Go on a drive with Daniel

You nod and stand up. Daniel gives you a tight supportive smile and leads you through the mess of police and civilian cars over to a black unmarked vehicle.

He opens the back door and you slip inside. It smells like leather. You try to relax into the seat but you can't and instead you buckle up.

Daniel slides into the front seat. Its quiet as you guys settle, and then he turns on the igniting. the car rattles slightly before settling into a soft hum.

"So." Daniel begins, pulling away from the chaos. "What do you think of puppies?"

"Puppies?" You ask, leaning forward. "I thought you were going to ask about the shooting?"

"I will," He glances at you through the rearview. "But first you need to slow your mind down."

"I don't know." You say, annoyed. "Some of them are great, I guess."

"Only some?" He presses and you sigh.

"Dogs are like people. Some are great, some are not so great."

"So you don't like them."

"I did not say that."

"That's what it sounds like."

"I was considering adopting a Golden Retriever not to long ago, actually."

"Why didn't you?"

You pause. "I didn't have the money."

"Ah."

There's a moment of silence and the energy in the car seems lighter. You feel like you can breathe.

"Do you know anything about what happened tonight?" The question ruins the mood and you frown.

"No." You reply.

"Are you sure?" He pulls over into a parking lot.

"I'm certain. I have no idea why anyone would shoot up that engagement party. Erikas rich, she inherited the restaurant I work at from her dad, but she isn't arrogant." You look out the window, sadly. "She's really great, actually. A beautiful soul, through and through."

"Did she have any enemies?" Daniels tone is gentle.

"Probably. A few of the managers she fired were pretty tough, but she always gave them time to find other work." You recall. "I'm telling you, she was wonderful."

Daniel sighs. "You know nothing about what could have caused this?"

"Nothing."

He's silent for a moment. Then he turns to face you. "Would you like to help me find out?"

Yes

No