Reborn In a Murderer’s Embrace

Dexter’s brow furrowed in a manner that suggested regret for speaking out of turn. It seemed he feared dragging Melody into a mess. “Sorry, that’s a private issue. It’s not something I can share.”

Robin didn’t push further. A cop came up and whispered something into his ear.

It must’ve been about Dexter’s lawyer arriving.

Reluctantly, Robin allowed Dexter to leave.

Dexter stood up and straightened his suit, the embodiment of composure, as if nothing in the world could ruffle his feathers.

He paused at the door, turning back to look at Robin, “I’ve told you, if you want to crack this serial killer case, stop hounding Phoebe. She’s a clever girl, smarter than you think. She only acted out to force my hand in marriage, but she didn’t mean to throw you off the scent.”

Robin remained silent while Dexter continued.

“She’s willful and I’ll give her that. Once we find her, I’ll make sure she learns her lesson. But any misdirection in your investigation is on Officer Robin, right?” Dexter queried with a loaded

gaze.

Robin tapped his fingers on the desk, still saying nothing.

I couldn’t tell what was going through Robin’s mind, but in that moment, I saw Dexter’s warning for what it was. He was actually threatening a cop.

And I knew Dexter wasn’t doing this for my sake, but for Melody’s. He was worried that Melody would get dragged into this because she was next in line for questioning.

I sat in a vacant chair, watching Melody enter the room.

Death had its perks, like watching how cold and dark a human soul could be. Ccontent © exclusive by Nô/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.

“Melody, Mr. Fitzgerald mentioned a personal issue between you and Phoebe. Care to

rate?” Robin wasn’t born yesterday; he knew how to play Melody.

“Phoebe…” Melody’s eyes welled up. “She’s a good girl, just a bit headstrong, I’m airaid. I’m sorry for any trouble she’s caused. She’s Dexter’s sister, which makes her mine too. We failed to discipline her, but once we find her, we’ll make sure she’s set straight.”

Melody’s acting was top–notch; I almost thought I was watching a drama series.

How could she lie so effortlessly?

“Phoebe has a crush on Dexter. You know they’re not blood–related, right?” Robin, sensing Melody’s deflection, reminded her pointedly.

“They’re not. Phoebe’s affection for Dexter is no secret to me. The day Dexter introduced me to

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her, she warned me off, claiming she was the one meant to be with Dexter. She told me to stay away and said if I kept after Dexter, she’d have someone ‘take care of me.” Melody looked down, her eyes

redder by the second.

But soon, Melody smiled, “That girl always speaking without thinking, but she’s not ill–natured.” My hands clenched in fury and spite, nearly losing control. I had never threatened her; it was she who had someone kill me.

“Liar! You’re a liar!” I stood up and lunged at Melody, my hands aiming for her throat, desperate to end her.

But it was futile.

“About two or three months ago, I don’t remember exactly when, but Phoebe and I had a falling out as Dexter brought me home. She pushed me down the stairs, and I was hospitalized with serious injuries. I was lucky to survive,” Melody sighed, showing a picture of disappointment.

Robin frowned, “Phoebe’s actions could be seen as assault. Why didn’t you call the police?”

“She’s Dexter’s sister; she’s just too headstrong. I wanted to give her a chance. If I’d called the cops, she’d be facing jail time. She’s so young; I didn’t want to ruin her life. I wanted to give her a chance,” Melody sounded like a saint.

I cried out uncontrollably. I was struggling and hitting her, but to no avail.

Liar, that’s what you are! I yelled.

Robin looked thoughtful, his expression unreadable.

Fear crept in; I was terrified that Robin, too, would be duped by Melody.

Ever since Dexter met Melody, he changed. He started to favor her and trust her only. It was the same with friends; they’d always turn, eventually siding with Melody.

She seemed to have a charm that made people around her like and trust her..

And me? I was just their scapegoat, their object of ridicule.

“Don’t believe her, please don’t believe her. She’s the one who killed me. Please, I begged Robin, the other cops, and anyone, not to take Melody at her word, but no one listened.

“Where were you on the nights of the 13th, 14th, and 15th?” Robin asked, his face betraying no

emotion.

“Dexter felt Phoebe owed me. He made her go out to lure the killer, but it was only for two nights, the 13th and 14th. I’m not sure about the 15th,” Melody mused thoughtfully.

“Alright, thank you, Melody, for your cooperation. Cory, would you escort Ms. Melody Burton out?” Robin stood up, his demeanor toward Melody noticeably warmer.

I knew Robin believed her.

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They all belleved Melody’s story.