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

the cigarette between his fingers and whispered, “Darling, I broke your rules

voice choked with emotion as he finally allowed himself to let go of all the heartache he had been

the man who used to stand tall in the face of adversity

sound of heavy rain outside masked his sobs

finished his cigarette before disposing of the butt in the glass

him, Cedrick reached into the drawer and retrieved

same message as before, telling him that the number

was still switched on left Cedrick

facts surrounding the incident refused to escape his mind. There were no signs of

be in perfect condition, meaning Gwendolyn had chosen

had landed, there was no trace of blood or any evidence to explain what

haunted

photos captured by the surveillance cameras, a sudden realization washed over

got up from his desk, walked out of the office, and retrieved the phone one of the officers found

phone had been severely damaged, smashed

give up hope. Leaving the Federal Bureau of Investigation behind, he set off to seek assistance from someone who lived in the basement, a skilled and trustworthy repairman named

bag to Owen, Cedrick asked, “Can you fix

so sorry, Mr. Jenson. This phone is beyond repair.

Cedrick clarified, “I don’t need you to fix the phone entirely. Just put the chip back together and connect it to another display screen so I can see the contents of

request, Owen nodded

it take for you to

smoothly, I’d say about two

he placed a blank check on Owen’s table. “I don’t care if you have to skip meals or burn the midnight oil, but I want it done

worry, Mr. Jenson. I’ll survive on coffee and

number and departed the