53 – THE GUILTY DEPUTY COMMISSIONER

“Release him. Now.”

It only took those three authoritatively uttered words for the officer on duty to rush forward and unlock the gates of Alex’s cell.

Alex was stunned. For a moment, he remained rooted to the spot.

Tariq stretched his hand and beckoned on him.

“Come on, kid, it’s time to go.”

Alex could not remember the last time someone had called him a “kid.” It felt… good. He hurried out of the dark, dank room and stopped right before the giant of a man.

“Thank you so much, sir. Is there anyway I can repay you? Any way at all?”

Tariq draped a heavy hand around his shoulder and steered him down the hallway.

“What you’ve done for me can never be compared to this, my boy. You rescued my granddaughter from being used in an evil science experiment. I should be asking you if you want anything.”

Alex shook his head.

“It was nothing. I promise. I’m glad I was able to help.”

“No, son.” Tariq insisted. “It was something and because of that, we need to talk.”

He took Alex’s hand and led hi