:Decision

Anton's Pov:

"Inspector," I saluted as soon as I saw him. "I have here the testimony of the witness. She is still inside the interrogation room."

We entered the room beside the interrogation room where we could see the witness from the two-way mirror.

"According to her testimony, the suspect knows the victim and resentment is the root of the killing. She's not able to recognize his face because he's wearing a mask. But he saw a scar engraved on the right temple on the head of the suspect," I imparted.

"For now, that's the only lead that we have. But I think, this girl could help us in solving this case," Inspector said. "This is the third strange homicide case of the year. We don't know if the cases before are coherent, but one thing is for sure, every little detail can help solve a case or a puzzling case if it is. So make sure to keep an eye on her."

"Don't worry, Inspector. I will keep watch of her. Besides, she will have a witness protection program," I replied.

Inspector Ayson looked at me.

"She said that the suspect had heard her voice," I said. "Based on her observations, the suspect is intelligent enough to use it to catch the witness. He moves gingerly and I know he can trace the witness if she would not beware."

"What do you plan to do?"

"She said that she didn't make it to her flight because of what happened. And of course, she could not take another flight yet so I plan to ask her if she's willing to stay at my house. Because if she would stay at the hotel, I cannot guarantee her safety," I said.

"But is it ok with you? You're preparing for your promotion test, right?"

I nodded. "I can do it. I will do my best to pass the test and guard her effectively."

Inspector put his hand on my shoulder. "I really see your father in you."

I responded with a smile.

¬¬¬

Minutes later, after he read the testimony, we entered the interrogation room to talk to the witness.

"Ms. Supresencia," Inspector greeted as soon as he entered.

The witness stood up and showed respect.

"How are you?" He asked her.

"I-I am... I'm fine. Quite.."

"There are no CCTVs in the area where the crime took place. The suspect's every move was really planned. So you are the only one we have. Help us catch the criminal," Inspector said.

"H-how?"

"You have to stay here," I answered. "You will be given a witness protection program and in order for me to guarantee your safety, you must stay near me."

"W-what do you mean?"

"If it is ok with you, you have to stay at my place until the case is closed," I explained.

"Huh?!"

"This is for your sake only, Ms. Supresencia. I believe this is the best option," Inspector persuaded.

"Uhm... What if I just go back home? Would that be ok?"

"As much as possible, you must not have contact with your friends or relatives while the case is still being investigated," Inspector explained.

She looked at us. She looks scared and worried.

"Don't worry, this is only temporary. You just need to help us solve this case. We need to catch whoever the person or group behind these killings is. Also, Anton is a very kind and polite policeman, so you have nothing to worry about. He will take care of you. He will protect you no matter what," Inspector convinced her.

"C-can I think about this first?"

The inspector looked at me and nodded, so we left her in the interrogation room.

"Do you think she'll agree with it?" I asked.

"I hope so..."

Some of the detectives of the homicide department have arrived. They immediately saluted when they saw Inspector Ayson and approached us.

"Detective Santelices, Detective Ishigami. Officer Dy can help us with this case. He will take care of the witness," Inspector said. "He will tell you everything regarding the case before he turns over it to us. But don't worry, after he passed the promotion test, I will include him in our team in solving these puzzling homicide cases."

The two detectives nodded while a very wide smile curved on my face.

"Ok, I'll leave you then. I'll just report this to Chief," Inspector said before he left.

Their faces looked different when the inspector left.

"All the witness statements are here. According to her, she did not see the killer's whole face because he was wearing a mask but--"

I stopped talking when I realized they were not interested in listening.

Detective Ishigami took the folder. "It's up to us to understand this. You may now go back inside."

"But Inspector said--"

"Officer Dy..." Detective Santelices emphasizes the word officer. "Just help us when you become a detective already."

I rested deeply and clasped my hands. I have to hold back.

"Come on, Detective!" They smiled away.

¬¬¬

When Inspector Ayson returned, we entered the interrogation at the same time. We saw the witness standing and seemed to be waiting for us.

"Ms. Supresencia, have you made a decision?"