Nanny McThief Part 2

(P.S. It's fine if you haven't read it yet, but I'd still recommend reading 'Switcheroo Day' if want to learn more about an upcoming scene that involves Jophiel visiting a women's prison)

Soon enough, Lucifer and Chloe arrived at Amy Curtis' apartment. Upon their arrival, they strolled into what was once an average one-bedroom apartment with an average décor for a single woman living alone now completely trashed.

The furniture had been knocked over, all the draws, cabinets and even the picture frames were opened and thrown against the floor. Based on her observation of the room, Chloe figured this wasn't an act of vandalism or a robbery. Someone assumed Amy had something, and they tried searching for it.

Lucifer: Mm-hmm, and based on your observation, Detective, would you say they were successful?

Chloe: I'm not sure. But if we're lucky, maybe they didn't find what they were looking for. We better start searching just to be sure.

Lucifer: Yes, but how do you know they haven't already found this mysterious item?

Chloe: Well, there's only one way to be sure. I'll check the kitchen, you take the living room.

Regardless of being unable to identify the missing item, or being able to confirm if it was taken or not, Chloe and Lucifer still proceeded to search the area for clues. Hoping the robber left a piece of evidence behind. During their search, Chloe couldn't help but take a moment to talk about Lucifer's previous conversation with Lilly Thunderblack.

Chloe: So, um… I saw you having a chat with Joei and her friend, Lilly earlier.

Lucifer: Oh, did you now?

Chloe: Yeah. What was that about anyway?

Lucifer: Oh, I wish I could tell you, Detective, but Jophiel and Lilly have me sworn to secrecy until I've held up my end of my of the arrangement.

Chloe: Arrangement? What arrangement?

Lucifer: Oh, well, it's not an arrangement, it's more like a "grand gesture," actually. Granted, I'll have to make a phone call later, but I'm more than confident that Lilly will be more than happy with the results. After all, I'm about to make all her dreams come true tomorrow.

Chloe: *Under her lip* Of course you are.

Lucifer: What was that, Detective?

Chloe: Nothing. Never mind. It's not important.

Wanting to quickly change the subject, Chloe continued searching the draws and cabinets in the kitchen until… she felt a loose floorboard underneath a small carpet in the kitchen. She then bent down to see if there was something inside it, and in doing so, Chloe uncovered a wooden jewellery box with a lock attached to it.

When they found this, Lucifer and Chloe wondered, 'Do the contents of this box contain the reason why Amy Curtis was murdered?' In order to find out, Chloe suggested they head back to the precinct and get Ella to unlock it.

But to Chloe's dismay, an impatient Lucifer got a hold of the box, grabbed onto the lock, and then used his celestial strength to break open the box. Nonetheless, with the box opened, Chloe and Lucifer could see what was hidden inside. It was an expensive watch. A Rolex worth more than $2000 to be precise.

Lucifer: A Rolex? This is what Amy tried to hide? I mean, it's quite expensive, and rather masculine but… hiding it underneath the floorboards? What's the point of buying something valuable if you're never going to let anyone see it?

Chloe: Lucifer, I don't think this belonged to Amy. Look, there's someone else's name engraved into it.

Lucifer: *Reading the inscription written on the watch* J. McCoy. Who's J. McCoy?

Chloe: I don't know. He could be a boyfriend, a colleague, anyone, Amy must've gotten close to recently. Maybe there's a serial number we can pull from this watch. Then we could find out more about this guy.

Lucifer: Do you think he's the killer?

Chloe: Well, he is most certainly a person of interest in the case. The only way to find out for sure is by bringing this watch back to the precinct.

Before bringing the watch back to the precinct, Chloe and Lucifer were interrupted by a sound coming from inside the bedroom. By instinct, Chloe pulls out her gun and slowly approaches the door. However, just before she could reach the doorknob… a drunk man with brown hair, earrings, wearing a black leather jacket and holding a baseball bat in his hand came barging out of the room!

Forcing Chloe to aim her gun, announce herself as LAPD, and ordering the drunk man to raise his hands. In response, the mysterious drunk man attempted to bolt back into the bedroom and escape through the window, but Lucifer easily grabbed him by the back collar of his jacket. Preventing him from escaping.

Drunk man: Whoa, whoa, hey, chill! This is my ex's place. I still have a key.

Lucifer: Your ex's? You must be Chad. Gosh, you are exactly as Emma described.

Chad: Emma? Ugh, I should've known. Always bringing the cops into this. What did she tell you about me now?

Lucifer: Oh, quite a lot, actually. Including how you're capable of murdering her best friend.

Chad: Murder? What are you…? Amy is dead? How?

Chloe: Mr Ryan, put down the bat, turn around and put your hands behind your head.

Following Chloe's instructions, Chad Ryan put down the bat, turned around, allowed Chloe to place her handcuffs on his wrists and arrest him for breaking & entering. As for Amy's apartment, Chloe called in the forensics team and had them bag everything for evidence before bringing Chad into custody.

Once they returned to the precinct, Chad was already placed into a vacant interrogation room to be questioned, Ella and Jophiel were examining the evidence that was recovered from Amy's apartment and as for the watch, Chloe handed it to Dan. Hoping he could track down the owner using the serial numbers. In the meantime, Chloe and Lucifer entered the interrogation room to question Chad, only to find him passed out on the table.

Chloe: Oh, perfect.

Lucifer: Not to worry, Detective. I know how to get someone's energy back up and running. Unfortunately, I'm currently out of adrenaline, so I'll just have to do this the old fashion way.

Chad finally woke up when Lucifer splashed cold water on his face. In response, Chad quickly stood up startled, confused and wet. Already forgetting where he was and the events that have occurred.

Chad: What?! What the hell just happened?! Where am I?!

Lucifer: Told you I could wake him up, Detective.

Chad: Why am I here? Who are you people?!

Chloe: Sit down, Mr Ryan. (Once Chad sits down and listens) You're here because we have reason to believe you would harm Amy. Who just happened to be found dead this morning.

Chad: Okay, okay. it's all starting to come back to me now. Just give me second.

Lucifer: Oh, don't worry, by the time you're able to remember everything, you'll already be in a nice cosy jail cell by then.

Chad: Whoa, whoa, man. I told you before, I did not kill Amy. Why would I? She was always there to bail me out.

Chloe: Really? Because from what learned from her friend, when she couldn't bail you out, you'd call to threaten her.

Lucifer: Yes, I mean, it's hard enough being rejected, but I bet it was tormenting for you when she decided to become completely inattentive to your needs.

Chad: What? No, it wasn't like that? It was a mutual breakup, and even after that, Amy still wanted to help me out.

To prove otherwise, Chloe took out and played a recorder containing every threatening message Chad sent to Amy each time he was arrested and granted one phone call from a holding cell. Within each recording, Chad came across as aggressive and demanding. He said things like… 'Amy I'm in jail. I need you to come down with $1300 and bail me out. Amy, I know you're there, I need to come down and get me. Amy, don't be such a bitch. Just get the money, and come get me out of here. You can't just leave me in jail after everything I've done for you, Amy! It's so uncool!' And so on and so forth.

Chad: Okay, so maybe we had some issues, but I still didn't kill her. I appreciated the times she bailed me out when she could.

Chloe: But when she couldn't, that's when you'd start threatening her. Is that also why you trashed her place?

Chad: I didn't trash her place either. It was like that when I got there, alright. You know what, it doesn't matter. You people wouldn't believe me anyway.

Lucifer: That depends on what you answer next. Tell me, Chad-y… 'What do you desire?'

Chad: I… I want to make Emma Muntz pay for breaking me up with Amy.

Lucifer: Ooh. Please, do tell.

Chad: It was all her fault. She took it upon herself to get inside Amy's head, whisper in her ear, telling her why we should've broken up. Tried to make me out as some kind of thug. Can you believe that?

Lucifer: Well, given your given your lifestyle, your lack of hygiene, you're act of vandalism, and all those threatening messages you sent to your now dead girlfriend, I'd say Emma wasn't so far off. Although, I do wonder why you killed Amy and not the woman who broke you in the first place?

Chad: I did not kill Amy or trash her place.

Chloe: If that's true, then where you between 10:45 and 11:45 this morning?

It took Chad a full minute before he remembered where he was when Amy was murdered. He claimed he woke up in a holding cell at another precinct after passing out there the night before from getting heavily drunk at a party, and wasn't released until the next day at noon.

As for Amy's apartment, Chad proceed to claim he wasn't the one who trashed it. After his release, Chad went over to Amy's to see her, but when he walked in and saw the state of her apartment, he stayed to ensure their wasn't an intruder, but at the exact moment Lucifer and Chloe came in, so Chad quickly hid the bedroom to find the bat and prepared to defend himself. With that being his official story, Chloe asked him one more question before she and Lucifer finally left the room.

Chloe: Do you know anyone named J. McCoy?

Chad: What? Who the hell is J. McCoy?

In the aftermath of Chad's interrogation, Lucifer and Chloe exited the room to review what they've learned from him. If he was in fact locked up in a holding cell all night and wasn't realised until the next day at noon, then the other precinct would most certainly have a record of his arrest. Which would undoubtedly confirm his alibi and prove his innocence.

Before looking into Chad's alibi, Dan approached the duo with news regarding the mysterious watch. He looked into the serial numbers and discovered that the watch wasn't brand new. It was purchased two years ago. To whom it belonged to was still unknown to them, but Dan assured them that once the watch's manufacture sent them the receipt, they'll know exactly who purchased it. Although, they'd have to wait until the next day. Putting the case on hold.

Regardless, with the investigation paused for the time being, Lucifer was already to prepared to leave again. This time, he actually had a good reason for leaving so soon. He had to rush home, call in his favour and arrange the surprise he had promised for Lilly Thunderblack.

Lucifer: Oh, well, now this is actually perfect timing. Now, I can go home early, call in a couple of favours and prepare for my little "randevu" with Lilly tomorrow.

Chloe: Oh. So, you must be arranging something very special for her?

Lucifer: Oh, I hope so. Assuming I can reach this fellow who owes me a great favour. But I'm not too worried. I'm sure I can persuade him into letting us use his winery for one whole day.

Chloe: A winery? That sounds… romantic.

Lucifer: Well, it's not as nice as the one we investigated when we were trying to help exonerate Maze, remember? But I'd say this one holds just as well. Wouldn't you agree, Detective? (Shows her a lovely image of the winery on his phone)

Chloe: (Seeing the beautiful scenery of the winery) Oh, wow. That place does look beautiful, Lucifer. You're really going all out on this, aren't you?

Lucifer: Yes, Lilly wants something very special for this evening and I intend to fulfil that very desire for her. Speaking of, I better get going and make those calls. See you tomorrow, Detective.

Chloe: Yeah, see you tomorrow, Lucifer.

For reasons beyond her, listening to Lucifer explain his romantic plans with Lilly suddenly made Chloe feel weirdly uncomfortable. Yet, she still couldn't understand why. Why did it bother her that Lucifer was planning a romantic evening at a beautiful winery for a beautiful girl he doesn't know but clearly wants to hook up with?

'I mean, this is Lucifer I'm talking about here. He's goes to great lengths to fulfil every woman's desire just so he can have sex with them. That's what he does, so… why am I letting his dating life bug me so much? Lucifer and I are friends and nothing more. Besides, I'm with Marcus now and we are great together. Therefore, I have no reason to feel this way. If Lucifer wants to plan a magical evening for a girl he just met today, then he should, because Lucifer Morningstar can be with any woman he wants.'

Wanting to take her mind off Lucifer's dating life, Chloe decided to refocus on her own. Beforehand, Chloe saw Jophiel handing a case file to a uni, and then remembered her previous objective. Getting herself, Pierce and Jophiel together so they the three of them could bond. Presently, it was the perfect opportunity to do so. Or at least ask Jophiel if she would consider joining them for coffees.

Chloe: (Approaches Jophiel once she's alone) Hey, Joei.

Jophiel: Hiya. How's it going with your case? Where you able to confirm Chad's alibi?

Chloe: Ah, no, not yet. But I will soon. But before, I do I was wondering… you are busy later tonight?

Jophiel: Uh, yeah. I have an errand to run after my shift. Why?

Chloe: Well, I was just thinking since we won't have the owner's name until tomorrow, we could, pass the time. Maybe over dinner… with me and Marcus?

Jophiel: You want me to join you and Pierce on a date?

Chloe: What, No. No, nothing like that. I just meant you could hang out with us. You know, a friendly get together.

Jophiel: Oh, I see. This is about you wanting me to like Pierce, isn't it? I'm also guessing Ella told you that her plan to get me hooked on "Team Pecker" backfired on her too?

Chloe: *Sighs* Yes. Yes, and I'm sorry, Joei. It was stupid to send Ella on you like that. But I just wanna know why you won't get along with Marcus. I mean, I'm sure there's a couple of things you two have in common.

Jophiel: Even if we did, why is this so important to you?

Chloe: Because I think you're judging Marcus a little harshly.

Jophiel: "I judged him harshly?" Have you forgotten the way he judged us from the moment he walked through those doors?

Chloe: Yes, but that was then, this is now. And right now, all I want is for the two most important people in my life to get along. Please, Joei, just give him a chance. Look, if you can't join us for dinner tonight then will you at least consider joining us for coffees tomorrow morning before work? (Jophiel: Chloe…) Just one coffee. And if you and Marcus are still at odds with each other, then I promise to stop pushing you so hard, okay? Please, all I'm asking for as a small favour from my friend.

# Don't you just hate it when the 'Friendship card' is used against you? What was I to do? I couldn't say no. Otherwise, I'd risk coming across as an unsupportive bitch.

Stuck between a rock and a hard place, Jophiel saw no other option but to reluctantly agree to having coffees with Chloe and Pierce. With that being Jophiel's decision, a thrilled Chloe walked into Pierce's office and told him the "good news."

Chloe: Hey, great news. I convinced Joei to join us for coffees tomorrow. Isn't that great?

Pierce: That is great. Because…?

Chloe: Because this gives you two the perfect opportunity to really get to know each other. I know, it's none of my business but I can tell there's some tension between you and Joei, and I just want to try to fix that.

Pierce: Yeah, I get it. And if me getting along with Din really means that much to you, then I'm in.

Chloe: Really? Even though I practically just ambushed you?

Pierce: Yes. Of course I am. If this is what you really want, then I'm completely on-board with it. No ambush required.

In her mind, Chloe was happily overwhelmed by Pierce's commitment and devotion to them. Regardless of surprising him with the coffee date, he was still willing to attend in order to resolve his conflict with Jophiel just for Chloe's peace of mind.

Speaking of Jophiel, after finishing her shift, she grabbed her denim backup and then she left the precinct to go and fulfil her "Evening errand." However, unware to her co-workers, inside her backpack contained a Black medium-length wig with red streaks, dark make-up, black and grey street clothes, ripped jeans, matching shoes and a grey cap. All in her size.

# As some of you recall, I've been working my own investigation against Pierce. Trying to find substantial proof that he is indeed the Sinnerman. For the last few months, I've been sneaking out every night, putting on disguises, so I wouldn't be recognized by anyone who may or may not be associated with Pierce and to ensure everyone I know and care about is safe. And although, Lucifer already dissolved his alliance with Pierce, I'm still intending to bring him down. Especially now, when I know he's using my friend. Anyway, so far… this solo case has been a real challenge.

Several weeks back, Jophiel visited Maggie Cole from the 'Sin-Bin case' at the local women's prison (While in disguise) and convinced her to help her with the Sinnerman case. To start, Maggie told Jophiel which bar she went to when she first learned about the Sinnerman and how a mysterious figure slipped the Sinnerman's phone number into her purse. Which she then foolishly used to contact him and asked for a favour. But she quickly got rid of it once she learned that the Sinnerman used her favour to murder her teammate by staging an "accidental car crash."

Using this information to her advantage, Jophiel located the bar, spoke with the bartender and asked to see the security footage from the night Maggie received the Sinnerman's number. However, this proved to be unhelpful because not only was the area packed, but the mysterious man who placed the number into Maggie's bag cleverly hid his identity by wearing a black hat and dark sunglasses. Which meant, he knew there were security cameras in the facially. Regardless, based on his height and build, Jophiel could tell he wasn't Pierce.

# It wasn't rocket science. As we recall, Pierce had someone pretend to be the Sinnerman just to throw us off. So it made sense that he had more than one person doing all his dirty work. Who knows how many criminals Pierce has associated himself with over the years before he came here? Now, there was the matter of figuring out who that mysterious man at the bar was, track him down, use the evidence I find against him (Which I don't have yet), and hope I can convince to testify against Pierce.

Since she couldn't run the mysterious man through facial recognition, Jophiel was left with one other option. And it involved Maggie's favour. The very favour that got her teammate killed. Jophiel thought she could retrieve the case file and believed it would somehow link to either the mysterious man or even Pierce. In addition, because it was related to a supposably closed case, it was easy to retrieve the file from the records room.

Which brings us to Jophiel's "errand" in present day. Sometime after getting the case file, she travelled to the crash site. Hoping to recover a piece of evidence that was missed. Which was tricky because it took place in a quiet part of town with no security cameras, no witnesses and the area was cleared out months ago.

# I used all these theories in my head to help me find something. Anything, really. So, using my mathematic and attention to detail skills, I looked very closely at the crime scenes photographs from the day the car crash occurred then, and how it looks right now in present. Picturing myself at the exact moment the crash happen.

Based on what was written in that case file, the incident was believed to be vehicular manslaughter/a Hit & Run. But as she looked closely at the photographs, Jophiel could see the killer speeding up beside Maggie's teammate, made her think he was simply passing her, when really… he was following Pierce's orders by forcing her off the road, causing the car to flip and spiral until it finally crashed against a pole and killed Maggie's teammate. And given the damage done to the victim's car, it was more than likely that the killers car got damaged too.

Therefore, there must have been something that the police missed; otherwise, they would've caught the killer that much sooner. She then pictured the crash occurring, and in the process… Jophiel could almost see and feel the glass and fragments from both vehicles scattering all over the area. One piece in particular… led her into an alleyway, located behind a skip (Dumpster). It was then Jophiel found… the broken taillight from the killer's car. She knew this because her calculations said so.

In addition, Jophiel used the camera on her phone to magnify the serial number labelled on the taillight. Except, because it was broken, the taillight only showed half of the numbers. Nevertheless, Jophiel could still use the first half to figure out which type of car the light was manufactured for, and then locate an auto-shop, because the killer most likely took his car to be repaired after the murder. Which was the link she needed.

# As I said before, my search to find proof, has been a real challenge. Luckily, I'm not a afraid of a challenge. Which means I won't be giving up so easily. Especially in this scenario where I get to look like Jessica Jones and solve my own cases.

Meanwhile, over at her office, Linda was in the middle of an evening session with Charlotte. As of now, it had been exactly 24 hours since Charlotte Richards discovered 'The Truth.' That the divine is indeed real, she's not crazy and everything she experienced in Hell was 100% real too. However, she struggled to express this new information with Linda because it felt too bizarre to explain. Yet, at the same time, she felt the need to confide in someone. (Completely unaware that Linda already knows the truth about the Celestial world too.)

# What? When we showed Charlotte Lucifer's Angel wings, she was already in shock. We didn't want to risk melting her brain by telling her she wasn't the only human who knew about us. At the time, it felt like too much too soon. Luckily, Linda's brain is perfectly intact, which I why I called and gave her a heads up. Hoping she could help Charlotte process through this better.

Linda: So… How've you've been? As I recall, you were struggling to answer some very difficult questions.

Charlotte: Oh, yes. Yes, I was. I've been great. Yeah, in fact, I've finally got that clarity I was looking for. I've recently found out something completely bizarre. And it completely rattled and changed my entire outlook on life itself. So now I know I'm not completely crazy.

Linda: That's great. Would you like to tell me why that is?

Charlotte: I… I don't know if I can. You'll probably think I'm crazy. At least, that's what I thought at first, until… until I saw… I'm sorry, I really don't know if can tell.

Linda: Charlotte… I know. And trust me, you are not the only one who struggled with this.

Charlotte: What? I'm sorry, Doctor Martin, I don't understand, what are you saying here?

Linda: Lucifer, Amenadiel and Jophiel are Angels. I know because I found out a while back. A year ago to be exact. I'm guessing you found out when one of them showed you their Wings as proof?

Charlotte: Oh, my god.

Linda: I know, and it's lot a to take in. Would you like to talk about it? It's what helped me when I first found out.

Without speaking, Charlotte simply nodded and she and Linda talked about everything until it was the middle of night. Throughout their talk, Charlotte was beginning to see a whole new perspective on living life and the afterlife ahead.

The next morning, before work, as promised, Jophiel agreed to meet Chloe and Pierce at a local coffee house for some "friendly coffees." In her mind, Chloe had expectations of seeing her best friend and boyfriend finally getting along. Maybe even becoming friends. But alas, Chloe's expectations were that of a fantasy.

She quickly came to regret her decision when she sat between Pierce and Jophiel, watching them sit across from each other in complete silence with their arms crossed and giving each other death glares. It was rather awkward for Chloe.

# As we were sitting there, I kept thinking to myself, 'What does Pierce want with Chloe? What does being in a fake relationship with her to do with him wanting to die?' And the more I thought about it, the more I thought, 'What does Pierce has to do with anything this in general? As far as we know, my Father created Chloe so she would cross paths with Lucifer, not Pierce. So, how does he fit into this equation? Father certainly didn't make her for him. Even He would have a better plan than that.

Hairstyle: Mid-ponytail

Dress: Flutter Sleeve Dress in Turtles by Maison Jules

Jacket: Salmon-Pink cropped denim jacket

Footwear: Black ankle-length block heel boots + Black fishnet tights

Necklace: Amethyst nugget on a Gold chain necklace by Gemlet

Chloe: (Wanting to break the awkwardly tense silence) So, um… how everyone's coffee? (Jophiel and Pierce continue to sit in silent conflict) Okay. So, um… Joei, did you know that Marcus has this impressive rock collection from all the places he's been to?

# I wasn't proud of it, but I really had to make some kind of effort here. The least I could do was "show" an interest. Luckily, I know how to do that convincingly thanks to my drama classes.

Jophiel: No, I did not. Please, tell me more.

Pierce: Well, what I can I say? I like to collect rocks. They're one of the few things on Earth that last forever because they never change.

Chloe: Still, it's all so fascinating. Marcus has all these amazing fossils and ambers, which I'm sure you would really find interesting, Joei because, you have a rock collection of your own, right? I remember seeing them on your shelves over at your place.

Jophiel: You mean my healing crystals?

Chloe: Yes, yes, right. Your healing crystals. Although they're practically the same thing, right? And you both like collecting them.

Jophiel: Yes, although, the difference is, all of my crystals are colourful, and each one of them represent a meaningful type of symbolism. You know, things like, "Joy, love, purity, honesty, loyalty." You know, the truly important qualities to have in life.

Pierce: Well, my rocks may not be as colourful or have certain meanings like your crystals, but at least I know they don't require fiction just to get someone to buy them.

Jophiel: Well, you'd certainly know the difference between "real and fiction," wouldn't you, Pierce?

Chloe: Uh, point being, you guys collected those things from all the places you've been to around the world. Which means, you both like traveling, right?

Marcus. Yes, I love to travel. I enjoy seeing the world for what is.

Jophiel: Really? Well, besides collecting rocks, what else do you find interesting about the world, Pierce? As I recall, you once shared a very "distinctive opinion" about it.

Piece: Yes, I did. I've seen a lot interesting things during my travels. I've been everywhere there is to go, tried every kind of food, listened to every kind of music, learned every language and met some exotic people. It was quite the experience. Which of course, I am sure you can relate to.

Jophiel: Yes, I can. In fact, I still keep in touch with a lot of people I met during my travels. What about you, Pierce? Do you have any friends from outside the US? I mean, a remarkable man such as yourself must've made a lot of acquaintances that where worth holding on to.

Pierce: Actually, I was more of a lone-traveller. It helped me get in touch with myself after my brother died.

# Ugh! Using his own dead brother to make me look like a jackarse infront of Chloe. Oh, he is so going down for playing that dirty move.

Chloe: *Really feeling the tension* Okay. You know what? I think I'm gonna grab myself another coffee, and maybe a lemon-bar for my lunch later before we head all head over to precinct. Do you guys want anything?

Pierce: No thanks, Chloe, I'm fine.

Jophiel: Well, it you're insisting… (Reaches into her bag, pulls out her wallet and hands Chloe $10) Would you mind getting me a raspberry muffin, please.

Chloe Sure. Be right back.

As soon as Chloe went over the counter to order her coffee and treats, Jophiel took this moment to finally confront Pierce about his true intentions for Chloe by asking him…

Jophiel: Alright, what are you planning to do with her?

Pierce: Excuse me?

Jophiel: Don't give me that. What are you doing with Chloe, Pierce?

Pierce: I'm not doing anything to her, Dina. Unless you're talking about the bedroom, then I've done a lot of things to Chloe.

Jophiel: Oh, I'm sure you've have. Considering it falls in line with your plan.

Pierce: What plan?

Jophiel: The plan that helps you find a way a die by using Chloe. So, I'm going to ask you again. What kind of sick and twisted angle are you working here, Pierce?

Pierce: I'm not working any "supposite" angle here. Chloe wanted to be with me because we have something, and now we're in a relationship exploring it.

Jophiel: Yeah, but why? We both know you only have one goal in your eternal life and that's to end it. Plus, let's not forget the fact that up until now, you've never shown an interest of wanting to be with anyone.

Pierce: What can I say? I've recently had a change of heart.

Jophiel: *Scoffs* Yeah, I find that hard to believe because people don't just suddenly have a "change of heart." Especially the cold and calculating type like you, Cain. Unless… you have something to gain from this.

Pierce: You actually think I'm using Chloe for some kind of ulterior motive?

Jophiel: Oh, I don't think, I know. So, tell me, Cain, what do you have to gain from being with Chloe Decker? You've already proven that she does not make you vulnerable the way she makes Lucifer vulnerable. So, how does dating her and taking advantage of her feelings finally make you die?

# Of course I knew he was going to lie and deny it. I just needed to keep him talking so I could decipher his plan.

Pierce: Nothing. I'm not taking advantage of Chloe, because I've come to realize just how special she is. I wanna be with her because I like her and I truly care about her.

# And just like that, Pierce unwittingly gave me some hints. He called Chloe special. Not only because she truly is, but partly because she's a gift from God. And given the fact that Pierce has always kept track us, he knows that too. Which also implies that Pierce has this delusional belief that Chloe has some kind of magical power over us immortals. Which she does not. But yet, for some reason she only effects Lucifer. Maybe I'll learn more once I ask him about it. Perhaps that'll be the insight I need to figure out Pierce's true plan.

Over at the counter, a friendly barista-girl handed Chloe her coffee and treats when at that exact moment she received a text from Dan. Asking for her presence at the precinct. Beforehand, she saw Pierce and Jophiel talking. At first, she thought they were finally seeing eye to eye by bonding over something that would make them become great friends. But the unhappy expression upon their faces and the tense tones in their voices said otherwise.

Worried about the outcome, Chloe quickly approached them and told them about Dan's needing them back at the precinct ASAP. Breaking the intense conversation.

Jophiel: Oh. Did he find the owner of that watch?

Chloe: I don't know, he didn't say. But let's head over there and find out.

Before leaving, Jophiel once again had the displeasure of watching Pierce give Chloe a goodbye kiss. Repulsed by this scene, Jophiel payed her bill and then walked over to the precinct. Leaving the couple alone. Seeing her friend walk out, Chloe turned to Pierce and apologized.

Chloe: *Sighs* I'm so sorry.

Pierce: For what?

Chloe: I thought that by bringing you and Joei here, you two would find something to bond over, and then finally, this feud between you two would finally dissolve. I know, it was a stupid idea, and…

Pierce: Hey, hey, it's okay. I understand. You just wanted the people in your life to get along. Look, you gave it a shot, and it didn't work out. It happens.

Chloe: Well, at least I know you tried to make an effort.

Pierce: Isn't that what you wanted?

Chloe: Yes. You are just so great.

Pierce: Because you make me want to be great.

The two then shared another kiss before leaving the coffeehouse together and then drover over to the precinct. Given the traffic, they arrived a few minutes after Jophiel. She was already walking through the front door. Nonetheless, Chloe and Pierce parted ways and went on with their usual duties. Speaking of, Chloe walked up to Dan at his desk and then asked him about the text he sent earlier. And, yes, it was case-related.

After patiently waiting all day and night, Dan finally received the two-year-old receipt from the watches manufacturer and discovered that it belonged to a single 29-year-old real-estate agent named James McCoy. He also has an address in Los-Angeles.

However, he had no connection to the victim. Dan already called Amy's family and friends and they all claimed they never met or even heard of him. Amy and James were raised in different cites and lived competently different lives. They never crossed paths. Not even on social media. Which leads to the main question. If they had never met before, then what was Amy doing with his watch?

Dan: I don't know. But I can tell you this, he never reported it stolen.

Chloe: His $2000 watch goes missing and he doesn't bother to report it? Have you tried contacting him?

Dan: It kept going straight to voicemail.

Chloe: Okay, then we'll head over there and ask Mr McCoy. See what he knows about Amy. Speaking of, have you seen Lucifer?

Dan: No, not since yesterday.

Curious, Chloe took out her phone and called Lucifer, asking where he was. He was currently in his convertible, driving over to the winery to meet with the owner and discuss his favour. Even when the phone rang, Lucifer proceed to drive.

Chloe: (Curious, she takes out her phone and calls Lucifer) Hey, Lucifer, where are you?

Lucifer: Oh, sorry, Detective. I meant to call you earlier. But the fellow from the winery called this morning, said we needed to discuss our favour face to face and now I have go and meet him to discuss the arrangements.

Chloe: What? Lucifer, we just found a new lead in the case. We have the owner of the watch and everything. I'm about to get his address and go over there right now. And you're telling me you can't make it?

Lucifer: Well, I'll only be there for less than a couple of hours. You can just text me the address and I'll meet you there on my why back.

Although it seemed like a rational plan, and it seemed as if Chloe agreed, but then, all of sudden… something inside her was saying no. For some reason, the mere thought of Lucifer returning from that romantic winery and then having to listen to him talk about his "special evening plans" with Lilly, made Chloe's stomach churn. Which was strange because she already established why she shouldn't feel that why. Even so, given the importance of the new lead, Chloe changed the plan.

Chloe: *Sighs* You know what, Lucifer? It's fine. I can tell how important it is for you to be there and make all those arrangements for Lilly.

Lucifer: What about that new lead?

Chloe: Oh, don't worry about that. Dan and I will head over to the suspect's place and then you can meet us back at the precinct when you're done at the winery, okay.

Lucifer: Are you sure about this, Detective?

Chloe: Positive. Trust me, Lucifer, this works out both ways.

Lucifer: All right. If you think, that's best.

Chloe: I do. I'll see you when you get back. Bye. (Finally hangs up)

Chloe kept telling herself that letting herself and Dan visit James McCoy was the right decision. Because knowing Lucifer, he'd only let his personal life get in the way of the investigation (again), which will also cause Chloe's concentration to derail. And that was something she couldn't deal with right now. Especially after the "disastrous coffee date" with Jophiel and Pierce.

Moving on, with Lucifer currently unavailable, Chloe turned to Dan, convinced him to come with her and he agreed. On the way over to James McCoy's building, Dan (while driving) took this moment to have his own friendly chat with Chloe (While she sat in the passenger seat). He sensed she needed one given the distressed expression upon her face.

Dan: So, how did your coffee date go this morning?

Chloe: *Sighs* Depends, how much time do we have?

Dan: That bad, huh?

Chloe: It was a disaster. They just sat there giving each other death glares, and Joei wasn't making an effort to get to know Marcus at all. She was grilling him, mocking him and not getting to know him at all.

Dan: Whoa, seriously? I've never heard of Joei acting like that.

Chloe: Me neither. Which is why it was such a shock. I mean, I don't understand why she was acting like that.

Dan: Well, she is partly a Morningstar, so maybe grilling and being rude to people is genetic.

Chloe: Very funny.

Dan: I know, I'm sorry. Look, Chloe, I get how important it is for your best friend and boyfriend to get along, but you also have to remember that you can't force people to like each other.

Chloe: Yeah, I know, I know. It's just that… Marcus and I are getting serious, and well… based on how things are going, he might get a chance to meet Trixie soon, and just want to make sure everyone gets along for her sake. After what happened with Maze, I just don't want to see Trixie get hurt again.

Dan: Yeah, I get it. I'd be nervous too if I was introducing someone new to Trixie. Although, do you guys really think you're ready for that next step?

Chloe: Well, not yet. But hopefully soon. And don't worry, when the time comes, I'll give you a heads up in advance.

Dan: Thank you. I would like to know if Pierce is good influence on Trixie before you let them meet.

Chloe: What? Of course he is. Marcus is a great influence.

Dan: Yeah, but does he have any experience with kids?

Chloe: Well, I haven't exactly asked him yet because I didn't want him to feel pressured. But I'm sure Marcus will be great with Trixie. He's so kind and patient. I mean, he's just the kind of guy who knows how to appreciate and support you when you need him too.

Dan: *Under his lip* Mm-hmm.

Although he wished for that statement to be true, Dan still couldn't help but remember the day he spent trying to lift Pierce's spirits when he was depressed. Only to see him as this dark, cold, and bitter man who once called life an endless and meaningless wasteland. And given their previous encounters from within this past year… Dan was slowly struggling to agree with Chloe's description of Pierce. Yet, it astonished him by how truly happy Chloe has seemed ever since they've been going out.

However, this made Dan think of two things. That maybe Chloe was slightly exaggerating because she's want to believe in kind comments she says about Pierce, or perhaps, Pierce is truly trying to change into a more "brighter, warmer and kinder" individual because he honestly cares about what Chloe thinks of him. Moreover, when Dan hadn't spoken for over a minute, Chloe caught wind of it and asked…

Chloe: Hey, you okay? You went quiet there for a full minute.

Dan: (Wanting to quickly change the subject) Huh? Oh, sorry. I was just checking the GPS to see how far we are from McCoy's. And it looks like we should be there in a few minutes. Which reminds me… why couldn't Lucifer come again?

Chloe: Oh, uh… he had an "errand" to run. Yeah, apparently he's planning this big date at some winery uptown.

Dan: Wow. Dinner at a winery. Sounds like Lucifer must have one hell of a date planned. Who's the lucky lady?

Chloe: Oh, he's doing all this for a friend of Joei's. Apparently, she set him up with that rockerstar who came by the precinct yesterday.

Dan: Whoa, Lucifer is going on a date with Lilly Thunderblack?!

Chloe: Yeah. I'm guessing you've heard of her?

Dan: Oh, man, are you kidding? I started listening to her songs on the radio. She totally rocks. I mean, she's just as amazing as her own mother was. Man, no wonder Lucifer's making such an effort.

Chloe: Yeah. Well, Miss Thunderblack much be very special for Lucifer to want to have to go through all this trouble.

Dan: Am I sensing a little jealously here?

Chloe: What? No. No, of course not. I'm not jealous. I'm just… I'm just frustrated. I mean, I haven't seen Lucifer in over a week, he finally shows up out of the blue, and then, two minutes later, he just decides to blow me off again to plan some date. He's clearly avoiding me and I don't know why.

Hearing this, Dan already knew that the reason why Lucifer has been keeping his distance from Chloe recently is because he can't stand the sight of Chloe with Pierce. From where he stood, Dan found Lucifer's feelings completely justified. After all, like everyone else in their group, Dan is very well aware of the connection Lucifer and Chloe share, and given their different relationships with her, Dan knew that the situation with Pierce was much harder for Lucifer to endure. He could've told Chloe, but instead, Dan turned to her and said…

Dan: Well, you know, Lucifer. He goes to great lengths to grant every woman's desire, hoping it'll lead to sex.

Soon enough, Chloe and Dan finally arrived at James McCoy's building. Upon their arrival, they had the landlord guide up to his apartment. So far, their working theory was, Amy and McCoy met at a bar, Amy stole his watch, she then hid it in her apartment, and when McCoy found out, he tracked her down to the laundromat, confronted her and when she refused to give the watch back, McCoy killed her out of rage and frustration. It seemed outlandish, yes, but it was their only motive thus far.

In addition, it was quite possible that after killing Amy, McCoy ran away. Which would explain why the police have been unable to contact him. Once again, outlandish, but it still spoke to motive.

Furthermore, when they approached the door, Chloe knocked, announced themselves as LAPD, expected James McCoy to answer, but there wasn't. At their request, the landlord used his keys to open the door. Allowing Chloe and Dan to gain access. Once inside, Chloe and Dan took out their guns, stayed alerted and began searching the large, modernity well décor two-bedroom apartment.

At first, the area seemed vacant. Until Chloe made her ways towards the main bedroom, saw that the door was closed, and when she opened it… she walked in to find James McCoy himself Dead!

He was lying face down on his bed with blood dripping from his head. Which indicated blunt force trauma to the head.

And given the circumstances regarding Amy Curtis' murder… this proved that both her death and McCoy's were somehow connected.

That part 2 done. What will happen next? Was McCoy killed by the same person? Why did Amy have his watch? Will Jophiel find out about Pierce's plan? Will Lucifer return in time to solve the rest of the case?

Well, you'll have to wait for a while because I'm talking a little break and won't be starting the next chapter until next week. Anyway, hope you're enjoyed this story so far. Bye-bye for now.