Chapter 194: The False Ending

The atmosphere in Chu Shan He’s tea room was thick with tension. As he poured a fresh cup of tea, Chu Shan He kept his eyes fixed on Lin Xian.

“The Donghai police found a lot of incriminating evidence on the dead driver’s phone,” Chu Shan He said.

Lin Xian nodded, sipping his tea before setting his cup down gently. “The driver was a retired U.S. Special Forces soldier named Sergeant Sam. Even after his retirement, he continued to carry out covert operations for the U.S. The data we decrypted from his phone suggests he was behind the hit-and-run killings of Xu Yun and Tang Xin.”

He shook his head in frustration. “These assassins are experts at creating fake evidence. The doctored chat logs involving Tang Xin show just how skilled they are at deception. My plan was to collaborate with you to intercept that taxi or truck outside Donghai’s jurisdiction.”

“But given the bomb that was already planted,” Lin Xian continued, “it’s clear they never meant for Sergeant Sam to survive, whether or not I intervened last night. That taxi was set to blow up right where it did.”

“So, we can’t trust the so-called evidence on Sergeant Sam’s phone at all. It’s obvious the assassins arranged it to absolve themselves and falsely close the murder cases.”Geett the latest novels on no/v/elbin(.)c/om

Chu Shan He nodded in agreement, refilling Lin Xian’s cup and then adding fresh water to the tea stones.

“I agree,” Chu Shan He replied, “but without solid proof, we can’t demonstrate that these records are fabricated. The police will accept the evidence from Sam’s phone at face value, especially since it confirms that he killed Academician Leon.”

“As I’ve said before, the Donghai police are under immense pressure,” he added. “With three scientists murdered precisely at 00:42, they need to resolve these cases to maintain public order and respond to community concerns.”

“I understand,” Lin Xian replied with a smile. “That’s why I turned to you for help. It’s the only way to keep this investigation moving forward.”

“I’m deeply grateful, Mr. Chu, for your trust and unwavering support,” Lin Xian said sincerely.

Chu Shan He waved off the thanks. “Lin Xian, you saved my daughter; I owe you my support. It’s my duty to assist you in solving the murders of Xu Yun and Tang Xin, for justice, the safety of future scientists, and the advancement of our national research. Even without any obligation, I would still stand by you in this just cause.”

“You don’t need to explain everything to me. I trust you, and sometimes less is more. Just keep me informed about the next steps, and I’ll be ready,” Chu Shan He assured him.

His smile widened as he added, “I’ve contributed a lot to our country and the scientific community over the years. I have enough influence to support you beyond Donghai. Right now, my main concern is your safety.”

Chu Shan He paused, then asked, “When you first shared your plan to lure out the killers by making yourself a target, I had mixed feelings. It’s a risky strategy. Are you sure they’ll come after you personally?”

As he entered the building, he was greeted by thunderous applause. Lin Xian paused, surprised. The lobby was crowded with leaders, colleagues, officers, and others from various departments, all clapping and smiling with gratitude.

“Well done, Lin Xian!” The chief approached, clapping Lin Xian on the back. “Thanks to you, we cracked the serial killings case! If not for your insight into the killer’s real intentions, we would have failed again and become a national joke!”

“But now, thanks to your cleverness and bravery, we’ve caught the killer responsible for the deaths of Professor Xu Yun, Miss Tang Xin, and Academician Leon! We’ve provided answers to the people of Donghai, the nation, and the world!”

Cheers erupted again as colleagues congratulated Lin Xian.

“It’s amazing, Lin Xian! You figured out Leon was the real target!”

“You must have kept the plan to yourself to avoid leaks, chasing the killer alone.”

“Although the enemy chose to end it all by suicide, we got valuable information from his phone.”

“The special investigation team on Xu Yun’s case finally completed its work successfully! Great job, everyone!”

Amidst the celebration, a familiar figure emerged—Ji Lin, who had returned faster than expected. He approached Lin Xian, shaking his hand.

“Congratulations, Lin Xian, on capturing the killer and returning victorious.”

“Welcome back, Ji Lin,” Lin Xian replied, shaking his hand. “When did you return? So soon?”

“Does it seem fast?” Ji Lin smiled. “I feared I was late and missed your moment of glory.”

“Not at all,” Lin Xian smiled back. “You’re just in time.”

This novel is translated and hosted on bcatranslation