The Fallen Angel

The humid Florida air clung to you as you stepped out of the taxi, the imposing gates of the River Valley Spa & Hotel swinging open before you. It felt surreal to be here, a stark contrast to the life you'd known. Harley, your long-time friend, was waiting, his familiar smile a small comfort in the wake of Scarlett's death. He'd invited you here to escape, to breathe, but the shadow of the ongoing investigation, the image of Tom, the prime suspect, still loomed large.

You followed Harley through the grand lobby, the murmurs of other guests a distant hum. Checking in felt like entering a different world, one of luxury and leisure, a world so far removed from the one where you'd watched your sister struggle and ultimately, die. You knew you had to make your statement to the police soon, relive that horrible night, and you clung to the hope that it would finally bring justice for Scarlett, finally put Tom behind bars.