Chapter 149

Walter straightened instinctively at Cameron's summons, their gazes meeting as he cleared his throat. "Based on our current evidence, she is the prime suspect."

A chilling laugh escaped Cameron, sending a wave of dread through the room. Damn it. Cameron's cold laughter was never a good sign. He'd given Walter this chance to prove himself, recognizing the man's raw talent. Instead, Walter seemed to be digging his own grave with each word.

Cameron fixed Walter with a penetrating gaze. "Since leaving the military, you should understand that each jurisdiction operates under its own protocols. Detaining someone without concrete evidence carries serious implications—surely you understand the severity?"

"We received a report and discovered evidence at the scene. Isn't that sufficient?" Walter countered. His military career, ended a year earlier by injury, had led him to his current role. His direct approach and refusal to engage in office politics had earned him both admiration and isolation—some called it stubbornness, others single-minded dedication. These traits had resulted in complaints and ostracism. Falco, recognizing Walter's potential, had consistently supported him, bearing the brunt of his missteps. But now, with Vivienne involved, even Falco's position was precarious. He could only watch and hope Walter would navigate this situation.

"Where is your witness?" Cameron's voice cut through the tension. "What testimony supports these allegations?"

The confidence drained from Walter's face. "We're still in the interrogation phase. We haven't secured any testimony yet."

Cameron's dark eyes narrowed. "No testimony, yet you proceeded with detention? Are you attempting to dispense justice at your own discretion?"

His words struck Walter like a blow, leaving him speechless.

"I'm curious," Cortine interjected smoothly, "who filed the report?"

Walter's frown deepened, his reluctance palpable.

Vivienne's smile remained unwavering. "Unable to share that information?"

Falco watched anxiously, bewildered by Walter's stubbornness. He jabbed Walter in the ribs, shooting him a meaningful glare before turning to Vivienne with forced warmth. "Of course we can share that. We're family here—no need for formality."

Finally, Walter muttered, "Natalie Chambers."

Vivienne's smile deepened, enhancing her allure. "Ah, so it was her."

Meanwhile, across the station, Natalie left her office after finishing paperwork. Her gaze drifted towards the interrogation room where Vivienne had been held. The door stood open. Her brows furrowed. "Where is the detainee?"

The female officer could only shake her head.

When Jack Walsh, Vivienne's interrogator, passed by, she asked, "Jack, what happened to the person in custody?"

Jack sighed. "Best not to mention it. Walter's really stepped in it this time." Noticing Natalie, he cut himself short, patting his colleague's shoulder. "The chief's giving Walter an earful in his office. Any business with him should wait until tomorrow."

After Jack left, the officer turned to Natalie. "Miss Natalie, let me show you out."

"Thank you," Natalie replied, distracted. "By the way, what's the typical sentence for illegal transactions of this nature?"

The officer replied professionally, "This case extends beyond simple illegal transactions. It requires more thorough investigation."

Natalie's suspicion was piqued. Instead of leaving, she returned to her car to observe. Shortly after, several vehicles arrived, disgorging their occupants. From her vantage point, Natalie watched thoughtfully, a calculating smile playing on her lips. Since Vivienne's situation had already caused such a stir, she might as well amplify the ripples.