X zThe sun cast its morning glow over the quaint village of Cotswolds, illuminating the familiar sights and sounds of the town. The day started out like any other: Mr. Allen, the local shop owner, fumbling for his keys for the tenth time that month; Ma Duffel feeding the ducks that glided effortlessly across the tranquil pond; and the baker arranging their signature Eccles cakes in the window display. Life was peaceful, undisturbed.
At the local police station, officers sipped their coffee, exchanging jokes and banter to start the day. Detective Ryker, a ruggedly handsome man in his mid-20s, leaned against the counter, chuckling at his colleague's impression of their boss.
"You're going to get yourself killed, mate," Ryker said, shaking his head.
His colleague, Officer Patel, grinned. "Someone's got to keep things entertaining around here."
Just then, Jameson walked in, a wide smile spreading across his face. "We should hit up the pub tonight!"
Patel raised an eyebrow. "Aren't you in a relationship?"
Jameson's smile faltered for a moment before he recovered. "What's that got to do with anything?"
Ryker shot him a warning glance. "Don't even think about it."
The tension was interrupted by the arrival of an elderly lady, who bustled into the station carrying a white cloth bundle. Her face was etched with worry.
"Please, officers," she said, her voice trembling. "I found this dog just two doors from my house. It's frightened, and I think it might be connected to something terrible."
The receptionist, who had been smacking gum irritably, looked up from her phone. "Ma'am, if it's just a lost dog, you should take it to the vet."
The elderly lady's expression turned stern. "I would have, but...but this dog isn't injured. It's just...covered in blood."
As she unwrapped the bundle, revealing a white puddle dog smeared with blood, the room fell silent. The joking and laughter ceased, replaced by serious expressions.
"Looks like the day just got interesting," Patel said, pushing off from the coffee station.
Ryker's eyes narrowed. "Let's get to work."