Chasing His Scentless Mate (Caroline) novel Chapter 217

Chapter 217: Chapter 217 Howard’s Trail

Jace ’s POV

The Alpha Council Investigation Department was never dull. I’d been part of the team for a month, adapting quickly to my role. My colleagues appreciated my methods, especially my partnership with Senior Investigator Magnus. We’d become friends, supporting each other whenever possible. He treated me like a son—a dignified man with an impeccable career and spotless reputation. My only frustration was our failure to capture Howard yet.

"Morning, sir!" I walked into Magnus’s office carrying a box of cheese croissants that he adored.

"My boy, you’re a lifesaver!" He grinned broadly. "Everyone here says so. For that alone, I’ll give you something special with your coffee."

Magnus stood, poured two cups of coffee and handed one to me. He settled back in his chair, bit into a croissant and closed his eyes in appreciation.

"These are addictive! You and the boss lady got me hooked." Magnus had started calling Eleanor "boss lady" after hearing how she took charge during Caroline’s kidnapping. Since becoming friends with me, they’d met several times. He was completely charmed by her.

"Those women know quality," I smiled, thinking about Nina. "What have you got for me today?"

"Remember that crybaby Ella?" Magnus asked.

"How could I forget? Seeing that woman cry was one of the most uncomfortable experiences of my life." My comment made him laugh.

"The dungeon warden contacted me yesterday. She wants to see you."

"Goddess above, what did I do to deserve this punishment? Do I really have to go?"

"I think so. She claims to have important information. The warden mentioned she’s been requesting this meeting for weeks. He ignored her initially, but says she seems different now. Even asked to be moved to a different cell away from Linda." This detail caught my attention.

"I’ll head over right now," I decided.

At the pack dungeon, I spoke with the warden who confirmed Ella did appear changed. She was cooperating with other inmates and even working in the craft program. Interesting development. He allowed us to use his office for the meeting. When she entered, the difference was visible immediately. Her hair was pulled back neatly and she spoke softly without her usual shrill tone.

"Thank you for coming, Investigator." She sat across from me.

"I’m curious, Ella. You seem different. What changed?"

"We adapt or we die, don’t we? I was a spoiled, entitled girl who thought everything should revolve around me. I did terrible things. But now I’m here, serving my sentence."

"I’m glad you’re reflecting," I said sincerely. "What can I do for you?"

"You can arrest my mother’s murderer!" Her eyes welled with tears.

"I’m truly sorry about your mother. But you know who’s responsible, right?" I asked carefully.

"My father—that monster. I can’t understand how he could kill his mate after so many years together, then abandon his only daughter. He’s a coward. I want him locked in the dungeon, rotting away." Ella’s pain was raw as she finally acknowledged her father’s true nature.

"We’re trying, but he has extensive resources for hiding. We suspect he may have fled pack territory entirely."

"He hasn’t left. I guarantee it."

"How can you be so certain?"

"He won’t go anywhere until he kills Alpha Draven and his family." She spoke with a chilling conviction that raised the fur on me.

"Do you have any idea where we might find him?"

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