It took about two hours by car to reach Jessica's house from Coronia University. The road was bumpy along the way. During the journey, Callum briefed them on Jessica's background. In short, she was the only child from a wealthy family. This became evident when they saw the large villa when they got to the Landon family's house. The villa had an antique design, with a large garden in front featuring meticulously cared-for flowers and plants. "This is the place," Callum said, stepping out of the car first. "Let's go look," Xander said, reassuringly gripping Grace's hand. Grace nodded and followed him out of the car. Standing outside the villa, they started to examine it closely. Callum was the first to speak. "Theoretically, the Landon family hasn't lived here for a long time, but the villa is so well-kempt. It doesn't look abandoned." After saying this, he stepped forward and rang the doorbell. Soon, a woman in her 50s or 60s emerged from the house and slowly approac
Grace, however, caught on to the housekeeper's words and casually asked, "You've been working for the Landon family for many years, haven't you? That also makes you a long-time member of the household." The housekeeper nodded. "I've been with the Landon family since Ms. Jessica was very young. It's been almost 20 years." Grace and Xander exchanged glances. She continued, "So you must have watched Jessica grow up!" The housekeeper smiled and nodded as if reminiscing about the past. "Ms. Jessica had always been obedient and attentive when she was young. She always listened to Mr. and Mrs. Landon. "She has also excelled in her studies since she was little. She was their pride and joy. Ms. Jessica would be happiest if they were still here, but ..." At this point, the housekeeper couldn't help but sigh. "Mr. and Mrs. Landon unfortunately passed away. They lost their lives in a car accident five years ago. "As for Ms. Jessica, although she survived that accident, she spent near
The housekeeper explained, "Ever since Ms. Jessica's accident, she's avoided this place to repress the painful memories. So these are all her previous works. Did you not find the drawing she mentioned?" "That's not it," Grace muttered. Then, she took out her phone and said, "I'm not sure which one it is. I'll take a picture and ask her." The housekeeper didn't doubt her and replied, "Sure, go ahead. While you're at it, ask Ms. Jessica if she will return anytime soon. That would be best."The housekeeper sounded like she was looking forward to it. Grace looked up at her. She couldn't help but think that she, too, had grown up without her parents. Fortunately, she had always had Marien around to care for her and had lived a comfortable life. "You've watched Jessica grow up, so you must be close to her, right?" The housekeeper replied, "I'm just a housekeeper." She made her identity and position clear with a simple statement. Grace didn't press on further but quickly took
"Callum, there's been progress in the case you asked to investigate." Callum's lips curled into a devilish smile. "Did you find the police officer who handled the case?" "Yes, I found him. He's at the police station. Do you want to come over?" Callum glanced at Grace and Xander and agreed without hesitation, "Alright, we'll be right there." After ending the call, Callum said to them, "Either way, going there will clear everything up!" Upon hearing this, Grace felt an unexpected unease in her heart. It was very sudden, and it made her jittery all over. The feeling persisted until their car stopped at the police station, and she gradually calmed down. Xander sensed her anxiousness and whispered, "It's okay. No matter the outcome, we'll face it together." Grace said softly, "Thank you, Xander."Callum watched them in the front seat and couldn't help but chuckle. He had never seen Xander so gentle. It seemed Grace had quite an effect on him! "Xander, do you think this mi
"Chief Hopkins, you know who I am. Can't you make an exception?" Timothy looked troubled, his brows furrowing as he muttered, "Mr. Stevens, this isn't appropriate." Callum hadn't expected Timothy to be so stubborn. He was about to say something when Xander stopped him. Xander remained unbothered, and he spoke calmly. He carried himself like a true leader. "Let's meet the police officer handling the case first." Callum's irritation instantly diminished. "Alright." The contrast in his behavior before and after was so stark that Timothy, who was standing nearby, was left dumbfounded. He was more curious about Xander's identity now. Hence, his attitude toward Xander improved. "Mr. Fulton, this way, please."They entered the police station. When they walked into the office, a uniformed officer was already waiting. "Mr. Fulton, Mr. Stevens, this is Officer James Anderson," Timothy introduced. "Officer Anderson, this is Mr. Stevens. You can discuss the details of the case wit
Grace looked up at James. "You said there were two survivors. Was there another survivor besides Jessica?" James nodded. "Yes. He was a young man in his 20s from Pamore." "Pamore?" Grace's heart skipped a beat, feeling somehow connected to the matter. "Can you tell me the name of that survivor?" James smiled and declined Grace's request. "Sorry, I can't tell you that." This response left Grace somewhat disappointed. The other survivor was a man. Even if he was from Pamore, he didn't seem to have much to do with Jessica. Just then, Xander realized something and asked, "You said there were three fatalities at the scene. Besides Jessica's parents, can you share information about the other deceased?"James didn't attempt to hide this information. "The third victim was also from Pamore, a young woman, probably the young man's girlfriend. She suffered severe burns, especially to her face. Two-thirds of it burned. "After her death, the young man was deeply grieved. He eve
Grace left the police station dejectedly. Xander followed closely beside her and offered her a bottle of water. "Drink some water. Let's get some rest." Grace shook her head slightly. "Xander, I need some time alone." She walked alone along the path while Xander stood still, his gaze fixed on her retreating figure. Callum returned and asked, "Why aren't you following her? What if something happens to her here?" "Give her some space. We'll just follow behind." After saying this, Xander started walking, following Grace from a distance. Callum shrugged helplessly. He shook his head and followed Xander's pace. "Xander, it's been so many years. Haven't you made any progress?" Callum looked at Grace and continued, "You shouldn't hesitate! If you delay, she might run off with someone else again—" Before he could finish, Xander shot him a look.Callum shut his mouth compliantly and pondered momentarily before saying, "I'm just reminding you. You don't have to keep some thing
Grace was utterly confused. Who was he? Why did he feel so familiar, especially with that faint scent of sandalwood on him? It seemed like she had smelled it somewhere before. And what had he meant by that? Had Jessica sent him? But Grace didn't feel like he seemed to have any ill intentions. She looked around. Her mind was clouded with even more questions. "Grace, what's wrong?" Callum hurried over, panting slightly. He had been startled when Grace had suddenly run into the crowd, so he had quickly gotten out of the car and followed her.Grace grabbed his arm and asked, "Did you see that man?" Callum was confused. "What man? Did someone mess with you? Tell me, I'll sort it out." He got ready to take action. But Grace shook her head. "No. It was just a strange man. He looked ..." Grace thought for a while but couldn't accurately describe the man's appearance.Callum looked around and didn't notice anyone suspicious, so he thought Grace might have been mistake