Crestwood Murders

Chapter 24: Only a Transfer

Meanwhile in another spot on campus Michael embarked on his mission to interview Gretchen the new face on campus during the time of Kayla's murder. He found her in the common area engrossed in a book and approached her with a friendly smile.

"Hey Gretchen mind if I ask you a few questions? We're looking into some details about Jessica and Kayla's murders" Michael explained trying to maintain a relaxed atmosphere.

Gretchen looked up her eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and apprehension. "Sure, I guess. What do you need to know?"

Michael took a seat choosing his words carefully.
"Firstly, tell me a bit about yourself. How has your experience been at Crestwood University so far?"

Gretchen shared her story revealing that she had transferred last year from another college and was still getting acquainted with the new people on campus.

Michael found himself intrigued by the journey Gretchen had undertaken.

Michael delved deeper into her routine during the days of the murders.
"Do you recall anything specific about the days Jessica and Kayla were killed it's this date here?" he inquired and showed her.

Gretchen pondered for a moment, her eyes drifting into a thoughtful gaze.
"Well during Kayla's murder I was definitely outside participating in a campus tour for newcomers still. And on the day Jessica was killed I was doing some errands around the campus lawn checking out the environment. I'm a part of the program Crestwood runs to keep the campus grass cleaned up and it helps me make some extra money."

Michael noted the details cross-referencing them with the timeline of events.
"Did you know either of the victims personally? Any reason someone might think you had a motive?"

Gretchen shook her head with a genuine expression of confusion on her face.
"I didn't really know them I'm still trying to make friends here why would anyone think I had something against them?"

Michael reassured her
"We're just trying to cover all angles. Your newness to the campus actually provides a solid alibi and I don't think you give any sign of a killer, if you ever need a friend though you can feel free to talk to me."
He said with a smile.

The conversation flowed seamlessly and Michael found himself appreciating not just the information Gretchen provided but the human connection established in the process. As he left the common area he was certain that Gretchen had no part in the murders.

Meanwhile Joshua found himself alone in his room the weight of the impending conversation with Hannah pressing on his mind.

Sitting on the edge of his bed Joshua couldn't shake off the memories of the heated confrontation with Hector and the sharp words exchanged with Hannah. His face still bore the bruise from the physical altercation a constant reminder of the chaos that had unfolded.

Deep in thought he questioned himself about the approaching discussion with Hannah.
*Will she be willing to talk after last night? How will she react to my questions?* The uncertainty lingered creating a knot in his stomach.

As he pondered the potential outcomes another question surfaced in his mind, one that carried a heavier emotional weight: *Can I bring myself to ask her about these accusations and if I do could it jeopardize the relationship we've built over the last year?*

The room felt suffocating as Joshua grappled with the internal conflict. He reflected on the moments shared with Hannah the laughter the support and the shared experiences and bonding over the loss of Kayla the girl he loved, The fear of damaging what they had built together gnawed at him he knew others had their opinions and he knew Hannah had her issues lately but he didn't want to risk losing her.

Despite the doubt and anxious feeling Joshua recognized the necessity of seeking the truth. *If there's any chance of solving this mystery and finding justice for Kayla and others then I need to confront the uncomfortable realities even if it means risking the bond I share with Hannah because if she can't accept me during this hard time then I don't know if it'll work out long term.*

Taking a deep breath Joshua steeled himself for the challenging conversation that awaited him.
The room remained silent as he contemplated the choice between discovering the truth and the connection he valued deeply with Hannah.

Meanwhile Michael sensing Joshua's internal struggle decided to call him. The phone rang, and Joshua picked up his voice reflecting the uncertainty he felt.
"Michael what is it? Was Gretchen guilty?"

Michael told Joshua that Gretchen was not guilty and reassured him
"Joshua I know things got pretty intense last night for you and I know we've had our moments too, but I want you to know that Tyler Emma, and I are here for you no matter what happens with Hannah You're not alone in this man."

They talked for a while Michael offering words of encouragement and reminding Joshua of their years-long friendship.
"I've seen you face tough decisions before and you always make the right call in the end, I've seen you struggle with family life and struggle to achieve your dreams, we have met every friend we have together just trust yourself Joshua We'll support you through whatever comes your way."

Joshua appreciating the support thanked Michael now feeling a sense of reassurance.
After the call he decided to gather his courage and headed towards Hannah's dorm ready to confront the difficult truths that may lay ahead.