Chapter 32: Chapter 32: Joining CTU?
In front of the director's office, Owen knocked on the door.
"Come in."
Owen entered and said, "Director, you wanted to see me? Oh, George Senior, you're here too..."
It was then Owen noticed that George Senior was also present, albeit looking a bit under the weather. Glancing at Director Javier's expression, it was clear the two had just had an argument.
However, this was not unusual. The entire police department knew about the close relationship between George Senior and Director Javier. They were partners in their younger days, and George Senior was the only one in the department bold enough to stand up to Director Javier. They would often argue at the drop of a hat.
Seeing Owen enter, George Senior patted his shoulder and left, leaving Owen confused.
"Officer Owen, you're finally here," Director Javier said with a smile, acting as if he hadn't noticed George Senior's departure. "I wanted to officially inform you that CTU's investigation into you has concluded. You are completely clear of any wrongdoing."
Owen didn't respond immediately, waiting for the director to continue. Although not particularly savvy in social nuances, he could tell the director's initial remarks were just pleasantries, and the main point was yet to come.
Noticing Owen's silence, a brief look of discomfort crossed Director Javier's face, but it quickly disappeared. He then slid a check across the table to Owen. "Additionally, to commend your bravery in the recent operation, the department has decided to award you a cash bonus, which is subject to tax, of course."
Owen looked at the check in surprise. Twenty thousand dollars was not a small sum for him, nearly equivalent to three months of his salary. Since when had the police department been so generous? "Of course, we hope you won't disclose this, including some details of last night's operation, as it may negatively impact the department."
Owen immediately understood the implication. The twenty thousand dollars was essentially hush money. Only he and McLean knew many details of the previous night's actions. Director Javier was partly to blame for the operation's shortcomings, but CTU had taken the fall. Since the outcome was neither good nor bad, no one pursued the matter further. This "reward" was essentially Director Javier's way of ensuring silence on the matter.
"Understood, Director. I won't disclose any information."
Owen pocketed the check naturally. He had no interest in speaking to the press and was happy to receive the bonus, which he planned to use to buy clothes for his mother and Amanda.
Seeing Owen's cooperation, Director Javier seemed pleased and then appeared to remember something else, pushing another piece of paper towards Owen. "This is from CTU."
Owen, curious, picked up the paper and was shocked to find it was an offer from CTU inviting him to join their Los Angeles branch's action department, complete with a signature from Director Jack Bauer.
"What's this about?" Owen looked at Director Javier for an explanation.
"It's like this," Javier explained. "Despite the investigation, Jack Bauer actually appreciates your performance during the incident. He wants to invite you to join CTU. The investigation was just standard procedure, so don't take it personally. Of course, you can refuse, but I think it's a good opportunity. CTU has promised to double your current salary and offer significant bonuses for completing important missions. Plus, working for CTU will be beneficial for your career. It's something to consider."
Javier didn't say much more, feeling somewhat embarrassed. It was unusual for a police director to facilitate a transfer to another agency, but he had his reasons. The recent incident had been damaging, and though the hostages were rescued, the operation was essentially a draw since valuable bonds and millions in cash were destroyed.
CTU had taken a significant fall for him, and even if Jack Bauer didn't mind, Javier felt obliged to show gratitude, especially since Bauer was only asking for one person.
Owen was initially incredulous at the offer. Being personally invited by someone as reputable as Jack Bauer was flattering. He understood the skepticism towards his actions the previous night was reasonable and that his irritation was just wounded pride.
Considering the allure of CTU, akin to the FBI and CIA, filled with mystery and appeal, Owen was hesitant. He felt a strong bond with George Senior and his fellow detectives, who had become like a family to him.
Seeing Owen's hesitation, Javier tried to reassure him, "Don't worry about George's opinion. He agrees with this. He won't hold you back from a better future, though he might miss you."
Javier's reasoning made sense, but Owen wanted to hear George Senior's thoughts directly. "Director, this is sudden. Give me some time to think it over."
"Of course, take your time. It's your decision," Javier responded.
Leaving the director's office, Owen returned to the detective squad, greeted by teasing and nicknames from his colleagues. The squad had a familial atmosphere, making it hard for Owen to consider leaving.
Entering George Senior's office, George preempted Owen's questions, "I have no objections, Steve. CTU is a great opportunity, but the decision is yours. We'll remain friends, regardless of your choice. Consider your family and the risks involved with CTU work."
Owen appreciated George Senior's thorough perspective. CTU's appeal was undeniable, but it also meant potential risks and time away from his family. Owen decided to discuss it with his family before making a final decision.
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