oe’s demeanor faltered for a moment as my question caught her off guard.
However, she swiftly regained her composure and responded in a cold tone, “I’m sorry, but I am currently occupied with important matters. I will not entertain questions unrelated to the case.”
Expressing my dissatisfaction, I retorted, “But if you let your emotions interfere with the investigation, it’s highly Likely that your efficiency will be compromised.”
Zoe clenched her teeth in anger, her gaze piercing as she confronted me, “Debra, are you questioning my competence?
“No, absolutely not!” I Looked into Zoe’s eyes. “On the contrary, Zoe,
I consider you not only as a colleague but also as a friend. I have the utmost respect for your skills as a police officer. That’s why I urged
Riley to implore your assistance in handling the case. I have complete faith in your abilities.”
Zoe’s questioning tone echoed in the air, her mocking smile adding a touch of bitterness to her words. “If you truly consider me a friend, then why didn’t you confide in me about the reason behind Harlan’s sudden departure?”
SWell..
Actually, I desired to disclose the truth to Zoe as well, but the prevailing circumstances prevented me from doing so.
I refrained from jeopardizing the safety of Roz Town once more, thus deciding against taking any risks.
After carefully considering the advantages and disadvantages, my only option was to provide Zoe with a vague explanation.
“Harlan has his reasons. If you genuinely care about him, I kindly ask you to grant him some additional time. He will tell you everything in person then.”
“His reasons? Humph!” Zoe responded with a scornful sneer. “Debra, guess what I’ve been up to while Harlan’s been away?”
I remained silent in response, but a sense of unease started to settle within me.
As Zoe approached me, she Leaned in and whispered in a hushed voice,
“I’ve conducted a comprehensive investigation on the two of you. The results were quite surprising, but I haven’t revealed them to Adam just yet.”
Just as I was about to explain things to Zoe, her phone suddenly rang, interrupting the moment.
Zoe cast a quick glance at me before answering the phone.
“Someone spotted Luca? Alright, understood,” Zoe responded, her expression growing serious.
She swiftly issued instructions, saying, “Deploy additional officers to thoroughly search the area and leave no corner unchecked. I’ll send more backup to this Location.”
Upon hearing Zoe’s words, Riley tightly grasped my hands and pleaded with desperate eyes.
Instantly, I comprehended the meaning behind Riley’s intense gaze.
It was evident that Zoe wouldn’t permit Riley to go to the mentioned location. However, given the presence of a clue, as a mother, Riley’s concern would undoubtedly drive her to feel compelled to investigate.
Consequently, Riley was earnestly pleading with me to accompany Zoe to the Location in question
