Chapter 14: The Final Lesson**
Winter arrived early, coating the razor-wire fences with glistening white frost. Arthur was transferred to the prison palliative care ward, his breathing supported by oxygen tubes.
Kane sat by his bedside, holding a small paper bag.
"Hey, Judge," Kane said softly.
Arthur opened his tired eyes, smiling weakly behind the clear plastic mask. "Hello, my friend."
"I got my parole date," Kane whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "December 12th. I get to walk out those gates."
Arthur squeezed Kane's hand with the faint strength he had left. "You're not walking out into the world you left behind, Kane. You’re walking into the world you’re going to help heal. Don't waste a single sunrise."
"I won't," Kane promised, tears streaming freely down his face. "I swear on my life, Arthur."
May you like
Arthur nodded, closing his eyes peacefully as the winter afternoon sunlight poured through the high window bars, wrapping both men in a warm, golden glow.
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