Cedrick knew Gwendolyn well enough to be aware that she would stop her car and contact emergency services if she encountered a stranger in danger or in need of help. However, she would never allow an unfamiliar person into her car.
As Cedrick examined the surveillance camera screens, his breathing grew heavy. It was evident to him that the person in the car was intentionally trying to avoid being captured by the public surveillance cameras.
While Cedrick could make out some details, such as a muscular physique and a partially visible shoulder, he couldn't determine the man's identity.
Salinsburgh had recently experienced a surge in mysterious incidents, placing an increased workload on the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Analyzing the scene, Cedrick concluded, “There are no signs of a struggle or any potential weapons that could be connected to a crime. It is possible that the man is indeed an acquaintance of Gwenny's.”
He turned to Swain and instructed, “Check with the nearby businesses around the bridge and inquire if any of them have outdoor surveillance cameras installed. We might obtain valuable footage that can shed light on the situation.”
It could potentially be their first breakthrough in the investigation.
“You're right, Boss. I'll be right on it.”
As Swain prepared to leave, he felt a moment of concern for Cedrick's well-being. He paused at the door and reminded, “Boss, I understand you're anxious, but please take care of yourself too. It's winter, the rain is freezing cold, and you're still soaking wet. We wouldn't want you falling sick before finding Mrs. Jenson.”
Cedrick's stern look silenced Swain.
“All right, I'm off.” He shrugged and exited the room.
Despite his damp hair and dripping clothes since his return from the canyon, Cedrick chose to ignore his discomfort.
He reached for a pack of cigarettes from the drawer, something he hadn't done in years since becoming a parent.
However, that night, he decided to indulge, knowing he wouldn't be seeing the kids and, therefore, wouldn't need to worry about smelling like nicotine.
With his lighter in hand, he lit the cigarette and took a deep drag as if releasing the built-up stress and tension within him.
As the bitter smoke filled his lungs, he coughed uncomfortably.
His eyes reddened as he stared at the cigarette between his fingers and whispered, “Darling, I broke your rules and smoked. I deserve to be punished by you. Can you see that? Please let me find you soon...”
His voice choked with emotion as he finally allowed himself to let go of all the heartache he had been suppressing since losing his wife.
Now alone, the man who used to stand tall in the face of adversity was sobbing, consumed by sadness.
The sound of heavy rain outside masked his sobs in the office.
Cedrick took a deep breath, coughing slightly, and quickly finished his cigarette before disposing of the butt in the glass ashtray.
Having turned off his phone long ago to prevent Nico and Charles from reaching him, Cedrick reached into the drawer and retrieved another phone, dialing the number he had memorized by heart.
However, much to his disappointment, he received the same message as before, telling him that the number he had dialed was out of service and to please try again later.
The fact that Gwendolyn's phone was still switched on left Cedrick feeling even more devastated.
As he grappled with the situation, the unsettling facts surrounding the incident refused to escape his mind. There were no signs of a struggle in the car, indicating that the man who got into her car was someone she knew.
Furthermore, the car appeared to be in perfect condition, meaning Gwendolyn had chosen to drive off the cliff.
And even in the canyon where the car had landed, there was no trace of blood or any evidence to explain what had transpired.
The rain had washed away any potential clues, leaving Cedrick haunted by the uncertainty and dangers his wife might have faced.
As Cedrick stared at the photos captured by the surveillance cameras, a sudden realization washed over him.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Wooing My ex-wife (Gwendolyn and Maverick)