Chapter 148

Walter stood frozen, a cigarette dangling from his fingers, as Falco strode past. The reality of the situation jolted him into action, and he scrambled after his superior, his voice brimming with conviction. "Chief Falco, this case is extraordinary! We could finally apprehend Brevard after three years. I just need authorization…"

His words trailed off as he entered the room, witnessing an unexpected scene. Falco was removing Vivienne's handcuffs, his face softened with genuine concern. "Vivienne, my dear niece, I deeply regret my late arrival. You must have been through so much."

The officers fell silent. Walter remained rooted in the doorway, struggling to process the revelation. Falco was Vivienne's uncle?

The truth was more nuanced. While not her biological uncle, Falco was Owen's uncle. In her youth, Owen frequently brought Vivienne to the Falco residence, and they embraced her as family. This led Vivienne to naturally address Falco as "Uncle Falco," alongside Owen. While most coveted connections to the Falcos, Falco considered Vivienne's familial acknowledgment a profound honor—not for political gain, but because she represented the heart of both Benjamin and the entire Sinclair family.

Vivienne massaged her wrist, offering Falco a warm smile. "Did Owen inform you?"

Falco's expression shifted; panic flickered across his features. "What? Owen knows you're here?" If Owen knew, Cameron—Falco's brother-in-law—would surely learn, potentially causing chaos at the police station, given the Sinclairs' devotion to Vivienne.

A thoughtful look crossed Vivienne's face. If Owen hadn't alerted him, who had?

Her contemplation was interrupted by an urgent announcement: "Chief, Mr. Cameron Sinclair has arrived."

Falco's eyebrow twitched violently—his worst fears realized. Composing himself, he turned to Vivienne with a carefully crafted smile. "Vivienne, would you accompany me?"

She nodded, and they exited together. Passing Walter, Falco shot him a stern glare. "You're coming too. You created this mess, and you'll help resolve it!" He refused to bear the burden alone.

Walter remained bewildered. The illegal transaction case involving Vivienne seemed straightforward—surely connections couldn't override clear evidence?

In Falco's office, Cameron reclined on a black sofa, legs crossed with elegant indifference, a lit cigarette between his slender fingers. As footsteps approached, he raised his gaze, his sharp eyes piercing the atmosphere with such intensity that Falco involuntarily gasped. Despite their connection and Falco's seniority, Cameron's presence always instilled trepidation.

Falco hesitated before forcing a smile. "Minister Sinclair, surely such a minor matter didn't warrant your personal attention."

"Tell me what happened." Cameron extinguished his cigarette. His casual glance toward Walter carried an arctic chill that sent shivers down the latter's spine.

Falco turned to Walter with a glare. "Well? Explain yourself!"