Rain pattered softly against the windows, murmuring secrets in darkness. A clock ticked steadily, marking time in the dim room. Detective Harper sat quietly, considering the scene with a frown. The body lay crumpled beneath a portrait's stern, watchful eyes. Shadows danced eerily, cast by the flickering light overhead's glow. A single note lay nearby, ink smudged by tears. The sound of distant sirens echoed, growing louder with approach. Footsteps creaked on the wooden floor, hesitant but purposeful. Harper donned gloves, careful to preserve every possible evidence trace. Outside, a stray cat meowed mournfully, as if sensing tragedy.