A pang of disappointment washed over Nicole. Refusing to concede defeat, she pressed further, "Have you recently relocated here?"

The woman offered an unrelated response. “Only my husband and I reside here."

Nicole inquired once more, "Have you any knowledge of the whereabouts of the previous tenants?"

The woman gazed vacantly at Nicole. “Pardon? I didn't quite catch that..."

“I mean, the previous tenants," Nicole elevated her tone. "Do you possess any information regarding their departure?"

The woman asked, "Are you soliciting money? I'm afraid I don't have any. Please seek assistance elsewhere."

With that, the woman forcefully shut the door.

Nicole stood there, feeling exasperated. It appeared that Brett had relocated, leaving them at another dead end.

Ethel, equally perplexed, stated, “I will inquire with my associates to ascertain if there are any records of Brett's family departing the country."

As an ordinary officer, Ethel lacked the authority to instigate such checks independently. Adhering strictly to protocols, she had to submit formal requests, which explained her immediate arrival after receiving the address from Nicole.

"Shall we proceed?" Nicole sighed, suggesting their departure.

As they descended the stairs at a leisurely pace, Ethel cast a glance back at the third-floor apartment. A lone trash bag lay by the door, prompting a pensive pause before she resumed their descent.

Reaching the ground level, Ethel sought to reassure Nicole. "Kiki, don't worry. Though we have only just begun, we now possess valuable leads. I will not relent in my pursuit. Await updates in the comfort of your home. I shall keep you duly informed."

"Very well." Nicole acknowledged.

Abruptly, a recollection struck Nicole. Alec mentioned Jamie had surreptitiously stolen the document. If Jamie possessed access, she likely held pertinent information. Either she acquainted herself with Brett or made contact with someone who did. Upon reflection, Jamie emerged as a pivotal figure in this scenario.

Addressing Ethel, Nicole stated, “I shall return home and meticulously review my thoughts. Should I uncover anything noteworthy, I shall inform you promptly."

"Understood, Kiki." Observing Nicole's departure, Ethel made her way back to Brett's residence.

Ascending to the third floor, Ethel encountered the closed door.

Noiselessly, she retrieved the refuse bag. Descending to a secluded area, she meticulously sifted through its contents.

Amidst the household waste, she unearthed a takeout receptacle. With precision, she deposited it into an evidence pouch and secured it.