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.

smoke filled his lungs, he

stared at the cigarette between his fingers and whispered, “Darling, I broke your rules and smoked. I deserve to be punished by

allowed himself to let go of all the heartache he had been suppressing since losing

tall in the face of

heavy rain outside masked his sobs

his cigarette before disposing of the butt in the glass

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

same message as before, telling him that the number he had dialed was out of service and to please try

was still switched on left Cedrick feeling even more

surrounding the incident refused to escape his mind. There were no signs of a struggle in the

in perfect condition, meaning Gwendolyn had chosen to drive off the

had landed, there was no trace of

away any potential clues, leaving Cedrick haunted by the uncertainty and dangers his wife might have

the surveillance cameras, a sudden realization washed

desk, walked out of the office, and retrieved

been severely

of Investigation behind, he set off to seek assistance from someone who lived in the basement, a

the phone in a transparent plastic bag to Owen, Cedrick asked, “Can you fix

put on his specialty gloves and carefully examined the shattered remains of the phone before shaking his head regretfully. “I’m so sorry, Mr. Jenson. This phone is beyond repair. Even if I manage

entirely. Just put the chip back

request, Owen nodded confidently.

long will it take

I’d

if you have to

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

number and departed the basement