"T agree," Ethel concurred. "Since the beginning, his family has been extraordinarily secretive. Brett's mother feigned being both deaf and mute during our visit, which implies they possess some knowledge. Brett may have been forewarned and escaped to another location."

Nicole felt a wave of frustration but became even more resolute in her quest to locate Brett. He must be aware of something crucial!

Noting Nicole's distress, Ethel offered reassurance. "Don't worry, Kiki. I've requested to reopen your father's case as a criminal investigation. Once authorized, we can issue an arrest warrant for Brett, making it more challenging for him to remain concealed and easier for us to track him down."

Ethel tried to project confidence, but she had her doubts. If Brett had indeed absconded, it could take years to find him. Some fugitives successfully evaded capture for years. Due to the outdated classification of Nicole's father's death as self-inflicted, crucial evidence might no longer be available. If Brett fabricated his story, uncovering the facts would be arduous.

Nicole conceived a different approach. "I know how to locate Brett."

Ethel's eyes brightened. "What's your strategy?"

“Brett deeply cherishes his daughter. By monitoring her, we'll find him. He won't remain distant from her," Nicole clarified.

Ethel, doubtful, responded, "I can't legally track Brett's daughter at this moment. My current caseload and unprocessed paperwork necessitate review and approval first."

Nicole volunteered, saying, "It's okay. I'll handle it."

Ethel felt uneasy. "That's risky, Kiki. If Brett, a murder suspect, discovers your plan, you could be in danger. It's too hazardous."

"Don't worry, Ethel. I'll exercise extreme caution," Nicole assured her.

Nicole's haste in locating Brett lay in the fear that he might escape with his daughter. Leaving the country wasn't solely dependent on flights. Escaping unnoticed was an option. As long as Brett's daughter remained within national borders, Brett was probably there as well. Monitoring his daughter would eventually lead to him.

Observing Nicole's resolve, Ethel hesitantly consented but emphasized, cautioning, "You must carry self-defense tools like pepper spray and exercise utmost caution. Inform me immediately if anything arises. If I'm unable to come, I'll dispatch someone."

“Absolutely. Rest assured. I'll safeguard myself for the sake of my mother, my child, and everyone who cares about me," Nicole promised Ethel.

With her health now significantly improved, Nicole felt ready to accomplish more, assist others, and care for her loved ones. She resolved to live a fulfilling life.

"How is your mother doing now?" Ethel inquired. In her recollection, she had encountered Nicole's mother once. Nicole's mother was gentle and strikingly beautiful, her voice as soft as the one in Ethel's dreams.

Regrettably, Ethel had no mother figure in her life.

"She's unchanged. She doesn't recognize me and remains nonverbal, but her physical condition is stable," Nicole responded.

"Kiki, may I accompany you on your next visit to her?" Ethel cautiously asked. Though she had met Nicole's mother only once, the idea of the latter living like an automaton deeply saddened her. She wished to see Nicole's mother again.

"Absolutely," Nicole replied cheerfully. "Let's schedule a date and go together."