Sitting across from Cole Johnson in the quiet confines of his office, I carefully broached the subject, "Father Johnson, I appreciate your time. I've been investigating the disappearances of these children, and I couldn't help but notice a common thread – all the families attend this church. Do you have any insights into these troubling incidents?"

Cole maintained a composed exterior but fidgeted ever so slightly. He responded, "It's a tragic situation, Detective. The church community is devastated, and we've been praying for their safe return."

I pressed further, "I'm sure you've seen the families during the Sunday services. Can you recall anything unusual or anyone who might have been acting out of the ordinary?"

Cole hesitated, his eyes betraying a momentary lapse in composure. "We're a close-knit community, Detective. I can't say I've noticed anything out of place."

Undeterred, I continued, "Given your position, Father, you must have insights into the lives of these families. Have any confided in you about their struggles or fears?"

Cole shifted uncomfortably, "Confidentiality is paramount in my role. People seek guidance, but I must respect their privacy."

Leaning in, I chose my words carefully, "Father Johnson, my intention is to bring these children home safely. If you have any information that could help, it's crucial you share it. The well-being of the community depends on it."

A fleeting moment of vulnerability crossed Cole's face, "Detective, I assure you, I want nothing more than the safe return of these children. I pray for their safety every day."

As the interview continued, the delicate dance of questions and responses intensified. The church office held a palpable tension, and with each word, I sought a chink in the armor of Cole Johnson's facade, hoping to expose the hidden truths that could lead to the whereabouts of the kidnapped children.

As the palpable tension hung in the air, I decided to take a more direct approach, "Father Johnson, I appreciate your prayers, but we need more than prayers to find these children. If there's anything you know, any detail, no matter how small, it could be crucial. Lives are at stake, and your cooperation is essential."

Cole's gaze wavered, and a conflicted expression played on his face. "Detective, I assure you, I'm as concerned as anyone in this community. But I cannot breach the sacred trust people place in me. It goes against the principles of my role."

Understanding the will to not spill the truth, I maintained a firm but empathetic tone, so that he doesn't think that I'm onto him, "Father, I respect the sanctity of your role. However, we're facing an extraordinary circumstance. Lives are in jeopardy, and if there's any detail that might seem insignificant to you, it could be the missing piece we need. Think about the families, the children, and what their safe return would mean to this community."

Cole sighed, his internal struggle evident. "Detective, I want to help, but I can't betray the trust they've placed in me. There's nothing untoward happening within our church community."

Finally losing my cool, I leaned forward, "Father Johnson, I believe you know that you are my prime suspect and know something about the children. Maybe it was you who dressed as a clown and kidnapped those children yourself."

To be continued...

Hey guys! Only one more chapter and this book will be over. I hope you liked it.