The young officer gave a small nod.
The lead interrogator turned to Sharon, his tone polite but firm. “Sharon, a new eyewitness has come forward. We’ll need to investigate further. I’m afraid you won’t be able to leave just yet.”
An eyewitness?
If there had really been one, things wouldn’t,have dragged on this long. And now–of all times- —someone suddenly steps forward?
Sharon felt as though she’d been dropped into an ice bath. Cold spread from the base of her spine, numbing her limbs.
Whoever it was must’ve known exactly what kind of situation she was in. They chose this moment, this very second, to come forward. What a deliberate, calculated, and cruel move.
It sent a chill straight to the bone.
The interrogator looked at her again. “Please cooperate with the investigation, Sharon.”
She composed herself quickly. “May I ask who this witness is?”
The officer shook his head. “I’m sorry. For the witness’s safety, we can’t share any information right now. If you have any objections, you’re free to contact a lawyer or a friend and apply for bail.”
Everything had happened so fast. She hadn’t even had the time to reach out to a lawyer.
John was already caught in the storm of public opinion–there was no way she could drag him into this.
Wendy was far too naïve. She was no match for Carter. If she misspoke, it might only make things worse.
Was this what Carter had been waiting for all along? For her to break down, admit fault, beg for forgiveness–until then, he’d keep treating her like a criminal?
A trace of irony flickered in Sharon’s eyes.
She looked down and said calmly, “I understand.”
Just as the officer was about to escort her to the holding room, a deep, mellow male voice rang out–smooth and rich like the bow of a cello. 1
“Sharon.”
She looked up.
Xavier stood not far off, dressed in a white shirt, posture relaxed and unhurried.
The collar of his shirt was casually open. There was something untamed in his elegance. A faint smile played on his lips, and his dark eyes shimmered like drifting blossoms on a still pond–seductive and dangerous.
“Mr. Cooper?” Sharon was a little shocked. “Why are you here?”
Wasn’t he supposed to be back this weekend?
Xavier offered a light smile. “Matty told me you were in a bit of trouble.”
Matty.
Ever since that morning when he was pelted with eggs, she’d sent Matty home. There was no telling how long her situation would remain unstable, and keeping her around would’ve been too risky.
Since everything had started falling apart, Carter and Theo had gone completely silent–not a single call, not even a message.
Chapter 27
But Matty had called every day, sent messages, and checked in on her constantly.
A stranger showed more concern than her own husband and son.
Meanwhile, Carter still had the time to go sightseeing with Kelly.
Xavier turned to her. “We can talk once we’re out of here. I’ve already posted your bail. You’re free to go.”
She was silent for a moment, then gave a small nod.
“Thank you.”
+25 BONUS
Elsewhere, in a quiet office-
Simon Dale entered and found Carter standing before a wall–mounted television.
The screen was playing news footage of Sharon–eggs thrown at her, a mob shouting, pushing. She looked like a stray dog, cornered and disgraced.
Simon quickly averted his eyes, unease flickering across his face. He spoke softly.
“Mr. Biggs, Sharon was just taken in for questioning. Word is, an eyewitness has come forward… If no one posts her bail, she’ll likely be held.”
He hesitated. “Should we arrange for her release?”
Carter turned to look at him. “When did this happen?”
“This morning.”
Carter glanced at his phone.
Nothing. Not a single call. Not even a message.
“She’d rather be hounded, humiliated, locked away–than admit she was wrong. I doubt she cares for anyone’s help.”
A cold smile touched the corners of his lips. 1
“She likes to play the tough one, doesn’t she? Let her. Leave her in there. Let her rot.”
