Chapter 15
As the food was served, Ken wasted no time. He turned to Lenore, feeling slightly awkward.
“Here’s the deal,” he began. “Lately, there’s been a rise in reckless street racing around Jinslenburg. They’re ignoring traffic laws completely, and the cars are illegally modified.”
He paused before continuing, “We think there’s an organization behind it. So far, we’ve only caught a few minor offenders. When I heard you were in town, I figured you’d be the perfect person to help.”
Ken had known Lenore for a couple of years and was well aware of her talent with cars. She had an uncanny ability to spot modifications instantly. If she agreed to assist, they’d have a real chance of uncovering the mastermind behind the chaos.
Lenore typed a few replies on her phone before glancing up. Around the room, the officers watched her with hopeful expressions.
She raised an eyebrow. “Since when do traffic cops deal with organizations like this?”
Ken smirked. “Well, the cars have to be on the road, don’t they?”
For the past two months, the streets had been filled with the roar of engines every night.
These racers treated the roads like their personal playground, blasting through red lights as if traffic laws didn’t exist. Barricades and signs meant nothing to them. Just a few days ago, there had even been an accident.
Lenore thought for a moment before replying lazily, “Sure, but I’m in school now, so I can only help after nine at night.”
Ken blinked. She’s going to school? He was already surprised when he overheard her talking to Troy earlier. Hearing it again, he smirked but said nothing.
Big shots really do think differently. But at least she agreed to help.
Letting out a relieved sigh, Ken grinned. “Perfect. Tonight’s the best night for it. I promise I won’t keep you out too late.”
In the next room, the aroma of delicious food filled the air, creating a pleasant and cozy atmosphere.
Rachel glanced at Esther, satisfaction in her eyes. “You’ve been keeping up with your dance practice, haven’t you?”
Esther beamed. “Absolutely.”
Rachel nodded approvingly. “At the end of the month, the famous dancer Victoria Harris is coming to Senanville for a performance. Your cousin is one of her students. You should come and enjoy yourself for a few days.”
Victoria was a well-respected dancer, and studying under her could open major doors.
Esther’s eyes sparkled. “Thank you, Aunt Rachel.”
No matter what happened in the past, the secret will stay buried. Lenore will always be in the background, she thought.
If Esther became Victoria’s student, the Smedley family could gain significant recognition in Denisville. The irritation Troy felt toward Lenore melted away as he smiled at Esther.
“Keep up with your dance practice. I’ll enroll you in another class,” he said. “Just let Sharon know if you need anything.”
Sharon didn’t mind being overlooked. She was busy shelling crabs for Darren but looked up with a grin. “Good thing the weekend starts soon. I’ll take you shopping.”
Esther smiled shyly. “Thank you, Sharon.”
Darren, full of excitement, raised his hand. “Mom, Dad, I want to go too!”
Feeling cheerful, Troy waved his hand theatrically. “Of course. Just have your mom get you whatever you want.”
The mood in the room was warm and relaxed.
By the time dinner ended, it was already nine o’clock.
Wayne pulled out a cigarette but hesitated, knowing Silas was nearby. Instead, he twirled it between his fingers and asked, “So, what do you think Lloyd is up to?”
The Duncan family wasn’t a big deal in Denisville, but in Jinslenburg, they held considerable influence. Lloyd Duncan was the family elder and had once shared a mentor with Pedro. Wayne had been discussing business with him.
Silas casually smoothed out his clothes. The black ring on his right pinky glinted under the light as he replied in a cool, clear voice, “The situation with 319 Biomedical Engineering is complicated. Besides people like your grandpa, not many find it worth their time.”
Wayne’s mouth twitched. “And yet, you’re willing to get involved?”
Silas raised an eyebrow. “You have a problem with that?”
Wayne gritted his teeth but didn’t dare argue.
