and warp his personality. After some time, Hammond became quiet, as though sensing Wu's discomfort. For the most part, the silence between them had been awkward. Wu wasn't sure what to say and he thought Hammond might be gathering his thoughts. They were standing in front of the dilophosaur paddock when Hammond spoke up, his voice raspy.

"Why did you do it, Henry? That's all I want to know…and it's the only time I'll ever ask you."

Wu kept his eyes on the two dilophosaurs that stayed near the jungle river. One was an adult, and the other was a juvenile. The juvenile waited for the adult to drink first and then mirrored the adult's actions. It was a peaceful scene, tranquil. Wu found that ironic, given how vicious the dilophosaurs could be when in defensive mode—or when they were hungry. Their soft hooting cries gave no indication of the blinding poison they could spit at their targets, or how it could be extremely painful. In his mind's eye, he remembered taking photographs of the dilophosaurs and sending them to Dodgson. He also remembered walking here with Dodgson and their conversation: I appreciate the opportunity that's been given to me, and I'm looking for a challenge aside from cloning another species. I've done all that before; I want more than just that. If I'm going to clone, then I want to be known. Bottom-line is InGen ran out of challenges for me which wasn't good because I get bored quickly.

He hated himself now, and he hated the fact that he had said those words to Dodgson. They rang repeatedly in his mind. Even his arrogant tone was preserved in his memory, although he wished he could completely forget it. Bored? If I'm going to clone, then I want to be known?! InGen ran out of challenges for me?! Wu shook his head, utterly disgusted with himself. I was so narcissistic…

"Henry?"

"I'm sorry, John…what were you asking me?"

Wu turned to Hammond now, his face hot with embarrassment for not listening and not paying attention. This was a discussion they both needed to have.

"I just want to know why…why did you join Lewis Dodgson? Please don't make me ask again…"

Wu heard the odd note in Hammond's voice that told him Hammond didn't want to delve into this topic but was forcing himself to do so. Maybe it was for closure, or to understand why a second employee turned their back on him. He was close to asking Hammond if he had ever asked Nedry the same question—but he knew that would be deflecting. It was better to be honest…

"I was impatient and angry," Wu mumbled. He forced himself to say it again, his voice louder the second time. He sighed and stared at the ground. "I had worked hard for you, year after year…so many failed experiments before we reached success…" He stole a glance at the dilophosaurs. Both the juvenile and adult were drinking from the jungle river at the same time. "I was able to clone the dinosaurs for you…you said the whole world would know what I had done."

Hammond nodded, keeping his focus on the dilophosaurs in the paddock. "You're right, I did tell you that. It's not that I didn't want to keep my promise to you."

"You needed to wait until you had staff you could trust…I understand that now."

"Why didn't you understand it back then?"

Wu met Hammond's eyes that were watery behind his glasses. If he was going to have this conversation with Hammond, then he needed to face him. Just like Nedry forced him to face himself, now Wu had to face the man he betrayed.

"I wanted what I wanted, John. I don't have a good reason for you except that I wanted my hard work to finally pay off. At the time I figured why do I have to pay for Dennis' betrayal? Why did everything I worked hard for, go down the drain because of him?" Wu shrugged, unsure of what else to say.

"You were angry that I didn't push forward to open the park…if I had, would you still have joined Dodgson?"

"No, and I never should've joined him at all. Period." What else was there to say? He wanted to apologize, but he was afraid it would come off insincere. It was better to own up to what he had done. "I was selfish…I was only thinking of myself and no one else. That's all there is to it."

Hammond turned away from the paddock. Wu watched him carefully to see how he'd respond. Then Hammond surprised him with what he least expected to hear.

"When I asked you to work with me on a 16th species for the park, I was distracting myself from dealing with Nedry's betrayal. It wasn't because I wanted to stop you from getting the recognition you deserved, Henry." Hammond took off his white hat, dusted it off and put it back on. "I was angry at Dennis for what he had done…devastated even. This place brings me so much happiness and I hated that I had to keep it closed. Cloning another species seemed like a good way to cope. I realize now I was avoiding what I needed to face, and in doing so, it hurt you along the way. I never intended to make it seem like your accomplishments should fall to the wayside."

Wu was about to respond when he heard the rumbling of a gas-powered jeep. Both Wu and Hammond turned to see Muldoon and Harding pull over. They came out at the same time. Muldoon greeted both Wu and Hammond, while Harding stood by the driver's side waiting. Wu tried to catch Harding's eye, but Harding seemed to avoid looking in his direction. He stood by and listened as Muldoon informed Hammond that he and Harding wanted to start getting ready for the placement of a second ankylosaur.

"Keep watch of those eggs, Henry," Muldoon said. "We gotta make room for the next one."

"You got it." Wu gave a half-smile as Muldoon gave a curt nod.

In no time at all, Muldoon and Harding left as quickly as they had come. The entire time, Wu tried not to remember the time they had both shown up when he was walking in the park with Dodgson. He had been obvious about shunning them at the time…and now he was the one being shunned by Harding. Wu tried not to focus on that too much. He was with Hammond, and they were having an honest conversation about the breakdown of their working relationship. Inwardly, Wu accepted responsibility for the breakdown—Hammond hadn't done anything against him that motivated him to act out against the company. He knew his betrayal was different than Nedry's, but it all hurt all the same. He was about to say so when he noticed Hammond signaling to go back to the visitor center. Wu didn't question Hammond and followed him.

oOo

"That was refreshing," Hammond said as he walked back into his office.

Wu remained standing while he watched Hammond sit behind his desk. "It was. I'm glad we were able to talk."

Hammond nodded. "Going forward, Henry, if something I'm doing or not doing impacts you, I need you to tell me. I'm willing to work with you and everyone—but I have blind spots."

"Fair enough, I'll come to you first." Which is what I should've done, he thought.

He berated himself for the lame response, but he felt he had to say something. Hammond seemed to accept it and Wu had a feeling he wanted to drop the topic as it was exhausting and difficult to address. He approached the door, ready to leave and meet the staff in the cafeteria, when Hammond called out to him.

"Wait—before you go, Henry. I found out about Dodgson's condition. I wanted you to be the first to know…"

Wu slowly turned around to face Hammond. He dreaded finding out, but he wanted to know. He needed to know since he had shot Dodgson.

"Although I despise Dodgson for everything that he's done against InGen, and especially what he put you and Dennis through, I wouldn't wish this fate on anybody—not even on him." Hammond sighed. "When you shot him—the bullet hit his spinal cord…"

Wu's throat dried up. He couldn't speak and even if he could, he didn't know what he would say. His eyes flickered to Hammond, who appeared serious as he sat up straight.

"Lewis Dodgson is paralyzed. Detective Anderson told me the doctors believe he will be permanently disabled for the rest of his life. He can't walk at all…he must use a wheelchair just like I did after my stroke. I was able to recover, but the chances of him ever walking again are very slim."

"I…" What was there to say? He hung his head, ashamed. He never imagined that his time with Dodgson would end like this.

"Please don't feel guilty, Henry. He set up you and Dennis to kill yourselves with that disgusting game. We could've lost both of you if it went the way Dodgson wanted."

Wu didn't know what to feel or think. "I have to go." He pointed outside of Hammond's office.

"Of course."

Hammond watched Wu rush out of his office. He decided it was best to let him process this information on his own, that way it would give him time to come to terms with Wu's resignation…

oOo

It was after nine-thirty in the evening when Wu entered the staff lodge's recreation room. Between the time he had left Hammond and now, he had plenty of time to think about what he'd tell the rest of the staff. They had to be the first to know about his resignation, so he was relieved when he found Harding, Arnold, Muldoon, and Lawala sitting on the couch, watching the international news channel.

Dodgson's paralysis weighed on his mind. His emotions were like a kaleidoscope—constantly changing. Sometimes he felt a pit in his stomach—guilt. Other times he felt relieved to be free of Dodgson. He didn't know if that meant he was a cold-hearted man. Maybe he was still in a state of shock that his actions led to Dodgson's current condition. He wasn't joyful about what happened, but he didn't feel remorse either. Wu considered himself numb in that aspect, and he told himself he was still processing the news about Dodgson. Just as he was processing what Dodgson had put him and Nedry through, that led to him being shot in the spinal cord. Russian Roulette, watch us shoot our brains out, and then kill the survivor. Wu pushed the thoughts away as he grabbed a chair from nearby and sat down to hear the latest news.

...Dennis Nedry has recently confessed to being responsible for the burning of a
building previously owned by the Biosyn Corporation in Cupertino, California. No injuries or deaths were reported. Apparently, the building had been vacant for the past three months. He now faces arson charges for throwing a Molotov cocktail…

Muldoon raised the remote control and lowered the volume. "I'll be damned…it was him after all."

Nedry's cryptic words when he visited him in prison came back to him and now it all made sense: I'm gonna finish what I started. Even when Nedry had come back to Isla Nublar for that short time based on Hammond's request. When Muldoon had directly asked him about it, Nedry couldn't give a reasonable explanation for engaging in arson. Muldoon was stumped. He didn't know what to make of Nedry's behavior.

"Him?" Arnold asked.

"Dennis. When we were in California, and he was trying to get Henry back—" Muldoon turned his direction, surprised. "Henry, I didn't hear you walk in."

Wu smiled briefly. "It's fine."

Harding shook his head and whistled, responding to this new revelation about who was behind the destruction of Biosyn's former headquarters.

"It's like he can't help himself," Arnold said. "Even when he does something right, he self-sabotages. I don't get it."

"One step forward, two steps backwards," Lawala added.

"You got that right," Muldoon said.

Wu thought Muldoon sounded hoarse, as though he were trying to contain his feelings. He glanced at the television that showed Nedry's prison mugshot—the same one he had seen in the sports bar when he was still running around with Dodgson's gang. Instead of feeling anger towards Nedry, he felt pity—which is something he knew Nedry wouldn't want. He also wouldn't Wu to reveal the truth behind the Molotov cocktail, but he wasn't there to stop him…

"He lit it; I threw it."

Everyone slowly turned in his direction. Wu was struck by how surprised they were. Muldoon stared at him with a mix of horror and awe. Harding's eyebrows were furrowed together as though he had misheard Wu. Lawala and Arnold exchanged confused glances. A few seconds of loud silence passed before Arnold broke it after lighting a cigarette.

"Come again, Henry? I didn't hear you right." An uneasy chuckle escaped from Arnold, and he puffed on his cigarette, trying to avoid saying more.

"You heard right. He lit it, and I threw it." Wu saw Arnold's smile flatten into a frown.

"Why would you do that?" Harding asked.

"Why not?"

"Were you hoping to get Dodgson?" Lawala spoke in his usual calm tone. "If so, I don't blame either of you."

"He came to California to do that—throw a Molotov cocktail at Biosyn's headquarters. We ran into him at the sports bar before he had a chance to."

"'We' as in…?" Arnold had a skeptical note in his voice.

"Dodgson's group: Lopez, Sonya, Tembo, and myself."

Wu stared at the television to avoid seeing their reactions now. There was a commercial about buying car tires that were effective for driving in all kinds of weather conditions. No one spoke. Wu didn't know what to make of the expanding silence in the recreation room. Was it good or bad? Did it mean they were shocked and didn't know how to respond? Were they disgusted? Then he realized what it was: they didn't believe him. Not surprisingly, it was Muldoon who interrupted the silence. Surprisingly though, he sounded curious and not the least bit judgmental.

"Why did you do it? What were you hoping to accomplish?"

"I wanted to prove that I was loyal to InGen."

It sounded weird to state his motives aloud. Almost like an uncertain question and not a definitive statement. When he had voiced it to Nedry, it sounded acceptable, understandable. Maybe because he and Nedry were both traitors? Now it sounded ridiculous and farfetched.

"You proved it by coming back here, Henry. You didn't have to do anything outlandish."

Wu said nothing. He was shocked that Muldoon affirmed that returning to InGen was enough.

"We're glad you're back; that's the most important thing. It seems he took the fall for you and him," Arnold said.

"I'm not surprised that he would take the fall," Lawala said. "Dennis has moments where he does the right thing, even if it comes off warped."

"It's what he wanted…"

Wu barely heard himself trying to justify his actions. He felt as though he were standing outside in the middle of a snowstorm. He was cold and alone—and even embarrassed to admit that Nedry had tried to discourage him at first—he had pushed him to pursue his fame. Wu had refused, wanting to help Nedry with his crazy Molotov cocktail plan. Although it was true, Wu couldn't speak on it now.

"Arson is getting added to his other charges," Harding said. "As if he doesn't have enough stacked against him."

"I hope not," Wu muttered.

"If anyone had been in that building, they could've been killed. I'm glad he did the right thing in convincing you to come back, but he's as reckless as ever."

Wu was afraid that Muldoon and Arnold thought the same thing. Even Lawala. He remembered how Detective Corey Anderson had noted the abuse Nedry had endured from the Biosyn team and how that could've affected him. At the end of the day, even Anderson knew, as well as Nedry, that this had been a premeditated act.

"I didn't want him to get more time for it, I tried to talk him out of it."

"Was this before he lit the Molotov cocktail or after?" Harding asked.

"Before he lit it," Wu said, not hiding his irritation. "If Lewis Dodgson saw his old stomping grounds being burned down, what's wrong with that?"

Harding pulled back, shocked by Wu's response. "No comment." He abruptly got up and stormed out of the recreation room.

Wu watched him leave and wondered if they would leave too. It felt like Harding had abandoned him, but Wu realized his betrayal was him originally abandoning InGen and bullying his coworkers. His head ached like nails had been driven into his skull. The weight of the guilt was pressing down on him now. It wasn't guilt about the Molotov cocktail or even Nedry taking on the entire responsibility for it. No, the guilt was about what needed to be revealed. He needed to do the right thing and come clean. Wu was about to explain everything when Harding hurried back in, pointing at him accusingly.

"It's like I don't even know you, or more like I never knew you."

Wu visibly recoiled as though Harding had struck him. He stood up and gestured at himself. "I'm still me. I'm Henry Wu."

"The Henry I knew wouldn't do something this horrible before he joined Dodgson. Once you joined him, you became a different person."

Wu struggled to come up with a reasonable response. He couldn't ignore Harding embarrassing him in front of everyone. Once again, he was reminded of what Nedry had told him. No matter what he did to show he was doing the right thing, some would hold what he had done wrong against him. Granted, throwing a Molotov cocktail wasn't right, but for Wu, it was what the gesture represented. He and Nedry were destroying Biosyn, since Biosyn had tried to obliterate InGen many times. He wanted to explain that, but now it all seemed foolish and wasteful—especially compared to everything he had done against InGen when Biosyn occupied the island.

"Hold up, Gerry, that's not fair," Arnold said, standing up from the sofa. "Henry's here now," he said, pointing at Wu. "And you know what, I agree with what he and Dennis did. All they did was burn down an empty building, who cares? Look at how much grief Dodgson gave us when he was here—or have you forgotten that?"

"You can't be serious!" Harding argued back.

"I am," Arnold said, and now Muldoon stood up next to him, backing him up.

Wu stared at the turquoise carpet, ashamed that they were arguing about him—and mortified that it was happening right in front of him. He glanced at Lawala who didn't join in. Since Lawala had once been part of Biosyn, Wu thought it must be uncomfortable for him to join this conversation. Lawala simply listened but didn't add anything.

"This back-and-forth arguing is pointless. Henry's here now. They threw a Molotov cocktail at the building. Big deal. It's still far less than everything Dodgson's done to all of us, and especially to Dennis and Henry," Muldoon said, joining the fray. "He made them play bloody Russian Roulette, for God's sake!"

"We know how horrible he was here, and even recently, but how does that justify burning down a building?" Harding persisted. "I'm the only one who thinks what he did—what they both did was wrong."

"No, it's that we're surprised you're making a big deal about it. No one got harmed, and of course Dennis will face more charges. That much is obvious."

Arnold nodded, agreeing with Muldoon.

"I guess ten more years added to a life sentence doesn't mean anything to Dennis, huh? He's got nothing to lose," Harding said as he started towards Wu. "That stupid impulsive action could've landed you behind bars—did you even consider that, Henry?"

Wu backed up against the wall, stunned by Harding's aggression. He figured he shouldn't be surprised. Harding was the quietest member of the park staff, but when he spoke up, he made his voice heard.

"You sound like you want him locked up for the rest of his life," Muldoon accused, now approaching Harding. "After everything he's done to make things right for InGen, after everything Dodgson's put him through—"

"We've been down this road before. You and Ray have. Don't drag me in," Harding said as he started towards the door. "You have amnesia, Robert! You conveniently forget all the times you and Dennis beat the hell out of each other—or the time you punched Henry in the face when he mocked you for your scars." He pointed at his face, reminding Muldoon of his own scars.

"I didn't forget anything—I forgive Henry, just as I forgive Dennis."

Muldoon blinked.

This was the first time he had made it known and stated aloud that he forgave Nedry. It was an action he had always kept to himself because he didn't think anyone would understand. Maybe he should've phrased it another way: I'm leaving the past in the past. I put it behind me. It all meant the same thing. He was so focused on Harding that he didn't see Arnold's thoughtful expression.

"Forgive?!" Harding whipped around to face Muldoon; his face contorted in a furious scowl. "How does that word even enter your vocabulary when it comes to those two goddamn traitors?!"

Wu stared at the ground. He couldn't even appreciate Muldoon's decision to forgive him because Harding's ire was too great to be ignored.

"Because I have to go on with my life—we all do," Muldoon said, gesturing at everyone in the room. "You, me, Ray, George—even John has forgiven Dennis."

"John's a fool," Harding said, shaking his head.

"No, you're the fool." Muldoon pointed at him. "You're the only bloody fool standing in this room."

Harding looked from Arnold to Lawala, questioning their stances. Then he glared at Muldoon. "I can't believe this."

"Do you know how much time and energy I spent staying angry at Dennis once Ray and I caught him in the act at the east dock? Or all the times he invaded the island with those blasted idiots? Especially that time he let out the raptors. I was furious for a long time—all it did was bring me down."

"Dennis was furious with you too when he—"

"It's in the bloody past, Gerry!" Muldoon shouted over Harding, cutting him off.

Harding became quiet as he stared at Muldoon. Wu stayed with his back against the wall and watched from the sidelines. Arnold and Lawala also watched, unsure of what would be said next. No one spoke for a full minute until Harding shattered the tense silence. He pointed accusingly at Arnold and Muldoon.

"Both of you got over what Dennis did and even what Henry did when he threw us away for Biosyn—but not me." Harding looked straight at Wu now. "I'll say this much: I'm glad you made it out of there alive, Henry. I never wanted you harmed or killed."

Wu was about to express appreciation when Harding stopped him.

"But you don't get a pass because you hurled a Molotov cocktail at Biosyn's headquarters. That doesn't erase what you've done against InGen—against all of us."

Harding spread his arms out, including Muldoon, Arnold, and Lawala. Wu noticed that none of them responded. He didn't know how to interpret their silence. Were they in agreement with Harding? Or were they silently protesting what he was saying? He wanted to believe the latter as they had defended him against Harding the entire time in the recreation room.

Wu took a deep breath, fighting against the emotions that threatened to erupt from him. He tried not to think back to the night when he and Nedry returned, and everyone celebrated with them. Or how Harding was the one who gave him the plaque for being "a trailblazer in the field of genetics". The honeymoon phase was over… It was all coming out now—what everyone truly felt about him being here. Especially after his stint with Lewis Dodgson. Harding and Ellie made it clear to him, just as Barney Fellows had made it known what he felt towards Nedry.

It was time to break the news. Wu left the wall and placed back the chair where he had found it.

"You don't have to give me a pass, Gerry, because I'm not staying."

Muldoon and Arnold were standing in front of Harding when they whipped around, their eyes widened in disbelief. Harding snorted, not believing him. Lawala jolted in response.

Arnold snatched his ashtray from the couch and put out his cigarette. "What're you talking about?" A nervous chuckle escaped from him for the second time.

"I'm not staying…I submitted my resignation letter to John earlier today. When all their trials are over—for Dodgson and everyone in his gang—I'm leaving InGen. I'll testify against them, and I might stay to hear the outcome of Dennis' day in court, but after that…" Wu shrugged. "I'm done."

Lawala rose from the couch. Wu could tell by the way Lawala squinted at him that he didn't know how to respond to this news.

"You can't do this," Muldoon said. "After everything Dennis went through to get you back here."

"It has nothing to do with him." Wu knew that was a lie. One of his reasons for deciding to leave was his own guilt about Nedry's present situation. His other reasons had revealed themselves during the past ten minutes and last week when he and Ellie spoke. "I don't want you to be upset by me being here, Gerry. And I don't want you guys to defend me," he said, gesturing to Muldoon and Arnold. "I appreciate it, but it's not necessary. The truth is I don't deserve it—and I shouldn't be here. Not after everything I've done."

Wu slowly made his way to the door. He could feel all four men burning holes into his back with their unwavering stares. There was nothing anyone could say to change his mind. This was the best decision, and ironically enough, he felt more peace with this choice than when he had first agreed to side with Biosyn. Back then, he thought he had made a wonderful decision that would lead him on the path to worldwide recognition. Instead, all it did was bring him misery. No one had been spared. Everyone experienced the painful consequences of his betrayal.

"But why?" Arnold's voice cracked. "We want you here—we all do."

"Speak for yourself," Harding snapped.

Arnold sent him a long look that read can you stop?! Harding knew that look was reserved for him and turned his back on Arnold. Arnold sighed, frustrated, and then tried to appeal to Wu.

"It will take time to heal and rebuild trust. It's hard work, but it can happen—it will happen."

"It will," Muldoon agreed.

Wu turned to them before leaving the recreation room. Muldoon and Arnold were trying to convince him to change his mind. He thought that was interesting given their history with Nedry. He realized it was because of what they had been through with Nedry that they would be the ones advocating for him to remain with InGen. And yet, he knew he would never be fully trusted again. Ellie and Harding had made that clear.

"Look at the hell that me and Dennis went through—and Ray too. It was bloody difficult but look at where we're at now. We were all broken from that time we caught him red-handed at the east dock," Muldoon glanced at Arnold who nodded in agreement and then turned to Wu. "It took years to overcome all that, but we did. Henry, it's the same for you. This can be overcome."

"You can't do this," Arnold said, shaking his head. "You can't leave."

Angry tears burned in his eyes, wanting to be released, but Wu held back. He wasn't one to break down and cry—and he wasn't mad at Arnold. He was furious with himself for allowing himself to lose himself—and all because he had prized fame over his InGen family. This was the "punishment" Nedry had warned him about. These were the consequences, and he knew he deserved to face them. It wounded him like a knife twisting in his heart, but he reminded himself that he had thrust knives in all their backs when he joined Lewis Dodgson. He tried not to react to Arnold's pained expression now, just as he tried not to respond to Harding's cold stare. Muldoon's attempts to help him see the situation differently were genuine and when he glanced at Lawala, Lawala took it as his cue to speak up.

"Don't do this, just stay. Robert's right: it will work out."

"I have to." Wu stepped out of the room, ready to go to his living quarters. If he could close and lock the door behind him, then he could deal with the heaviness on his own.

"Why?" Lawala asked.

Wu thought about how to answer that question. It came to him now, although it hadn't come to him before when he had shared with Hammond that he planned to resign.

"Punishment and penance."

"I don't get it." Lawala looked back at Muldoon and Arnold who stared at the ground and Harding who turned away.

"Dennis is still being punished, even though he's made amends many times over. I can't stay here acting like everything's fine when it's not. I betrayed everyone. I did horrible things to everyone on this island because of my own selfish ambitions. I'm not being punished for it—which I deserve…so the least I can do is an act of penance."

Lawala shook his head, still not understanding. "Penance?"

"Yes, penance."

"How will you do that?"

"By leaving InGen. It's the only way."

Before Lawala or anyone else could respond, Wu rushed out of the recreation room and went down the hallway to his living quarters. He had shared with them about his decision to leave InGen, but it never occurred to him to update them on Dodgson's condition. Hammond would tell them eventually. Wu decided he couldn't worry about Dodgson. He had to focus on himself and on what lay ahead with the upcoming trials.

He also had to sort through his own muddled emotions about his betrayal and the consequences he was experiencing. The shame and guilt never lessened and started manifesting as physical symptoms. The entire time in the recreation room, his stomach constantly churned, sharp pains in the back of his throat kept reoccurring, and he found he wasn't hungry. The only way to alleviate the guilt was to follow through on his decision and leave behind the very place that would've given him the fame he always desired.

Walk away from Jurassic Park and leave behind all his arduous work and tangible success.

He would finally clear his conscience. Arnold and Hammond would be the most devastated, while Muldoon and Lawala might be neutral. Those who he had hurt the most—Ellie and Harding—would be relieved that he was gone. The truth was he had behaved viciously towards Ellie and Harding when he had aligned himself with Biosyn. He was horrendous to everyone else, but they had experienced Wu at his absolute worst. They weren't ready to forgive him, and he accepted that they might never do so. His presence was painful for them, and he had to give them the peace they deserved—even if it meant sacrificing his number one wish to be recognized for his accomplishments.

When Wu got inside his suite, he locked the door behind him. He had to get away from everyone, and it would be better once he left the island for good. When they found out he was leaving, who knows how they would respond: Grant, Malcolm, Ellie, Tim, Lex, and Gennaro. He couldn't waste time worrying about it. Ultimately, this was his decision. Everyone would move on with their lives and he would move on with his. Despite being firm in his resolve to leave InGen, Wu found himself unable to sleep for the rest of the night…

---

Author's Notes: This was a very long chapter, and I tried to edit it. I'll admit that editing skills aren't my strength. I even thought about splitting the chapter in half—Nedry's section and Wu's section as two separate chapters, but then I figured it would be best to have them in the same chapter. Much like the last chapter showed Nedry's and Wu's predicaments side-by-side.

Several things to note in this chapter… Eli Mills. I like to use characters from JP3 and the Jurassic World trilogy in different ways than how they appeared in canon. Eli Mills' character is the closest on-screen representation of Lewis Dodgson's novel character, especially with the vicious and brutal behavior. Ed James is a character from The Lost World novel that was never translated into the film versions of the franchise.

Cell extractions are very aggressive and there are actual incidents where inmates have been injured, some have even died, such as in the case of Charles Jason Toll. They have the potential to trigger a person's past trauma, worsen it, or even create a new trauma for the individual.

Nedry's thought of "lying dead in the cemetery" was based on actual experience. When I was writing Reign of Chaos, I worked for an agency that ran a school program in the county's juvenile detention center. I remember working with a youth who was involved in gangs; he was only 14 years old at the time. I had asked him where he sees himself ten years from now. His response: "honestly, in the cemetery". It's been almost twenty years since that conversation, and I will never forget it. The depth of depression was real and how he didn't even see himself having a future still haunts me.

The arts program that Walker tells Anderson about is based on an actual program called Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) that's based out in in my alma mater, S.U.N.Y. Purchase College. The program uses the arts to help the incarcerated to develop life skills. They serve various prisons in Westchester County. Their website states the program has been successful in lowering recidivism rates. They also have a YouTube channel. The videos are powerful, and I would encourage anyone to check them out.

Wu is on a journey, searching for redemption. Before the story is over, he will still try to find different ways to redeem himself and face himself and how his actions harmed InGen. As the writer, I racked my brains as to how he would redeem himself. I decided to give that struggle to Wu. Let him figure out how to best make up for his actions. Having him be the one to wrestle with himself makes his inner conflict more real. At least, that's what I hope comes across.

"As a Man Thinketh" by James Allen is a wonderful read. I highly recommend it. It makes you realize how our thoughts influence us.

Thank you for continuing to read my story. I aim to update within two weeks! Also, special note for AlterNet Multi-verse eye 25: thank you for reading the story and for your reviews. I've used the "Review Reply" to respond to all of them, but I'm not sure if you have gotten my messages. FFN has it now where you have to enable email notifications from your profile. I'd be more than happy to discuss writing with you. Send me a PM! Thanks everyone!

-Sassy Lil Scorpio