Chapter 29 - The Prison of Your Mind
"Never be a prisoner of your past. It was just a lesson, not a life sentence." -Anonymous
oOo
Dennis Nedry found himself counting the days down as soon as he returned to the prison. This time, being forced to remain in protective custody wasn't so bad because he had only three weeks left. He now understood and appreciated the saying "the light at the end of the tunnel". He had been living in the darkness for so long, and for the first time, he could see rays of light. The three weeks rushed by and even Walker told him they were jamming everything into twenty-one days in what would usually take several months to do: preparing Nedry for release. The anticipation of waiting for release day was greater than the anxiety he felt when he had first been sentenced and waited to be transferred to prison. There were many nights where he couldn't sleep because he stayed up thinking of what his life would be like after he was released. The fear of rejection for his past crimes lingered in his mind, and he tried to talk himself into remaining positive. He would be free soon; he could start over again and get his life back on track…
Then his day finally came.
He was awoken at seven a.m. The night before, he had packed his belongings: a green plastic cup, hygiene products, a notebook with his writings, a pencil, the letter from Muldoon and Lawala, his glasses case, and the book Walker gave him: As a Man Thinketh by James Allen. The paperwork from court, which included the name and contact information of his parole officer, was kept in a manilla envelope. He would receive the suit he wore to court (which Hammond had purchased for him), and the clothing he had been arrested in when he was ready to leave the facility. Two days ago, he had been fitted for gray sweatpants, black t-shirt, socks, boxers, undershirt, and sneakers that he would wear when leaving the facility. Officer Carter permitted him to take a shower an hour ago. Afterwards, he was brought back to his cell where he put on his prison uniform for the last time and waited.
Before long, Officer Johnson came to his cell and unlocked the door. Nedry stepped out with his bag of belongings in one hand and new clothing in the other. They walked through the SHU in silence, across the prison yard, through the maze-like compound that was the entire facility before finally getting to the receiving area. It was an endless series of locked doors and gates.
Once in the receiving area, he was allowed to enter a private room where he changed into the clothing that had been provided for him. Seeing his prison uniform laid out on the floor and knowing he would never wear it again put him in a state of euphoria. It was a relic of the past and only a memory now. He left the room and turned in his prison uniform and was given a canvas duffle bag with his gray business suit and the clothing he had been arrested in. He planned to keep the suit and destroy the other clothing another time. There was no need to have reminders of being on the run from the law.
The officers reviewed his paperwork numerous times, and he was asked to give his department identification number to ensure they were releasing the right prisoner.
"Zero-eight-zero-seven-fifty-five."
After today, he hoped he never heard that number again. He didn't want to remember how Roland Tembo thought it would be a fun way to demean him. Now the tables had turned. Now it was Tembo who was a number and not a man. Nedry shook his head, putting the unpleasant memory out of his mind. There was no reason to go backwards, not when he was going forward today. One officer in the front of the receiving area gave him a small white envelope.
"You have a debit card of whatever was left on your commissary account. There's a bus ticket to get you back to the city where you'll meet your probation officer."
Nedry took the envelope. There couldn't be much left on his commissary account. He glanced around the receiving area. He would never see this place again. He looked up when he heard Officer Johnson speak to him from the doorway. He was ready to re-enter the prison and start his shift with the inmates on the cellblock he monitored.
"Stay out of trouble, Nedry," Officer Johnson said.
"Only if you pay me," Nedry joked. "And if I feel like staying squeaky clean!"
"You better feel like it, if you know what's good for you," Officer Johnson replied. He sent Nedry a stern look before offering a warm smile. "Best of luck to you."
"Thanks, Mr. Johnson."
Nedry started towards the doors now. He could see the bus and prison gates from where he stood, and his heart pounded with excitement. He would finally be free! He found it hard to believe that once he walked out of those doors, he'd be out of the building—out of the prison. He'd still be on prison property, but at least, he was one step closer to being on the outside world again. He had his hand on the door, ready to push it open when he heard someone speak behind him.
"I never want to see you behind the walls of my prison again."
Nedry turned around and faced Daniel Walker, remembering all the times he had given hell to the warden. From yelling and cursing at him to spitting in his face. Walker's firm manner and compassionate demeanor had remained steadfast. Nedry admitted that Walker had played a major role in his rehabilitation, and now he struggled to find the right words to express his appreciation. They might sound corny, but he had to say them.
"You believed in me…" his voice trailed off and he forced the rest of the words out. "Especially when I didn't believe in myself. Thanks for putting up with my stupid antics when I was a miserable pain in the ass."
"Don't mention it—just never come back here again."
"The judge told me I have to do community service, three hundred hours."
Walker's next words gave Nedry hope. "You can get some hours by returning here and talking to the inmates about your story. Share with them what you've learned." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a business card, handing it to Nedry. "Stay in touch and let me know how things are working out for you."
Nedry took it and put it in the manilla envelope. He tried to hide his surprise—Walker went above and beyond to ensure he would do better on the outside.
"Thank you, Mr. Walker."
"You're welcome. When you leave out of here, make your way over to the parking lot." He made a hand motion, signaling to his left. "On the left end, you have friends waiting for you."
Nedry frowned. He wasn't sure he heard right. It wasn't even that Walker mentioned he had friends. The idea that anyone would be out there for him, waiting to greet him when he was released—that was impossible. Nedry had long accepted that he had no friends. As he had told Wu during Biosyn's reign, sometimes the loneliness was unbearable. He had learned to accept it, but at the same time, what if it was true? What if someone was out there, waiting for him? He was about to ask what Walker meant. Walker had already turned around to go through the same exit Officer Johnson had gone through. Once he was gone, Nedry turned to the entrance doors once more. Thankfully, it was a clear sunny day. Not a cloud in the expansive blue sky. Seeing the openness of the skies elevated his mood. He was getting his brand-new start on a good day.
This was it.
He would never return here again. Not to this prison or any other correctional facility. Never again would he break the law for any amount of money. He would never engage in anything illegal that hurt others or made it difficult to sleep at night. Underhanded dealings, betrayal, and acting like someone he never intended to be, had cost him his career, his freedom, and his self-respect. Most of all, he had sacrificed the well-being and safety of his boss and co-workers. Releasing a long sigh of relief, and without turning back around to see the reception area, he walked through the doors and finally put prison behind him.
oOo
"Here he comes," Ray Arnold said, leaning against the rental car. He pulled out his lighter and lit a cigarette. "He looks surprised."
"He wasn't expecting us to be here." Robert Muldoon stood next to him, also leaning against the car. "I don't think he expected anyone."
As he watched Nedry slowly approach them, he thought about their ages. Nedry was ten years younger than Muldoon, but he appeared ten years older than him. Incarceration, the back-and-forth with InGen and Biosyn, and living dangerously had caught up to him, aging Nedry beyond his chronological age. As it was, Nedry barely had anything to his name. Muldoon noticed the canvas duffel bag he carried with him. Based on how deflated it appeared, there were probably very little items inside.
"Who sent you?" Nedry asked, looking from Muldoon to Arnold.
"John did," Arnold said, taking a drag on his cigarette. "We flew in yesterday."
"He wanted to make sure someone was out here to greet you on the day of your release," Muldoon said. "I know we're the last people you thought you'd see out here waiting for you."
Nedry scoffed. "You got that right."
Muldoon tapped the roof of the car. "Let's get going. We're here for a week, so we have a lot to get done."
Arnold threw down his cigarette and stomped it out with his sneaker while Muldoon got in the driver's seat. Nedry sat in the backseat while Arnold sat in the front on the passenger side. Muldoon turned the ignition key and started driving out of the parking lot. In the rearview mirror, he saw Nedry looking all around him as though in disbelief that he was leaving the prison as a free man.
"You think you'll miss that place?" Muldoon asked, pointing at the prison.
Nedry shook his head with a wide smirk. "Hell no! Drive out of here fast, before they change their minds and lock me up again!"
Arnold laughed as he rolled down the window and Muldoon sped away.
oOo
An hour later, they reached the hotel. They had stopped by a diner so that Nedry could enjoy his first meal outside: a double chocolate milkshake topped with whipped cream and crushed Oreos. Since John Hammond was paying for the trip, he made sure to get them a comfortable hotel with all the amenities. Arnold and Muldoon watched as Nedry got out, noticing how he kept on looking around at everything in amazement and wonder. He didn't have this exhilarated reaction when he was on Isla Nublar, probably because he already knew what was on the island. They realized that he would have to adjust to his freedom. And even then, he wasn't completely free as he had community supervision. They went to the lobby where Muldoon checked Nedry in for the next several days to have his own hotel room next to his and Arnold's.
"We'll be here for a week, and during that time, we'll work on what you need to get done," Muldoon said, handing the key card to Nedry so that he could enter his hotel room. "We're all on the first floor down this hallway."
Nedry took the key card, looking at it strangely. Didn't they used to have keys for hotel rooms? That's what he had when he ran away from Dodgson—and when he and Malcolm stayed at the Adventure Inn on Costa Rica. When he was driving cross-country, he stayed at old motels that still used actual keys. He hadn't been locked away from the world for that long—or had he? It was strange to not be fully up to date on technology since that was his field of work. Maybe he had missed something along the way?
He also half-expected Arnold or Muldoon to open the door for him—unlock it. The realization hit him hard—he was still acting like he was in prison. While incarcerated, the correction officers always unlocked the doors. Nedry was never permitted to open any doors himself. Today was the first time he opened any door for himself for the first time in months—when he left the reception center.
"You put it in the slot," Arnold directed, demonstrating for him.
The door handle lit green and Nedry pushed down, opening the door. As he walked in, he turned around in a full circle, taking in the immense size of the room.
"It's so big," he said, not even aware that he had dropped his canvas duffel bag on the carpet. He saw Arnold and Muldoon watching him. "You don't think it's big?!"
"It's an average size for a hotel room," Arnold said, not understanding why Nedry was making such a fuss over it. "We got lots to cover. Where do you want to start?"
Nedry plopped down on the queen size bed, running his hands on the gray blanket as he allowed himself to sink into the soft memory foam bed mattress. The blanket was smooth cotton. The pillows were light and cushy.
"I want to start by sleeping on this bed for the next twenty-four hours. It's a real bed and not concrete or a thin foam pad."
At first, Arnold was about to say something when he saw Muldoon shaking his head. Let him enjoy it, Muldoon mouthed. It didn't immediately register for Arnold, but Muldoon already understood: Nedry had gotten used to the bare minimum conditions of prison life. Being in protective custody was akin to being locked up in solitary confinement. The cell was barely the size of an elevator car. His "bed" was a thin foam pad over a rectangular concrete slab. Nedry had spent the last three months in protective custody when he had been brought back after he and Henry Wu escaped from Los Altos. Before he had been busted out of prison by Lewis Dodgson, he had spent two years incarcerated. His time on the run, when he had been affiliated with Biosyn, Nedry probably had better living accommodations than prison, but ultimately it didn't matter—especially after Hammond's stroke. Two months stranded on Isla Sorna with Muldoon hadn't been a picnic either.
"Why don't you get some rest," Arnold said, understanding now what Muldoon meant.
Nedry abruptly got up and grabbed his canvas duffel bag that he had dropped on the floor. He shook the contents out on the bed. A hoodie, baseball cap, sneakers, undershirt and boxers, and jogging pants fell out. The business suit and dress shoes he had worn to court. A green plastic cup and hygiene products. There was a notebook filled with writing and a pencil. A green clear case with eyeglasses. A folded letter. The last items were a paperback and a manilla envelope.
"You have new glasses?" Arnold sounded surprised.
"Yeah, but they're not the best quality. I'll have to see an optometrist at some point and get a new pair." Nedry held up the paperback. "Mr. Walker gave this to me."
Arnold took the book. "As a Man Thinketh. This sounds like one of those positive self-help books."
"It is. Mr. Walker said I could keep it…he helped me a lot in there."
Muldoon noticed the folded letter on the bed. "Is that the letter we wrote you?"
Nedry unfolded it and handed it to Muldoon. "Thank you for writing to me. Everyday I read what you and George wrote. It helped me a lot, especially on days when I thought I was losing my mind."
Muldoon gave him back the letter. "We meant every word in it."
"Is this all you have?" Arnold tried to make sure his tone sounded neutral. In truth, he was surprised that Nedry had so little possessions. Did he ever put his belongings in storage before his initial incarceration? Arnold didn't want to ask.
"Yeah, that's it," Nedry said, pointing at his meager belongings.
They were here for only a week, and already Muldoon could see that Nedry needed clothing—in addition to housing, food, and transportation. He was determined to do as much as possible. Muldoon picked up the manilla folder.
"What's in here?" He handed it to Nedry.
Nedry took out the contents. "It's my court papers, and information about meeting with my probation officer. I'm supposed to see him within forty-eight hours of my release. I think he's gonna put that ankle monitor on me." He sighed, wanting to avoid it, but knowing he had to, if he didn't want to return to prison.
"So do that first—call the number on that paper," Muldoon directed. "Meanwhile, Ray and I will write a list of things we think you need. When we leave here, we'll go over it together.
"Sounds like a plan."
oOo
Later that morning, Muldoon pulled up to an imposing building—the Santa Clara County Probation Department. He and Arnold watched as Nedry got out and hesitated at first, before he walked up the pathway to the front entrance. Then he turned back and returned to the car. Arnold pushed the button, lowering the window on his side.
"He had an opening for this morning, but I'd rather go tomorrow," Nedry said, glancing over his shoulder.
It was obvious to Muldoon and Arnold that he dreaded meeting his probation officer. After a lot of back-and-forth, they had convinced him to get it over with. Avoiding it would only increase his anxiety—and prolong the inevitable.
"He told me it can take up to forty-five minutes to get me situated with the ankle-monitor and another hour or so going over paperwork and conditions I have to follow."
"Don't put it off, just get it done and then you can concentrate on other things," Arnold said. "We'll meet you back here in…" He paused as he glanced at his wristwatch. "Give or take two hours."
"What do you guys plan on doing in the meantime?"
"John said Detective Anderson wants to meet with us," Arnold said, motioning to himself and Muldoon, who nodded. "He has connections that can help you get a felon friendly apartment. It's possible he'll be able to get you in one today."
Nedry's eyebrows furrowed together in confusion. "Felon friendly?"
"Affordable housing for you that allows you to live there," Muldoon said. "Many places do criminal background checks and disqualify felons. You need to find a place to live that won't discriminate against you because of your past."
Nedry stepped back from the car, realizing the implication of Muldoon's words. "My past will always follow me," he muttered.
"There's something out there for you," Muldoon said, trying to be positive for Nedry's sake.
He didn't know how else to phrase it. Muldoon had tons of experience in working with wildlife, understanding animal behavior, and designing zoos. Assisting Nedry as he tried to navigate his life post-incarceration was something he was learning about as he went—it was an area of life that he knew very little about. In fact, Nedry's arrest and entry into the criminal justice system was Muldoon's introduction to any of this.
"We're not leaving until you're situated," Arnold added.
It was the same for Arnold. Although it was completely new for him and Muldoon, they still wanted to be present for this crucial part in Nedry's journey. Arnold had been reluctant at first, but after remembering that Muldoon openly stated he forgave Nedry, he was more open to the idea of being involved. Initially, this whole thing started with them catching him red-handed in the act of committing his crimes, witnessing his arrest, testifying against him…
All three men were beyond that now.
Helping Nedry to get his life back on track was healing for Muldoon, and he hoped Arnold felt the same way. He also thought this was the best thing they could do. After everything Nedry had done to help InGen and bring Wu back around, Muldoon wanted to ensure he could have a new start. Whether that meant helping him find housing, being a character reference for a new job, and pushing him to move forward and not look backwards (which Muldoon knew Nedry tended to do)—he was completely on board. He just hoped Nedry took from all this that he wasn't as friendless as he thought.
"Some places will give you a chance," Arnold said, trying to channel Muldoon's optimism to Nedry who looked skeptical. "Anderson told John he has connections with a social worker who does re-entry services. Once we get more information, we'll head back this way."
Nedry simply nodded and walked back by himself. His pace was slow as though he was putting off the entire ordeal. They watched him leave and didn't drive away until they saw him enter the building. Once the door closed behind Nedry, Muldoon was ready to go.
"It's daunting for him," he observed as he drove away. "All these things he needs to do—find housing, find a job, meet his probation officer, get an ankle monitor, complete community service…"
"I know, but at least he's not doing it by himself. John did the right thing to send us here." Arnold dug around in his pocket for his lighter and cigarette. He realized when he lit the cigarette, it wasn't his own anxiety that he felt creeping up on him as it often did—it was Nedry's.
oOo
Two hours later, Arnold and Muldoon returned and waited for Nedry. They had just come from a meeting with Detective Corey Anderson who would join them later in the day to show them the one-bedroom apartment complex that accepted felons as tenants. They would be joined by his social worker contact. Being that housing and job placement were difficult aspects of re-entry, they were hoping to address both before returning to Isla Nublar. If they were successful with one, then it still made their trip worthwhile. As they waited for Nedry to come out, they spoke quietly about a recent decision they had made.
"Do you really want to do this?" Arnold asked, as he kept watch of the front doors of the building. He saw Nedry exit the building, carrying a manila envelope.
"I do…" Muldoon tapped the car horn.
Nedry heard it and waved as he approached their car.
While they waited, Muldoon took out the sealed envelope Hammond had given him. Inside was the check Hammond had written that would help Nedry with whatever he needed for re-entry. It could go to anything: food, clothing, housing… Neither Muldoon nor Arnold knew the amount of money that he had signed off on. They had discussed opening it just to find out for themselves and their curiosity almost got the better of them—until Muldoon pointed out it was Nedry's money and Arnold had agreed. Because re-entry would be challenging, they had decided to not use Hammond's money for Nedry. Instead, they would pay out of their own pockets for whatever Nedry needed while they were in the States. This way, the entire check would go into a savings account that they planned to help him set up.
"Our next stop should be the bank, see if he has an account, or open up a new one," Arnold suggested.
"Right, that would be best." Muldoon placed the envelope in his pocket.
"What would be best?" Nedry asked as he got in the backseat and buckled his seatbelt. "What's going on?"
"We're heading to the bank, which one do you use?" Arnold asked. He looked over his shoulder and noticed Nedry appeared morse and downcast. He sat with his arms folded across his chest and stared outside the window.
"Chase." He didn't look at Arnold's direction. "Why does it matter?"
"Because that's where we're going next," Muldoon said as he turned on the car and pulled out. "How did it go with your probation officer?"
Nedry shrugged. "It went okay, they wasted no time putting that ankle monitor on. I have to see him next week and call him later today to tell him what I'm doing the rest of the week, where I'm staying…"
Muldoon glanced at Nedry through the rearview mirror. He noticed the same thing that Arnold had: Nedry's tone was glum. Instead of being excited about his freedom as he was earlier in the day, he seemed overwhelmed by all the adjustments to being on the outside again. All the restrictions that were in place. He hadn't even asked about the "felon friendly" apartment they had discussed with Anderson. It turned out they would meet with Anderson and the social worker later that afternoon. Muldoon didn't bring it up though—he didn't want to stress out Nedry. He just hoped going to the bank would help lift Nedry's mood.
oOo
They entered the bank in the early afternoon. Some bankers sat behind desks, working with customers to set up accounts. A line of customers waited to be called to the window of an individual bank teller. Arnold noticed Nedry kept looking around, a mystified expression on his face. He has no idea why we're here, Arnold thought. He wondered when Muldoon would give him Hammond's check, when right then, Muldoon spoke up.
"Dennis, there's something I have to give you."
Arnold watched as Muldoon took out the sealed envelope from his pocket. Without saying a word, he handed it to Nedry. Nedry took it and held it up to the light as though trying to see through the envelope.
"What's in here?" Nedry asked, his eyes flickering from Muldoon to Arnold.
"Something John wanted you to have," Arnold said. "Let's sit down." He gestured to the couch in the bank lobby.
They sat down on either side of Nedry. He still wasn't opening the envelope and they wondered why he was hesitating. Muldoon was about to ask when Nedry slowly ripped the upper portion of the envelope. He reached inside for the thin slip of paper inside and pulled out the personal check.
"Dennis Nedry…John Hammond…" he whispered to himself when he realized the check had been made out to him—and who had signed it. Upon seeing the amount written on the check, Nedry's eyes widened in disbelief. He quickly shook his head, indicating his refusal to take it. "I can't accept this…" Nedry voice trailed off.
"Why not?" Arnold asked. He didn't want to say it, but Nedry's reaction threw him off.
"You both knew about this the whole time?"
"We did," Muldoon said, and Arnold nodded.
Nedry didn't speak for some time as he stared at the personal check in his hands. A part of him was thankful—and another part of him was tempted to rip up the check. Although it was intended to be a kind gesture on Hammond's part, Nedry couldn't help but feel insulted. Why now? The damage is done. The words were on the verge of bursting forth and Nedry knew it was better not to state them aloud. He didn't want to appear ungrateful, but his emotions roiled inside him. Wave after wave of confusion and gratitude, sadness and frustration hit him all at once. When he first worked for Hammond, all he had wanted from him was communication, respect, and to be reasonably compensated for the extra work demanded of him. Instead, all he got was being kept in the dark, the constant put-downs about his weight and work ethic, and aggravation and stress from the threat of lawsuits. It led to Nedry feeling disgruntled and not giving a damn about betraying Hammond and InGen for a million bucks.
He regretted everything, but there was no way to undo history…and there was no way could voice his feelings in front of Arnold and Muldoon.
Nedry's silence was long and uncomfortable. Muldoon and Arnold didn't know how to interpret his silence. Was he shocked? Grateful? Angry? Insulted? Arnold wondered what would happen if Nedry rejected Hammond's financial gift. What if Nedry ripped the check in half? How would they explain that to Hammond? He thought Muldoon must be thinking the same thing. Muldoon patiently waited and was about to break the silence when Nedry finally spoke up.
"I can't accept this," he repeated quietly. "It has five zeroes. Here, take it back." He placed the check back in the envelope and tried to give it to Muldoon.
Muldoon held up his hands in protest. "Keep it, it's what John owes you—all the extra work you did for him."
"That he didn't pay you originally," Arnold added. "He also doubled it because of everything you went through when trying to get Henry back."
"Divide this check by two—that's the money he didn't pay me?" Nedry didn't believe it. "Why now after all this time? I mean…it's a little too late for this—don't you think?"
Arnold and Muldoon couldn't answer that question honestly aloud. Later, they would discuss it amongst themselves. How Nedry made a valid point, and their fear that he'd rip up the check. In that moment though, they sat with Nedry as he tried to understand why Hammond would choose now, of all times, to pay him the money he had owed him.
"Because he's trying to redeem himself," Muldoon said. "Dr. Malcolm said that John realizes how much damage he caused. So just like you did the right thing after everything that happened, John is doing the same."
"He realizes the role he played," Arnold said. "And no one put him up to this. This was something he did on his own."
"So, this is about him, making himself feel better for screwing me over in the first place?" Nedry tried to maintain an even tone.
Arnold sighed. "I can see why you'd view it that way, but he's trying to come to terms with what he did."
"And he knows he was wrong for the way he treated you in the past," Muldoon added. "He's trying to make amends."
Amends.
The word seemed to have an impact on Nedry as his shoulders slouched.
"I'm sure he's aware that nothing he gives you will change what's already happened. He wants to help you start over again—this was the best way he knew how," Muldoon said.
Nedry took in what they told him. It was still hard to believe the amount of money written on that check—or that Hammond would give him a huge financial gift. "There's just one thing."
"What is it?" Arnold asked, glancing around the bank. No one seemed to notice anything unusual which was good. He didn't want Nedry's reactions to draw attention to them.
"Hammond needs to speak to my PO about this. If I suddenly have six figures in my bank account, it'll look very suspicious—especially since I was put away for grand larceny." Nedry stood up and put the envelope into the larger manilla one.
Muldoon and Arnold also stood up, mirroring Nedry.
"We'll let him know," Muldoon reassured him. "In fact, let's call him later today, so that he can get in touch with your probation officer as soon as possible. Then we can come back in another day to set up your bank account and deposit the check."
"Why don't we call him now?" Nedry asked, puzzled. "I'd rather get this over and done with."
"Because we're meeting with Detective Anderson and the social worker for your apartment," Arnold said. "This was originally planned for tomorrow, but he has time today and the social worker is available."
oOo
By mid-afternoon, they arrived at an apartment complex five miles outside of Palo Alto. By the time they got out of the car and walked through the parking lot, they saw Detective Corey Anderson standing with a Latina woman who wore her hair in a long braid and appeared younger than him. They figured she was the re-entry social worker who would assist with housing. Arnold and Muldoon noted Nedry's silence, and they hoped he would be open to this aspect of helping him re-adjust to being outside. They hadn't been able to speak about their surprise at Nedry's almost rejecting Hammond's check. That would have to wait until later.
"Hi guys, this is Stephanie Price, she's a re-entry social worker from Midtown Family Services," Anderson said, gesturing to the woman.
"Pleased to meet all of you," Stephanie said, smiling pleasantly. She shook their hands, Nedry being the last one since he hung back, as though separating himself from everyone. "Let's get started, I'll show you where we have a vacancy."
They started up the walkway and then made a right turn towards the first building closest to them. Altogether, there were four buildings about three stories each. They were in a square formation with a courtyard in the center, which functioned as a common area. There was a small garden, a barbeque pit, and a picnic table.
"Usually, our programs work with those who have been released from state prison with the goal of reducing recidivism," Stephanie said as she took out a key and opened the outer door, allowing them to enter the lobby of the apartment building. "I understand you were in the federal system?" She turned to Nedry.
"Yeah," Nedry said, deadpan. "FCI—Federal Correctional Institution. Something like that."
"Do you remember the name of your facility?"
"I try not to." An awkward laugh erupted from him.
Muldoon and Arnold noticed it but said nothing.
Nedry became serious. "Green Hills…Green Hills Federal Correctional Institution."
"Oh okay, we work with federal ex-offenders too. Corey reached out to me, and I told him we have a vacancy. Perfect timing too, as the tenant vacated three weeks ago."
They followed Stephanie to the elevator and went up to the third floor. When the doors opened, they exited. Anderson and Stephanie left first, followed by Nedry, and then Muldoon and Arnold who hung back to talk privately.
"Why isn't he more enthusiastic?" Arnold whispered to Muldoon. "I thought he'd be excited."
"I don't know," Muldoon said in a hushed tone. "I think he's anxious and afraid."
That made sense. Arnold was beginning to understand that Nedry was probably experiencing many emotions. Anxiety of all that had to be done for him to restart successfully. Fear of messing up and facing incarceration again. Shame and sadness were present too. He tried to put himself in Nedry's shoes although it was very difficult to do so. Knowing his prison record would always follow him must be frustrating. At the same time, Arnold thought it was great that re-entry programs like Midtown Family Services existed. He was still thinking about it when he saw that Stephanie and Anderson had stopped at the fifth door on the left side of the brightly lit hallway. Nedry was with them and appeared subdued. Arnold and Muldoon quickly caught up.
"This apartment isn't fancy by any means, but it's clean and up to date with all the needed appliances. The rent includes utilities," Stephanie said, as she took out a second key and inserted in the lock, turning it to open the door.
She stepped inside first and held the door open for all of them to enter single file. They passed by a kitchenette, turned right, and entered what was a living room space. The area was large enough to set up a sofa, a television, maybe a bookshelf. The windows were wide and spacious.
"This is your living room. You have a lovely view of the courtyard. When we came in, we walked by your kitchenette." She gestured towards the area they had passed when they came in. "Down this hallway here, is your bedroom and bathroom. There's no actual dining room, although you can have a small set up so that part of your living room space is your dining area. It's up to you."
Everyone followed Stephanie, quickly looking in all the rooms and then came back to the living room.
"What do you think?" Anderson asked. "It's small, but it's livable."
"It's great," Nedry said as he turned around and fully scanned the living room area. "I like it. I don't want anything too big, but I don't want to feel like I'm living in a prison cell either."
Arnold and Muldoon were standing behind him and they exchanged a knowing glance. Maybe they had misread Nedry earlier. He did seem happy with his new living quarters. The next steps would be to purchase furniture for the apartment. A sofa, bed, dresser, and much more.
Stephanie reached into her purse and pulled out a card. She gave it to Nedry who looked at it and then placed it in his pocket. "Call if you have any issues here. Could be the rent, the landlord, anything at all. We'll start your paperwork tomorrow. Come back around nine in the morning to the office. It's on the first floor of this building at the end of the hallway on your left. We'll get you signed up, and you'll get your keys for the apartment and mailbox."
"Thanks for your time, Stephanie," Nedry said forcing a smile. "And thank you, Mr. Anderson. I—" he hesitated and then pressed forward. "I was wrong about you."
Anderson sent a quick glance to Muldoon and Arnold, both men shrugged. Nobody knew what Nedry referred to.
"What do you mean?" Anderson asked.
"You're one of the good ones. Believe me, I would know—so would Robert."
Muldoon nodded. He knew Nedry referred to Antonio Contreras, the Costa Rican police officer who had abused his power.
"I'll take that as a compliment then," Anderson said, laughing. "At least, I hope so."
"For Dennis to compliment anyone, you gotta take it and run with it," Arnold said, reaching for a cigarette in his pocket. "Before he changes his mind."
Everyone had a good laugh as they exited the apartment.
oOo
Night had fallen. After going to the apartment, Muldoon, Arnold and Nedry had dinner in the hotel's restaurant. The day had been long as they had done a lot of running around. Being able to sit down and enjoy a meal was much appreciated by everyone. Muldoon had noticed that Nedry didn't seem as heavy, and his mood was lighter. However, that was when Nedry asked the question that he and Arnold had dreaded:
"How's Henry doing?"
Arnold had picked at the food on his plate. Muldoon knew right away he had to answer the question. Arnold was still saddened about Wu's resignation and departure, although he never spoke about it aloud. He had wanted Wu to return for a long time, and after Wu announced he was leaving, he still hadn't come to terms with it. Muldoon couldn't tell which was harder for Arnold: accepting that Wu had betrayed them for Biosyn or understanding Wu's decision to leave InGen right after returning.
"He resigned." Muldoon didn't give an explanation—nor did Nedry ask for one.
Instead, Nedry put down his fork and knife. His semi-happy mood noticeably dampened. Muldoon saw it right away. Nedry had gone from talkative to quiet. Muldoon had thought he would ask questions, but surprisingly enough, Nedry didn't… He just hoped that Nedry wouldn't feel he had wasted his time when he went in as a confidential informant to help get Wu out of Biosyn. If Nedry felt that way, he didn't indicate it, but Muldoon wouldn't blame him if he did…
After dinner, they all went to their separate rooms to rest for the evening. They had accomplished a lot today and there was more to do tomorrow. Muldoon called Hammond and explained Nedry's concern about the huge amount of money showing up in his bank account out of the blue. How this might be a red flag to his probation officer. Hammond agreed and relayed he would call Nedry's PO first thing tomorrow morning. Muldoon gave him the contact information and then laid down to try to rest. He closed his eyes and started drifting away when the phone rang.
"Hello?" Muldoon asked, semi-tired.
"Can you and Ray come by my room?" It was Nedry. "I need to ask you both something."
"Sure." Before he had a chance to ask what this was about, Nedry had already hung up the phone.
Muldoon threw on his clothing and left his room. He wasn't surprised to see Arnold also step outside of his hotel room.
"You got the same message too?" Arnold asked.
Muldoon nodded. "I don't know what it's about."
They walked past four doors and found the room Nedry was in. Surprisingly enough, it was unlocked, and they were able to walk right in. The moment they came into the room, they were struck by bright lights. Nedry had every light turned on. Even the lamps on both dressers that were located on each side of the bed—the lampshades had been removed, illuminating the white light in the room. Nedry sat on the bed, resting against the pillows, and gestured for them to sit down wherever they wanted. Muldoon and Arnold sat in the upholstered chairs near the window.
"I can't sleep." Nedry yawned. "I want to get shut-eye, but I can't."
As Muldoon stared at the lightbulb, a memory of being stranded on Isla Sorna with Nedry flashed through his mind. The time they argued about the lights in the cottage they had found at the InGen compound. Nedry wanted to keep them on, and Muldoon wanted to turn them off. Back then, they had argued about everything and tossed insults at each other like they were playing frisbee. And when Muldoon tried to call Arnold in the control room, Nedry had torn the wire. At that moment, Muldoon heard Arnold's exasperated tone as though it was obvious why Nedry was wide awake.
"Of course you can't sleep! You took the lampshades off." Arnold pointed at the lampshades on the desk. "The light is shining right in your face."
Nedry sent Muldoon a pleading look as though silently asking for his help. It was so unlike him to wear that uncomfortable expression, and yet Muldoon understood what Arnold didn't: lights didn't always go out in prison. They might dim, but when Nedry was in solitary confinement and protective custody, the lights always stayed on, twenty-four seven, and he was used to it. Rather than correct Arnold or explain why Nedry wanted to keep the lights on, Muldoon steered the conversation so that they could get answers as to why they had been called in.
"Why can't you sleep? I know we did a lot today."
"Yeah, we did. I'm used to sitting in my tiny cell for twenty-three hours with an hour of outside rec. I mean, I didn't just sit…I exercised, read, wrote, took naps, organized and reorganized my stuff…" Nedry shrugged.
"Are you wired from everything?" Arnold asked, and Muldoon noticed his tone sounded softer—more understanding than before.
"I guess you can say that. There's something that's been bugging me for some time," Nedry said, yawning again.
"What's on your mind?"
Nedry fidgeted on the bed. It was obvious that he was trying to stay awake, although he appeared like he would fall asleep at any moment. His right pants leg was rolled up halfway, revealing the black ankle monitor. He had to wear it for an entire year as part of community supervision. Muldoon and Arnold tried not to stare at it. There was another device attached—a charger.
"The bag of money." He waved his hand, trying to get the right words out. "The blood money. Do you still have it, Robert?"
Muldoon knew exactly what Nedry referred to. "What about it?"
"Can you toss it out? Throw it in the water at the east dock…" Nedry's voice trailed off as he yawned. "…where everything started…just get rid of it."
Arnold looked at Muldoon, silently questioning what Nedry referred to and then it hit him—the backpack he had carried when he came to Isla Nublar to warn them of Dodgson's plans. That same backpack held the notebook with Nedry's lists of who was affiliated with InGen, and who was affiliated with Biosyn. Arnold was struck by Nedry's request, but already, he could see Muldoon nodding in agreement. He had to admit that this was a request that he would be glad to honor.
"We'll take care of it first thing once we get back to the island," Muldoon said.
"That's all I want…I'll try to sleep now. We'll go back to the apartment tomorrow to sign the paperwork. I get the key…"
"Yes, and after that, we're gonna get you stuff for your new place. Furniture, and anything else you need. Write a list in the morning of what you want for your apartment," Arnold said. "We'll go from there."
Arnold and Muldoon stood up ready to leave. By the time they had got to the door, Nedry had fallen over, fast asleep in the bed. Thus concluded the first day of his freedom from prison, which also was the first day on the outside again and the start of his three-year probation term.
oOo
Over the next two days, Arnold and Muldoon made sure Nedry had everything he needed. They started with clothing. Interview suits, ties, socks, sneakers, shoes, undergarments, pants, shirts, jackets… Next was food shopping—fruit drinks, microwavable t.v. dinners, waters, snacks, and whatever items could be made into simple meals. Hammond had reached out to Nedry's probation officer, so they ended up going back to the Santa Clara office with the check he had written for Nedry. The matter was promptly addressed with the money being approved of and starting a new savings and checking account at the bank.
They were glad everything was working out. Hammond would be thrilled to hear how much they had done to help Nedry restart his life in the outside world. Everything was going well—until they started exploring furnishings for the apartment. Obtaining basic household items wasn't the problem: cooking utensils, cleaning supplies—Nedry was fine with the smaller items. Purchasing furniture proved to be more challenging. They had gone through three department stores, with Nedry even suggesting buying an inflatable mattress before Arnold called him out when they were next to a floor display showing different bedroom sets.
"What's the problem? Why don't you want a bed or a dresser?"
Muldoon looked up sharply when he heard that no-nonsense tone in Arnold's voice.
Nedry turned away, refusing to respond. When Arnold prodded again, his answer came out in a hushed whisper. "I can't afford any of this." He gestured to the various mattresses on display.
"We're taking care of it," Arnold said. "Robert and I already told you that. This way the money John gave you, it's all in your account."
"I don't want you guys doing that for me—just like I don't want Hammond's money."
Arnold was about to respond when Muldoon intervened.
"We know you like the bed in the hotel room, the memory foam—"
"I don't care, and I don't want your pity or your money—and I don't want John's!" Nedry stormed out of the department store.
Arnold was about to go after him when Muldoon stopped him.
"Remember what Dr. Malcolm told us?" Muldoon asked.
Arnold sighed, frustrated. He tried to be patient with Nedry, but the truth was he didn't understand why he pushed away everyone who wanted to help him. "No, remind me."
"Dennis self-sabotages because his self-esteem is shot to hell. He's a mental mess, Ray. He doesn't think he deserves anyone's help after everything he's done—he's ashamed."
Arnold thought about it and then the lightbulb went on in his head as Muldoon was talking. Rejecting outside help was a way of self-sabotaging—but he also realized Muldoon was right. Nedry was overwhelmed with embarrassment that he couldn't provide for himself. His pride was getting in the way and now Arnold knew what he and Muldoon needed to do.
"Let's go find him," Arnold said. "I know how I'll approach this."
Muldoon agreed and they left the department store. They were in a busy mall on a Saturday afternoon. The building was crowded with groups of teenagers, couples, and families. Vendors in the center aisle sold all sorts of items ranging from t-shirts to sunglasses.
At first, they couldn't find him. Then they realized where Nedry might've headed. They took the escalator down and headed to the food court. Minutes later, they found Nedry sitting by himself in a secluded corner with a tray of half-eaten McDonald's food in front of him. Muldoon reached into his pocket for his flask while Arnold searched for his lighter and a spare cigarette. It was unconscious on their parts how all their ways of coping surfaced at the same moment: Nedry with eating, Arnold with smoking, and Muldoon with drinking. They didn't ask Nedry if they could join him—they simply did. Nedry shoved the tray away angrily, but still refused to look at them. Muldoon was about to start when Arnold pointed at himself as if saying: let me handle this. Muldoon sat back and watched; he was glad Arnold was being more pro-active in helping Nedry.
"I asked you the wrong question earlier," Arnold started slowly.
Nedry glared at him. "You asked the right one and I gave you my right answer: I don't want your help."
Arnold willed himself to stay calm, even as he tossed his lighter on the table. Dealing with Nedry's surly attitude had never been easy. Not during their time of working together in the control room at Isla Nublar, and not now where they were on unequal footing: Arnold still had his career as an engineer, and position in InGen. Nedry had nothing except his prison record; his career was dead and buried—and he had been the gravedigger. Next to him, Muldoon sipped from his flask and put it back in his pocket.
"Do you forgive yourself, Dennis?"
Nedry blinked, startled. He didn't expect to be asked that question and didn't face either of them. "I guess I do—I've tried to."
"You've tried?"
"Something stops me from forgiving myself all the way."
Arnold's eyes landed on the table. He felt ashamed to look in Nedry's direction, especially knowing that he had never forgiven him. He thought he had, when the Biosyn team left the island, and when Nedry helped out on Isla Nublar for the next three months. During that time, he and Nedry had more pleasant interactions, but…the divide was still there. Arnold still didn't trust Nedry, even after everything he had done to make amends. He doubted he would ever forgive him for all the chaos and destruction he had caused. He wanted to, but…
The night in the recreation room when Wu revealed his resignation had changed everything. That night, when Harding railed against Wu, Arnold saw that Harding hadn't forgiven Wu or Nedry at all. He also saw how lack of forgiveness was impacting Harding, keeping him angry and bitter, and how Wu being unable to forgive himself hurt him as well. Despite all his accomplishments, Wu didn't feel it was right to remain with InGen, reaping the rewards from his success, especially when he had stumbled in the worst way: joining the corporate enemy. He had picked himself back up again with Nedry's help, but it wasn't enough.
Hearing Muldoon voice aloud his forgiveness of Nedry motivated Arnold to try and do the same. It was easier said than done, and extremely difficult. Arnold wrestled with himself internally. Did forgiving Nedry mean he was making excuses for him? Approving his past actions? Muldoon helped him to understand it was none of those things. Forgiving him means I release him from what he's done; I don't carry anger towards him anymore, Muldoon had told Arnold later that night, long after Wu, Harding, and Lawala had left the recreation room. Muldoon explained that while he forgave Nedry—he would never forget what he had done—both good and bad. They were separate positions to hold.
This brought Arnold to where he was now. If he tried to forgive Nedry, then he didn't hold his past actions against him. He wouldn't forget what Nedry had done, but the anger he held against him would dissipate. Nedry forgiving himself was an entirely different matter as Arnold was coming to slowly realize.
"You still hold everything against yourself?"
Nedry nodded. "I can't have you guys do this stuff for me—I appreciate it, Ray, but…I'd rather do it myself, and I don't have the means. I don't have a job…I don't know how that's gonna go when the time comes…"
"John gave you funds," Arnold tried again. "You'll get a job in time."
"After twenty doors slam closed in my face when I check off the box."
"What box?"
"Have you ever been convicted of a crime? Yes or no. That box—it's on job applications."
Arnold had no idea how to respond, and now he looked to Muldoon, hoping he would have the right words, a more helpful and effective response. He felt strange about this, but it had to be done. Together, they had discovered Nedry's betrayal, so together, they would help him restore his life—especially since Nedry had helped restore order to InGen after Biosyn's destructive reign. Then the words came to him—sort of.
"You're right, getting a job won't be easy. For now, though, John's given you money—"
Nedry threw his arms up in the air, exasperated. "I keep telling you—it's not my money."
"It is your money," Muldoon and Arnold said at the same time. They looked at each other, surprised, and then to Nedry who still shook his head.
"It's not."
"Half of the sum on that check is what John should've paid you when he demanded more work out of you," Arnold said. "You more than deserve that compensation. It's long overdue."
"The other half is for all the hell you went through when you helped get Henry out of Biosyn," Muldoon added. "It won't undo the bloody nonsense Dodgson's gang put you through, but John wanted to give back to you in some way—this is the best way he knows how." He realized he was repeating the same words he had told Nedry when they were at the bank. It didn't matter—Muldoon believed in what he had told Nedry then and now.
A long silence passed among them. The loud chatter of the food court was the only background noise. All three men they were going in circles. They had this conversation before and were having it again.
"Why don't you forgive yourself?" Arnold asked, reaching for his lighter and cigarette on the table. He shoved both in his pocket. He didn't notice that he hadn't bothered to light the cigarette although he had craved one the entire time.
Nedry tried to answer Arnold's question as he played with the remaining French fries on the tray. "I don't know. I just can't…I don't have a good reason to give you."
"You did a lot to make amends."
"Doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things." Nedry flicked a French fry away, refusing to make eye contact with Arnold.
Arnold sat back in his chair, uncertain of where to go from here. Thankfully Muldoon took over.
"It does matter. We've moved on from that moment at the east dock. You're not the same man anymore. We forgive you—we didn't forget, but we did move on. You must do the same—especially if you're to start over again."
"I'll try." Nedry shrugged.
"At the very least, let's finish what we came to do. We have a few days left and then we have to return to the island. The inner work though…" Muldoon stood up now as did Arnold and Nedry. "That will take time, but try to do it, for your sake."
A minute full of silence passed.
"You're right…I'll try to. It seems impossible at times."
"I know it does. It won't come overnight but you gotta keep pushing forward. You're not on your own anymore." Muldoon finally put into words what he knew Nedry needed to hear. "You're not as friendless as you think."
"I have no friends…but thanks for the kind sentiment."
Muldoon and Arnold exchanged a painful glance. They couldn't even find it in themselves to think of Nedry's response as having a pity-party for himself. The truth was they knew, as well as Nedry knew, that isolation and loneliness were part of the consequences of his actions. Still, he had made amends, and they were there to work with him. Nedry's stare was focused on the table, as he refused to make eye contact with them. Allies, Arnold mouthed, and Muldoon nodded in agreement. Allies—this was the perfect word to describe their connection.
"Allies…we're allies," Muldoon said. "And we're here now."
Arnold took it as his cue to speak up. He pushed himself to do so even when he felt the tightness in his stomach from unreleased anxiety. "Robert's right. We're here now, so let's help you get set up. Okay?"
Nedry nodded. "Sure…I know what I want to get."
All three men left the food court and returned to the department store. Nothing else was mentioned about forgiveness and self-forgiveness for the rest of the day. However, the conversation and its emotional weight left an indelible mark on each man.
oOo
Three days later, Arnold and Muldoon were ready to leave Nedry and return to Isla Nublar. After that time in the mall, Nedry had let down his defenses and allowed Muldoon and Arnold to help him buy whatever else he needed for his new apartment. They also helped him set everything up. Nedry kept it sparse as he didn't want to crowd the apartment with too many items. He had finally chosen a simple and modest bedroom and living room set. A small desk with a laptop was situated near the back wall of the living room. On the desk was the plaque which Arnold remembered to bring back to him: "Dennis Nedry: World's Most Badass and Bravest Hacker. Next to it was a framed photo of Nedry, Arnold, Muldoon, Wu, and Harding that they had taken on Isla Nublar when Nedry and Wu first returned with Hammond and Anderson. The five-pound Hershey bar—Arnold had brought a new one for Nedry and placed it in the freezer earlier. All in all: mission accomplished!
Arnold had his hand on the knob when Muldoon turned back. He watched as Nedry moved the sofa so that it was in a different position against the wall, as opposed to being in the middle of the room.
"Dennis?"
Arnold was curious and he waited to see what Muldoon would ask Nedry. After adjusting the sofa, Nedry came over to them.
"What's up?"
"I have a question for you—and you can't reverse it back to me this time."
Arnold lit a cigarette and listened to their conversation. He wanted to interject but he knew this was an exchange that Nedry and Muldoon needed to have.
Nedry smirked in response. "Ask away."
"Do you finally feel free?"
Arnold noticed that Nedry's smirk faded immediately.
"Yeah, I finally do. For the first time, I'm truly free—I'm free of the me I used to be…" his voice trailed off, and then he finished his thought moments later. "The me that got me into all this trouble in the first place, if that makes sense."
"It does. Sometimes we're incarcerated up here," Muldoon said, pointing at his temple.
"Exactly—and it's not just about me getting into all this trouble. My shitty choices had ripple effects on everyone. I never intended for that to happen." Nedry wasn't sure what else to say, and he noticed Arnold lingering near the door. "I thought about it."
"Thought about what?" Arnold asked.
"Something Robert had said to me…I wish you both had spoken to me that day down by the east dock…" Nedry sighed. "I wish someone had cared enough to reach out to me, the way I tried to reach Henry. Even though I wouldn't have listened, it still would've meant a lot to know that someone gave a damn."
Muldoon wasn't sure how to respond. Nedry's words hit him hard, and he could tell by Arnold's thoughtful expression that it affected him too. The emotional weight was far heavier this time around. He didn't think anyone cared, Muldoon realized, but when he looked back on how everything came to a head when they caught him red-handed at the east dock, Nedry had already isolated himself from the rest of the park staff. He had become difficult to interact with—probably due to his frustration with Hammond. It had spilled outward to everyone else. Despite his external challenging personality, Nedry was struggling internally at the time. He was still struggling, but this time around, he was open to support.
"Well…I'm glad you listened this time," Muldoon said. He offered a wry smile. "So that we could help you start over."
Arnold opened the door to let himself and Muldoon out. It seemed the best way so that they could all leave on good terms. They stepped out of the apartment and Nedry stood in the doorway.
"I'm not one for sappy words—but lately, it's all I've got since everyone has helped me more than I deserve."
Arnold's eyebrows rose when he caught the significance of what Nedry said. More than I deserve… Right then, it struck him: Nedry didn't think he deserved any gesture of kindness, compassion…or even friendship.
"What's that?" Muldoon was curious.
"Thank you both for being there when I got out—and for helping me with all this," Nedry said, gesturing to the apartment.
A sad smile that didn't reach his eyes flashed across Muldoon's face. "It's the least we can do, after everything you've done to turn things around."
"I appreciate it, and I'll call John later to thank him."
"You got it," Arnold said.
Without another word, Muldoon and Arnold left to take the elevator. They didn't turn around when they heard Nedry close the door. There were no actual good-byes exchanged. Probably because both men knew—as Nedry knew—that this was "see you later" and not good-bye.
oOo
When Arnold and Muldoon returned to Isla Nublar the following day, the first thing they did before greeting everyone was go directly to Muldoon's suite in the staff lodge. They were exhausted and wanted to sleep all day, but this was a task that needed to be addressed promptly. It didn't take them long to find what they were looking for. Muldoon had hidden it strategically in the back of his closet. As they left the lodge, they ran into Hammond, who was walking along the grounds with Tim and Lex Murphy. Thankfully the backpack was already in the gas-powered jeep, out of sight.
"How did everything go?" Hammond asked.
"Excellent," Arnold said as he closed the passenger door. "He's off to a good start."
"Did you give him the money? Or use it on what he needed?"
Tim and Lex listened quietly to their conversation.
"Yes," Muldoon answered. "He was very grateful for it, John." He glanced at Arnold who gave him a knowing nod. They didn't want to share with Hammond how Nedry initially resisted. They also needed to address Nedry's request and were careful not to arouse suspicion. "Ray and I just need to take a quick drive; we'll be back in a half hour and give you the full details."
Hammond smiled brightly. "I'm glad that it was a worthwhile trip, and that Dennis is finally getting the new start that he deserves."
"He's on a better path now. We'll see you all in about a half hour."
"Sounds great! I look forward to hearing everything." Hammond resumed walking around the visitor center with his grandchildren.
Muldoon drove silently and he glanced once in the rearview mirror. Tim and Lex spoke excitedly with Hammond as they walked together in the direction of the visitor center. Seeing him bond with his grandchildren was heartwarming. Before long, they were driving down on the maintenance road.
Arnold remained quiet as he held Nedry's backpack. He didn't open it or peer inside it as he had done the first time—back then he had found Nedry's notebook with the list of names. Right now, he knew what it contained. It would be tempting to open the backpack, take out a wad of cash…and even keep it. Arnold placed the backpack at his feet and coughed loudly. Muldoon's eyebrows rose, curious.
"Are you alright?"
"Yeah, I just didn't want to be…I dunno. Tempted?" Arnold felt embarrassed now and searched for his lighter.
"Hmm…"
They rode to the east dock in complete silence.
oOo
Fifteen minutes later, they reached the east dock. Muldoon parked at the edge and he and Arnold got out of the gas-powered jeep. They made their way to the furthest point on the dock.
"I can't believe it all started here," Arnold said quietly, as he watched the water lap against the dock.
"I know."
Muldoon sighed. He couldn't explain why doing this felt heavy. He thought honoring Nedry's request would give him relief, that it would free him, Arnold, and Nedry from that one terrible moment in time all those years ago, but instead a pit of sadness expanded in his stomach. There was no explanation for why he felt this way, it made no sense. He wanted to take a sip of alcohol from his flask, but he resisted. He needed to be in the here-and-now with no distractions. Turning to Arnold who held the backpack, he pointed at it, and then at the water.
"Ready when you are."
Arnold followed Muldoon's directive and opened the backpack, reaching inside. Grabbing a handful of bound bills, he tossed them into the water and watched them sink beneath the surface. He snatched several more, threw them into the water, and saw how quickly they sank. After one more throw of bound bills, Arnold stopped and handed the backpack to Muldoon.
"Your turn."
Muldoon held the backpack. It was lighter now as Arnold had thrown out half the contents. He thought about doing it the way Arnold had done. Take several stacks of bound bills and toss them. Then he thought better of it. Muldoon stepped close to the edge of the dock and turned the backpack upside down. The bound cash came rushing out and hit the surface, causing the water to splash up. Muldoon shook the backpack making sure he got everything out. One last bound set of bills hit the water. With everything he had, he threw the empty backpack into the water. It sank down into the depths, never to be seen again.
Arnold turned to Muldoon who stared out at the water. "Do you finally feel free now?"'
Muldoon was quiet for several moments before answering. "I do. You?"
"Yeah, I do—and about time, too."
They left the east dock and drove back to the visitor center to update everyone about their visit to the States with Nedry. As time went on, the heaviness lifted, and they were flooded with relief that for the first time, everyone—especially Nedry—would be able to move forward and have a new start.
Author's Notes: This is the penultimate chapter of this story. This chapter was personal for me as I've always had an interest in corrections social work/re-entry social work. I hope what I wrote was accurate about the challenges of re-entry, once a person has been released from prison. From speaking to a cousin, a friend, and also a client, all of whom were previously incarcerated, the stigma remains long after release. There are so many things that former felons experience: mental health concerns such as depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder - PTSD, and PICS - Post Incarceration Syndrome, suicide, decreased self-esteem, barriers to employment and housing, substance abuse issues, and a whole lot more. I wanted to paint this as realistically, and respectfully, as possible.
There are JP fans who wonder what might've happened to Dennis Nedry if he had been caught for his crimes, instead of killed by a dilophosaur which happened in canon. Reign of Chaos Trilogy addresses that very question and my guess is he would've eventually slipped up, got arrested, tried before a jury, and sent to prison. But now that he's been released from prison, what does life look like for Nedry? What would be his main challenges? That's what this chapter aimed to address. I also wanted to give closure to Muldoon and Arnold who were drastically impacted when they caught Nedry in the act. This chapter aimed to bring everything full circle.
Thank you so much for reading and staying with my story. I'm aiming to have the final chapter up by November 8th.
-Sassy Lil Scorpio