Page 55 of Symphony for Lies

The night air felt heavy, pressing in around us.

“I need a statement from you. After that, I’ll take you home.”

“She’s already coming with me.” Zane’s palms settled on my shoulders. Firm and grounding, like an anchor pulling me back.

My body reacted before my mind caught up. I leaned back slightly, not by much, but enough for him to hold me there.

Spencer blinked slowly as if processing something.

Then, he let go of my hand. Not abruptly, not reluctantly, just… deliberately.

Zane’s voice was smooth and unreadable when he added, “Besides, you need to take all of our statements.” He was watching the officer as if he was testing him, pushing for a reaction.

And Spencer? His gaze flicked to Zane’s hands on my shoulders, and his jaw flexed.

Neither of them acknowledged the silent battle, but neither backed away.

I cleared my throat, ready to break the tension.“I’ll take Jade home—”

“I’ll drive you,” Zane interrupted.

I turned to stare at him, completely thrown.

Was he serious?

Spencer sighed, “Well, in any case, I still need your statements.”

“Yeah. Let’s start with me.” In one smooth, unexpected movement, Zane grazed his fingers against my forehead.“Your eyes are about to pop out,” he teased.

Instinctively, I squeezed my eyes shut, a reflex I hadn’t meant to give into.

A chuckle escaped his lips, low and dangerously pleased.When I opened my eyes again, he was grinning, clearly satisfied with my reaction.Then, finally, he let me go.

I let out a deep breath, staring after the two men as they walked a few feet away to talk privately.

My day couldn’t get any more confusing.

Once Spencer finished questioning Zane, he spoke to the kids next.

He didn’t press them with difficult inquiries; he just let them explain things in their own words.

And then it was my turn.

Most of the questions were straightforward. Had I seen anything unusual? Had I noticed anyone watching us?

Nothing unexpected came up untilhe asked, “What’s your relationship with Zane Cole?”

I blinked.

Why did that matter?

With a sigh, I gave the only honest answer I had.

“He’s Simon’s older brother. I tutor Simon.”

Spencer’s brows lifted slightly. “Just that?”

I nodded. “Yes, we don’t really interact otherwise.”

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