The fire scene was cordoned off by the police tape, and the residents of the same Community stood in small groups nearby, discussing animatedly.
Because Aria Jackson vouched for her, Purple Summers was allowed to enter the scene.
Standing at the entrance, one could see the walls inside blackened by smoke; almost nothing remained in the house, as everything that could burn had been consumed, leaving a burnt odor lingering in the air.
The spot where the body was found was marked with special white paint, which was highly visible amidst the darkness.
Jade Carlson's body had already been taken away.
Purple Summers stood amidst the ruins behind the fire-damaged house, wrapped in oppressive emotions, feeling heavy and numb.
She couldn't muster sympathy or pity for Jade Carlson's death; nor could she feel grief or outrage that the truth was buried.
She fell into a strange state of delusion.