The phone rang just as Chief Lee was pocketing his notepad. He answered with practiced authority.
"Bennett? This is about your theft report." His tone grew colder. "No, we cannot arrest Mr. Lancaster. We need evidence, not accusations."
I watched Chloe's face fall from the penthouse window twenty floors above. Even from this distance, her disappointment was visible.
"Ma'am, I suggest you focus on facts rather than emotional outbursts." Chief Lee's voice carried clearly through his phone. "Good day."
He ended the call and glanced up at my building. His partner shook his head.
"Some people never learn," the younger officer muttered.
Down on the street, Chloe stood frozen beside her car. Her phone buzzed.
"Liam?" She answered her brother's call.
"Chloe, what happened with the police?"
"They said they need evidence." Her voice was strangely calm. "They need proof Noah sold the watch."
"I have the watch. I can create whatever proof they need."
