CHAPTER 31: A Tangled Web

The telegram, a cold, metallic weight in his pocket, mirrored the dread settling in Friesland's gut. He returned home to find Elizabeth by the fireplace, a worn photo clutched in her hand, grief painting her face in shades of gray. "Friesland," she croaked, her voice raw. "Thank you. Your kindness...it means more than words can say." He knelt before her, his gaze steady. "Elizabeth, please. You don’t have to face this alone. Whatever you need, I'm here." A flicker of warmth, a fragile flame against the storm, danced in her eyes. Friesland's unwavering support was a lifeline in this sea of sorrow. A sharp rap shattered the quiet. Friesland rose, hand instinctively reaching for his revolver. "Who could that be at this hour?" Elizabeth whispered, fear creeping into her voice. Taking a deep breath, Friesland approached the door cautiously. Through the peephole, he saw a young constable, his face etched with worry. "Detective Friesland?" the constable stammered. "There's been an inci