The Unshackled Queen: Never Say Never

Rodrigos face became rigid, and the air around him seemed to crystallize.

For a moment, his breathing grew labored and heavy.

Hannah chose not to press him further.

She turned away and made her way toward the church, leaving Rodrigo behind with a look that was a tumultuous mix of anger and disbelief.

Bryson walked closely behind Hannah, ensuring her protection.

Upon reaching the church, they found the body of Remingtons father lying in repose, surrounded by white lilies, the atmosphere imbued with a subtle aura of sorrow and reverence.

Hannah approached and observed the body closely.

Not far off, Remington stood, his expression one of intricate emotions as he watched the scene unfold.

This place is heavily guarded. If there wasnt a mole, how could anyone have poisoned him under such vigilant surveillance? Hannah pondered aloud, her gaze shifting toward Remington.

Maybe it really is a mole, she suggested.

Miss Moore, do you believe it was someone from our own family? Remington asked, his voice weary.

The events of recent days had clearly taken their toll.

Hannah did not respond directly but instead murmured, The truth often hides in the most unlikely places.noveldrama

At her words, not only did Rodrigos expression darken, but Remingtons as well.

Hannah! Have I ever wronged you? Are you suspecting me now? Rodrigo burst out, his anger palpable.

I would never kill him.

Dont falsely accuse me in this! Im merely considering all possibilities, Hannah replied calmly, her voice steady.

Isnt it strange? You and Conor were his protectors, yet tragedy struck that very night.

Meanwhile, in the study, Conor was diligently gathering the remains of the contents of the cup to send for analysis.

He harbored mixed feelings.

If something was indeed amiss with the cup, it pointed to their negligence.

Despite the existence of surveillance footage from that night, the motive and opportunity to commit the crime were present, making them suspects.

Back in the church, Hannah scrutinized the corpse and noticed the deceaseds lips were tinged purple-a sign typical of heart disease.

However, certain medications could also induce such symptoms, necessitating further tests on the substance found in the cup.

Hannah, come and take a look at this, Bryson called her over.

See if theres a scratch on his wrist.

Upon closer inspection, Hannah furrowed her brow and beckoned Mr. Lyons.

Please, take a look at this scratch.

A shallow scratch marred the wrist of the corpse, appearing to have been inflicted while he was still alive.

Remingtons brow furrowed deeply upon seeing it.

I recall no such scratch on my fathers arm when I last saw him, he remarked.

After a moment of contemplation, Hannah responded to Remington, The scratch seems fresh.

Based on what youve told me, it likely occurred shortly before his death.

Perhaps he struggled with someone or was desperately trying to grasp something in his final moments.

The air in the church grew denser, the atmosphere heavy with a tangible depression.