Page 119 of Tainted

"You were one of the last people to see him alive. It's routine. We just need to clarify a few things.”

I stared at him, his words settling heavily on my chest. I wasn't stupid, and I knew where this was headed. They were trying to connect dots that weren’t there. But I also knew refusing would make me look guilty about something I didn’t do.

"I have work. Maybe tomorrow," I suggested, my voice wavering slightly.

“Natasha’s family is desperately searching for answers. We’d appreciate your cooperation."

“Alright. Let’s get it over with.”

We arrived at the station, and it felt like everybody was watching me. I recognized a few of the faces from the club, but I kept my head down and followed Detective Jones. The room was small and colder than Kenyon’s house, which made me regret leaving my jacket.

The questions started slow, asking about my whereabouts the night Makori was killed. Then his partner joined us, leaning against the wall, arms crossed, waiting for me to trip up.

"You were seen arguing with him at Route 66. What was that about?" Jones asked, voice flat but sharp enough to make me shift in my seat.

"It was nothing," I answered carefully, trying not to give away too much. "He hit on me, and I turned him down.”

"And then you left?" Jones asked, pushing for something more.

"We ate first, then we left.”

His partner chimed in, his tone more aggressive. "Then shortly after, the diner was shot up, and now Makori is dead.”

"That’s what I heard, but I don’t know. I wasn’t there.”

They kept pressing, asking about Makori, Natasha, and anyone who could’ve been involved. Then the door swung open, and the air shifted. I could tell immediately he was someone important. The sharp suit, polished shoes, and an aura of authority forced both detectives to stand a little straighter. His eyes lingered on my face for a split second, like he’d seen a ghost.

He didn’t bother introducing himself, but a polite smile tugged at his lips. "Give us the room.”

The detectives exchanged a glance but didn’t argue. They left quietly, shutting the door behind them.

"I know this must all feel overwhelming. One day, you’re living life, and suddenly, you're dragged into something you had no control over." His voice was calm and soothing, playing the good cop role effortlessly. "I just want to help you clear this up."

"I already told them what I know. Why do I need to repeat it?"

"Of course, but there are still a few details we’re unclear about. Like your relationship with Kenyon Keyes."

I stiffened but kept my face neutral, sticking to things that were public knowledge in Northbridge, “He stops by the club to see Kross sometime.”

He muttered something I couldn’t quite understand under his breath but quickly straightened in his seat and asked, “Where are you from, Nova?”

“I’m not sure what that has to do with anything.”

“Just curious. You seem like a nice woman. I’d hate for you to be caught in the middle of something that has nothing to do with you.”

I frowned slightly, sensing more beneath his words, but before I could respond, his eyes lingered on my face again, longer this time. It was unsettling as if he were seeing someone else entirely.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t catch your name.”

He smiled, picking up on my trap like I’d caught his.

"You’re not in any trouble right now, Miss Nova," he said, his tone shifting again to one of reassurance. "But I want you to think carefully about the company you keep. Some men aren’t always what they seem."

He leaned forward, sliding the crime scene photos across the table.

" Like you, Natasha was a nice woman but got caught up with the wrong man. Look where it got her."

I froze, my eyes falling on the brutal images. Natasha’s apartment was covered in blood. My stomach twisted, but I refused to flinch and give him the reaction he was fishing for. He was trying to push me, but I wasn’t about to let him win,no matter how sick the photos made me feel. I swallowed hard, holding it together, at least for now.

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