Heavy rain slapped the rooftop while lightning illuminated the ornate study, revealing six nervous guests whispering secrets among tumbling shadows. A grandfather clock in the corner struck midnight, echoing through the silence, as a scream shattered the fragile peace instantly. Detective Harris sipped cold coffee, notebook ready, eyes darting between anxious faces while a sense of unease prickled against his skin. On the polished mahogany floor, blood spread in a crimson halo around the lifeless host, Arthur Bainbridge, gentleman and collector. Curtains fluttered in the drafty window, and the house creaked with secrets as the suspects glanced uneasily at the corpse. A single gold cufflink glimmered near Arthur’s outstretched hand, while footprints smeared across the rug hinted at a hasty retreat.