Circus of Shadows: A Deadly Performance

Chapter 66: Admission Under the Carousel Lights

Detective Black left the solicitor's office, the weight of the revelations she had learned resting heavily on her mind. She made her way swiftly back to the police station, determination etched on her face as she sought out the forensic department.

"Miss Harper," she called, finding the forensic analyst amidst the bustling office. "I need another favour. I've got something that might be worth examining."

She handed over the bundle of documents—the deeds to the Circus of Curiosity. "These deeds are at the centre of an ongoing investigation into the death of Ralph Ortiz. I need you to see if there's any chance Ms. Delights had any recent contact with them."

Charley Harper took the documents and nodded, understanding the significance of the request. "I'll get started on it right away. If there's anything to be found, I'll do my best to uncover it. I am still working on the rucksack and it's contents I should have everything ready for you tomorrow." She informed her detective colleague.

Detective Black thanked Charley Harper and watched as she took the deeds to begin the forensic analysis. She felt a surge of anticipation, hoping that the examination might reveal crucial details that could potentially illuminate the intricate connections surrounding the new information that Miss Cleverly and Mr Harrison have identified in the case. With a sense of determination, she returned to her office to continue piecing together the puzzle surrounding the enigmatic events under the big top.

Back over at the Carnival of Curiosity Felix and Luna sought refuge from the pouring rain beneath the shelter of the Victorian carousel, the rhythmic pitter-patter of raindrops providing a soothing backdrop to their conversation. As they settled on one of the ornate benches, Felix's troubled expression didn't escape Luna's notice.

"I've been thinking, Luna," Felix began, his voice carrying the weight of his concerns, "I want to be there for you, especially now, with the baby on the way. Maybe it's best if I take a break from the circus, support you when you return home to Costa Rica until our baby's born. I can meet your family and we can begin to make our plans."

Luna nodded, her eyes filled with understanding and warmth. "That means a lot to me, Felix. My mother Marilena would love to meet you. But there is something that is really bothering you? You seem worried and preoccupied."

Felix hesitated, struggling with the weight of his thoughts. "Luna, it's this investigation... I feel like I'm being set up for Ralph's murder. Its hard to explain but I can't trust anyone here anymore. It's tearing me apart, not knowing who to turn to. I don't even recognise myself at the moment."

Luna placed a reassuring hand on his, her gaze filled with empathy. "You're not alone in this, Felix. We'll figure it out together."

Felix nodded, grateful for Luna's support. "There's something else too," he admitted, his voice tinged with unease. "My missing rucksack... It's connected to Ralph somehow. I've been trying to understand what happened, but it's all a blur. I'm scared that the detective will find it and if she does, Luna, the contents... I .... she will make it look like I'm guilty."

Luna pulled him closer, enveloping him in a comforting embrace. "We'll get through this, Felix. Trust me. Let's focus on finding that rucksack. Maybe it holds the answers we need."

The rain continued to drum a soothing melody on the carousel's roof, a backdrop to the unfolding troubles and uncertainties faced by Felix and Luna in the wake of the ongoing investigation.

As they continued to seek shelter from the gloomy weather that surrounded them Ms Delights was back in the tent as Bella arrived back from her venture into Haven.

As Bella entered the grand tent, she felt the weight of her secret burdening her shoulders, her soaked clothes clinging uncomfortably. Madame Hattie, perceptive as always, hurried to her side, concern etched on her face. She was there overlooking her niece, Madame Fontaine with Ms Delights partaking in extra practise. "Bella, my dear, I was so concerned. Are you alright?" she asked, her voice filled with care and worry.