Jake visited his brother and his companions in prison. They were still serving time for their involvement in illegal activities, but because they had helped solve the case and voluntarily surrendered to the police, their sentences had been reduced.
"How are you doing here?" Jake asked.
He was with Felix, since Vince was also in prison along with Felix's sisters.
"Why are there so many visitors today? Is there a gathering?" Vince asked.
Even behind bars, there was no trace of regret on his face.
"Don't worry about us. Your help in lightening our case is enough, Jake. At least we won't grow old in this cold prison," Zenne said with a laugh.
"And besides, our family visits us here. Don't worry too much; we'll be freed when you least expect it."
"Whatever. Just don't be too unruly if you want your release to come sooner," Felix reminded them.
William chuckled. "How are the bodies being exhumed? Have they been returned to their families?"
"Yes. Some had already decomposed by the time the crime scene was revisited, so a few were no longer recognizable. But they've all been given a proper resting place. Even the unidentified women have been recorded. When you're released, visit the victims' families as well."
"Better not. They'll just be hurt even more if they see us," William replied.
Jake stayed quiet. Many families were furious with them, but there were also those who understood that the true culprit to blame was Bernard Fuego.
As the eldest, Mikaela had done her best to support the investigation. She knew the case would take a long time to resolve, but she believed that, in the end, hearts would heal and forgiveness would be possible.
"There are still families who are grateful to you," Felix said with a small smile.
Vince sighed. "We'll visit when we're free."
"How are the two?" he asked, referring to Mikaela and Chesca.
Despite the controversies surrounding them, they continued to study, fight for their rights, and preserve the Fuego name. Vince just laughed. "I don't know where they get that kind of courage."
The others nodded in agreement.
"What about Alexander's sister and cousin?" William asked.
"They'll be in detention for a long time. It's proven they were responsible for their victim's disappearance and death. It's sad," Felix replied quietly.
"They'll need to learn from their mistakes. I hope they don't repeat the past," William said, equally saddened.
"Your classes are starting soon, right? Has Gerald enrolled?"
"Yeah, don't worry. Your sibling will still make it, even if the term's already started," Felix answered with a laugh.
"Oh, our visiting hours are almost over. We'll see you next time."
"No need. It's not that sad here in prison," Charles joked.
Vince chuckled softly.
"Alright, we're leaving. We'll keep you updated on what's happening outside," Felix told them.
"Yeah. Take care," one of them replied.
As they walked away, Jake noticed them entering the room again. Someone tapped him—it was Felix.
"Why didn't you tell them their case was dismissed in court, and they could be released early?" Felix whispered.
"We need to surprise them. They don't know that many people helped them and that some have realized they shouldn't be blamed," Jake said, smiling.
Felix just laughed.
"Are those kids still traveling? Any more premonitions?" Jake asked.
Felix shook his head. "No. I'm glad we don't see each other often anymore—just occasionally, and not urgently."
"Why don't you go back to college?" Jake suggested.
Felix's two siblings turned to him with wide eyes.
"Are you kidding? I'm twenty-five. Am I really going to start college?" Felix laughed at the idea.
"Why not? It's not too late to study," Jake said.
"I need to support their education. I shouldn't prioritize myself. Besides, I still have a sibling in elementary school," Felix replied, shaking his head.
"Then I'll give you a job. Is that all you're worried about? I know you can balance work and studies."
"You're joking, right?" Felix said, surprised.
"Brother, if you're worried about taking care of Greg, we can handle it. Besides, I have a part-time job now," Jenny told him.
"You're joking, Jenny. Focus on your studies," Felix said, shaking his head.
"Brother, you always worry about us. You also need to take care of yourself. We won't neglect our studies," Jenny replied with a smile.
Felix sighed. "Is there a free trial? You know, in case I can't handle it, I can quit?"
His siblings laughed, and he smiled in return. Deep down, he wanted to help people like Jake did.
"I really love my profession," Jake thought.
"Sir, isn't there already a senior high school for that? How will my brother be able to go to college?" Thalia asked.
"Don't worry, Thalia. We have a placement test for cases like your brother's. He finished high school before, so if he passes, he won't need senior high school," Jake explained.
"Will my brother take the exam?" Jenny asked.
"Yes. His knowledge from the old curriculum will be tested. If he passes, he can go straight to college," Jake replied confidently. "I believe he'll pass."
The two nodded. They knew how much Felix valued them.
"I have nothing more to say. If my siblings support me, I'll take the opportunity," Felix said.
"That's good to hear," Jake replied.
Afterward, they left for the province to visit the two young women. They had heard that the warehouse had been burned after the investigation.