Chapter 1532: Chapter 1532: The Risks of Leaving
When everyone was still in a fog, Gene raised his glass, gently tapping it with a metal spoon, producing a crisp sound.
“I’m very happy to gather here with everyone.” He stood on a high platform, smiling.
The crowd fell silent simultaneously, all eyes on Gene.
Purple Summers discreetly scanned the room, counting. By the last docking, most guests had disembarked, so there weren’t many guests on this level. Including Alexander Summers, Gavin Graves, and Cherry, there were only thirteen people in total.
Thirteen, not a very auspicious number indeed.
Gene said, “It’s heartbreaking to see such tragedies in these past two days. In the great Stan Family, no one has died so mysteriously. So, I’ve invited you all here to witness the moment the murderer surfaces.”
The crowd held their breath, waiting for him to reveal the answer.
Gene, however, was unhurried, swirling the wine in his hand as he continued, “The murderer is in this room right now.”
The words fell, and everyone looked at each other in disbelief.
Even Purple Summers instinctively searched the crowd for the servant’s figure.
Alexander Summers gently held her hand and whispered, “He’s testing us; he doesn’t know who the murderer is. He just wants to find a scapegoat!”
Someone asked Gene, “Who exactly is the murderer?”
“I’m very certain, the murderer is among us,” Gene said, “The murderer’s goal is to retaliate against the Stan Family, and they will strike again tonight. Therefore, I hope everyone stays here tonight so we can watch over each other, as a final dinner before parting. I’ve had food and wine prepared, so please enjoy without restraint.”
The people understood.
He was gathering everyone together so the murderer wouldn’t have a chance to act!
His elaborate words were nothing more than fear of death!
Many guests revealed expressions of disdain, but Gene seemed oblivious, maintaining a dignified smile.
Someone said disdainfully, “Mr. Gene’s idea is good, but I’m not interested in a dinner party today. Tomorrow this ship will dock, and before that, I just want to go back to my bed and have a good sleep.”
That person turned to leave, but Gene immediately spoke: “Of course, however, if a murder indeed happens tonight, those not present will be considered suspects without alibis.”
The person’s steps faltered, their face showing anger and dissatisfaction.
Gene smiled and said, “I advise everyone, never be alone. Remember to stay in the crowd at all times, so you can completely clear your suspicion.”
“He’s so insidious,” Purple Summers whispered to Alexander Summers, “Not only does he want to force out a scapegoat, but he also wants us all to protect him.”
“Without some cunning, how could he curry favor with the Stan Brothers?” Alexander Summers chuckled coldly.
Leaving forcefully would mean being seen as a suspect; confronting directly would risk offending the Stan Family.
Ultimately, all thirteen guests stayed.
The table was set with various dishes, wines, and pastries, but no one touched them. In the spacious living room, people either sat on sofas silently or leaned against the walls chatting, a subdued atmosphere hanging over their quiet conversations.
Gene, meanwhile, stayed on the balcony, gazing at the night, pouring himself drinks.
Cherry saw the parents of the twins from last time and went over to greet them, “Where are your babies?”
Of course, Gavin Graves needed to translate for her.
The young couple recognized Cherry as the evil god, showing great respect, saying the child was in the guest room, taken care of by the nanny and servant.
In their words, unease was evident, clearly concerned about their child, yet they didn’t dare to leave rashly.
Cherry pouted, originally wanting to play with other people’s child, but now just bored senselessly hanging around here.
Time ticked by, the room grew stuffier, the air conditioning at its lowest temperature yet still not much relief.
Someone couldn’t stand the thirst any longer, took up the glass pitcher, and poured themselves a glass of iced lemon water.
Once the first person acted, others followed suit, gradually letting go of their reservations, starting to enjoy the wine and food on the table.