“My consciousness was hazy. I’m not sure exactly when… but there was a moment when someone gave me water, and I heard them talking. Then I blacked out again. That voice—I’m certain it was Gifford.”

Cristian pinched the bridge of his nose, sighing.

“Mr. Scott, are you telling me everything? I need the full truth if I’m going to help you.”

He lowered his voice.

“Even if you… really did something, you need to tell me now. You understand, don’t you?”

Eric’s eyes widened, realizing the implication.

“You don’t believe me? I’m telling the truth! That’s exactly how it happened!”

“Mr. Scott, calm down,” Cristian urged.

“I believe you. But the police won’t. How will you explain to them that the murder weapon was in your hand?”

“I told you—I don’t know!”

“Mr. Scott.” Cristian’s tone was weary now.

“You were conscious at the time when they found you, yes?”

Eric’s lips parted before he gave a faint nod.

“Yes.”

Knock knock.

Time was up.

The police were ready to begin the interrogation.

When Cristian emerged, his face was grim.

“Mr. Flynn, Miss Pearson.”

Ernest and Hadley instantly stood.

“How is it?”

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Cristian hesitated, choosing his words.

“It’s… complicated.”

Hadley’s face hardened.

“What do you mean, complicated? Say it clearly.”

Cristian sighed, shaking his head.

“Mr. Scott couldn’t provide much information… and the evidence they have—it’s heavily against him.”

By now, the interrogation had already begun.

“Eric Scott.” Ellis fixed him with a hard stare.

“I hope you’re being honest. Your story doesn’t line up, does it?”

“I am being honest!” Eric burst out, sounding exhausted.

“I’ve told you everything I remember!”

“And you call this the truth?” Ellis shot to his feet, towering over him.

“First, you insist you blacked out, then you claim you heard Gifford’s voice. Explain to me—how can both be true?”

Eric clenched his jaw, saying nothing, his frustration darkening his face.

Outside the interrogation room, Ernest, Hadley, Ferris, and the others waited until Ellis finally stepped out.

“All of you…” Ellis didn’t look surprised to see them.

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