Veronica spent the next few days investigating the murders, questioning witnesses, and trying to find any clues that might lead her to the killer. Jack was a constant presence in her mind, but she tried her best to push her feelings for him aside and focus on her work.
One evening, Veronica received a tip from a reliable source that a potential witness to one of the murders frequented a brothel on the outskirts of town. Veronica knew it was a risk, but she decided to go undercover as a prostitute to try and get more information.
Veronica made her way to the brothel, a dingy and cramped establishment that reeked of stale alcohol and cheap perfume. The madam, Felicia, eyed her up and down before nodding approvingly.
"You'll do," she said, handing Veronica a skimpy outfit to wear.
Veronica grimaced but put on the outfit, trying to keep her revulsion at bay. As she waited in one of the rooms for a potential customer, she heard a commotion outside. Curiosity getting the best of her, she peeked through the window and saw a group of men standing outside, shouting and causing a ruckus.
Suddenly, a man burst into the room, startling Veronica. It was Jack.
"What the hell are you doing here?" he demanded, his face red with anger.
Veronica was taken aback. "I could ask you the same thing," she replied, trying to keep her voice calm.
Jack's eyes flicked around the room, taking in the scene. "You're undercover," he said, his voice softening slightly.
Veronica nodded. "I got a tip that a potential witness to one of the murders frequents this place," she said.
Jack's expression grew serious. "I see," he said. "Well, we should leave before we draw any more attention to ourselves."
Veronica nodded, relieved to be leaving the brothel. As they made their way out, Jack turned to her.
"I don't want you getting hurt," he said, his voice low. "Promise me you'll be careful."
Veronica felt a pang of emotion. Jack's concern for her was unexpected but touching.
"I promise," she said, looking into his eyes.
As they walked away from the brothel, Veronica couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. Jack's sudden appearance had thrown her off guard, and she couldn't help but wonder if he was hiding something from her. She resolved to keep a closer eye on him, even as her feelings for him continued to grow stronger.
