Two days passed. Today was the day Ray's family gathered with his friends to celebrate his birthday.
Frank, Jill, and Tyler with his wife were there. Even Kira managed to come. Ray was afraid there might be tension between Kira and Yuno, but the girls got along very well.
Only the adults were present. The children were in another room. Now Ray, Frank, and Tyler went out for a smoke, though only Tyler smoked among them.
Looking at him, Frank asked:
"Kid, what's bothering you?"
"My wife had another miscarriage. I love her, but it's hard to watch how badly she takes it. I know she wants a child, but I think it's just not possible for us."
"Have you considered surrogacy?" Frank asked.
"It was a difficult decision for us. I was afraid Jill would regret it, but she really loves our boys."
"We've already talked about it, but she insists on personally finding the right girl. I gave her the go-ahead, but we made a deal that we won't try to have a child anymore. I can't bear to see her like this."
"Is it untreatable?" Ray asked. "If money is the issue, I can help."
"The doctors say we're simply incompatible," Tyler said with a bitter smile. "Honestly, I feel a slight disgust at the thought of another woman carrying my child. But if a child will bring her peace, I'm willing to do it."
"It's hard to be an honest prosecutor and a good husband," Frank said, trying to lighten the mood.
"Yeah, it's not easy. There are rumors that people from the 'Devils' are pushing for power. Orders from above are to dig into them by any means. But even if information about them appears, people will refuse to storm them."
"Some believe they're doing the right thing, and others are just afraid to die. If I can't find anything, I'll likely be fired," Tyler said with a bitter smile.
"I don't know about you, but I think the 'Devils' are doing everything right," Frank said.
"What do you think, Ray?" Tyler asked thoughtfully.
"If it weren't for Yuno and Deya, I would have joined them. But honestly, I don't think they need a guy in a wheelchair."
"I can understand why you think that. But they already have military resources. I've seen how power corrupts people. Honestly, sometimes I'm afraid the same thing could happen to me. I'm very afraid of what might happen if the 'Devils' get power," Tyler said.
"I think your fear is justified. But if the 'Voice of Truth' program is to be believed, the 'Devils' spend huge sums on charity and even help families of fallen police officers," Frank said thoughtfully.
"We have no evidence, but Director Guy is somehow connected to the 'Devils,' given the information their channels receive. It's too accurate."
"But he's loved by the people, and his reputation is crystal clear. If we take him without clear evidence, they'll tear us apart," Tyler said thoughtfully.
Despite the difficult conversation, the rest of the celebration passed in a warm atmosphere.