Chapter 35
Ariel
The Benson is the most luxurious Hotel in New York, and it was beautiful. My and Teddy’s room was nicer than anywhere I’ve ever stayed at before. It was a suite actually with two bedrooms, a kitchen, and a living room. It was like staying in a nice apartment.
Being back in New York is weird. I’m a little jumpy because I really don’t want to recognize anyone. Especially if they know Greg. But I’m also happy because my dad will be recognized as a hero again.
After settling into my room for the next couple days, I read over the itinerary for my dad’s memorial. The Commissioner will say a few words and extend a public apology. Then my dad’s former partner- who never doubted him- will say something. Last before they lower his new casket in the ground while shots are fired from the ceremony guns, I will say something.
I’m nervous, but am ready to look the department in the eyes and talk about how good my dad truly was.It’ll be easier with Teddy here too. I still can’t believe he set this in motion. I haven’t forgiven him just yet. I’m still hurt from his words, and I need more time. I started therapy after Veronica begged me to a couple days ago. I told Dr. Sky about how I escaped Greg and everything that came after. Told her how I felt numb even though I tried to act happy and normal, and we’re going to work on healing my heart over the next few sessions.
The ceremony has been beautiful. His old partner talked about how much my dad always cared about justice and how happy he was that he was getting his. It was a beautiful speech.
It’s my turn now, and I’m nervous until I look at Teddy and see him smiling softly at me.
“My dad was a good man. He lost my mom when she gave birth to me, and he stepped up to be not just one parent in my life, but two parents. He had to do everything for me, and he managed to do it all while being one of the best cops out there. He prided himself on helping people get the justice they deserved, and it is so sad to think about how he couldn’t get his justice while he was alive. But that wouldn’t matter to him. Wherever he is, I know he’s looking down and just proud to finally have his name cleared because my dad was not one who held grudges. I asked him why that was once and he said ‘ as a cop I see many things, but one of them is how much damage holding a grudge can do ’ I think that describes what kind of guy and cop my dad was perfectly. He was a cop that learned the lessons that needed to be learned with every case. He was the guy that took those same lessons and taught them to his daughter. I carry every single one with me, and today I think he would give me a lesson on forgiveness. So I forgive the people that accused my dad, and I forgive the department that doubted him. I forgive you because my dad would. Thank you.” I fold my speech and leave the platform. I take my seat next to Teddy, and he holds my hand as I flinch with every gunshot that is sent to the sky.