Chapter 5

Tang Dao served himself a plate of fried potatoes with tomatoes, adding some leftovers to his meal. Just as he was about to start eating, a knock on the door interrupted his meal. He put down his chopsticks, adjusted his belt, and went to answer the door.

"Officer Smith?" Tang Dao sounded surprised when he saw the police officer at his door, but beneath the surprise, there was a hint of anxiety he tried to hide.

Could something be wrong?

Smith, too, was studying Tang Dao's reactions. Despite Tang Dao's efforts to conceal it, Smith, with his years of experience, noticed some signs of nervousness. Nevertheless, he maintained a calm demeanor and said, "May I come in for a moment?"

Tang Dao hesitated for a moment, then stepped aside and allowed Smith to enter. "The house is a bit messy, but please make yourself comfortable," he said as he quickly tidied up a few things in the room.

Smith offered a gentle smile and looked around the room. However, his expression turned serious when he saw the food on the table. "Is this all you're eating?"

Tang Dao, feeling somewhat embarrassed, replied, "I have a small appetite, so this is enough for me."

Smith, aware of Tang Dao's financial situation, attempted to offer assistance. "You know, you could come live with us, and Beckina would surely like having you around."

This had been a recurring topic between them. After Tang Dao's parents passed away, Smith had been providing support and assistance. However, Tang Dao didn't want to impose too much on his friend. He believed that it was better to struggle on his own terms than to rely on others.

Suppressing his emotions, Tang Dao shook his head gently. Smith's expression darkened momentarily, but he forced a smile and told Tang Dao, "I understand. By the way, there's been a murder on Conway Street, and it seems your father is somehow involved. The director has ordered us to expedite the investigation. I believe the perpetrator will be apprehended soon. But please, be cautious."

Smith's words were a thinly veiled warning to Tang Dao, indicating that the police were already looking into the matter seriously. It was a signal for Tang Dao to take precautions.

Once Smith left, Tang Dao felt a mix of emotions. He was grateful for Smith's understanding, but he also realized the seriousness of the situation. It was time to leave Warsaw.

Back at the dining table, he picked up the newspaper to read international news to pass the time. The knock on the door came promptly, and when he opened it, a well-dressed man introduced himself as Loki, the real estate agent he had made an appointment with.

Tang Dao showed Loki around the house, and after some negotiations, they reached an agreement. Tang Dao wanted to sell the house for $30,000, but Loki initially offered $17,000. After some back and forth, they settled on a price of $25,000.

Tang Dao agreed to the deal, and they proceeded to the real estate bureau to complete the transaction. In just half an hour, the house was sold, and Tang Dao had $25,000 in hand.

As he parted ways with Loki, Tang Dao couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia for the house that had held so many memories for his family.