I have something of an idea that may work for the game, overall. As the MC, you explain that you are building a few different things. Such as, say, a beach front shower for people to get off the beach, as well as bathrooms, etc. Along with that, experimenting with the stuff you are buying for housing, etc. And even showing some blueprints for things, to the hardware store owner. He doesn't question this initially, but when you start buying more and more, or in bulk, that is when he starts to really think, as well as question things. Then when the drug dealer goes missing, then that is when the calls start. Don't need to add a new character, or characters, just add to what they can do.
