Dual Deception

NEW BEGINNINGS

I settled into my favorite armchair, phone in hand, and dialed my parents' number. They answered on the first ring.

"Hey, Mom! Hey, Dad!" .
   I said, trying to sound cheerful.

"Aaron, how are you? How's the new job?"
my mom asked, her voice warm with concern.

"It's going great, Mom. I started yesterday and I'm really enjoying it,"
I replied, leaving out the details.

My dad's voice came on the line, gruff as ever. "That's good, son. We're proud of you. What's the job entail?"

I hesitated, unsure how much to reveal.
"I'm working with a detective agency, helping with cases and learning the ropes."

The line went silent for a moment before my mom spoke up.
"That sounds wonderful, Aaron. We're happy for you."

We chatted for a few more minutes, catching up on family news and gossip. I told them about my new apartment, and they asked about my plans for the future. I reassured them that I was doing well and that they didn't need to worry.

As we wrapped up the call, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. It was good to talk to my parents, even if I didn't tell them everything.

After the call, I decided to take a walk around the block to clear my head. The fresh air and exercise would do me good, and I could use the time to think.

As I strolled through the quiet neighborhood streets, I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. The murders were still on my mind, and I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off.

Eventually, I made my way back home, feeling a bit more settled. I spent the rest of the evening reading a book and watching TV, trying to distract myself from the thoughts swirling in my head.
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The next morning, I arrived at the agency, sipping my coffee and greeting my coworkers. As I sat at my desk, I noticed the TV in the corner, broadcasting the news.

"...another body found, marking the third murder in as many weeks. The police are stumped, and the city is on edge."

My heart skipped a beat as I watched the footage, a sense of unease creeping over me. Another murder? So soon?

I felt a tap on my shoulder, and turned to see Mr. Ravenwood, my boss, standing behind me. "Aaron, we need to talk."

I nodded, following him to his office. What did he want to discuss? The case? My role in the agency?

As we sat down, he leaned forward, his expression serious.
"Aaron, I think you're ready to take on more responsibility. I want you to assist me on this case."

My heart raced as I nodded, unsure what I was getting myself into.

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Mr. Ravenwood leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers.
"I know you're new, but I think you have potential. And this case...it needs fresh eyes."

I nodded, trying to process what he was saying. Assist him on the case? What did that even mean?

"What would I be doing, exactly?"
I asked, trying to sound confident.

"You'll be helping me review the evidence, interview witnesses, and follow leads,"
      he replied, his eyes serious.
"I want you to keep an open mind and look for anything that might have been missed."

I swallowed hard, feeling a surge of excitement mixed with nerves. This was a big responsibility, but I was ready to prove myself.

As we discussed the details, I couldn't help but think about the murders. Three bodies in three weeks? It was a chilling thought, and I knew I had to do everything I could to help catch the killer.

The rest of the day was a blur of paperwork, meetings, and research. I threw myself into the work, determined to make a difference.

But as the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the city, I couldn't shake the feeling that I was in over my head.