Chapter 78
I looked toward the fireplace, filled with doubt.
The inside of the hearth was dark and so deep that its end was impossible to discern. Eden, who had pulled up a chair and sat before it, spoke up.
“I took a quick look at this fireplace, but it’s so dark I can’t see a thing. It would be better to bring a lantern or something and examine it properly.”
At Eden’s words, Knox and I shared a look before turning back to Susanna.
“First…”
I started to speak, stroking Susanna’s pale, bloodless face.
“Mr. Rudfercher, please look after Emma and Susanna. I’ll go check the fireplace with Officer Eden.”
Eden nodded and immediately pulled out the cylinder of his revolver to load the bullets.
In the meantime, Emmy and Hose were already peeking around the front of the fireplace.
“Move.”
Eden pushed the two aside and stood before the hearth. Emmy flashed a middle finger at Eden’s back, but when her eyes met mine, she gave a bright, cheery smile. Hose watched Emmy as if he were looking at something grotesque.
Just then, Harrison approached and blocked my path with a sigh.
“I understand how you feel, but let’s not rush, both of you. Why don’t we wait until Susanna wakes up before investigating? It would be safer to move after hearing what happened from her.”
Come to think of it, he was right. I was quickly swayed by Harrison’s logic.
