Evelyn Greene studied the faces of those gathered in the dimly lit study. She sensed their unease and resolved to uncover the truth behind the missing Star of Starlit. She decided to begin with Lady Margaret, who sat composed yet wary.
"Lady Margaret," Evelyn began, "can you tell
me about the night the heirloom disappeared?"
Lady Margaret's eyes flickered with a mix of sadness and
defiance. "It was just another evening. We had dinner together, as usual.
I retired to my room early, feeling unwell. I didn't hear or see anything
unusual."
Evelyn nodded, sensing the older woman's reluctance. She
turned her attention to Robert, Julian's cousin. "Robert, what about
you?"
Robert shifted uneasily in his chair. "I was in the
library most of the evening, reading. I didn't notice anything out of the
ordinary either."
Evelyn's gaze moved to Alice, the maid. Alice's hands
trembled slightly as she spoke. "I was cleaning the drawing room. I didn't
see anyone near the study."
"Did you hear anything?" Evelyn probed.
Alice shook her head. "No, ma'am. It was quiet."
Julian intervened, his frustration evident. "Detective,
we've already questioned everyone. There are no clues."
Evelyn held up a hand, her eyes narrowing. "Sometimes
the absence of clues is a clue itself, Mr. Blackwood." She walked over to
the display case, examining the lock. "Only the family and Alice knew the
combination. Yet, there's no sign of forced entry."
She turned to the group, her voice calm but firm.
"Let's consider the possibility that the thief is among us."
The room fell silent, tension thickening the air. Lady
Margaret's eyes widened, Robert paled, and Alice's trembling increased.
Evelyn decided to inspect the study more thoroughly. She
noticed a faint scratch on the floor near the display case, almost
unnoticeable. "This scratch," she mused aloud, "could it be from
someone dragging the case open?"
Julian frowned. "The case is usually locked
securely."
"Was there a recent event or any new staff hired?"
Evelyn asked, turning to Alice.
Alice hesitated, then nodded. "A new gardener started
last month. He seemed trustworthy."
"Interesting," Evelyn said, making a mental note
to investigate further. "For now, I need to see your rooms and any
personal effects you might have that could relate to the case."
As the group dispersed to their respective quarters,
Evelyn's mind raced. She sensed that the key to solving the mystery lay in
understanding the family dynamics and uncovering hidden motives. The grand
manor's secrets were beginning to unravel, and she was determined to follow
every lead to its end.