Chapter 6: Chapter 6: The Affirmation of City Leaders – A Remarkable Solicitation
With the police car pulling to a stop, Director Rex took the lead, followed closely by Instructor Matt and a dozen officers, all of whom quickly boarded the bus.
The sight that greeted them left everyone stunned.
"Good heavens!"
Marco's twisted arm painted a grim picture, leaving everyone gasping. Though they had been briefed about the situation beforehand, seeing the scene in person heightened their sense of shock.
Rex's gaze swept across the group, pausing briefly on Sam before settling on Antonia, who immediately stood at attention and saluted.
"Hello, Director!" Antonia said firmly.
"Hello, Officer Antonia," Rex replied, momentarily surprised before returning the salute.
This brief exchange drew chuckles from those around him, but their smiles were filled with admiration and respect. The story of how Antonia had apprehended a Class A fugitive had spread like wildfire, and his heroic actions had already won the admiration of his colleagues.
"Well done, Officer Antonia," Rex said warmly. "This was a significant achievement, but our priority now is to escort the criminal to the station. We'll celebrate your success later. Also, we've informed higher-ups, and some of them will be visiting to review our work."
The atmosphere was brisk and businesslike.
However, Antonia hesitated, then said, "Director, I didn't accomplish this alone. My mentor, Sam, helped me. I can't take all the credit myself."
His sincerity was evident, and it only deepened the respect of those around him.
Sam, standing nearby, laughed and clapped Antonia on the shoulder.
"Antonia, what are you talking about? You think I need credit for this? Since you've been calling me your mentor, it's my job to let you shine. Don't worry about me. Just keep working hard and don't embarrass me. But don't let this go to your head, either."
The lighthearted exchange brought smiles to everyone's faces, easing the tension.
Rex nodded approvingly. "Well said, Sam. And don't worry, Antonia. Even though Sam didn't physically apprehend the suspect, his guidance was invaluable. We won't forget that."
Relieved, Antonia stopped insisting, and the group got to work transporting Marco to the station.
---
By mid-afternoon, the Huxi Police Station was buzzing with activity as a convoy of vehicles, led by Deputy Director mark of the Chicago Public Safety Bureau, arrived. Accompanying him were several senior officials and the city's Serious Crimes Unit.
The entire station gathered to welcome them.
Antonia stood prominently in the front row, his towering physique and confident demeanor immediately catching the attention of the officials.
"My goodness!" one of them murmured, eyeing Antonia with a mix of awe and disbelief. "If we painted him green, he'd be the Hulk!"
The members of the Serious Crimes Unit, initially startled by Antonia's imposing presence, instinctively reached for their weapons before realizing he wasn't a threat.
Director Rex quickly stepped in, introducing Antonia to the visiting officials.
"This is Officer Antonia, the one who apprehended Marco," he said proudly.
Deputy Director mark eyes widened in admiration. "Well done, young man! You brought Marco to justice? That's an incredible feat!"
The other officials nodded in agreement, openly praising Antonia.
Antonia, standing tall and composed, saluted. "Thank you, sir!"
The leaders returned his salute, impressed not just by his actions but also by his demeanor.
Director Rex smiled as he added, "Deputy Director mark, there's something else you should know. Today is Officer Antonia's first day on the job."
The room fell silent, the weight of the revelation sinking in.
"What?" mark exclaimed. "His first day?"
Even the seasoned officers of the Serious Crimes Unit couldn't hide their astonishment. They had spent years chasing Marco without success, only to have him caught by a rookie on his very first day.
The leader of the Serious Crimes Unit studied Antonia with newfound interest.
"This young man is extraordinary," he murmured, already contemplating how to recruit Antonia to his team.
---
As the officials continued to praise Antonia, the atmosphere grew increasingly celebratory. However, the focus remained on the larger mission at hand. Marco's capture wasn't just a personal victory for Antonia; it was a significant milestone for the station and the city.
Behind the scenes, the leader of the Serious Crimes Unit began strategizing. He couldn't let a talent like Antonia remain at a local station for long.
And so, while the day ended with handshakes and commendations, it also marked the beginning of Antonia's rise in the Chicago police force—a journey that was just getting started.