Chapter 16

"Robert" chatted a bit with his dad and then ended his phone call. He sat on the bench and closed his eyes.

He sighed and leaned back.

"Oh god, this is more difficult than I thought. Maybe I should be more careful, I will be found out otherwise"

He got up and threw his cigarette in the trash can. He picked up the habit when he was first nervous - something to keep him busy.

"Old habits die hard... I really should stop it."

He dusted off his uniform and got up after waiting for a bit, so the smell would faint. He headed inside the building and walked to his office.

He got the case file, with Sam being the victim and sat down quietly next to Heather. He opened the folder and tapped her shoulder.

" Hey... don't you think we should look into this case a bit more?"

Heather looked at the picture to understand what case Robert was referring to and grabbed some notes.

" Yeah, we definitely should. The station here doesn't seem very interested since the tattoo is different, but the other chief told me a few things. Anyway, should we go take a look at the crime scene?"

"Tonight, same time as always. Be careful of your surroundings when we are there."

They bumped their knuckles and sat properly in front of their desks to finish their work and leave. A few hours passed, and Heather glanced at the chief's office. Since the morning he didn't go out, he stayed holed up in there waiting for the time to pass.

The station slowly was getting empty. Rick left after a bit and didn't spare a glance towards Heather nor Robert. At this point, they were exhausted waiting for the whole station to leave. Only one person was left, and it was Alexander.

Heather stretched her body and got up. She went to the chief's office and knocked on the door.

"Excuse me, sir, we will be closing the station for now until the next shift. If you are planning on leaving, I think you should now."

She waited a bit and heard movements from inside. He opened the door and looked at her for a moment. He didn't say anything and proceeded to leave. Until Robert talked.

"Ahem, have a nice rest or the evening… Sir."

Alexander awkwardly turned around and looked at him. Robert was standing and had a forced smile.

"Yes, you too, guys. G-good evening to both of you."

Heather and Robert bowed a little out of the so-called respect he deserves.

Robert was barely stopping himself from throwing the scissors that he had on his desk.

"Old bastard."

Heather was thinking the same thing, too.

"Cat, got your tongue, huh?"

When they heard the door closing, they stood up and had an annoying look on their faces.

"Jeez, that guy is so old that his movements are getting slower. My grandma could be faster and leave on time."

Robert said as he was tidying up the place, to be ready for the next shift.

"Haha, yeah, you are right. I wouldn’t be surprised if we find out he’s just using the chair for support at this point."