Chapter 171

Robert nodded to the forensic expert, signaling the start of the sampling process. Their next task was to determine how to open the statue and ascertain whether a body was concealed within. Since the statue belonged to Chase, Robert adhered to established procedures.

News of the situation spread rapidly, and cars soon began arriving. Chase emerged from his vehicle, visibly shaken, and rushed directly to Robert, bypassing Davin.

Davin and Patricia assisted an elderly man leaning on a cane. An assistant quickly draped a cloak over him and held an umbrella as they slowly approached.

The Kennedy family’s car arrived next. My mother rushed out, eager to witness the unfolding events, but her high heels sank into the snow, causing her to fall. My brother swiftly helped her up, ignoring the snow on her clothing, and she immediately pressed forward.

“Mom, take it easy! The snow is slippery!” my brother called after her.

My father emerged, his expression calm, though his eyes revealed a flicker of complex emotions. Nicole, however, remained unusually detached.

With both the Kennedy and Reyes families present, the scene was set. As darkness descended, the yard lights illuminated the intensifying snowfall. It evoked memories of the night I died, amidst a similar storm. Then, I felt only cold, pain, panic, and helplessness. Now, however, I felt none of those things.

My mother hurried to Robert, clutching his sleeve. “Robert, have you found Amanda?”

For her, the hope of finding me was intertwined with the fear of what such a discovery might entail. Sometimes, the absence of news felt preferable, as any news might shatter their remaining hope.

Robert’s face was grave. “We suspect Amanda’s body may be inside this statue.”

My mother paled, and my brother’s usual smile vanished. “What? Robert, are you serious? Who would hide a body in her new house?”

“There’s a saying: the most dangerous place is often the safest,” Robert replied.

Nicole stepped forward, her composure unwavering. “Robert, what leads you to believe my sister’s body is there? Do you have any evidence?”

The statue was sealed and heavy, making it difficult to assess its contents visually. To avoid damaging potential evidence, the police decided to drill a small hole and use a scanner.

Before they began drilling, Nicole’s questioning put Robert on the defensive. “From our observations, this statue seems unusual, hence our suspicions…”

Nicole smirked. “Police are supposed to be thorough and evidence-driven. Without proof, you’re causing a commotion. If you suspect issues with our house, are you going to demolish it to investigate?”

“Ms. Kennedy, we contacted Mr. Reyes and obtained his permission before proceeding. Are you doubting us? Or… do you not want to find your sister’s body?” Robert challenged.

Robert remained skeptical of Nicole, but acknowledged her intelligence. Even if she appeared guilty, there was insufficient evidence for an arrest. As she pointed out, arrests without evidence were unwarranted.

Nicole replied smoothly, “Of course, I want to find my sister. I’m simply questioning your methods…”

Just then, someone announced, “We’ve made the hole.”

Robert dispensed with further explanations. “Let’s see if there’s anything inside.”

They watched anxiously. The statue was empty. Nicole had played it perfectly; even if suspicion fell on the statue, its emptiness eliminated any incriminating evidence.

The search concluded with the report: “Robert, there is no body or suspicious objects inside.”

Davin frowned. “No offense, but this investigation seems rather disorganized.”

“Dad, this storm is worsening. Let me take you home,” someone suggested, bringing the scene to a close.