Flashback begins-
Morning time, sunshine making the world bright but the atmosphere was intense at the highway.
Cameras were lined up. Microphones pointed forward. Reporters were ready to capture the statement.
There was Rick in police officer's uniform.
Officer Rick stepped up to answer them.
His uniform was crisp. His expression controlled.
-"After a thorough investigation,"
-"we have concluded that the highway incident was a case of drink and drive. The victim lost control of the vehicle, which led to the accident."
Camera shutters clicked rapidly.
-"Our findings are supported by evidence collected at the scene," he continued. -"Medical reports and forensic details confirm intoxication at the time of driving."
A reporter raised a hand. "What about the other person involved?"
Rick paused for a fraction of a second—so brief no one noticed.
-"The statement of Aaron,"
-"who was inside the car and survived the accident, also supports this conclusion."
The reporters nodded, scribbling notes.
The case was closed.
At least on paper.
Rick's eyes not seemed as usual. They spoke that something had done against his words.
The words he had spoken echoed in his head, heavy and uncomfortably familiar. He had said them with certainty, with authority—but not with peace.
His face remained calm.
Inside, doubt refused to stay silent.