Enchanted By His Charm



Irish called his name again and again.

Please empower me with great energy. She thought.

Otherwise, she wasn't sure if she possessed the courage to step into the meeting room and face the potential scolding from those shareholders.

Gazing at the imposing facade of the Runestone Group, Irish drew in a deep breath and whispered to herself, "Just step inside, Irish."

****

Due to the gravity of Ruby's death case, the police had assembled a specialized team for investigation, with Chalmers leading the charge. Upon learning that his subordinates had taken Joseph to the police station, Chalmers made the decision to interrogate Joseph personally.

Before leaving his office, Chalmers reached for the phone on his desk, answering a call from Tanner, the prosecutor assigned to Joseph's business crime case. Tanner was known for his strict adherence to principles and unwavering integrity, earning him the nickname "Poker Face".

The two individuals had a history of connections, and this time, Tanner wanted to give Chalmers a subtle reminder.

"Tread cautiously, Chalmers," Tanner advised. "Joseph is a clever individual. He has been accused of business crimes on two occasions before, but due to insufficient evidence, no charges could be brought against him. Exercise caution during the interrogation process."

Chalmers was aware of Tanner's long-standing observation of Joseph, and he also understood that this time, if substantial evidence were available, Joseph's alleged crime might lead to a conviction. "Rest assured," Chalmers responded confidently. "I will handle this with utmost care and diligence."

Carrying the files, Chalmers made his way towards the interrogation room door.

One of his subordinates stepped out and addressed him, saying, "Sir."

Chalmers nodded in acknowledgment and inquired, "How is the situation progressing?"

His subordinate shook his head and gestured towards his wristwatch, indicating the time. "Clearly, he is biding his time, waiting for his lawyer to arrive," the subordinate replied.

"The severity of the case demands that we make efforts to extend the duration of the interrogation," Chalmers said, his brows furrowing in concern.

His subordinate seemed to be in a dilemma.

"Just make an inquiry. I will interrogate him."

His subordinate nodded and left hurriedly.

Chalmers took a deep breath and pushed in.

Inside the interrogation room, a large mirrored wall adorned one side. Joseph remained composed, his expression unchanged as he sat calmly. In front of him sat a cup of coffee that had long since cooled, untouched.

Just in a few seconds, Chalmers looked at Joseph from top to toe. Obviously, he was very handsome. In addition, he was a well-known diamond businessman. As he sat there, the atmosphere became calm but overwhelming.

Chalmers had seen many rich businessmen, and he had connected with many rich people for various kinds of cases.

It was the first time for Chalmers to approach Joseph. 

He had to admit that he was so peaceful, and even his eyes were so calm. As an experienced policeman, Chalmers couldn't get what Joseph was thinking of.

Many rich businessmen pretended to be peaceful when they got there, but if you looked at them carefully, you would find that their foreheads and nose were sweating, and even their fingers were quivering.

As Joseph sat there, appearing remarkably serene, Chalmers contemplated for a moment. He then placed the files on the table and extended his hand towards Joseph. "Hello, I am the leader of this case. My name is Chalmers," he introduced himself.

Joseph also gave his hand, "Nice to meet you, Chalmers."

Chalmers pulled his hand back. He found that Joseph's palm was warm, and there was no cold sweat.

He had to change his previous viewpoint.

Joseph looked so calm. There were only two possible reasons.

One possible reason was that he was truly innocent, and Ruby and Henry's deaths had nothing to do with him. 

The other was that he was good at pretending and guessing one's mind.

Which one was his real face? 

Chalmers dared not to look down upon him. Such a person was even a problem for Tanner. He was not an easy guy.

"The coffee got cold." Chalmers didn't ask something about the case but just touched the cup in front of Joseph and smiled, "Or, you don't like its taste?"

He wanted to find Joseph's faults, even a little.

Human beings would make mistakes, especially a person who committed a crime. Even if Joseph showed his real face just a little, Chalmers could get it.

Joseph's silence was broken as he offered a light smile. "Sir, you probably haven't had the chance to taste the coffee at the Runestone Group. If the opportunity arises, I would encourage you to give it a try. However, I must express that blocking my office again would not be appreciated," he remarked.

Chalmers grasped the implied message behind Joseph's words.

The meaning was clear: Joseph was not intimidated by him. It wasn't a matter of mood or preference when it came to tasting the coffee. The reason he hadn't consumed it was simply because it did not meet his standards of quality.

Furthermore, Joseph's remarks conveyed another piece of information. It hinted that he had not been to the police station previously, implying his unfamiliarity with the taste of the coffee there.

These two strands of information served as subtle reminders to Chalmers, suggesting that Joseph was innocent in this case.

Chalmers was not one to prioritize emotions or personal feelings. In his approach to cases, he placed greater importance on sound reasoning and intelligence, relying on a logical and analytical mindset.

"Mr. Dover, I regret to inform you that, at this moment, you will not be granted release on bail due to the complex and significant nature of the cases involved. Furthermore, even if your lawyer arrives, you will need to await the completion of the interrogation," Chalmers conveyed his message in a formal manner.

Joseph remained composed, his gaze peaceful as he addressed Chalmers, "I understand your eagerness to resolve these cases. I can empathize with the desire to bend the rules in such situations. What is it that you would like to ask me?"

Chalmers felt a sense of embarrassment upon hearing Joseph's words.

It was evident that Joseph was well aware that the decision to deny him bail had been made without any formal application. Observing Joseph's composed demeanor, Chalmers realized he could not afford to be careless. He could sense the presence of Joseph's calm and sharp mind, his logic remaining intact.

No wonder Tanner had offered a special reminder, Chalmers thought to himself. The significance of that cautionary advice became clearer in light of Joseph's composed and astute demeanor.

"Let's discuss Ruby's case," Chalmers cleared his throat, seeking to proceed with the interrogation.

Joseph nodded, indicating for him to continue.

"Based on our investigation, you had a meeting with Ruby at 9 p.m. yesterday," Chalmers stated.