The Aldedge City Police station was situated on a busy corner near the center of the city. The brick building had once been used as an Inn during the early 1900s, but was renovated and converted into a police station to support the city's growing police force. Ida was fond of the antique exterior and felt that it lent a bit of charm to an otherwise intimidating venue.
"Okay," said Detective Wilson as he pulled the police cruiser into a parking spot. "You know where to go in there, right?"
"Of course, Detective," Ida smiled. "Though I'm rather surprised that you won't be joining me. I don't believe Detective Bowen has ever allowed me to enter the police station without an escort."
"M-my Lady, I don't mean to be rude, but the guys back at the scene will need my help. I know that it's impolite not to escort a Lady such as yourself and—"
"It's quite all right," Ida interrupted, patting his arm gently. "I hadn't meant to imply any sort of offense. I'm quite capable of entering a building on my own."
"I truly am sorry, Lady Ida," Wilson apologised.
"And I truly am fine," she smiled back. "Now then, I'll be off to give my statement. Good day, Detective Wilson."
Detective Wilson made an awkward attempt to bow, the seatbelt and steering wheel both restricting his movement, before settling for a polite dip of his head instead. Ida offered a polite smile then stepped out of the car and straightened her skirts once more. As Detective Wilson pulled out of the parking lot and left the station, Ida made her way to the doors and walked inside.
The reception area of the station was quite charming, which had come as a surprise the first time she had visited. Its walls were painted a warm, buttery cream color and decorated with hand-painted landscapes alongside the usual informational packets and request forms. Several plush armchairs were placed among the padded benches, all upholstered in a soft blue fabric, and fresh flowers added a hint of elegance to the reception window.
"Lady Ida, welcome!" The young officer behind the reception desk snapped to attention, his pen nearly rolling off the desk as he scrambled to his feet. "How may I help you?"
"It's good to see you, Officer Connelly," she said. "I'm here to give a statement and speak with a sketch artist.
"The usual sort of statement?" he asked, sitting back down and rapidly typing information into the computer.
"Yes."
"Okay, just let me get a visitor pass for you," he said as he typed. "And I'll have Samson come up and escort you to one of the interview rooms. It's a bit hectic back there today."
"Nothing serious, I hope?"
"The same old things," he sighed. "Just a downpour rather than a trickle."
Image sourced from Pixabay.
