Chalmers pressed on, "Your brother always wanted you to join the Runestone for assistance."
"Actually, he wanted me to make a name for myself in the racing arena," Jordan clarified.
Chalmers understood the intent behind his response and emitted a snort of understanding.
Jordan inquired, "Are you, Officer Chalmers?"
Chalmers maintained eye contact with him.
"I believe it would be wise for you to investigate individuals who hold a grudge against my brother," Jordan suggested.
Chalmers locked eyes with Jordan and assured him, "Rest assured, the police will thoroughly explore any leads."
Jordan observed him for a moment and let out a disdainful snort, replying, "I certainly hope so."
In stark contrast to Jordan's hostile demeanor towards the police, others displayed a high level of cooperation during the investigation.
The second individual questioned was one of Joseph's business partners or competitors, as their involvement could not be disregarded in potential conflicts of interest that could have led to the homicide.
Leo was the final person to undergo police questioning.
The police inquired about Leo's relationship with Joseph, indicating their thorough investigation from the past up until the present.
"Since Jenny's death, have you harbored any resentment towards Joseph?" the police asked.
Leo chuckled, responding, "I am dissatisfied with him due to his ruthlessness."
"In terms of work?" the police clarified.
"Yes," Leo honestly admitted. "While I understand that the business realm can be likened to a battlefield, as a former brother, he repeatedly pushed me into situations where I felt trapped and had no way out. So, I am highly dissatisfied with him."
"Do you hate him?" the police probed further.
"No, I'm simply angry with him," Leo clarified.
"I've heard rumors about a dispute between you and Joseph regarding the new autumn and winter products. Is there any truth to that?" the police inquired.
"It's just a baseless rumor. To my knowledge, Runestone's new autumn and winter products are still in the preparation phase," Leo clarified.
"Are you aware that the prosecutors have initiated an investigation into Joseph?" the police pressed.
Leo maintained his smile and responded, "I'm sorry, but I truly have no knowledge of that."
"Let's discuss Ruby's murder. Do you believe Joseph is responsible?" the police asked.
Leo replied casually, "While Joseph may be ruthless in business, to believe he would resort to murder? That's unthinkable, Officer. It's evident that someone is trying to frame him. He's too clever to commit a crime right at his own doorstep, especially immediately following an argument and in the presence of witnesses."
The police meticulously recorded each statement as they conducted a comprehensive investigation, leaving no member of the Lake family unexamined.
Shirley, who typically exuded arrogance, displayed signs of nervousness within the police station. She sat down and glanced at the cup placed in front of her.
The police instructed her to recount the events that transpired on the night of the incident in the conference room.
Shirley proceeded to narrate the details as requested.
Shirley's emotional state was still evident, her eyes red and swollen from crying due to Ruby's death.
"So, you're suggesting that Joseph intended to manipulate the situation at Runestone to acquire the shares you possess?"
Shirley said tearfully. "It must be the case."
"Did Ruby have any conflicts with anyone?" the police inquired.
"She was always engrossed in her cake shop, only focused on her work. Who could have a grudge against her? The only source of her displeasure was Joseph," Shirley replied.
Given Shirley's unstable mood, the police decided to keep their questioning brief.
Roy and Cassie, in turn, cooperated with the police investigation.
When asked if Joseph could be capable of killing Ruby, both Roy and Cassie firmly stated that it was impossible. They expressed disbelief that Joseph would engage in such a grave act.
They presented evidence supporting their claims, such as their absence from the premises after the meeting, as well as the fact that the elevator in the building was operational at the time. The image of two individuals leaving the building was captured by the elevator's surveillance camera.
Shirley and William appeared fatigued and somewhat distracted as they responded to the police's inquiries.
The assistant informed Chalmers about Kelly, a witness who seemed composed and ready to provide answers, prompting Chalmers to begin the questioning process systematically.
"I had no clue what they were discussing," Kelly recounted, her voice tinged with weariness.
"You left the Runestone early?" the police questioned.
"Yes, because of my daughter..." Kelly's voice choked with emotion. "I was worried about her."
"Throughout the entire time, the Lake family had been strongly against Joseph holding the Lake shares. How did you come to agree that night?" the police asked.
"I never intended to transfer my shares to Joseph, and when he made the request that night, almost everyone from the Lake family present objected. However, he proposed a temporary loan, and that's why I agreed. The situation at Runestone is currently in chaos, and I also hope to restore some calm as soon as possible," Kelly explained.
Surveillance footage indeed captured images of Kelly leaving the building as she departed in the elevator with other individuals. The police also located the person who had taken the elevator that night, and he confirmed Kelly's departure.
When it was William's turn to be questioned, his voice was hoarse and strained.
"As you're not in a board meeting, who can confirm that you were at home with your daughter?" the police inquired.
Upon hearing this, William appeared flustered and hastily replied, "Officer, I truly was at home with my daughter. Her condition is extremely critical, and I couldn't leave her side. She can vouch for my presence at home."
His voice carried a sense of urgency, fearing that the police might suspect him.
Chalmers noticed William's nervousness, which was a common reaction in such situations.
"Besides your daughter Lilith, is there anyone else who can confirm your presence at home?" Chalmers asked.
William anxiously clenched his fingers and licked his lips, trying to recall any potential witnesses. Suddenly, he remembered, "There were servants in my house. They can testify that I was at home throughout the entire night."
He hastily added, "Officer, I am innocent, truly."
Chalmers raised his hand to interrupt him and instructed his assistant to record William's statement.
The police proceeded to investigate the Lake family's household servants, who confirmed that William had indeed stayed at home to accompany Lilith. They attested to the fact that Lilith's condition at the time was highly unstable.
As the focus shifted to questioning Lilith, they observed her increasing nervousness. She tightly clung to Jay as if seeking comfort and security. One of her hands firmly held onto Jay's clothing, reminiscent of a distressed child.
Fortunately, Lilith appeared to be sober now, free from any substance addiction.
Chalmers and Jay were acquainted, and upon witnessing this scene, Chalmers turned to Jay and remarked, "I truly admire you." Not many people can endure the heartache of witnessing their loved one going through the detoxification process. Chalmers sincerely admired Jay's strength and resilience.
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