The Atta-Rose || Season 1

CHAPTER 24 : The Interrogation

Sye began to lay out the questions, trying to probe into Erin's connections and her involvement with her father's dealings. Erin looked uneasy but tried to maintain her composure.

Nin, standing nearby, watched Erin's discomfort with growing guilt. Feeling responsible for bringing Erin into this situation, she mouthed 'I'm sorry' to Erin, her expression conveying genuine regret for the discomfort her friend was experiencing.

Erin, catching Nin's apologetic gesture, gave a small, understanding nod, though her anxiety was still high. She appreciated the silent apology, even as she faced the pressing questions from the group.

Sye, observing the interaction, decided to strike a balance between getting the necessary information and not making Erin feel unduly pressured. "Erin, we know this situation is uncomfortable. We're here to understand what's happening and ensure that everyone involved is safe and well-informed. Please, help us by sharing what you can."

Erin took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. "I understand. I'll do my best to answer your questions. Just... be gentle with me."

...

As the conversation progressed, Erin revealed more about her situation. "I came to Duncan to find out more about my father's activities. When I discovered that he's been involved in illegal businesses, I was horrified. I hate what he's done, and I wanted to report him. But his henchmen started following me, threatening me if I said anything. I've been trying to stay under the radar and gather enough evidence without putting myself in danger."

Nin and the rest of the group listened intently, their expressions shifting from skepticism to concern as Erin spoke. Her story painted a picture of someone trapped between a corrupt parent and their own desire to do the right thing, despite facing serious threats.

Sye, absorbing Erin's account, nodded thoughtfully. "It sounds like you're in a very difficult position. If what you're saying is true, then Kiester must have been lying about your involvement. His reluctance to talk about you now makes more sense."

Nin, feeling a mixture of relief and regret, looked at Erin with sincere eyes. "I'm sorry for putting you through this. We needed to be sure of where you stood, but it seems like you're not involved in any of the bad dealings."

Erin's eyes softened, a mixture of relief and gratitude showing. "Thank you for understanding. I just want to get out of this situation and do what's right. I hope you can help me with that."

Naz, who had been silently observing, spoke up. "We can help, but we need to be sure that you're safe and that your information is accurate. If you're being threatened, we should take precautions to protect you."

"We'll need to reassess our approach. Kiester's lies put us on the wrong track, but it's good that we've cleared this up. We'll work on a plan to ensure your safety and gather the evidence needed," Che added.

The group began to shift their focus, now prioritizing Erin's safety and the integrity of their investigation. They set to work on a new plan, one that would address the real threats and help Erin navigate her challenging situation while seeking justice for her father's wrongdoings.

...

As the group continued to process Erin's story, Irr, who had been quietly observing from the corner, finally spoke up. "So, about Kiester...?" she asked, her tone neutral but curious.

Erin hesitated, her brow furrowing as she recalled the name. "Kiester... I've only met him a few times. He's one of the men my father did business with, but I never trusted him. He always seemed... off, like he was hiding something. My father kept him around for certain deals, but I never knew the details."

Nin exchanged a glance with Sye, both of them silently acknowledging that Kiester had indeed been deceptive.

Sye leaned in slightly, her voice calm but insistent. "Kiester told us some things about you, things that don't match up with what you've told us. We're starting to think he lied to us to protect himself or to throw us off the trail. Do you have any idea why he might do that?"

Erin shook her head, looking genuinely puzzled. "I'm not sure. My father's circle is full of people like him, i mean men who are only out for themselves. If Kiester lied to you, it could be because he thought it would save him or because he's hiding something even bigger."

Irr nodded, absorbing Erin's words. "It makes sense. He's trying to play us. But it looks like the tables have turned on him."

Erin, still nervous but more at ease now that the group seemed to believe her, sighed. "I wish I could give you more information, but I've been kept in the dark about so much. My father's men don't trust me, and they've made sure I can't dig too deep."

Naz reached out, placing a reassuring hand on Erin's shoulder. "Don't worry, Erin. We'll figure this out. We've got enough to go on now, and we'll make sure Kiester pays for lying to us. But most importantly, we'll keep you safe."

Erin nodded, her gratitude evident. "Thank you. I'm just glad to finally have someone on my side."

Then Sye couldn't help but ask a lingering question. "Why'd you reject him?" she asked, referring to Kiester, her tone curious but not unkind.

Erin blinked, a bit taken aback by the directness of the question. She hesitated for a moment before answering. "Kiester? He... He's not the kind of man I could ever see myself with. He's slimy, manipulative, and only cares about power and money. When he started making advances, it was just...disgusting. I didn't want anything to do with him, especially knowing what he's involved in."

As soon as the words were out, Sye realized she might have crossed a line. Her face softened, and she quickly added, "I'm sorry, Erin. I didn't mean to pry or make you uncomfortable. That was out of line."

Erin offered a small, understanding smile. "It's okay. I get it. I'm just glad you all understand now. I've had to deal with a lot of unwanted attention from men like Kiester, and it's not easy. But I'm doing my best to stay clear of that."

Sye nodded, relieved that Erin wasn't upset. "Thanks for being honest with us. We're in this together now, and we'll do everything we can to make sure he and your father's goons stay out of your life."

With the truth about Kiester coming to light, the group began to shift their focus, planning their next move against him. They knew they had to act quickly, not only to take down Kiester but also to protect Erin from any further threats. Erin seemed reassured by the support from the group, feeling more secure in the knowledge that she wasn't facing this situation alone.