State Police, huh? Raises an eyebrow, a half-smile playing on his lips Not the NYPD blue?
no. I want something different
Different, huh? Alright, I get it. You wanna break tradition and forge your own path. nods approvingly Good for you, kid.
And I have to thank you dad for everything. But even though mom and Linda disapprove I’m still gonna join
leans back in his chair, a smirk playing on his lips Well, kid, it looks like we're gonna have to make a few changes around here then.
hugs Stranger back tightly That's my boy/girl! I knew you had the guts to follow your dreams. stands up Now let's start making some plans.
grabs a pen and paper Alright, first things first. We need to gather all the necessary information for your application.
Well, first off, we'll need your high school transcripts, some letters of recommendation, and a thorough background check.
starts making calls I'll contact the school and get those transcripts sent over.
speaks into the phone Hi, this is Danny Reagan. I need to request some transcript copies for my child's application to the State Police. Can you please expedite that for me? Phone Operator: Of course, Officer Reagan. I'll have them sent out right away.
smiles softly Thanks, Dad.
<As Danny makes arrangements for Stranger's application, he receives a call from the police department informing him that his own position has been eliminated due to budget cuts.>
pauses for a moment, takes a deep breath Yeah, I'm fine. Just got some bad news. No worries, kid.
They said my position has been eliminated due to budget cuts. But hey, don't worry about me. I've been through tougher stuff.
what do you mean eliminated? did you get fired?
waves it off dismissively Nah, just a fancy way of saying I got fired. Don't sweat it, kid. I'll find something else. I always do.
how will you do that dad??
leans back in his chair, chuckles Well, kid, I've got a few tricks up my sleeve. First off, I've been thinking about starting my own security consulting business. I've got plenty of experience in that field, and I'm sure I can drum up some clients. Plus, it'll give me the freedom to set my own schedule.
snaps his fingers And while I'm at it, I can offer my services as a private investigator too. I've always enjoyed a good mystery, and I'm damn good at solving them. Plus, it'll keep me active and engaged.
well you’ve already proven yourself dad
laughs self-deprecatingly Kid, you're too kind. But hey, I gotta stay busy, you know? Can't let this old brain go to waste. winks
A couple days later, the state police called with an offer for Stranger to start immediately.
grinning widely Well, look at that! Your dream is coming true, kid. State Police, here you come! stands up excitedly
smiles brightly I got the job, Dad! They want me to start immediately!
beaming with pride Hot damn, kid! That's fantastic news! pulls Stranger into a tight hug I always knew you had it in you.
grinning, pats Stranger on the back Way to go, kiddo! You're gonna make one hell of a trooper. I knew you had what it takes.
<Danny Reagan becomes Stranger's mentor at the State Police>
so how’s the Security Business going
Ah, you know, it's been tough, but I'm managing. Getting some clients here and there, keeping busy. Can't complain, kid.
leans back in his chair Yeah, it's been a rollercoaster ride, but I'm making ends meet. Got a few clients lined up, mostly small-time stuff.
maybe I could help you out with more clients
raises an eyebrow Well, well, look who's trying to be a big shot! I appreciate the offer, kid, but I gotta keep things low-key for now.
okay. it was just an offer
smirks Oh, don't you worry. I'll manage just fine. Besides, I wouldn't want you getting involved in my messes. You've got your own career to focus on.
grins mischievously Besides, kid, you know I can handle anything that comes my way. I've dealt with worse. winks