The rose was sealed inside a clear evidence bag.

The note too, its edges trembling slightly as the officer held it with gloved hands, the ink just dark enough to catch the light.

Elena watched from the corner of the small, cold room at the station.

Mrs. Alvarez sat beside her, eyes hollow from sleepless nights, hands clasped tight in her lap. Every tick of the wall clock felt like a heartbeat she couldn’t control.

Detective Rowan leaned forward, his expression measured.

You said you found this in her dorm?

Elena nodded.

 Yes. On her desk. And there was a message on her phone. From Dylan.

You mean. Dylan Greene the mayor’s son? The officer asked

Elena nodded.

He jotted something down in his notebook.

We’ve spoken to her classmates. Ryan and Zoe, both claim they haven’t seen her since the night of the party.

That’s not true, Elena said sharply. Zoe called her that night.

Rowan looked up.

You’re certain?

Elena nodded again, firmer this time.

The call log is still on her phone.

He exchanged a glance with the younger officer beside him.

We’ll need to verify that. We’ll ask Zoe to come in again.

Mrs. Alvarez’s voice broke softly.

Please… please find my daughter.

Rowan’s gaze softened just a fraction.

 We will, ma’am. We’ll start by talking to everyone in her circle again, and The mayor’s son you mentioned.

The name hung in the air like a shadow.

.......

Later that day, Zoe sat in the same chair where Elena had been.

Her usual confidence had drained away; her lip trembled as she twisted the strap of her purse.

You said you hadn’t spoken to Amara after the party, Rowan said. But her phone records show a call from you.

Zoe’s voice cracked.

It wasn’t me.

Then who was it?

She hesitated.

 I… I don’t know.

Zoe, the detective leaned closer, his tone firm but calm, that’s a lie.

Zoe’s eyes darted toward the door, her throat tightening.

It wasn’t me, she whispered again, he.....he took my phone.

 Who did?

A pause.

Then, barely audible

Dylan.

Rowan leaned back slowly.

The room fell silent, save for the hum of the fluorescent light overhead.

Outside the window, Elena watched Zoe through the glass, her heart sinking as she finally heard the name spoken aloud.