Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

The file bore the name "Li Ming," as plain and unremarkable as it could get. His face matched the name-ordinary to the point of blending into the crowd.

"Joe Hopkinson, 32 years old, freelancer."

That was the information he had registered when boarding the ship. Many others had similar profiles. The difference was that he came alone, unaffiliated with any company. As for the invitation, getting one wasn't particularly difficult with some effort-just look at Ivy as an example.

"From the registration times, it's clear Ivy and he didn't board together, which rules out an alliance between the two. This aligns more with what we previously suspected- perhaps this is a case of the mantis stalking the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind." "I've been observing him for half the day now. There's something off about him. His habits reveal that he's not as ordinary as he seems."

The group exchanged glances.

"It seems this murderer is quite bold. After committing the crime last night, he still dared to remain on the ship."

"I bet he's arrogant-probably thinks killing a woman is too trivial, too easy to be a real challenge."

Julian's eyes burned as he stared at the surveillance footage. Even if this man hadn't directly killed Aurora, he had tampered with the railing. That alone made him guilty of murder in Julian's eyes.

Nick felt the chill radiating from Julian and quickly tried to calm him.

"Don't act rashly. If he's a professional killer, there are still many innocent people on this ship. What we need to do is capture him without causing panic or putting others in danger."

"I'll try to control myself," Julian said, taking a deep breath to steady his emotions. "Leave it to me," Vortex said coldly. He was more than familiar with handling situations like this.

"Alright."

Police officers began boarding the ship. The moment they saw Vortex, their

assisting in the case, but no one had expected it

on major cases

pleasantries. Let's get to work," Vortex said curtly, clearly

question everyone about their whereabouts last night and determine if anyone was involved. We'll assist you

he carried

record statements

the crowd, Joe Hopkinson stood with a calm demeanor, as if nothing

one, everyone went in to give their statements until it was finally his turn. Before the questioning began, Vortex had already instructed his team to

with an air of composure. His psychological resilience was impressive-despite

footage, and now, observing him up close, his suspicions deepened. The man's footsteps were unnaturally light, a trait typical of someone with professional training. From the

Vortex. He's the best at handling situations like this. He'll get the truth," Nick reassured him,

though his voice betrayed his unease. Aurora's fate was still uncertain. Even the possibility of her being abducted was preferable to the

Hopkinson's

"Mr. Joe Hopkinson, correct?"

trace of respect in Joe's eyes, the kind one might

officer, just lending a hand. So there's no need to feel

Vortex said, his tone devoid

"Alright, ask away."

were you? Who were you with? Can

the main hall and later met a beautiful woman named Luna. She was with me the whole evening. She

confirm that with her. Mr. Hopkinson, I've reviewed your file. It says you weren't officially invited to this event. How did you obtain your

like me. But I heard there'd be a party on this ship. You know how it is-men always want to have some fun. I figured there'd be plenty of beautiful women, so I pulled some strings and got an invitation. I had a great time last night." He ended with a knowing smile, as if

Hopkinson? What's your monthly

SAJ Beautification Company. My salary is about average for a regular working-class household. Officer,

were seamless. Claiming he came aboard