The policeman asked about Declan. Had Hailey been on the phone with him?

Hailey nodded. "Yes. He left."

The policeman dropped the subject. "We're taking the Storm Killer into custody. Miss, we'll need you to give a statement tomorrow."

Hailey agreed. "Alright."

"It's the stormy season, and a thunderstorm is coming. It's unsafe to be out in this weather. There's a motel up ahead where you can get a hot shower and change into dry clothes. Don't get sick," the policeman said thoughtfully.

Adam, Celine, and Hailey were soaked to the bone. Since it was chilly autumn weather, they followed the policeman's suggestion and went to the motel.

The motel was small but clean. The staff took them to a room. "I apologize, but there's only one room left tonight."

The three of them would have to share a room with only one bed. They had little choice.

Adam nodded. "Alright. We'll take it."

The staff member gave them the key card and left. Adam went in, but Celine ran out and called after the staff member.

"Sir, wait a minute."

The staff member stopped. "Is there anything else I can help you with?"

Celine smiled winningly. "Sir, there are three of us. Could you provide another blanket?"

The staff member asked, "Is that gentleman your"

"Brother. He's my brother," Celine replied.

Adam heard her.

"Please, sir? Could you please provide another blanket? You'd be a lifesaver"

Celine's coquettish plea was effective. The staff member's face reddened.

Adam watched from the doorway, then returned to the room with a dark expression. He stood by the bed, tugging at his necktie.

Shortly after, Celine entered with a blanket. Ignoring Adam, she looked at Hailey. "Hailey, stop daydreaming. Go clean yourself up first."

Hailey didn't argue. "Alright, Celine. I'll go." She went into the bathroom.

Adam watched Celine place the blanket on the bed. She avoided looking at him, just as she had in the car. They seemed to have reached an unspoken impasse.

Adam pursed his lips. "Did you use your charm to get that blanket?"

Celine looked up. "When you need something, you have to be agreeable. I'm a single woman; it's perfectly acceptable for me to do that, isn't it?"

Adam remained calm. "Did something happen?" He was asking if something had happened to her.

Celine put her bag on the table. "Is that so unbelievable? You're marrying Carly soon, so of course I'll date and marry someone else in the future. I can't remain single forever, can I?"