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The loud banging pulled Kaidence out of her sleep. She opened her eyes, vaguely aware of her surroundings. She blinked away the fog and focused. By the amo
unt of sunshine pouring through her window, Kaidence guessed that it was midmorning. She got out of bed and trudged through her home to the door.

“Good morning, ma’am,” the police officer said. When Kaidence remained silent, he continued. “We’re looking for this gentleman.”

He showed her a picture of Bruce. His tortured face flashed across her mind as she took the photo pretending to take a closer look.

“No.” She returned the picture and cursed herself for being so careless.

“Were you at Black Diamond on March 15th?” He was obviously uncomfortable. Kaidence guessed he was fresh out the academy. She toyed with the idea of teasing him but thought better of it.

“I’ll have to check my calendar, honey,” she answered and leaned against the door.

“Please do. According to the interviews of other patrons at the bar, you were the last one seen with the missing individual.”

Kaidence blinked. Tiny beads of perspiration formed at the nape of her neck.