The Ex and Her Riches

Cedrick knew Gwendolyn well enough to be aware that she would stop her car and contact emergency services if she encountered a stranger in danger or in need of help. However, she would never allow an unfamiliar person into her car.

As Cedrick examined the surveillance camera screens, his breathing grew heavy. It was evident to him that the person in the car was intentionally trying to avoid being captured by the public surveillance cameras.

While Cedrick could make out some details, such as a muscular physique and a partially visible shoulder, he couldn’t determine the man’s identity.

Salinsburgh had recently experienced a surge in mysterious incidents, placing an increased workload on the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Analyzing the scene, Cedrick concluded, “There are no signs of a struggle or any potential weapons that could be connected to a crime. It is possible that the man is indeed an acquaintance of Gwenny’s.”

He turned to Swain and instructed, “Check with the nearby businesses around the bridge and inquire if any of them have outdoor surveillance cameras installed. We might obtain valuable footage that can shed light on the situation.”

It could potentially be their first breakthrough in the investigation.

“You’re right, Boss. I’ll be right on it.”

As Swain prepared to leave, he felt a moment of concern for Cedrick’s well-being. He paused at the door and reminded, “Boss, I understand you’re anxious, but please take care of yourself too. It’s winter, the rain is freezing cold, and you’re still soaking wet. We wouldn’t want you falling sick before finding Mrs. Jenson.”

Cedrick’s stern look silenced Swain.

“All right, I’m off.” He shrugged and exited the room.

Despite his damp hair and dripping clothes since his return from the canyon, Cedrick chose to ignore his discomfort.

He reached for a pack of cigarettes from the drawer, something he hadn’t done in years since becoming a parent.

However, that night, he decided to indulge, knowing he wouldn’t be seeing the kids and, therefore, wouldn’t need to worry about smelling like nicotine.

With his lighter in hand, he lit the cigarette and took a deep drag as if releasing the built-up stress and tension within him.

filled his lungs,

whispered, “Darling, I broke your rules and smoked.

with emotion as he finally allowed himself to let go of

stand tall in the

heavy rain outside

breath, coughing slightly, and quickly finished his cigarette before disposing of the butt in

him, Cedrick reached into the drawer and retrieved another phone, dialing the number

same message as before, telling him that the number he had dialed

that Gwendolyn’s phone was still switched on left Cedrick feeling even

were no

to be in perfect condition, meaning

the canyon where the car had landed, there was no trace of blood or any

haunted by the uncertainty and dangers

captured by the surveillance cameras, a sudden realization washed over

walked out of the office, and retrieved the phone one of the officers found

severely damaged, smashed to

not ready to give up hope. Leaving the Federal Bureau of Investigation behind, he set off to seek assistance from someone who lived

a transparent plastic bag to Owen, Cedrick asked,

shaking his head regretfully. “I’m so sorry, Mr.

phone entirely. Just put the chip back together and connect it to another display

Owen nodded

will it take for

I’d

as he placed a blank check on Owen’s table. “I don’t care if you have

the sight of the blank check. “Don’t worry, Mr. Jenson. I’ll

contact number and departed the basement at