Chapter 31 of We Solve Murders opens with Steve Wheeler stepping off a private jet onto the sultry heat of South Carolina, immediately feeling out of place. Dressed in casual attire, he’s sharply aware of the contrast between his usual English surroundings and the polished environment around him. This cultural disparity is underscored as Steve navigates the airport, his mind preoccupied with the task ahead: helping Amy, a woman he admires greatly, even though he struggles with personal grief. They rarely delve into anything too emotional in their conversations, preferring to keep things light and uncomplicated. The weight of the task ahead hangs over him, but his focus on helping Amy keeps him going.

As Steve steps onto the tarmac, his thoughts turn to Andrew Fairbanks, whose mysterious arrival at this very airport has been a significant point of interest in the investigation. Fairbanks’ presence seems to hold the key to unraveling the mystery Steve is trying to solve. Determined to get to the bottom of it, Steve resolves to investigate further. He recalls his brief interaction with Brad, the flight attendant, who offers advice on sun protection. Steve declines, feeling both self-aware and a bit too self-deprecating for the well-meaning advice, as his mind is set solely on his investigation into Fairbanks’ arrival and sudden disappearance.

Clutching his rucksack, which looks rather out of place in the pristine surroundings of the airport, Steve is directed toward customs, where he meets Carlos Moss. The exchange between them is filled with Steve’s dry wit and attempts to gain access to areas of the airport where he might find more clues. Carlos, however, remains composed and cautious, reminding Steve that their banter may lead to complications. Despite Steve’s playful attempts, Carlos maintains a firm sense of authority and ensures that the boundaries are clear. Steve’s determination is evident as he pushes for a look at the airport’s CCTV footage, hoping that the footage might provide insight into the mysterious ride that picked up Fairbanks.

Carlos, while initially hesitant due to his obligations and a scheduled flight, begins to show a flicker of curiosity as Steve continues to press him for access. Their conversation grows more serious, with Steve suggesting that the footage may hold vital information. In an unexpected twist, the two bond over their music preferences, with Steve finding a way to negotiate with Carlos, offering to engage in a friendly discussion about their shared interests in return for a glimpse at the crucial footage. The playful banter shifts into more serious negotiation, with Steve willing to use his charm and wit to gain the necessary access for his investigation.

Through this interaction, Steve’s determination shines through. While he uses humor to lighten the mood, it’s clear that he is deeply focused on uncovering the truth behind Fairbanks’ mysterious arrival and disappearance. The banter between Carlos and Steve serves to develop their relationship, making Carlos a key character who may have vital information about the investigation. Steve’s willingness to push boundaries, as well as his ability to blend charm with persistence, marks a turning point in the investigation. The chapter ends with Steve securing an agreement to view the CCTV footage, setting the stage for a deeper dive into the case and the clues that could unravel more about Fairbanks’ fate.

The investigation’s momentum continues to build, with Steve’s approach to Carlos marking a subtle yet significant move forward in their pursuit of the truth. The negotiation over the CCTV footage is just one step in Steve’s larger plan to uncover the details surrounding Fairbanks’ arrival at the airport, his disappearance, and how it ties into the broader mystery. The playful yet purposeful interaction highlights Steve’s skill in navigating complex situations, blending his humor with the seriousness of his mission. As the chapter closes, the stage is set for a deeper exploration of the events surrounding Fairbanks, and Steve is one step closer to unraveling the mystery that has been consuming his thoughts.