This was not how Tom had thought his month back home would be spent, dealing with the aftermath of a man’s death he didn’t even know. When he had arrived back in Pelican Town, he had been shocked by how it had changed since his visit last year. He was lucky that the new town doctor was patient enough to get him up to date on all what happened and listen to all of Tom’s thoughts about it. Now he was seated across from Lewis, humoring him with this interrogation.
1. where were you on the night of tuesday, october 6?
”Let’s see,” leaning back in his chair, Thomas thought back to how he had spent his time that night. “I stopped by the saloon for a bite to eat. I’ve never that place so packed out in my life!” He couldn’t help the astounded face he gave the younger man as he spoke. The fact more people were visiting was exciting of course. It was just a surprise to see just how many people were making their way out there to bask in the beauty of the valley. “After that I went to the park and spent some time there before returning to the clinic. The same old routine that Ellie and I had on our date nights.” There was a nostalgic tone to his voice, and he may have gotten lost into old memories if it hadn’t been for the confused face the mayor had given him at the mention of the clinic. “Dr. Park has nice enough to let me stay with him so I don’t have to hike back to my RV every night.”
2. can anyone confirm your whereabouts?
”Well the bartender can confirm I was at the saloon. And I ran into Evelyn at the park, we chatted for a bit. Once I returned to the clinic, I called Ben from the clinic’s phone to see when I could expect him back before turning it for the night.”
3. what was the nature of your relationship with mr. haq?
”Lewis, come on now,” he gave his friend a pointed look as he crossed his arms. He had barely been in town long enough to form any sort of relationship with anyone new here. “It was nonexistent.”
4. how often did you interact with him?
“Never.” Shaking his head with a chuckle, he continued, “My main focus has and will always be on catching up on old friends and acquaintances here when I first come back, not making new ones.” That has always been his routine, and it probably would be until the end of his life. “No offense, but some of these new faces don’t look all that interesting to get to know,” he added in an offhanded manner.
5. when did you last see him?
”The saloon on Tuesday night. He was drowning his sorrows I believe,” he heaved a sigh as he recalled that, shaking his head once again. “Poor kid. He was going through something awful it seems.”
6. did anything seem out of the ordinary either in town or in your interactions with mr. haq prior to tuesday, october 6?
”Everything seemed out of the ordinary to me, from all the new faces to that horrid new building you let them build.” He pointed his finger at the other man, giving him a disapproving look in regards to the Joja Mart now in town. After a brief second he dropped his finger, apologizing. He should be thankful that it was closed now instead of getting upset that it was built in the first place. “I’m just glad Ellie isn’t here to see it all. It would break her heart.”
7. do you know anyone else who might have information pertaining to mr. haq’s death?
”God, maybe?” The suggestion was said in a serious tone though after the mayor gave him a look, he let out a small laugh. “I’ve been in town for less than a week, Lewis. I have no idea who could be of help here other than the man upstairs.”
8. do you have any other insights or information about the case that you wish to share? “I’ve told you all I know. I’m sorry that I couldn’t be more help, Lewis.” As he got up to leave, he gave his old friend a pat on the shoulder. “Just keep up the good work and I’m sure everyone will get through this tragedy just fine.”