Chapter 7
I Just Told The Truth
"Want to bet they're all waiting for us?" Mox growled as they entered the elevator at City Hall.
"Probably," Roman calmly nodded.
Mox eyed the large deep briefcase being held by Seth's left hand. "Running away from home?" he snarked.
Seth slowly looked at him, a smirk on his face that was far more devious than amused. Then he cackled in laughter.
Despite himself, Mox grinned and chuckled in return.
Seeing Mox relax, Roman winked at Seth and quietly laughed. So, when they exited the elevator, all three men looked confident and relaxed. As they were escorted to the conference room, Roman whispered to Seth, "Hope you know what you're doing."
"Divide and conquer, my brother," Seth murmured in return. "Divide and conquer."
"Gentlemen. Welcome!" Brodie met them at the door with an outstretched hand. When he'd shaken hands with all of them, he motioned to the table. "Please sit. Even though everyone's names are known, there are nameplates so everyone can familiarize themselves before we start."
Mox was amused to see he'd been seated between Seth and Roman. He refused to acknowledge that he was comforted by that placement. Writing tablets and pencils had been placed in front of everyone for ease of taking notes. He moved his to one side so Seth could rest his briefcase on the table between them.
Brodie sat down between Malenko and Roode and beamed at everyone. "First, I'd like to thank everyone for attending this meeting. I hope it won't take as long as I've scheduled, but I want everyone to have the opportunity to ask questions and air their opinions. And those opinions should be given without fear of losing favor with anyone. And I expect everyone to listen with an open mind. If anyone can't do that, you are hereby excused." When no one spoke or moved, he continued. "Good. One purpose of this meeting is to encourage everyone's viewpoints as long as they're expressed with courtesy and respect. Now, I would like to start by asking our guests to give us some background about the MDM Foundation and its goals."
'Showtime.' Roman smiled and nodded at Brodie. "For those of you who don't know me, I'm Roman Reigns. To my left is Jon Moxley, and to his left is Seth Rollins. Seth and I are the ranking corporate officers of the MDM Foundation. Mox created the idea for the MDM Foundation and has been a major financial supporter."
Seth subtly nudged Mox's foot to get him to relax.
"The purpose of the MDM Foundation is quite simple," Roman continued. "To get kids off the street. Not just for the night and a hot meal. But to give them a safe place to heal. Counseling to help them make decisions for the rest of their lives. Give them a purpose beyond street crime. The purpose of the Special Victims Unit is to aid the victims, which often includes street kids. That aid is to protect them, get them immediate medical assistance, and to encourage them to help in the prosecution of the offenders. The purpose of Child Protective Services is to find these kids a safe place to live. Foster care which, admittedly, is most often a short-term solution to a long-term problem. Problems of physical, social, and sometimes mental issues in addition to a distrust of authority."
Roman held up a hand. "I mean no disrespect with that statement. I'm simply stating a fact known to all of us sitting here. Your budgets and resources only allow you to do so much. Your people, who do the best they can with what they have, are overwhelmed with the caseloads. It's unreasonable to expect more of them. The MDM Foundation isn't looking to replace any of you. We're intending to help fill a need."
"Why?"
The gruff question came from one of the SVU investigators, Eddie Kingston.
"Why are you guys doin' this?" Eddie aggressively asked. "You don't know these kids."
"I know them."
Roman glanced at Mox who'd quietly answered the question. The plan had been for Roman and Seth to do as much of the talking as possible.
"I was one of those kids," Mox stated. "A kid with a drug-abusing mother who left when I was barely in school. A kid with a father who was an alcoholic gambler…and took up with any woman who'd give him a second glance. A kid who was happy to wear second-hand clothes because mostly it was third-hand clothes sometimes from a dumpster or garbage bags. I took more beatings from my bastard father than I can remember…mostly for no other reason that I was just there. Breakfast? A slice of moldy stale bread if I was lucky. If I wasn't lucky, I had nothing. Lunch? When I was in school, there were no free lunches. Sometimes, one of the cafeteria people would slip me food because they felt sorry for me. Dinner? Well, that was a small can of something I'd shoplift from a convenience store. If not, well, I learned how to dumpster dive before I was ten years old."
Unconsciously, he leaned forward. "I should've been a criminal. I shouldn't have given a damn about anybody but myself. But one family saved me. Gave me a decent home. Gave me a reason to believe and want to be something more than the dirty street rat that I was. Gave me a reason to hope and stability. Not through foster care where the family is paid to keep the kid and can end at any moment…that's not stability. They did it because they were decent human beings. One family did that for one kid. We need to do more. I know these street kids even if I don't know their names yet. They're hungry. They're scared. They're desperate. And, right or wrong, they don't trust you."
Seth reached out and squeezed Mox's wrist in support.
"We don't want to be at loggerheads with you," Roman quietly added. "We can be a bridge and a way to show these kids they can trust you. Because we trust you; and hopefully, they can trust us." He nodded to Seth.
Seth opened his briefcase and began taking out folders. "I'm sure you have questions about our funding."
'No shit,' Roman silently snorted.
Seth divided the folders into two stacks. "If you would pass these around the table." He handed one stack to the SVU Captain, Rey Mysterio, who sat next to him and the other to Mox who quickly handed it off to Roman.
"The MDM Foundation is registered as a non-profit charitable organization," Seth began. "We will be filing quarterly financial statements as well as profit/loss statements and the appropriate tax returns. What this financial statement shows are the contributions made to the Foundation as of the end of the prior month as well as the expenditures."
He glanced around the table to make sure everyone had a copy. "Most of the expenditures at this point are for the purchase of the property, renovations, equipment, furniture, utilities, etc. And a lot of people have volunteered their services and resources to get us up and running. As for the donations, almost all of the donors have committed to continual funding…not just a one-time donation. Of course, we will continue to solicit donations, however small they might be."
Seth reached into the briefcase and brought out another stack of folders. As deftly as a blackjack dealer, he separated them into two stacks and handed them to Mysterio and Mox to pass out.
"This is an overall view of what the MDM Foundation will provide," Seth explained. "Individual bedrooms and bathrooms. We feel that a sense of privacy is important as an indication of trust. In addition, it will help keep down any problems with incompatible roommates." That had been Mox's idea, having seen in prison how warring cellmates caused a lot of problems once they were locked inside together.
"A full-sized cafeteria," Seth continued. "Kids with medical issues such as diabetes or allergies, for example, can get good healthy meals that are safe for them. Nutrition will be stressed although I've been advised that pizza and sweets aren't off the menu."
Roman relaxed as several people at the conference table laughed.
"We'll have a medical staff on-site 24/7," Seth added. "We'll ask the kids if they need to see a doctor and assure them of the confidentiality of any medical treatment. We'll also provide physical therapy if needed as well as mental health counseling. We'll have security 24/7 as well. The majority of these kids are being used by…people who make money off them. Those people aren't likely to be happy losing that source of income." Seth paused, then continued, "One way to keep them in line is to make them believe that if they run, they'll be brought back. They can't hide. No one can protect them."
Roman took over. "The building has been renovated to be as safe as any bank in this city. All access points have been covered. Security will be very visible during the hours the outside areas are in use, and the kids will be briefed on what to do in case of trouble. In addition, we have security alarms that will alert the police department when triggered."
"The outside areas will have a running track and basketball court," Seth continued. "And we can have some track and field events if there's an interest. There will be in indoor pool and gymnasium with a half-basketball court. There will be some weights and gym equipment. There are also plans for yoga and self-defense courses."
"Nutrition and fitness?" Brodie asked, glancing up from the folder.
Seth nodded. "Both, we feel, are necessary to help boost their self-esteem as well as assist in any physical healing." He leaned back in his chair. "As some of you know, I opened a tutoring center which is located on the other side of the open area of the MDM Foundation. My great-uncle, who raised me after my parents were murdered in a drive-by shooting, believed education was the way to lift kids out of the cycle of poverty and crime. That center will be available to these kids. The instructors there have volunteered to support this effort. In addition, the MDM Foundation will have a computer lab for those interested in learning how to use computers. We'll encourage these kids to continue their education either through traditional means or a GED and assist with tutoring."
Mox managed not to laugh when Seth pulled out yet another stack of folders from the briefcase.
"Finally, two more pieces of information," Seth promised, passing out the last of the folders. "First is an organizational chart of the MDM Foundation. Second is a letter from Mr. Joey Mercury, Director of the Vo-Tech School. We met with him and secured his support. Not everyone is cut out for college. As you can see from the earlier financial statements, part of the donations are ear-marked for tuitions. Mr. Mercury will accept students for the Vo-Tech school as long as they are sixteen years of age…the same as if they were attending high school. In order to graduate and receive their certifications, however, they are required to graduate high school or possess a GED."
Seth closed the briefcase and set it between himself and Mysterio. "I realize this is a lot of information. Hopefully, however, it will answer many of your questions."
"Thank you very much," Brodie spoke up. "And I agree." He glanced around the table. "I suggest we take some time to review this information and data and perhaps stretch our legs." He looked at the three men across the table from him. "I trust you will be ready to answer any questions."
"Of course," Roman smoothly nodded.
Brodie stood. "Let me show you to the ante-chamber while we make our review. I'll have coffee and pastries sent in for you."
Once the door was closed and they were alone in the ante-chamber, Mox began to quietly laugh. "Jesus, Seth, you buried them with all that stuff."
Seth grinned as he sat down. "Nikki's idea. She said it would probably cut down on the questions and allow everyone to get to the heart of the matter." Then he shrugged. "Besides, some of them may be on the fence. That information may give them answers to their concerns and keep them from being swayed against us. Divide and conquer."
"Yeah, I kinda thought I saw Nikki's fingers of organization on that stuff," Mox admitted as he sat down. And you've got a devious mind.' He glanced at Roman who was staring out the window. "Roman? Problems?"
Roman shrugged and turned around. "Mox is right, Seth. You did great with that. But don't count out what you said, Jon Moxley. You put the personal touch to what we're doing and why. Everybody else at that table could see this in an abstract or theoretical way. You gave them a personal example they can't dismiss. And you did it without asking for sympathy or pity." Not for the first time, Roman wished he'd known Mox earlier than he had.
"I just told the truth," Mox mumbled.
"And the plain unvarnished truth is what they needed to hear," Seth quietly spoke, putting a hand on Mox's arm.
They were interrupted by a young woman with a service cart. "Just leave it here when you're done," she smiled. "And if you need anything else, I'm just outside."
"Thank you," Roman smiled in return. When the door closed behind her, he grinned at the other two. "Besides pastries and coffee, we've got fruit and water. Better eat up. I have a feeling the questioning is going to be a little rough."
Time passed slowly. More than once, Mox glared at the closed door. "What's taking so long?" he finally growled. "They've been at it for hours."
Seth looked up from the game he was playing on his phone. "Just a little over an hour and a half," he corrected.
"Just feel like we should be doing something," Mox grumbled. "Not just sitting here."
Roman looked up from the newspaper that Brodie's assistant had brought to him. "We pretty much know the questions we'll be asked. The Mayor wanted them to air their opinions. He has a reputation of being a conciliator. He's on our side. Let him do what he does best."
Mox muttered something under his breath that caused Seth to smirk. Then all three of their phones chimed, indicating a text message. They looked at each other, then Mox and Roman reached for their phones.
"I was almost to the next level," Seth complained.
'TO: Rollins Bookstore, Rollins Deli, Rollins Study Hall, Dawson Customizing, Mox, SRollins, RReigns, RegalW, Damien Sandow
Greetings to everyone! Kevin and I have been given the honor and pleasure of making this announcement. You are all invited to a wedding! Yes! Another wedding! Our Uncle Mox is getting married to the lovely Alexa Bliss. We will have a new Aunt!
The wedding will be Saturday the 17th at the First Davenport Baptist Church (google the address). Dress is casual but no jeans and t-shirts please. Please RSVP the acceptance of you and your guests. A reception will be at the First Davenport Baptist Church after the ceremony with food, drinks, and music. In lieu of gifts, please donate to your favorite charity.
Please join Kevin and me in wishing all the best for Uncle Mox and Aunt Alexa!
Mitch and Kevin'
Roman chuckled then began laughing.
Mox slowly turned his head to stare at Seth who smirked back at him. "At least Kevin got to participate," Mox finally said.
Seth threw his head back, his laughter merging with Roman's.
"You didn't know about this?" Roman finally asked.
"No," Mox firmly answered. "Alexa said she'd take care of the announcement."
Both the other men saw the grin Mox was fighting. "You love your nephews," Seth teased.
"Don't start," Mox warned, finally letting his grin show. He saw Roman busily texting. "Who are you texting?"
"Galina and others."
Mox groaned. He knew the twins would never let him live this down. He was startled when Seth got to his feet and pulled Mox up to give him a tight hug.
"Congratulations," Seth quietly spoke. "I hope you and Alexa will be as happy as Nikki and I are." His dark eyes twinkled. "I get to be the best man, right?"
"Hey!" Roman looked up from his phone. "I've known him longer."
"Not by much," Seth sniffed.
Mox looked from Seth to Roman, then threw up his hands. "I'm almost certain Nikki will be a bridesmaid. So, wherever she's placed, Seth stands there. I'll tell Alexa she's gotta find a third."
Roman stood and nodded. "Deal." Then he wrapped his arms around both the other men. "You know the Little Princess will want to be the flower girl."
The door opened, and Brodie stood in the doorway. "Am I interrupting, gentlemen?"
"Not at all," Roman smoothly replied as they disengaged from the hug. "We just got Mox's wedding announcement."
"Indeed! Well, congratulations Mr. Moxley!" Brodie came closer and held out his hand. "My best wishes to you and your fiancé."
"Uh…thank you." Embarrassed, Mox shook Brodie's hand.
"Well, if you can join us, there are some questions for you," Brodie explained. "We've had a very…informative discussion."
"I'm sure," Roman politely answered. "And we're ready." As they entered the conference room, both he and Seth automatically scanned the faces of the others trying to determine who was with them and who was against them.
As Brodie sat down, he smiled, "I'd like to thank everyone for their patience. I believe we all realize the importance of this meeting. And, while we're all busy people, this is a process that needs time. I'm most appreciative of the time all of you are taking today. Ms. Cargill, if you would begin."
The head of CPS coolly nodded. "First, how will these kids know about your Foundation?"
"We plan an extensive publicity campaign," Seth explained. "Television, radio, social media, posters, billboards, advertisements in public transportation, for example, as well as word of mouth."
"Can you explain your intake procedure?"
Roman leaned forward to make eye contact with her. "A kid comes to us. Either to ask questions or needing help. A lot depends on the scenario. If they ask questions, we supply the answers. If they need help, we determine what type of help. Are they hungry? Needing a place to sleep? Medical assistance? Once that's determined, we ask for a name. We'd like to get a full name, but we'll take a first name…as a matter of courtesy. We stress that any medical treatment is confidential. Our on-site doctor and nurses will ask the appropriate questions. The first contact is almost certainly going to be immediate needs…food, shelter, medical. Once that's accomplished, we can hopefully move to long-term prospects."
Jade paused, then continued. "Final question. What about the parents of missing children who come to your Foundation? Parents who are desperately looking for their children?"
"Ms. Cargill, I'm a father myself," Roman explained. "If my daughter had run away from home, I'd be the most desperate man you'd ever want to see. I know what can happen to vulnerable kids on the street. So maybe I'm not the person to objectively answer this question. What I can tell you, from our perspective is that there are lots of reasons kids run from their home. Abuse is a big one. Another is drug abuse. And some are lured by unscrupulous people whose promises are nothing more than lies. I can't tell you what our actions would be until we know the reason the kid ran. If the kid was lured away from home, we'd encourage them to at least let their parents know they're okay. We would act as an intermediary if we've gained their trust. If they're on drugs, we would encourage them to take advantage of the treatment we'd provide. If they were running from abuse, we'd encourage them to talk to the police."
Jade silently nodded at Brodie.
"Thank you, Ms. Cargill. Capt. Mysterio?"
"Thank you, Mr. Mayor." Rey Mysterio smiled. "I have two questions. First, how long will you allow these kids to stay? Is this a short-term availability or will they be a permanent resident?"
"Our goal is to get them in a better place, mentally, physically, and emotionally," Seth explained. "Nobody can make good decisions unless they're in that place. It takes as long as it takes. In this scenario, there's no 'one size fits all' solution."
Mysterio pleasantly nodded. "We've all been assuming that we're talking teenagers. But my division has seen street kids as young as ten. So, my next question, what do you do if you have a child as young as that?"
"We'd deal more gently with them," Seth quietly answered. "They're likely to be more traumatized and afraid than someone older. As we stated earlier, we will have mental health counselors on site to deal with the emotional or mental issues."
"And, as we stated, we're not looking to replace you," Roman added. "We don't want to be at loggerheads either. We want to work with you. But it's going to take time for these kids to trust us. Much less trust us enough to believe it when we say we can trust you."
"Look, let's just cut to the chase!" SVU's Jay Lethal burst out.
Mysterio started to say something, then closed his mouth. But not before Roman saw the look passed between Mysterio and Brodie.
"We could solve this problem in 48 hours if we were given the power and authority to arrest those kids and hold them until they're either sent to juvie or back to their homes."
Seth's dark eyes widened in surprise.
"And where are you going to hold them?" Jade demanded. "We don't have enough foster homes or places to put them! Unless, of course, you plan on keeping them in jail!"
"If they've broken the law, that's where they belong!" Lethal shot back.
"That won't be happening on my watch," Malenko coldly broke in. "Not unless you have probable cause to arrest someone."
"Yes, sir," Lethal snorted.
"Enough," Mysterio sternly ordered. "You've made your point."
"Not to mention that sort of action would open up the City to massive civil rights lawsuits," Cole firmly added.
Both Roman and Seth saw the glare that Eddie threw at the man sitting next to him.
"Mr. Cole, I believe you're next." Brodie turned to the man next to him.
"Thank you, sir." Cole caught the sarcastic look on Lethal's face and made a note to discuss him with Malenko. "Gentlemen, my concerns are legal. According to the law, if one of these kids tell you about illegal acts they've committed or know to have been committed, you are obligated to report that to law enforcement. And I'd say most of these kids are street smart enough to know that. How do you think you can forge some sort of trust in that case? Unless you're a member of the clergy, a lawyer or a doctor, you're not covered by confidentiality."
Roman chuckled. "Well, we're certainly not clergy. Although, if spiritual guidance or advice is requested, we're friends with the Pastor of the First Davenport Baptist Church as well as Father Michael of St. Bridget's. They would certainly be of assistance. The Foundation has retained a law firm for legal assistance…both for the Foundation and the kids." He saw Cole's eyes slightly narrow and felt the message had been understood.
"And, as stated, we have therapists and doctors on-site." He leaned forward. "Now, in the scenario, you've presented, unless this kid is terrified out of his or her mind of someone on the street, they're not going to just blurt out any illegal acts to us. In order for that to happen, a great deal of trust has to have been established; and the kid has to understand law enforcement will get involved. The kid will have legal representation for his or her own protection. This exact scenario is why we need to have a good working relationship…on both sides."
Roman decided to play a hunch and slowly looked at Lethal. "What we don't need is some gung-ho cowboy busting in to put a kid in cuffs who may be a victim and trying to help."
'And you wouldn't get past the front door, Detective Douchebag,' Mox silently promised.
Lethal started to open his mouth, but Mysterio held up his hand. "Not a word. That's an order."
Fuming, Lethal looked away.
Once again, Roman caught the look between Mysterio and Brodie.
"We wanted two of the attorneys here to answer any questions regarding the finances or legal issues," Roman concluded. "However, they were both committed to court appearances. Damien Sandow and William Regal. Their numbers are listed on the organization chart if you'd care to discuss your concerns in greater depth."
Cole simply nodded in silence.
Brodie looked at Roode. "Robert?"
"Councilman Knight and I have the same issue," Roode began. "If the City supports this venture by some sort of alliance or working agreement, is the City in any danger of liability from accident or medical issues that arise? A lawsuit could be brought against the city charging lack of proper medical care, for example."
"I've said it before. Anybody can bring a lawsuit to Court," Cole calmly replied. "The City would only be liable for actions taking by an employee of the City. Such litigation would be against the Foundation." He smiled at both Roode and Knight. "If you want, I can discuss that with their legal representatives if you'd like to sit in on the call."
The two men exchanged glances, then Roode nodded. "Yes, we'd like that confirmed. No offense, Mr. Cole."
"None taken."
"Chief Malenko?" Brodie turned to the man sitting next to him.
"You talked about how secure the building is," Malenko calmly spoke. "The implication being that the security is from someone trying to break in. What about security inside the building?"
"Security cameras are in every room, including the medical treatment rooms," Roman answered. "Each bedroom has a metal door that I assure you would take a mortar blast to take it down. Interior doors can only be locked via a computer controlled by the security office which is manned 24/7. Once locked, they can only be unlocked by the same control. There is an emergency override as well. All cameras are monitored 24/7 and security will have the authority to defuse confrontational occurrences or break them up. Based on the individual scenario, the appropriate steps will be taken."
Malenko was silent for a few moments, then nodded.
"Does anyone else have anything more to contribute?" Brodie asked. When no one spoke, he continued, "Then I will now ask for your opinions as to whether you think we can work with the MDM Foundation in this matter. Mr. Cole?"
"Yes, as long as my conversation with the MDM Foundation's legal representatives regarding the liability issue as well as any other issues that may arise from that conversation pose no threat to the City," Cole answered.
"Councilman Knight and I are in agreement with Mr. Cole," Roode said.
"Very well. Ms. Cargill?"
Jade tapped to nails on the table for a few seconds. "I think we can make this work. We simply don't have the resources or manpower to throw all these kids in jail and wash our hands of them. While I can see this could spectacularly fail, I'm willing to give it a chance. So, yes."
"Capt. Mysterio?"
"I say yes," Rey immediately answered. "And I don't think it will fail. Will it succeed with every kid? No. That's just not possible. There will be failures along the way. It's inevitable." He pointed to Roman, Seth, and Mox. "But these men have put in their time and resources to give this the best chance possible to succeed. This isn't a storefront opening where some money is thrown at it, and they walk away. They are committed."
"Thank you. Detective Kingston?"
"Hell, yes," Eddie nodded. "Look, we all know these street kids are stuck in a vicious cycle. We haven't been able to break that cycle. Trying this is better than doing nothing."
"Detective Lethal?"
"No," Lethal snarled. He said nothing more.
"Thank you. Chief Malenko?"
Malenko was obviously choosing his words carefully. "Detective Kingston is correct. This is a vicious cycle that we haven't been able to break. And Mr. Reigns is correct that these kids don't like or trust us. They need to trust someone. And if this Foundation can provide a bridge for that trust, I think we have to take the chance." He briefly smiled. "Thinking outside the box isn't…normal for law enforcement. So, while I have certain reservations, maybe it's time for something out of the box. Because nothing we've tried so far has worked. I vote yes."
Brodie nodded. "I thank everyone for their contributions today." He looked at the men sitting opposite him. "Gentlemen, I thank you as well. If this succeeds, it will have a tremendous impact on this City and its citizens. And could be a model for other cities as well. Therefore, pending the outcome of Mr. Cole's phone conversation, I would like to propose the following. Ms. Cargill, you will be the point of contact for CPS with the MDM Foundation and designate someone if you're unavailable. Capt. Mysterio, the same for you for SVU. Mr. Cole, you will be the contact for legal issues. Mr. Knight, you will brief City Council?" When Knight nodded, he continued, "I encourage you and the gentlemen from the Foundation to work closely together." He beamed at all of them. "Thank you again for your time and participation."
People started getting up as the meeting was clearly over. Lethal stormed out of the room as Eddie laughed behind his back. He cheerily waved to the room in general and walked out ahead of Roode and Knight. Malenko spoke quietly to Rey for nearly a minute. Jade and Cole left their cards with Roman.
Malenko silently nodded to them as he walked out. Rey gave them his cards and smiled. "I'm looking forward to working with you."
"We'll set up a meeting closer to our opening," Roman promised.
Rey nodded and walked out, meeting Malenko in the hallway.
"Mr. Mayor, thank you for your assistance and support," Seth smiled, holding out his hand.
"As I said, I see great value in what you're trying to accomplish. It was my pleasure and honor," Brodie reminded them as he shook their hands again. "And congratulations again on your upcoming wedding, Mr. Moxley."
"Uh…thanks," Mox hesitated then added. "You're invited, of course."
"When is it?" Brodie asked.
"The seventeenth of this month," Mox answered.
Brodie sighed. "I truly wish I could attend. However, that's my mother-in-law's birthday."
Roman held up a hand. "Say no more," he said, his grey eyes twinkling.
"The information you provided derailed a lot of unnecessary conversation." Brodie gave Seth an approving nod. "Well presented, Mr. Rollins." Then he turned to Mox. "And your statement, Mr. Moxley, was most powerful. You're a gifted motivational speaker. You're going to be quite the role model for these kids."
Mox stared at Brodie in stunned silence. Then Roman nudged him from behind. "Thanks?"
Brodie chuckled. "Let me know if any serious complications arise."
"We will," Seth assured him as they walked out.
They stood in the hallway for several moments, then Mox leaned against the wall. "I just told the truth," he muttered.
"And the truth shall set you free," Seth quoted.
Roman took out his cell. "Our ride should be here in a few minutes," he said as he texted.
They walked to the elevator and silently rode to the first floor. As they stepped out of the elevator, Mox saw Malenko standing to one side looking at something on his phone. "Hang on," Mox said as he walked towards Malenko.
"Um…" Seth worriedly glanced at Roman who shrugged.
Malenko looked up as Mox approached.
"Sorry to interrupt you but…I just wanted to thank you," Mox quietly said.
"For?" Malenko politely asked.
"The other day. For what you did with those detectives from Des Moines," Mox explained. "Cena and Styles were doing their best to keep them from questioning me before my lawyer got there. But they kept slipping questions in between their little chit-chat act."
Malenko started to say he was just doing his job then quickly changed his mind. "You're welcome, Mr. Moxley. They were out of line, and I've spoken to the Des Moines Chief of Police regarding their actions."
"I appreciate that," Mox hesitated, then continued. "I haven't had the best history with the cops. And, maybe I've allowed that to affect my attitude." Then he held out his hand. "Thank you again, Chief Malenko."
Malenko silently shook his hand, then watched as Mox rejoined his companions. He supposed stranger things had happened but not that he could immediately recall.
"Everything okay?" Roman asked, his grey eyes flickering to where Malenko was standing.
"Yeah, just trying to learn to be a role model," Mox muttered, walking past the others.
Behind him, Roman shrugged at Seth as they followed Mox outside City Hall. They only waited a few minutes before the SUV driven by McIntire pulled up to the curb.
As they got in, Seth fumbled with his seatbelt. "I sure thought that guy, Lethal, was going to screw things up," he muttered.
"Yeah, he could be a problem," Mox grunted.
"I'm pretty sure that was a setup," Roman calmly said from the front seat. "You two need to go to your businesses?" At the chorus of 'yes', Roman looked at McIntyre. "Dawson Customizing and Rollins Bookstore. Whichever is closest first, please."
McIntyre quietly nodded and began to drive.
"What makes you think it was a setup?" Mox asked as he put on his sunglasses.
"I caught a couple of looks between Mysterio and the Mayor." Roman looked over his shoulder at the two men sitting in the back. "I'm pretty sure Mysterio had heard that same stuff from Lethal before. Could be that's why he included him in the meeting. Gave Malenko a chance to hear Lethal himself."
"Mysterio and Malenko had a little conversation before Malenko left the meeting," Seth recalled.
"I can't say for sure, but I bet Mysterio tipped off the Mayor because he didn't try to calm Lethal down," Roman added.
Mox shook his head and stared out the window. "Politics," he muttered in a disgusted voice.
Roman wasn't sure, but he thought McIntyre chuckled under his breath.