The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 114

After hearing Chloe's statement, the two officers moved to flank Suzie. “Ms. Sterling, is that correct?” one of them said in a professional tone. “We’ve received a report that you are a person of interest in the leak of commercial secrets. We need you to come with us to the station to assist with the investigation. Please cooperate.”

As he finished, both officers gestured for her to stand.

“No, you can’t take me. I haven’t done anything,” Suzie finally found her voice, frantically trying to explain. “Someone is fabricating this! That’s not what happened.”

Her voice grew agitated, but she felt too weak and exhausted to rise from her chair.

Chloe let out a heavy sigh. “Oh? You’re denying it? Use your brain. Do you really think the officers would be here if I didn’t have evidence? You want proof? I’ve already handed it over to them.”

She paused, her satisfaction growing as she watched the color drain from Suzie’s face.

“Considering your former status, we’re trying to be polite,” Chloe continued, her tone dripping with condescension. “It would be rather undignified to handcuff you and drag you away. No, no… let me rephrase. Out of respect for Jamie, I’m showing you a little courtesy. And I have a way to make you come along willingly.”

With that, Chloe clapped her hands sharply.

From a hidden corner of the pool area, another woman emerged. Suzie stared, and her heart sank when she recognized the newcomer.

It was Lexi.

They linked arms, looking for all the world like the best of friends.

Suzie watched the scene with a complex mix of emotions, struggling to clear her head and control her panic. So much had happened in such a short time. She had never been through anything like this and had no idea how to respond to such blatant lies. Already shaken and physically drained, she felt her stomach turn.

Once the two had finished their little performance, Lexi spoke with an air of superiority. “Ms. Sterling, are you ready to listen to what I have to say now?”

Suzie clenched her fists. “My name is Suzie, and I haven’t broken any laws,” she said, her voice shaking but firm. “If you fabricate evidence, you will be held legally responsible. You’d better think about the consequences of slandering someone in front of police officers!”