Can’t Win Me Back

With years of experience as a criminal investigator and a naturally sharp mind, Cyrus' instincts flared the moment he heard Rio's question.

Gabe slammed the table, his voice a thunderclap of rage. 'Rio Olson! What nonsense are you spouting? Have I been too lenient with you? Dr. Gillis is a doctor, and I'm a police chief. How would I know her? Stop letting your imagination run wild!"

Gabe's face flushed crimson as he glared at Rio.

Unmoved, Rio stared back, confusion etched on his face. "Then why are you stopping me from investigating Sheryl by the book? I don't get it.

"Jasper's test results were positive, and we found drugs hidden in his office. That alone suggests drug abuse. To secure a conviction, we need to trace his supplier. Otherwise, this case will collapse in court.

"Let's not forget-Jasper's attorney is Steven Lynch, a top-tier ex-judge who's handled multiple high-profile cases."

From his position outside the office, Cyrus could only catch fragments of the conversation. But Rio's raised voice carried clearly, as did Gabe's agitated outbursts. Years of interrogating criminals had taught Cyrus that such agitation often betrayed a deeper connection. Why else would someone get so defensive?

possession, but we've proven he used drugs. That's

back down. "Chief Barrett, this isn't just about Jasper. We're cracking down on Crystal Ice-a drug as dangerous as crystal meth was in its prime. This lead could take us to the trafficker behind it all. Why shut the

mutual. Cyrus had always seen Rio as corrupt-a sycophant who cozied up to Gabe and played

substances in his system came from illicit medications. That's different from narcotics use. If he

shown it by now. Stop chasing shadows. We've proven drug abuse.

ago, he'd called her 'Dr. Gillis". Now it was just "Sheryl", as if the familiarity had slipped out unintentionally. Suspicion coiled tighter in Rio's mind. Gabe's priority didn't seem to be

his own doubts deepen.

There you are!" A voice called from the hallway, breaking Cyrus' concentration. He straightened instantly, forcing a calm

and Gabe froze when they heard that

ended the conversation. That's it. Do as I

obeyed, pushing open the