After hanging up, Zane paused before leaving. In the interrogation room, the two officers had given up; facing them were an Interpol agent and Chisiaโs youngest major general โ individuals who could easily shake Seacrity to its core.
Zane entered, his gaze sharpening upon seeing the occupants. Except for the woman beside Yvette, Jeremiah, Yvette, and Andrew were far from ordinary. He placed his black badge on the table, conflicted by Yvette's presence. A world-renowned artist, now an Interpol agent? Her identity, top secret and known only to those with the highest clearance, was shrouded in mystery.
He spoke carefully. โMs. Zeller, weโve confirmed your identity with the authorities. Thereโs no problem. While Interpol wonโt disclose details due to your high clearance level, verification is sufficient. Weโll handle this. You are free to go.โ
Andrew, having missed the badge, assumed Jeremiah had intervened. Zaneโs words proved otherwise. โInterpol? Whatโs that got to do with Yvette?โ he blurted.
โMr. Mitchell, Ms. Zeller is a member of Interpol,โ Zane replied, glancing at Jeremiah.
Andrew was stunned. Yvetteโs impassive expression didnโt suggest direct involvement. Interpol? Incredible! he thought. Big shots associating with other big shots. Heโd always heard tales of Interpol's power and mystery. Now, one of their agents lounged indifferently, chin in hand.
Bonnieโs tug on his sleeve jolted him back. โInterpol? Is that the Interpol on TV?โ she asked, awestruck.
Andrew nodded. The reality far surpassed the television portrayal. It wasn't just excellent officers; it was a hub of global elite talent, where being a police officer was the most basic role.
Yvette, unfazed, stretched her legs, her gaze fixed on Jeremiah. Her voice, low and husky, stated simply, โIโm hungry.โ
Jeremiah took her hand. โIโve ordered barbecue. Letโs go.โ
Andrew clapped Zane on the shoulder. โHey, buddy, joining us?โ
Zane shook his head. โNo thanks, Mr. Chavez, Mr. Mitchell. Enjoy your meal.โ He sighed; he had further tasks, including dealing with the troublesome Carters. He recalled Robertโs earlier demeanor: Ill intentions, destined to fail. With Ms. Zeller's status, who would dare oppose her? Besides, she's Mr. Chavez's girlfriend. Even the Betrico police station was instructed to protect her. Who do the Carters think they are?
In the waiting room, Robertโs frustration mounted. โVictor, find out whatโs happening! Whyโs Zane taking so long?โ
Victor looked up, intensely. โDad, arenโt you overconcerned about Winonaโs affairs?โ
Robertโs unease was evident. โArenโt I doing this for you? Winonaโs carrying your child! What if something happens? Your mother wants a grandchild!โ
Victorโs disappointment was palpable. He always keeps his hands clean. After a silence, he simply said, โJust wait and see.โ
Robert fell silent, guilt-ridden. The interrogation room door opened. Two officers, beaming, emerged, followed by Yvette, Jeremiah, Andrew, Bonnie, and Zane.
Seeing Yvette and Jeremiah, regret washed over Victor. If I hadnโt called off the engagementโฆ
Bonnie whispered to Yvette, gesturing towards Robert. Yvette gave them a cool glance, her hand casually in her pocket, before ignoring them.
Zane watched them leave, then turned to Robert and Victor. Robert's courage swelled. Heโd assumed Jeremiah's influence had secured Yvetteโs release after her public display with a firearm. Now Jeremiah was gone. He stormed towards Zane. โMr. Chappell, how could Yvette leave after brandishing a gun? Whatโs going on?โ
Victorโs mocking laugh echoed. Mr. Chavez was present; he didn't dare speak. Now he's venting? Where did he get the courage?
Victor smiled thinly. โMr. Robert, this is a police station. Our investigations are fair. The verdict is in. Yvette is acquitted and released. Case closed.โ
Robert was dumbfounded. How could such a serious offense be dismissed so easily? How influential is Jeremiah? Even Zaneโฆ
Even Victor found it unbelievable. Openly carrying a gun warranted years in prison.
Father and son fell silent, stunned. Robert, refusing to yield, threatened Zane. โMr. Chappell, the Carters have powerful connections. Arenโt you afraid of repercussions for defending Yvette?โ
Zaneโs enigmatic smile left Robert utterly bewildered.