Chapter 10 - The Search
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Twenty minutes later, two local police cruisers pulled up the long gravel driveway. Sheriff Miller, an older officer who had patrolled the district for two decades, stepped into the grand foyer.
"Mrs. Mercer," Sheriff Miller greeted Evelyn respectfully. "We received a call regarding a high-value theft."
"Yes, Officer!" Vanessa rushed forward, placing herself between the police and Evelyn. "My diamond watch was stolen from my room. And I suspect the cook."
Sheriff Miller looked at Adrian, who was standing quietly near the kitchen entrance. The Sheriff's eyes widened slightly in sudden recognition—he had met Adrian Mercer three years ago at a local community fundraising event.
Adrian gave the Sheriff a tiny, sharp nod, signaling him to keep quiet.
Sheriff Miller cleared his throat, suppressing a smirk. "I see. Well, ma'am, if you're pressing charges, we need to conduct a search of the premise, starting with the suspect's quarters."
"Gladly," Vanessa smirked, throwing a triumphant look at Adrian. "Follow me."
They walked in a procession toward the staff quarters in the east wing. Vanessa led the way, practically marching. She kicked open the door to Adrian's simple room.
"Search it!" she demanded. "Check under the mattress! Check his bag!"
Deputy Higgins began checking the closet. Vanessa walked over toward the small nightstand, her eyes gleaming. She reached out toward a small leather coat hanging near the bed, ready to slip her hand into the pocket where she had secretly planted the watch earlier that morning.
"Allow me, Deputy," Sheriff Miller said, stepping between Vanessa and the coat.
The Sheriff reached into the coat pocket himself. He pulled out... a pair of reading glasses and a notepad. Nothing else.
Vanessa’s eyes bulged. "What?! Check the drawer! Check under the bed!"
"Nothing here, Sheriff," the deputy reported.
"That's impossible!" Vanessa screamed, her composure completely shattering. "It was in his—!"
May you like
She stopped mid-sentence, catching herself just before confessing that she had put it there.
"In his what, Miss Hale?" Adrian asked softly from the doorway, leaning against the frame with his arms crossed. "Where did you think it was?"
