Chapter 57 Identity

The body was in a severe state of decomposition, complicating any attempts to conduct an autopsy at the scene. Consequently, the forensic expert transported the remains back to the police station. The preliminary examination wasn't finished until after 4 p.m.

Dr. Sheila, the forensic pathologist, is a white woman in her thirties with a demeanor reminiscent of Susan's—serious and somewhat solemn, though not in appearance but in temperament. She reported, "The body was significantly decomposed, with the estimated time of death between February 25 and February 28. The preliminary autopsy indicated that asphyxiation due to strangulation was the cause of death. However, the extent of decay made it difficult to identify the weapon used."

"This is the extent of what we know for now," Sheila continued. "Further examination is required for additional details."

Susan expressed her appreciation, "Thank you for your efforts, Sheila."

"Yes, this is a major case, and we have a lot of work ahead of us," Sheila replied before exiting.

Susan turned to her team, asking, "What are your thoughts?"

The deputy captain suggested, "First, we need to identify the deceased. From his clothing and build, he closely resembles Tony Will. What role might he play in this case?"

Raymond proposed, "Tim might be involved. Should we re-examine him?"

"If Tim is indeed the killer, he'll be reluctant to confess without evidence, and a premature interrogation could tip him off," the deputy captain noted. "It's better to wait for the test results and make an arrest when we have concrete proof. We should also consult lawyer Dave—he and Tony were acquainted and might provide useful insights."

Marcus interjected, "Considering Dave's reputation for cunning, could he also be linked to the attack on Lawn? Or could he be behind it?"

Luke pondered this but shook his head. "Unlikely. Dave's 'Taser robbery' was driven by a personal obsession, not financial need. The attack on Lawn and Tony's death seem more about the will, which doesn't fit Dave's profile. He's not desperate for money."

"I agree with Luke," the deputy captain said. "I think it's worth talking to Dave."

At 7 p.m., outside the Mon'en Warehousing Center, a red convertible arrived, and a stunning woman with brown hair stepped out.

Luke approached, waving, "Hey, gorgeous, care for a drink?"

Daisy smiled, "82 Lafite?"

Luke chuckled, "Are we going to have a proper conversation or not?"

Daisy glanced at the warehouse door, "Have you been investigating here all day?"

"Yes, and the clues you gave have led to new developments in the case," Luke confirmed.

Daisy pressed, "What was in the warehouse?"

"You might not want to know."

"Now I'm even more curious."

"We found a large box in Lawn's warehouse. When we opened it, we discovered a severely decomposed body. It was quite shocking."

"Are you trying to scare me? Why would Lawn store such a thing?"

"The situation is complex," Luke said, avoiding details. "Remember when I mentioned Caroline was unstable?"

"Yes, is she any better?"

"We intended to question her today, but the hospital feared it might trigger further trauma. Caroline had visited the warehouse that night and might have seen the body."

Daisy shuddered, "Someone went to the warehouse in the middle of the night, found a decayed body... That's terrifying. No wonder Caroline went mad."

Luke suggested, "Let's grab something to eat. I skipped lunch and now I'm starving."

"Are you sure you can eat?" Daisy questioned.

Luke sighed, "Then let's just buy some fruit."

They picked up some fruit from a supermarket. Daisy invited Luke to her home, where she prepared a "lavish" fruit platter.

Luke was skeptical—he wasn't sure how to cut fruit. Daisy had been finding various reasons to have Luke visit her place.

It wasn't just fear; many would be anxious living alone in a two-story villa and returning to an empty house at night.

Once inside, Daisy began cutting fruit.

Luke settled on the leather sofa with a glass of red wine, mulling over the case.

What initially seemed like a dispute over a will now appeared more intricate. Lawn's attack, Daisy's assault, Caroline's breakdown, and the suspected death of Tony Will—all hinted at deeper layers.

Luke considered Brooke, Sofia, and Emma. They didn't seem like they'd commit such acts, and they'd know the police would suspect them.

But he couldn't dismiss them entirely. It seemed the suspects had attacked Lawn to steal the warehouse keys and Social Security card, likely intending to commit theft. Internal conflict among them might have led to Tony's death.

Luke's curiosity about the case deepened.

Daisy approached with fruit plates, noticing Luke's distracted state. "What's on your mind?"

"Thinking about the case."

Daisy chuckled, "No overtime pay for pondering cases at my place."

"I want to solve it quickly so you don't have to worry," Luke said.

Daisy handed him a piece of apple, "I hope it's not too much of an imposition if I ask you to come over daily."

"It's no trouble. I'm more concerned about your safety when I leave..."

"Wow, don't scare me. After hearing about Caroline, I'm a bit on edge. I might need to sleep with the lights on tonight."

Luke took a bite of apple and asked, "Have you decided about hiring a bodyguard?"

Daisy hesitated, "I've thought about it, but I'm uneasy about strangers in my home. I once saw a movie where the bodyguard turned out to be the culprit. It's unsettling."

Luke teased, "Why not have me stay over instead? If you are not afraid of inviting a wolf into the house?"

"I trust you," Daisy replied sincerely.

She hadn't slept well recently, feeling a presence beside her whenever she closed her eyes. Luke provided a sense of security.

"That sounds good," Luke said, smiling and taking her hand. "How about I stay with you tonight?"

Daisy wasn't thrilled by the idea but didn't refuse. "That could work. How about you be my bodyguard? I'll make sure to pay you."

"I don't want any money," Luke said firmly.

He was clear about his intentions—no financial exchange, just genuine concern.

Daisy scrutinized him, "I can't let you help for free. What do you want in return?"

Luke thought, "I'd like homemade breakfast."

"Deal. I'll show you to the guest room," Daisy said.