The dawn of a new day found Ryan standing before a mirror, his gaze locked onto the unfamiliar reflection staring back at him. His once long, dark beard, a relic of his past existence, was now being methodically shaved off. Each stroke of the razor was precise, revealing the face of a man who had traded his rugged exterior for a more refined, gentlemanly facade. It was a transformation - a shedding of his old life and a preparation for the new. Under the watchful eyes of the guards, Ryan was escorted to the jailor's room. The room was compact and sparsely furnished, with a single overhead light casting an ominous glow on the worn-out table. On it lay the papers that would grant him his liberty. A lawyer in a somber black coat, sent by Mr. Gideon, pointed out where Ryan needed to sign. The pen felt weighty and unfamiliar in Ryan's hand as he signed his name, each stroke echoing his regained freedom. Once the formalities were completed, Ryan was handed a small box containing ...
- A Private Detective