Ian Linton hadn't spoken yet, Chloe Brooke spoke first.
"Ian worked overtime until late last night. When he came back, he was scratched by a branch."
Her tone carried a hint of gentle concern and a bit of blame towards her husband.
Ian Linton paused slightly, raised his hand to gently pat his wife's hand back, and said warmly, "It's okay." Then he softly said to Edward Stephens, "Sorry for any embarrassment, Edward. I've seen the doctor; it's not a big deal, just need to take some anti-inflammatory medicine."
Edward looked at him for a few moments, then withdrew his gaze and walked into the police station without speaking further.
Soon, police officers came out to receive them.
The group was divided into three batches, entering the interrogation room one after another.
When it was Edward Stephens' turn, the deputy chief personally greeted him.
