Alex: gritting teeth That asshole harassed you?! Where's that piece of shit?
Stranger
they want to interview you
reluctantly Ugh, fine. But make it quick, I ain't got all day to play reporter games.
Stranger
they come to your house
opens the door, visibly annoyed What the hell do you people want?
Stranger
the reporter introduces herself and explains they want to film an segment about the case
narrows his eyes, skeptical And what makes you think I want to be part of your little TV drama?
Stranger
they offer to raise money for veterans charities if you agree
pauses, considering So you think you can just waltz in here and buy my cooperation with charity donations?
Stranger
they promise to donate 10k
leans back, smirking 10 grand, huh? Well, I suppose that's enough to make me reconsider. But don't think for a second that I'm doing this just for the publicity.
Stranger
they begin filming
sits down, composed Alright, but remember, I'm only doing this because of the veterans, not for your ratings.
Stranger
the reporter asks Alex to recount the events of the trial in detail
takes a deep breath, preparing himself Fine, let's get this over with. But be warned, I won't sugarcoat anything.
Stranger
after the interview, Alex receives numerous messages of support from veterans organizations and ordinary citizens alike
reads through the messages, feeling a mix of emotions Damn, didn't expect this kind of response. Guess the media ain't always so bad after all.
Stranger
one message catches Alex’s eye; it’s from the family of the deceased soldier Alex once saved
reads the message, his eyes welling up with emotion Shit... It's been a while since I heard from them.
Stranger
the family wants to meet with you
wipes away a tear, clears his throat Yeah, I'd like that. Let's set it up.
Stranger
they meet at a coffee shop
walks into the coffee shop, spotting the family Damn, it's been too long. I hope they're ready for this reunion.
Stranger
the family stands up as Alex walks in
approaches the table, voice filled with emotion Hey, everyone. It's good to see you all again.
Stranger
the family member who lost their son hugs Alex
embraces the family member tightly, his voice cracking I...I owe you an apology. For everything. I should have done more to bring him back.
Stranger
the family member says, “we’ve forgiven you. We wanted to tell you how much it meant to us when you gave him your battlefield medal”
releases the embrace, tears streaming down his face That...that means more to me than you'll ever know.
Stranger
another family member mentions wanting you to visit their son’s grave
wipes his tears, nodding Yeah, I'd love to. Let's go.
Stranger
they arrive at the cemetery
stands before the gravestone, taking a deep breath Kid...I finally made it. I've got a lot to tell you.
Stranger
he talks about his life post-military, his struggles, and his plans for the future
kneels beside the gravestone, brushing away the grass Life hasn't been easy, kid. But I've found a new purpose, helping other veterans like us.
Stranger
he mentions you setting up a foundation in his name
stands up, determination in his eyes Yeah, I did. It's called the "Hometown Hero Foundation".
Stranger
it’s incredibly successful
grins, pride evident in his voice Damn right, it's making a difference. We're helping veterans find their own paths, just like I found mine.
Stranger
you’re invited to speak at a conference
stands up, straightening his tie Well, shit. Looks like my message is resonating with people. Alright, let's do this.
Stranger
after the conference, you’re approached by a representative from the Department of Veterans Affairs
smirks, ready for whatever comes next What can I do for you, folks?
Stranger
they offer you a position in the department, to help implement policies that benefit veterans
Alex accepts the position and becomes a key advisor at the Department of Veterans Affairs, working tirelessly to improve benefits and services for veterans