A MURKY MURDER

LAKESIDE COTTAGE COZY MYSTERIES

BOOK ONE

CINDY BELL

Copyright © 2024 Cindy Bell

All rights reserved.

Cover Design by Lou Harper, Cover Affairs

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CHAPTER 1

Adaring squirrel bolted across the narrow road right in front of Bobbie Walker’s old pickup truck.

She slammed on the brakes and hoped not only for the safety of the squirrel, but for the contents of the bed of her truck to not go flying. She’d roped everything down multiple times. So far, all her life’s possessions had survived the eight-hour journey from the urban world she used to live in, to the picturesque streets of the smallest town she’d ever encountered. But one wayward squirrel could change everything.

As the small critter scampered away, with a victorious flick of his fluffy tail, Bobbie shifted the truck into park and hopped down from the cab. A quick glance in both directions along the road revealed no risk of upsetting any other drivers. She hadn’t seen anyone else on the road with her for miles.

Bobbie’s stomach fluttered with anxiety as she doubted her decision for the thousandth time. Packing up everything and traveling to the middle of nowhere had seemed like a good idea in the midst of her grief over the loss of her uncle, who’d adopted her and raised her as his own child. But now, alone in the middle of what could have been the background of any picture-perfect postcard, she wondered what she was doing there. She hadn’t had a quaint life. She’d been more like the squirrel, taking risks and dodging the consequences as she dealt with the reality of being an orphan before the age of five.

After checking the tie-downs and surveying the area close to the truck for any small items that might have escaped, she climbed back into the cab. Just as she was about to start the engine, blinding red and blue lights flashed behind her vehicle. The police car stopped behind her.

“Great, just great,” Bobbie muttered to herself and sighed as she reached into the glove compartment for the necessary paperwork. Already, the trip had cost her more than she’d planned, and she didn’t need a traffic ticket on top of it.

As Bobbie turned to face what she expected to be the annoyed expression of a grizzled police officer, she discovered a friendly smile and surprising warmth in the features of a woman who appeared to be in her mid-twenties, maybe a couple of years older than Bobbie. The numerous miniature buns that she’d rolled her hair into on the top of her head, combined with her eager green eyes, made the police uniform she wore seem out of place.

Resigned to receiving a ticket for blocking the road, or maybe for all the items in her truck, Bobbie brushed her long, dark brown, curly hair back over her shoulders and attempted to appear as professional as possible. That wasn’t likely in the old T-shirt and comfortable jeans she’d chosen for the road trip, but she hoped she could fake a certain level of confidence.

“Is there a problem, Officer?” Bobbie reluctantly met the other woman’s eyes.

“You’re a real hero.” The officer grinned as she leaned on the open window of the truck. “I saw you save that squirrel’s life.”

“Thanks?” Bobbie attempted to read through the kindness of the woman’s demeanor. Was it some kind of trick? She offered her identification and registration. “I know I have out-of-state plates. I’m new to the area and haven’t been able to register the truck, yet.”

“Oh, I don’t need any of that.” She peered at the ID long enough to read the name on it and looked up at her with another eager smile. “Welcome to Newfield, Roberta.”

“Thank you. It’s Bobbie, actually.” She dropped the paperwork on the seat beside her. “Sorry about clogging up the road. I wanted to make sure nothing slid out of place.”

“No problem at all. We’re not real busy around here this time of day. I just wanted to make sure you were all right. The squirrels like to play chicken with traffic. I’ve seen it lead to some near-disasters.” The officer laughed.

“Thanks.” Bobbie joined in with her laughter. “He did seem quite happy as he ran off.”

“Sure was. All right, I’ll let you be on your way.” She gave the door of the truck a light slap. “And don’t worry, you’re going to love it here, Bobbie.”

Bobbie felt some relief as she watched the officer walk back to her car. She shifted the truck into drive and continued on down the road. If everyone in Newfield turned out to be as friendly as that officer, she had a good feeling about moving there. Even if it was only for a little while.

“That’s right, nothing to worry about,” Bobbie muttered to herself and followed the directions her GPS barked at her to navigate even smaller roads. The houses and buildings she passed were built quite close together, each with their own unique color and style, but all sharing a common thread of appearing historical. While marveling at the cuteness of it all, she almost missed her turn. She swung the truck hard to the right and managed to straighten out just before she would have collided with an oncoming car.

The man behind the wheel of the sedan offered an offensive gesture as he rolled past.

“All right, maybe not everyone is that friendly.” Bobbie continued down the road and wondered how she would adjust to this way of life. Since her parents had passed away, she’d lived with her uncle—she even went to college near home, so she’d still lived with him—and now for the first time in twenty-four years, she would be completely alone. The thought left her unsettled and a bit excited.

Of course, she’d thought about moving out on her own, but she saw no reason to, especially when her uncle needed her help with the bills, and she struggled as a writer to make ends meet. They just got by in life, but it never felt bad because they had each other.

Tears misted Bobbie’s eyes as she recalled the last year. Uncle Jimmy’s diagnosis had surprised them both, and as they’d endured doctors’ visits and treatments, Bobbie had remained at his side, taking care of him. If anything, it had brought them even closer.

The grief Bobbie felt when he passed away was nothing she’d ever experienced before. But the shock she felt when she sorted through the paperwork and photographs he’d left behind was also something she’d never experienced before.

She’d found photos of him through the years with his parents and what she presumed must be his sisters, but they weren’t the same parents as her father’s, and she couldn’t find any photos of her dad and Uncle Jimmy growing up together.

She was shocked when she’d first discovered the photos and then thought maybe she was making something out of nothing. But her suspicions were pretty much confirmed when she’d searched for more information on Uncle Jimmy and found there was no evidence that he even existed before he’d adopted her.

Coming to terms with the fact that her uncle, someone she trusted with every fiber of her being, had been hiding things from her hadn’t been easy. She still didn’t understand why he’d lied about who he was.

As she’d looked through the paperwork, she’d also found the address for a lakeside cottage in Vermont. She had no idea what the relevance of it was, but her parents had been killed in a car crash nearby, so she was intrigued.

Even as Uncle Jimmy held her hand while taking his last breaths, he only told her how much he loved her. He never mentioned that he wasn’t her uncle by blood. The revelation left her reeling during an already difficult time, and with no one to turn to, she’d decided she needed to make a big change. When she did some research, she’d found the cottage was available for rent, so she arranged to rent it, packed up her stuff, and took Uncle Jimmy’s old pickup truck. She had no idea what she’d planned to find in Newfield, but with nothing holding her in Pennsylvania, she had no reason not to go there and see.

As she turned down another small road, she felt a hint of excitement.

“Bailey Ave. I’m Bobbie Walker, and I live on Bailey Ave.” She imagined which of the quaint little houses would be hers. Each one had overflowing character, and the kind of beauty that came from fairy tales. Maybe after everything she’d faced over the last year, she would finally have something to celebrate.

Bobbie’s excitement grew as she drove down the street. In her head, she counted the house numbers, and with each one her heart swelled until she eased the truck up the driveway in front of a small cottage. Stunned, she parked and turned the engine off, marveling at the cottage’s weathered, blue-painted wood siding and steeply pitched roof. It was more beautiful than she could have ever imagined.

“This can’t be it.” She double-checked the number of the address, then closed her eyes as reality washed over her. Everything was okay. She was about to move into an amazing cottage.

Bobbie got out of the truck and walked closer to the wooden front porch. She could imagine spending long days writing there.

Uncle Jimmy’s plucky optimism rose to the surface. He always had a way of turning a bad situation into something bright, and a bright situation even better. She imagined he would say that this was meant to be.

Just as Bobbie walked toward the front door, a cheerful bark drew her attention to a curly-haired dog who trotted toward her with what could only be described as a doggy-smile.

CHAPTER 2

Bobbie laughed as the dog jumped up against her legs and continued to smile as if she were exactly who he’d been hoping to see.

“Well, hello there, and what’s your name?” Bobbie looked along the leash to see a man about her age or a bit younger holding the end of it.

“Bailey, get down!” He tugged at the end of the leash and the dog hopped down, his tail wagging. “Sorry about that,” the man muttered. “He didn’t scratch you, did he? I’ve tried to teach him not to jump up, but nothing works.”

“No, he didn’t hurt me at all. In fact, I’m very glad to meet him.” She offered her hand to the man who eyed her with a standoffish expression. “I’m Bobbie. I’m new to town.”

“Bobbie.” He nodded as he reluctantly shook her hand. “I’m Paxon. We live over there.” He pointed at the house slightly behind and beside her cottage.

“You named him after this street, but doesn’t your house face the next one over?”

“No actually, I didn’t name him at all. He was my girlfriend’s dog, and when she took off, she left him behind. So, he’s mine now, I guess.”

“Lucky you.” Bobbie smiled, then realized how her words might sound. “I mean, not about your girlfriend taking off, but Bailey seems like a very sweet dog.”

“Oh, believe me, I’m lucky she’s gone, too.” Paxon leveled a hard look in her direction. “Why would you ever want to move here?”

“It’s a beautiful town.”

“I guess, but it’s dead. No work, and just the same people all the time. Not exactly a thrill ride.” Paxon narrowed his eyes as he continued to inspect her.

“Well, work isn’t an issue. I’m a writer, so I can work anywhere. And the cottage is so beautiful.” Bobbie looked back at the cottage.

“You’re staying here?” Paxon’s voice rose with shock.

“Yes.”

“It hasn’t been rented out for a while. The lake used to draw people here, but not anymore.” Paxon glanced away from her to the cottage, and back again.

“Do you know of anyone who can change the locks?” Bobbie asked. She wasn’t very handy, and Uncle Jimmy had told her that the first thing you should do when you moved into a new place was get the locks changed because you never knew who might have a key. The realtor had agreed that it would be okay for her to get them replaced.

“Yes, I know someone who might be able to help you out. She’s a bit of a jack-of-all-trades. She helped me with a plumbing problem a little while back. She was the only one who would.” Paxon pulled his wallet out of his pocket and passed her a business card. “Her name’s Rachael. Give her a call, and she’ll help you, or at least point you in the right direction.”

“Thanks.” Bobbie took the card and offered him a smile. “At least the locals seem to be friendly.”

“I wouldn’t count on that.” Paxon held her gaze as his own darkened. A second later, he turned and walked toward his house.

Bailey loped along beside him.

Startled by Paxon’s sudden change in demeanor, Bobbie clutched the card tight in her hand.

“He must have been joking. I’m just not used to his type of humor, that’s all.” Bobbie tried to shake off the interaction as she walked up the porch steps. She bent down and grabbed a key from under the mat by the front door as explained by the realtor. As she unlocked the door, she felt a rush of excitement.

The door swung open and she peered inside. The first thing she noticed was the exposed wooden beams. The cottage was exactly what she’d hoped for. She walked over the hardwood floors into the living room and marveled at the stone fireplace. The first word that came to mind was cozy. The cottage was so cozy.

Before taking a step farther inside, Bobbie dialed the number on the card. She wanted the locks replaced as soon as possible. She listened to the voicemail instructions to leave her contact information. After the beep, she left her details and explained what she wanted. She ended the call and slid her phone into her purse.

Bobbie took a deep breath as a scent drifted toward her, and a rush of dizziness threatened to knock her off her feet. Her eyes flew wide open as she grasped the doorway to keep herself steady. A flurry of sensations and disjointed images consumed her mind. What was that scent? Why was it familiar when she couldn’t identify it? It was quite pleasant, and in fact, in a strange way, it felt like home.

Curious, Bobbie began to walk through the house, following the smell. As she neared the back door, she discovered it became stronger.

“What is that?” Bobbie’s mind swirled once more, this time with a burst of excitement that further confused her. She had no idea what it was, but she was certain she had to find its source. It was a scent she couldn’t recall ever experiencing before, but it had quickly become the most delightful thing she’d ever smelled. She opened the back door and discovered an overgrown backyard filled with a variety of wildflowers, some of which grew as high as her waist. Swept away by the beauty, and the fragrance, she took another deep breath and suddenly knew she was home.

CHAPTER 3

After reveling in the various colors of the wildflowers, savoring the scents that triggered emotions she’d never felt before, and snapping a few pictures, Bobbie stepped back into the cottage. She glanced around and wished Uncle Jimmy were there.

“I guess this is the bright side after everything I’ve been through and discovered over the last year. Uncle Jimmy would say, there’s always a bright side, sometimes you just have to dig through all the garbage to get to it.” Bobbie recalled his gravelly voice, and insistent nature as she made her way farther inside.

“I think I agree with Uncle Jimmy,” a voice called out from the front door.

“Hello?” Bobbie stepped into the living room and discovered a young woman just inside the cottage.

“Hi, I’m Rachael.” She thrust her hand toward her. “Sorry about barging in. I knocked, but no one answered.”

“Rachael?” Bobbie shook her hand as she recognized the warmth in her smile and the blonde buns on the top of her head. “Aren’t you the police officer who pulled me over earlier?”

“Yes, I was then.” Rachael patted the tool belt she wore around her waist. “Now, I’m a handyperson. Here to help change your locks.” She spun around in a slow circle as a wide grin spread across her face. “Wow!” Her voice squeaked with excitement. “This place is so beautiful.” She surveyed the empty kitchen. “If you need to buy appliances, I know a guy.”

“Thank you.” Bobbie walked over to Rachael’s side.

“Let’s make sure things are okay for you to stay here first, then I’ll change the locks. The realtor should have taken care of everything, but you never know. This place has been vacant for a while. It has fantastic bones.” Rachael smacked a nearby wall, then walked out of the kitchen and into the hallway. “Have you turned on the lights, yet?” She turned on a light switch but no light turned on.

“No, I haven’t.” Bobbie followed Rachael to a hall closet which she popped open.

“The power is probably still hooked up, but something’s wrong. Let’s check.” Rachael opened a breaker box and flipped a switch. An instant later, the light in the hallway turned on.

“Oh, wow, that’s great.” Bobbie grinned.

“Let’s see what’s going on with the plumbing.” Rachael walked over to the sink and turned the faucet on. It sputtered for a moment, then produced a stream of clear water. “That’s perfect, the realtor probably flushed the pipes, and now for your water heater.” She turned the faucet to hot and held her hand underneath. She kept holding it there, then pulled her hand away. “It’s all good. I’ll change your locks now. I picked up some on the way when I got your message.”

“Thank you.” Bobbie looked into Rachael’s eyes. “I’m really grateful for your help, but aren’t you a police officer?”

“Now and then.” Rachael shrugged as she smiled. “And now and then I’m a bit of a handyperson. Sometimes my mom needs someone to fill in for an officer that called out sick. There are only three officers on the force, and my mom is the highest ranking of them all, so if one is out, they sometimes need assistance.”

“I’m so confused.” Bobbie laughed. “You can’t just fill in as a police officer. You have to be trained, don’t you?”

“I’ve been through the training. There was a time when I thought I wanted to follow in my mom’s footsteps, but I could never get used to carrying a gun. So, when I fill in, I do so as a civilian officer. It’s amazing what can be done when it’s necessary.”

“So, if you’re not a police officer, and you’re not a handyperson, what are you?” Bobbie raised her eyebrows.

“At the moment, I’d say bartender. I just picked up a job in the evenings, and I like it just fine so far. I guess you could say I’m exploring my options and trying new things. Is that what you’re doing, too? Is that why you moved here?” Rachael leaned against the kitchen doorway and studied Bobbie’s expression. “I don’t think you’ve been in town before. Are you running from something?”

“What? No.” Bobbie shook her head in an attempt to avoid Rachael’s intrusive gaze. She didn’t want to tell her the whole story about Uncle Jimmy and the house and why she was there, at least not yet. “I’m a writer, and I’m determined to write a novel over the next few months. I’ve published a few books that did fairly well, but not well enough to make a living. So, I came here thinking that Vermont would be the perfect place to write a thrilling detective novel. I guess it was pretty impulsive of me to just up and move here.”

“Ah, so we have something in common already.” Rachael grinned. “I’ve never met an impulse I don’t follow. All right, let me go ahead and start on the locks.”

“Thank you. How much do I owe you?”

“We can figure it out later.” Rachael waved her hand through the air. “I should have what I need in my car. I’ll be right back.”

“Thank you so much.” Bobbie smiled to herself as she wondered if Rachael might be one of the bright sides her uncle had insisted was always there. “I need to get a few things from my truck.” She followed Rachael out of the house.

After grabbing a few items, including a couple of bags of essentials, and unpacking them in the kitchen, while Rachael started on the locks, Bobbie stepped back outside to breathe in the mixed scents of the overgrown wildflowers again. As she did, she heard barking from across the fence that separated her yard from Paxon’s.

Bobbie moved closer to the fence and noticed that the lock on Paxon’s front gate appeared to have been cut. Concerned, she pushed through the gate and started toward his door.

“Bobbie!” Rachael shouted from the back door. “Get away from there!” She rushed through the wildflowers, toward her.

“I think something’s wrong.” Bobbie looked back at her. “I just want to make sure Paxon is okay.”

“You shouldn’t go anywhere near Paxon.” Rachael’s warm and cheerful nature suddenly became stern.

“But look, someone broke through his gate, and his door is hanging wide open.” Bobbie turned back toward Paxon’s house. “I’m going to check on him.”

“All right, I’m coming with you.” Rachael caught up to her just as Bobbie reached the front door.

Bobbie nudged the door open with the tip of her shoe.

Barking carried through the house from the back.

“Bailey? Where are you?” Bobbie started to follow the sound of the barking.

“Bobbie, stop!” Rachael grabbed the crook of her elbow and pulled her back.

“What’s wrong?” Bobbie’s gaze swung around the messy living room until it settled on the man crumpled on the floor. Her stomach dropped as she realized that the wound to his back was from a gunshot. “Paxon!”

CHAPTER 4

Rachael knelt beside Paxon and checked his neck for a pulse, then looked up at Bobbie and shook her head. “He’s dead.”

“How’s this possible?” Bobbie stared at Paxon, then abruptly swung her gaze around the rest of the house. “Do you think the killer is still here?”

“If anyone was still here, I’m sure they took off when we came in.” Rachael stood up and pulled a hammer from her tool belt. “But I’ll have a quick look around to make sure. You stay here.”

“Absolutely not. I’ll go with you.” Bobbie followed after Rachael as she made her way through the small house. Despite her own panic, it seemed to her that Rachael didn’t experience an ounce of it. She remained calm and focused, while holding the hammer high in the air.

Rachael opened the last door at the back of the house into what looked like a laundry room, and Bailey stood on the other side. Rachael blocked his path, so he couldn’t get into the rest of the house.

“I think Paxon must have put him in here to keep him safe,” Rachael said.

“Hi, Buddy.” Bobbie patted his head. “Everything is going to be okay, Bailey. I’m right here.”

The barking quieted down as he nuzzled her hand.

“All right, the house is clear.” Rachael slid the hammer back into her tool belt. “I’m calling my mother.” She grabbed her phone from her back pocket.

“Huh? We need to call the police.”

“She is the police. Remember?” Rachael placed the phone to her ear. “Mom, Paxon is dead. Someone shot him at his house. You need to get over here fast!” As she slid her phone back into her pocket, she turned to look straight at Bobbie. “Don’t touch anything. We can’t contaminate any evidence.”

Bobbie nodded, so shocked that she couldn’t form any words. Just a short time before, she’d been having a conversation with Paxon, and now he lay still on the floor, there but no longer there. How was that possible? The same question kept circling through her mind, as if maybe she’d stumbled into a dream without realizing it. It couldn’t be real, could it?

“Can I stay here with Bailey to make sure he’s okay, please?” Bobbie asked.

“Sure. Just don’t let him out into the rest of the house.” Rachael gestured around her. “We need to keep the crime scene clear. Nothing like this usually happens around here.”

As Bobbie continued to stroke Bailey and offer quiet reassurances, she began to feel a little calmer herself.

But the moment the police arrived, all of that changed. One of them took over Bailey’s care and asked Bobbie to go talk to another officer. She walked out of the laundry room and felt the world spin as she tried to grasp some sense of reality amid the chaos that unfolded around her. Flashing lights, squawking radios, and an officer barking commands all left her so dizzy that she thought she might pass out. As she made her way toward the front door to try and get out of there, she felt a hand wrap around her upper arm to steady her.

“Are you all right?” The woman’s soothing voice offered Bobbie a sense of calm despite the panic she felt.

“I just need some air.” As Bobbie turned toward the woman, her dark curls fell away from her face, allowing her to make eye contact with her bold brown eyes.

The woman, easily identifiable as a police officer due to her uniform, took a sharp breath and a step back, away from Bobbie. Her olive complexion paled as she stumbled over her next words.

“You’re Bobbie? My daughter said you just moved in.”

“Yes.” Bobbie felt the dizziness wash over her again. As she hurried toward the front door, the woman grasped her arm again. “Please, I need some air.”

“I’ve got you.” The officer held tight to her arm as she eased her outside and onto the winding sidewalk that led up to the cottage. She grabbed a stained and dusty plastic chair. “Here, sit down.” She slid it over just beside her.

“Thank you.” Bobbie sank down onto the chair and gulped down a few deep breaths.

“All right, you’re okay now.” The woman rubbed her warm palm along Bobbie’s back in slow, steady circles. “Just keep breathing.”

“Thank you,” Bobbie muttered again and closed her eyes. “I didn’t do this, I promise.”

“Don’t worry about that right now. Just try to calm down.” The officer crouched down beside her and brushed Bobbie’s hair back away from her face. She stared for several moments before she spoke again. “I’m Kate, Rachael’s mother.”

“Kate,” Bobbie whispered the name and nodded. “Do you know who did this?”

“Not yet. But we’re going to find out whatever we can.” Kate furrowed her eyebrows. “Rachael mentioned that you seemed to know Paxon. Had you met him before?”

“Just briefly, when I first arrived. His dog jumped up on me when he was walking past. He gave me Rachael’s card, said she would change the locks.” Bobbie gasped as she shook her head. “How can he be dead?” Panic suddenly resurfaced as a horrible thought crossed her mind. “What’s going to happen to Bailey?”

“Animal control will take him in for now. They’ll make sure he’s well-cared for.” Kate leaned back some and ran her gaze across Bobbie’s face again with more scrutiny than before.

“What is it?” Bobbie reached up to touch her cheek. “Do I have something on my face?”

“No, sorry.” Kate shook her head. “Are you certain that he didn’t say anything about anyone being after him? Maybe he mentioned that you should be careful?”

“No, he didn’t say anything like that. Well—” Bobbie hesitated. “He acted like I shouldn’t be around him, but I don’t know why. Then Rachael acted the same way when I walked toward his house. Was he in some kind of trouble?” She sighed. “Obviously, he was. That’s a silly question.”

“Paxon was trouble.” Kate looked back toward the crime scene. “But that doesn’t mean he deserved this. Here’s my card.” She handed her a business card. “My cell phone is on there. If you think of anything else, or notice anything else, call me right away. Okay?”

“Yes, I will.” Bobbie clutched the card and wondered how she’d ended up, in that very moment, being handed a card by a police officer with a man dead on the floor a few feet away. “Can I go now?”

“Sure, I’ll have Rachael walk you over.”

“Thank you.” Bobbie stood up. “But I’m sure you need Rachael’s help right now. I can get back home on my own.”

“Don’t forget, call me if you think of anything.” Kate stared at her with that same level of intensity.

Bobbie avoided her gaze. Something about the woman made her feel very uneasy, and she thought it went beyond just her hope that she would be able to somehow come up with the magical clue that would solve the murder.

“Sure, I will.” Each step that propelled Bobbie from the crime scene became quicker as she wanted to escape the chaos of it.

CHAPTER 5

The moment Bobbie stepped through the gate, into her own yard, she felt a subtle burst of relief. The familiar scent stirred up that same sense of calm that had surprised her.

Bobbie walked through the wildflowers toward her back door, but paused in the middle of the yard. The faint sound of water lapping against sand drew her down through the flowers to the edge of her yard. Hidden behind overgrown brush and thick, towering trees, she found the lake that she’d imagined would be so beautiful when she decided to move to the lakeside cottage.

As Bobbie stared down at the murky surface of the water, that fantasy burst into pieces. The lake probably had been beautiful once but it wasn’t anymore. As she looked over the water, she noticed what appeared to be green slime along its edge. The color struck her as unusual, almost neon. She ran her fingertip through it and instantly regretted it. The texture reminded her of goo she and her friends would play with when they were children. She wiped her finger off in the sand, then dipped it into the water to further clean it. However, the state of the water left her eager to get to a sink to properly wash her hands.

Bobbie hurried through the back door into the kitchen and headed straight to the sink. She turned on the faucet and washed her hands thoroughly with soap, one of the few things she’d unpacked so far. She groaned as she recalled the truckload of boxes she still needed to move into the house. Just as she was about to turn away from the sink, she caught sight of a man outside the kitchen window. He had a camera pointed straight at her.

“Hey, get out of here!” Bobbie waved her hand at him and tried to block her face from view.

He moved toward the back door and aimed his camera at her again, through the small window.

“What are you doing?” Bobbie stared into the camera he held in front of his face. “Get out of here.” After freezing in shock, her senses came alive with the need to protect herself. She grabbed the closest thing available, a broom that she’d left by the back door. She kicked open the door that hadn’t closed completely, and swung the broom toward him. “Get out, I said!”

“Wait, I just⁠—”

Bobbie swung the broom again through the air with the pole extended toward his face.

He easily ducked, grabbed the pole, and yanked the broom out of her grasp.

Bobbie caught a brief glimpse of bright blue eyes before he turned and ran off toward the road. She chased after him, eager to get the license plate number of the car he might ride off in, but when she reached the road she found it empty. No stranger, no car, no nothing.

Bobbie pressed her hand against her chest as she struggled to catch her breath. Cardio had never been her strong suit, and even the short chase had left her winded.

“Bobbie, what’s wrong?” Rachael ran around the side of the house to reach her. “I heard you yelling.”

“There was a guy taking pictures of me.” Bobbie struggled to talk as she gasped for breath. “He was looking through the window. Why would anyone do that?”

“Oh…” Rachael hesitated. “Did you get a good look at him?”

The moment of meeting his eyes replayed through Bobbie’s mind. She could have seen his nose, or his lips, or even his skin tone, but instead she could only remember those eyes, and the way they pleaded with her. “No, but he had really bright blue eyes. Do you know anyone with eyes like that?”

“No.” Rachael shook her head.

“It was really strange.” Bobbie stared down the road. “It was like he was afraid of me.”

“He was afraid of you?” Rachael laughed. “I doubt that.”

“I was swinging a broom at him. But he grabbed it so easily out of my hands.” Bobbie frowned. “Maybe this was a bad idea and I should just move on.”

“I know you’ve gotten a poor impression of our town so far, and I’m sorry about that. It really isn’t usually like this. We haven’t had a murder around here since Paxon and Drake killed Sonny.” Rachael winced and took a step back. “Forget I said that.”

“What?” Bobbie gasped as Rachael’s words sank in. “Are you saying I moved in next to a murderer, who has now been murdered?”

“Technically he was never convicted of the crime. There just wasn’t enough evidence. But everyone knew that he and Drake did it. Drake took off right after he and Paxon robbed the grocery store a couple of years ago, and there’s been no trace of him since, so it’s pretty much been assumed that he’s dead, too.” Rachael sighed. “And none of this is making our town seem very safe, but really, it is. Drake and Paxon were the biggest troublemakers, but after the robbery, Paxon pretty much kept to himself, and Drake disappeared. I’ll be honest with you. I don’t think either of them meant to kill Sonny. He was the manager of the grocery store, but things can really escalate with those kinds of crimes.” She frowned. “I don’t know what got into them. They were always just petty criminals.”

“You’re right, none of this is making me feel better.” Bobbie walked back toward her cottage with Rachael right on her heels. “Maybe I should go live somewhere else.”

“Don’t give up just yet.” Rachael caught up to her at the door. “We’ve just met, and I think if you stick around, we could have a beautiful friendship.” She added an accent to her final words and grinned. “What do you say, doll?”

Bobbie smiled at Rachael’s lopsided grin.

“Well, I’m not going anywhere right now, that’s for sure. You were so kind to offer to help me. I just hope that man doesn’t come back. What if he’s the murderer?” Bobbie shivered at the thought.

“You can stay with me tonight if you’d like? I have a nice comfortable couch, but that’s about all I can offer.”

“I appreciate the offer, but I really should stay here. I need to get some things unpacked. Even if I’m only going to be here for a little while, I have to at least make it livable.” Bobbie took a deep breath and stepped inside the cottage. “I’m just going to have to get over the fact that I lived next to a murderer who was murdered, and someone was taking photos of me.”

“Hey, Bobbie, I have this cousin. He might be able to help you.” Rachael’s voice trailed off, then she shook her head. “No, maybe that wouldn’t be a good idea.”

“What?” Bobbie looked over at her with wide eyes. “How can he help me?”

“Well, he teaches self-defense classes. My mother made me take them from him, and it did make me feel a bit more secure, but he can be a little intense. I’m not sure that’s what you’re looking for. You could go and observe a class and see what you think.” Rachael held up her hands and smiled. “Just an idea?”

“That sounds great.” Bobbie’s memory of Uncle Jimmy teaching her karate and a little boxing when she was growing up came flooding back. He’d always told her she needed to know how to take care of herself. But she’d barely practiced at all when she went to college, and when he’d gotten sick, she’d stopped completely. “It certainly can’t do any harm to get some self-defense training. Send me the information, please.”

“I will. And I have a spare mini fridge you can borrow for as long as you want.” Rachael grinned. “I’ll get it over here.”

“Thank you. You’re like my guardian angel. But really, all of this is too much. Hopefully, I’ll be able to return the favor.”

“Are you kidding? Just having someone new in town to hang with is favor enough. You should come to the bar tonight, Scotty’s. We’ll have a great time.” Rachael typed out a quick text to her. “I added the address for it with the information for Kyle’s studio, or dojo, or whatever he’s calling it these days.”

“Oh, that sounds wonderful, but I think I really just need to get some stuff unpacked and get some rest. I was driving most of the night. Can we do it another night?” Bobbie winced. “I’m sorry to bail on you after all you’ve done for me.”

“No problem. I should have thought about you needing sleep, especially after what happened today. I’ll get out of your hair. But if there’s anything you need, I’m just a text away.” Rachael pointed to some keys on the counter. “I changed the locks on the doors, but I still want to change the window locks. I’ll do that tomorrow.”

“Thank you. Why don’t you take one of the keys, so you can come and do the windows whenever it suits you?”

“Okay, good idea.” Rachael grabbed a key and waved over her shoulder as she headed out of the house.

Bobbie felt her absence as if she’d taken every ounce of air out of the room with her. Rachael had distracted her from her huge move and the murder while she’d been with her. Now that she was alone again, Bobbie began to contemplate whether she’d made the right decision by moving to Newfield. She pushed the thoughts aside and went hunting for something soft to sit on. She stepped outside and saw her still fully packed truck and began unloading what she absolutely needed.

CHAPTER 6

After a fitful night’s sleep, Bobbie rolled off the edge of her mattress and landed with a solid thump on the floor beside it. She’d managed to toss a sheet on the mattress, but she hadn’t even considered setting up the frame before she’d collapsed on it the night before. As tired as she was, she expected to fall asleep fast. Instead, she’d been jarred by every subtle creak and crack that carried through the very creaky, old cottage. Her mind kept darting back to the man with the camera. Could he be lurking outside at that very moment?

Bobbie pulled herself up off the floor. She stumbled through her morning routine, then recalled she’d barely brought any food with her, assuming she would shop when she arrived. She’d eaten most of it during her travels and had finished off the rest last night.

Hungry and tired, Bobbie emerged from the cottage and climbed into the driver’s seat of her truck. She ignored the piles of boxes that still needed to be unloaded and instead opened her glove compartment in the hope that maybe she had left a snack in there to tide her over. She smiled when she found a small granola bar. She took it out and had a couple of quick bites, then focused on finding the nearest hot cup of coffee. After a few minutes of searching the main street of the town, she came to a startling conclusion.

Not a single fast food restaurant? No drive-throughs?

Bobbie pulled into the parking lot of a small corner store and stepped out of her truck. For a moment, she wondered if she should worry about someone stealing her things while she was inside. A quick glance around the still sleepy town indicated there wasn’t much to worry about. But then, a man had been murdered right next door to her, and another man had been lurking in her backyard taking pictures of her. Newfield might be a picturesque little town, but it certainly appeared to have a lot to hide.

Bobbie pulled open the door to the shop and started to step inside, when fierce voices drove her right back. The argument spilled out the door, as two men shouted at each other and barreled through it.

Bobbie jumped back and narrowly avoided being bowled over as they continued to shout at each other.

“You take it back, Junior!” The larger of the two stuck his finger in the other man’s face as he stood close and glared at him. “You know I had nothing to do with this.”

“I don’t have to take anything back.” Junior glowered at the other man. “Your behavior is the reason everyone suspects you, Roy. I can’t change that.”

“No, it’s because you and your brother keep running your mouths. You had no business telling anyone that I had a problem with Paxon,” Roy snapped.

“You did have a problem with Paxon.” Junior scowled at Roy. “I don’t know why you’re even worried about it. Everyone knows it was Drake who killed him.”

“Drake?” Bobbie blurted the name out. “I thought Drake was dead.”

Junior sent a surprised look in her direction, as if he’d just noticed that she was there. “We all thought he was dead. But he was spotted in town, very much alive. And apparently some people have received some texts from him over the last couple of days.” His eyes locked to hers. “You’re Bobbie, right? Just moved in?”

“Yes, that’s me.” Bobbie shifted her gaze away from him as she felt his intensify.

“Forget about it. I’m getting out of here before the cops show up.” Roy took off at a slow jog down the street.

“Why was he so upset?” Bobbie stared after him.

“That’s Roy, Drake’s little brother.” Junior shook his head as he held the door for her. “Don’t let him bother you. He’s drunk half the time.”

“Thanks.” Bobbie stepped inside. “I’m hoping to get a hot cup of coffee.”

“Oh, it’ll be hot, all right. Whether or not it’s coffee, that you’re going to have to decide.” Junior chuckled as he stepped farther away from the shop and let the door swing closed.

With Bobbie’s nerves still on edge from witnessing the argument, she made her way through the small shop and put together a cup of coffee. She set it down on the counter to pay for it. As she pulled out her wallet, she heard a voice a couple of feet behind her.

“Put it on my tab, Dwight.”

Startled, Bobbie glanced over her shoulder to find a man who appeared to be in his sixties. His slicked back salt and pepper hair paired well with his black and white pinstriped suit. His pale-blue eyes met hers as he smiled.

“Welcome, Bobbie, right? I heard Junior call you that. I’m Larry.”

“Thank you for the coffee.” Bobbie smiled in return.

“You’re welcome.” Larry set his own cup of coffee down on the counter. “Although, be warned, you have to build up a tolerance for this coffee. Isn’t that right, Dwight?”

“Oh, Larry, you’re so funny.” Dwight rolled his eyes as he waved him away from the counter. “You know I make the best coffee in town.”

“Let’s just talk about the kind of beans you’re using.” Larry focused all his attention on Dwight.

Relieved to be eliminated from the conversation, Bobbie left the shop with her coffee. After one sip, she discovered that Dwight definitely didn’t make the best coffee in town. Or at least she hoped it wasn’t the best coffee in town. She swallowed down the bitter liquid. Caffeine was caffeine after all.

Bobbie had almost made it back to the truck when she noticed a small building not far from the shop that had advertisements for martial arts and self-defense training, in the window. She double-checked the text Rachael had sent her and confirmed it was the same place. She left her coffee in the truck, then walked over to the building. It couldn’t hurt to look, could it?

Bobbie pushed open the heavy glass door and drank in the sight of the padded floor, assortment of punching bags, and the crisp white walls. The well-lit warehouse style space paled in comparison to the sweat-soaked dojo she’d imagined.

“Hi, there.” A tall, muscular man with thick, black hair summoned her attention to the center of the room. “Are you here for a class?”

“I’m not sure. A friend suggested I should check the place out, but honestly, I haven’t set foot in a gym in years.” Bobbie walked closer.

“No problem. Everyone starts somewhere. Who sent you?” He glanced up from the grappling dummy he pulled across the floor.

“Rachael. I just moved here, and she’s helping me change the locks at my place.”

“I see.” He smiled. “She’ll get you all fixed up.”

“This is probably a bad idea.” Bobbie shook her head. “I don’t know what I was thinking.”

“Maybe you were thinking that you’d like to be able to defend yourself if a dangerous situation ever came up?” He stood up and looked into her eyes. “There’s no pressure here, just a place for you to learn how to protect yourself. We can take it at your pace. I can tell you, no weapon is better than knowing how to stay calm and get yourself out of a bad situation.” He followed her gaze as she started to look away. “Did something happen?”

The way he asked, with a soft but insistent tone, drew her attention back to him. For a moment, she studied his light-brown eyes, then shrugged. “It was nothing, probably.” Bobbie rolled her eyes. “It’s just that I’m living alone.” She groaned. “And already I’ve told a stranger that I live alone, so you can see I’m great at this.”

“Let me help with that.” He offered her his hand. “I’m Kyle. Now, if you tell me your name, we won’t be strangers anymore.”

Bobbie smiled as she took his hand in a quick shake. “I’m Bobbie, nice to meet you.”

“You, too.” Kyle nodded, then he glanced over at the mats where a few people who’d just walked in were gathering. “I have a class starting. Why don’t you come by tonight? I have a self-defense class at seven. You can observe the class, join in if you feel comfortable, and then we can talk more after.”

“Thanks, maybe I will.” Bobbie’s smile widened as he looked back at her. “Have a good class.”

As Bobbie left the building, her mind raced over the conversation they’d just had. Something about Kyle put her at ease in a way she hadn’t felt since her uncle died. She wanted to feel secure and be able to protect herself, but she wasn’t thrilled by the idea of embarrassing herself. She pushed the thoughts out of her mind and focused instead on going to the police station. An update on the investigation might help her to feel a little more comfortable that the murder would be solved quickly, and she hoped that Kate would give her one.

CHAPTER 7

As Bobbie entered the small police station, she noticed a few desks and a reception area. A hallway indicated there might be more to the station, but she doubted it, considering the size of the outside of the building.

A man who appeared to be in his fifties or sixties sat at the reception desk with his boots propped on the top of it. The toes of his boots rocked back and forth as he read through the newspaper he clutched in his hands and leaned back dangerously far in his office chair. The only thing that defined him as law enforcement was the large, shiny gold star pinned to a casual, plain blue T-shirt.

“Excuse me?” Bobbie forced a smile as her heart began to pound. She’d hoped to speak with Kate, but this man seemed to be the only person around.

He gasped, his chair tipped back a little too far, and his boots went flying up from the top of the desk. As his arms flailed in an attempt to catch his balance, he dropped his newspaper into his lap and let out a startled cry.

“Chief, what’s wrong?” Kate emerged from the hallway just in time to see the man tumble off his chair into a pile on the floor.

“Oh my!” Bobbie exclaimed as she rushed forward to help him. “Are you okay? I’m so sorry I startled you.”

“Really, Jasper?” Kate rolled her eyes as she grabbed his other arm, and they both hauled him to his feet. “What have I told you about tipping your chair too far back?”

“The stupid thing is broken. I told you that,” Jasper mumbled and grunted as he managed to find his footing, then eyed Bobbie with a stunned look. “Well, don’t you look just like her.”

“Jasper!” Kate’s sharp tone silenced whatever words he’d been about to form. “This is Bobbie. She’s just moved to town. She found Paxon yesterday.”

“Bobbie.” Jasper repeated the name as a slow smile crossed his lips. “Roberta, right?”

“Yes, but I prefer Bobbie.” She looked him over with mounting concern. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

“I’m fine, just fine.” Jasper smoothed down his T-shirt and sat back down in the chair that Kate had picked up.

“What did you mean just then?” Bobbie narrowed her eyes. “Who do I look like?”

“Chief Cullin is just a little confused. He hasn’t had his coffee yet.” Kate tipped her head toward the hallway. “It’s hot and ready for you, Chief.”

“Yes, exactly. That’s what I need.” Jasper grinned as he stood up and gave Kate a pat on the shoulder. “My hero.”

“Aw, that’s so sweet.” Kate offered a far too bright smile as he walked past her.

Bobbie felt the urge to question him further, but as Kate swung her gaze toward her, she shied back from the weight of it.

“Did you think of something else, Bobbie?”

“I’m sorry, no. I just came by hoping you might have an update on the investigation, maybe even a suspect in custody?” Bobbie asked.

“Unfortunately, not yet.” Kate gestured for her to follow her to a smaller desk. As she sat down, she released a heavy breath. “There just isn’t any evidence. We have no suspects, no leads at the moment.”

“So, that’s it?” Bobbie sank into the chair in front of the desk. “The case is closed?”

“No, of course not. I’m still going to investigate.” Kate pursed her lips as she sat back in her chair. “But we work with a very small team here, and other crimes do happen. Like I said, at the moment, I have zero leads, so unless you’ve come up with something, I’m at a standstill with the investigation.”

“I don’t understand how there can be no leads. Wasn’t there any DNA left behind? Or cameras to show who was on the street during the time of the murder? There has to be something.”

“This isn’t a television show. Evidence doesn’t just fall from the sky in real life. It looks like a professional hit, which means they probably did a good job of covering their tracks.” Kate leaned forward and lowered her voice. “You’re our best witness, and you have nothing to say, isn’t that right?”

“I didn’t hear the gunshot.” Bobbie sighed.

“Probably because the killer used a silencer. As a professional would. We couldn’t find a bullet.” Kate leaned back in her chair. “I’ve reached out to a few resources to see if there’s been any indication of any known hit men in the area. But so far, I haven’t received any intel about that.” She started going through the paperwork on her desk.

“So, you’ve decided it’s a professional hit? Surely there are other avenues to investigate?” Bobbie stood up. “I’ve only been here for a day, and I know that Paxon had a target on his back in this community. I would assume that there are at least a handful of people living right here in town who are potential suspects.”

“Like I said, it looks like a hit. According to the chief, that’s the line of investigation that we’re focusing on, but I’m looking at all possibilities, of course.” Kate looked up from the paperwork. “Look, Bobbie, I’m sorry this happened on your first day here. I’m sure it’s overwhelming, and scary. Especially after having someone taking pictures of your house.”

“Of me. He was taking pictures of me.” Bobbie pointed at herself. “Why would anyone want pictures of me?”

“I’m looking into that, too. I promise. But for right now, I think you should focus on getting settled in. Let Rachael help you make that cottage a home. I mean, if you’re still planning to stay.”

“I am. I want to find out exactly what happened to Paxon.”

“As do I. I’m going to do my job and do what I can to find out who murdered him.” Kate arched an eyebrow, then stood up from her desk. “Rachael mentioned that you want to write a detective novel. That sounds lovely, but let’s be clear, you’re not a detective, and this isn’t fiction. You need to stay out of it.” Her voice cracked through the air like a whip, just before she turned and walked away.

Startled by the sudden change in Kate’s demeanor and the authoritative way she spoke to her, Bobbie stared after her for a few seconds. She doubted trying to speak to her again would lead to anything positive. She closed her eyes and recalled her Uncle Jimmy’s incessantly upbeat attitude. She wished she could muster an ounce of that. But it wasn’t part of her DNA. She knew that now. She and her uncle didn’t share any DNA at all. It still left her baffled to think about that. Why would he have lied to her for all those years? And who was he if he wasn’t her uncle?

CHAPTER 8

Lost in thought, Bobbie drove back toward the cottage. She slowed to a stop as she noticed a large van parked in her driveway with the rear doors wide open.

Bobbie parked in front of the house, then stepped down out of her truck. As she closed the door, she heard voices inside the cottage. With her heart in her throat, she made her way toward the front door which hung halfway open.

Relief swept through her at the sight of Rachael and two young men inside the house.

The men held a small couch between them and were walking back and forth as Rachael pointed to a spot in the living room. “Right there, set it down right there.” Rachael directed them to drop the couch in the center of the room. “What do you think, Bobbie?” She grinned.

Bobbie looked over the faded floral pattern, and the thick, wide cushions as she stepped inside. “It looks amazing.” She flopped down on it and smiled. “Thank you so much. How much do I owe you?”

“Nothing. It was free, on the street corner. I saw it and thought you might like it, at least until you get something new for yourself. Thanks, guys.” Rachael patted each of the men on the back as she guided them toward the door.

One glanced back over his shoulder and looked straight at Bobbie. “Welcome to Newfield.”

“Thank you.” Bobbie smiled at him as his eyes lingered on her. She recognized him as one of the men who had been involved in the scuffle at the convenience store that morning.

“Back off, Junior.” Rachael gave him a light shove out the door, then turned toward Bobbie. “I’m sorry. As gorgeous as you are, you’re going to have to get used to that.”

“Gorgeous?” Bobbie laughed as she sat up on the couch to make room for Rachael. “That’s something no one has ever described me as.”

“Really?” Rachael dropped down on the cushion beside her. “With that hair, and those eyes? Not to mention the rest of you.” She laughed. “I find that hard to believe. Are you telling me you didn’t leave a few boyfriends behind when you moved here?”

“A few?” Bobbie grinned. “Not even one. I’ve never really had luck in the romance department. What about you? I’m sure you’ve got someone?”

“I did.” Rachael sighed, then shook her head. “I thought we were going to get married. But it turned out, I was the only one who thought that. He moved on, and really, I’m still trying to recover.”

“I’m sorry you’re going through that. Heartbreak is the worst.”

“Yes, it sure is.” Rachael glanced over at her as her eyes widened. “I’m sorry, I meant to text you about the couch before I brought it over, but Junior and Carl only had a few minutes free between landscaping jobs, and I needed Junior’s van to move it. And I got them to bring the fridge as well. I know I’m only supposed to use the key to change the locks, but I figured this might make you feel more at home.”

“It does. It really does.” Bobbie rubbed the arm of the couch, then looked back at her. “And you can use the key whenever you want. I spoke to your mother today. Did you tell her everything I told you?”

“Oh!” Rachael winced. “Maybe. Sorry. I was so excited to have met you, and my mom and I are really close.”

“I find that a little surprising since you’re so different.” Bobbie tried to find any trace of similarity between the harsh police officer she’d just encountered and her bubbly daughter.

“I think we’re practically identical.” Rachael looked over at her with a puzzled expression. “Oh, wait, did she give you the cop attitude?”

“I guess.” Bobbie laughed. “She told me to stay out of the investigation, that’s for sure.”

“My mother is very protective of her policework. You see, the chief is…” Rachael’s voice trailed off as she searched for the right word.

“An idiot?” Bobbie laughed. “He fell out of his chair when I walked in the door.”

“He’s a lovable idiot. He means well, but he’s already retired even though he hasn’t. My mom basically runs the show over there, but she has to be careful not to let him see that. He’s harmless most of the time, but if he gets riled up, watch out.” Rachael sighed. “I guess she gave you a pretty bad impression.”

“I’m sure she’s great at her job. I was just hoping for a little reassurance about the investigation. I definitely didn’t get that.” Bobbie frowned. “I just wish that I remembered something, anything, that might help.”

“She let me know that she thinks it was a hit. By whom, I have no idea. But that does make it a tough case to investigate. I’m sorry there aren’t any updates, yet.” Rachael stood up from the couch. “Let’s get that truck emptied out.”

“That would be great.” Bobbie followed her out the door. “Speaking of updates, have you heard anything about Bailey? Paxon mentioned he was his girlfriend’s dog who she left with him when they broke up.”

“He’s at the animal shelter. He’s around three, so still pretty young, but I’m not sure how fast he’ll get adopted.” Rachael tugged a box off the truck as Bobbie grabbed a few duffel bags.

“I’m sure he’ll get adopted. He’s a poodle cross, isn’t he?”

“Yes. A goldendoodle. Golden retriever crossed with poodle.”

“People love those dogs. They’re so adorable and expensive.” Bobbie heaved the bags toward the door, then grabbed a box as well.

“Normally, yes.” Rachael winced as she shook her head. “But this was Paxon’s dog. I don’t know if anyone is going to want to adopt him.”

“Why not? Because of the murder?” Bobbie carried the box in behind Rachael. “Wasn’t that a long time ago?”

“Not long enough. Only a couple of years. And people never forgave him for that. Sonny was so loved, and so is his family. It was hard to accept what Paxon had done to him.” Rachael turned back to get another box.

“Hey, wait just a minute.” Bobbie stepped in front of her to block her way. “Can you tell me the whole story, please? Wasn’t it an accident?”

“No one really knows.”

“It was a grocery store robbery, right, so weren’t there cameras?” Bobbie asked.

“There were. But Drake and Paxon wore ski masks. All the cameras really show is that one of them, likely Drake, as he was the shorter of the two, pointed the gun at Sonny and it went off. Whether he meant to shoot him, or it was an accident, it doesn’t really matter. Sonny is dead, and now Paxon is, too.” Rachael shook her head. “It’s just terrible.”

“It is.” Bobbie crossed her arms. “But it’s worse if they don’t find out who killed him. I’m going to have a look around Paxon’s house. Maybe there’s something the police missed.” She started toward the back door.

“Bobbie, you can’t.” Rachael followed after her.

“No one’s there right now, and it’s been released as a crime scene, hasn’t it? I don’t think it would hurt to have a quick look. According to your mother, they didn’t find any evidence in the house. But there must be something. If that guy who took my picture is somehow connected to Paxon, I need to know. I can’t just sit here waiting for him to come back. He could be the murderer, you know?” Bobbie looked back at Rachael. “I’m going.”

“I admire your determination, but I think you’re going to get yourself into trouble,” Rachael called out.

“Not if you’re there with me.” Bobbie grinned.

“Oh, wow. You are shaping up to be trouble, aren’t you?” Rachael laughed. “Lucky for you, I’m always getting myself into bad situations. Let’s have a look.”

CHAPTER 9

Rachael opened Bobbie’s back door and started across the yard toward Paxon’s house. Bobbie followed her.

“I can have this place mowed and some of those trees removed.” Rachael opened the gate for Bobbie.

“Oh, no! Don’t, please!” Bobbie’s face flushed as Rachael tossed her a strange look. “It may seem silly but there’s something about the smell of all the flowers that I really love.”

“It’s not silly. But now that we’re coming into fall, they’ll die soon anyway.” Rachael gestured for Bobbie to follow her around to the backyard of Paxon’s house. “I know a way in. That’s if the key hasn’t been moved.”

“Paxon told me you were the only one willing to help him with a plumbing issue he had. Is that how you know how to get in?” Bobbie watched as Rachael flipped over a rock and grabbed a key from under it. She walked up to the back door and unlocked it.

“Yes, it is. But let’s keep that between us. I knew Paxon needed help, and I also knew that no one else would be willing to help him. As much as I disliked what he was involved in, he was still a person, you know.” Rachael poked her head through the back doorway into Paxon’s house. “No one else is here, so we’re good to go.”

“You’re a really good person, aren’t you, Rachael?” Bobbie smiled as she followed after her.

“I try to be, but believe me, I’ve made my share of mistakes.” Rachael winced, then turned on the flashlight on her phone. “Don’t turn any lights on. If the neighbors see movement in here, they’ll likely call my mother, and then we’ll both get the cop attitude.”

“Don’t worry, we won’t be in here long. I just want to have a quick look.” Bobbie began looking over the kitchen they’d walked into. Everything about it indicated that Paxon had lived alone, from only a few plates and silverware in the dish drainer, to only one coffee cup next to the coffee maker on the counter. She swept her gaze over the fridge for any personal pictures he might have pinned up with magnets. Instead, there were nearly identical pictures of the lake. “That’s a little odd, isn’t it?” She pointed them out to Rachael.

“I guess he thought he was a photographer.” Rachael peered at them. “Although, they’re not very pretty. People usually like to take pictures of the lake at sunrise. It can be stunning then. At least it used to be.”

“Look at this.” Bobbie stepped past her into a small pantry. “There’s no food in here. There’s nothing on these shelves. Don’t you think that’s strange?”

“Maybe he hadn’t gotten to the grocery store?” Rachael peered into the pantry as well.

“A single guy. He should at least have some chips, or some boxes of granola bars, or something.” Bobbie looked over the shelves again. As she did, she leaned on one of them to get a closer look to see if anything was lodged behind it. The shelf suddenly dropped flat against the wall and a flap flipped out from above it, revealing a small hole. “What is this?” She gasped as she looked over an assortment of test tubes and other containers.

“Don’t touch that! It could be some kind of drug. Paxon was into everything at some point in his life.”

“No, it’s not drugs.” Bobbie peered through the smudged glass of one of the tubes. “I know what that is. It’s sludge from the lake. See the color?”

“Sludge?” Rachael leaned closer to get a clearer view. “Why would he have that?”

“It looks like he was studying it for some reason.” Bobbie pointed to some thin strips of paper. “If he dipped those in a sample, it probably told him what it contained.”

“This is crazy, Paxon wasn’t any kind of scientist.” Rachael shook her head as she backed away from the container. “We should tell my mom about this.”

“Yes, you’re probably right. You call her. I’m just going to take some pictures.”

Bobbie began snapping photos of the samples with her phone. She saw a few more photos of the lake inside and took photographs of them as well. As she leaned close to get a better look, she noticed something wedged in the flap that had folded out. The small black rectangle looked like a flash drive. As she grabbed the edge of it and tugged it free, she heard Rachael detailing what they’d found.

A quick glance revealed Bobbie was right. It was a flash drive. As Rachael turned back toward her, Bobbie slid the drive into her pocket. She knew if she told Rachael or Kate about what she’d found, she’d never have a chance to look at it herself. Although she liked both of them, she had doubts about whether this little town actually ran on law and order, or on what worked best for the most influential residents.

“My mom will be here soon, along with another officer, to help look over all this stuff.” Rachael’s eyes shone as she hugged her. “You did it, Bobbie. You broke this case wide open.”

“We both did.” Bobbie tilted her hip to the side to be sure that Rachael couldn’t feel the flash drive hidden in her pocket. A pang of guilt made her pull away from the hug. “I’m not so sure I should be here when your mom gets here. She’s probably not going to be pleased we came inside to look around without her permission.”

“Don’t worry about that. It turned out to be a really good thing. I’m sure she’ll just be happy to know that we found some evidence.” Rachael surveyed the hidden items. “I find it really hard to believe that Paxon was doing all this. I had no idea he had any interest in the lake.”

“It explains the pictures on the fridge, too.” Bobbie snapped a few pictures of the images of the lake on the fridge. “What I think is really odd, is that he went to all this trouble to hide the samples. That makes me think that he knew he was in danger.” She settled her gaze on Rachael. “Or maybe he thought that telling the truth to the people in charge of Newfield wouldn’t get him anywhere?”

“No way. He could have told any of us. We’ve all been working so hard to figure out why the lake changed so much. But there’s only so much funding to go around. I know the council sent some samples off to a lab somewhere, but nothing ever came of it. In fact, as far as I know, those samples were deemed safe. That’s what was reported in the newspaper anyway. I remember the mayor even coming out and saying that we could all swim in the lake if we wanted to. But none of us do. Not anymore, anyway.”

“The newspaper? I might just go see if I can speak to someone there.” Bobbie hurried toward the door as she heard sirens outside. “Good luck with your mom.”

Despite Rachael’s shouts from inside the house, Bobbie kept right on going until she reached her truck. With most of it unloaded, she didn’t have to worry as much about things flying out of the back, which allowed her to step on the gas. She peeled off down the road just after a police car turned into Paxon’s driveway.

CHAPTER 10

As Bobbie drove away from her cottage, she realized she had no idea where the newspaper building was, then she remembered there weren’t many possibilities in the small town.

She drove down the main road and found no sign of anything that resembled a newspaper office. As she turned into the small plaza, she scanned the signs.

“Newfield News.” Bobbie smiled as she rolled toward it. “Great name, but a tiny place.” She raised her eyebrows at the single window in the storefront and parked in front of it. Lowered and closed blinds made her wonder if anyone was inside. She quickly did a search on her phone for ChemTree. It had been scrawled on the bottom of one of the photographs of the lake hidden in Paxon’s house. All she could find was that it was a local company owned by Colton Crenshaw, and it supplied various chemicals to a variety of large corporations. Hopefully, she could find out more at the newspaper office.

She stepped down out of her truck, then walked straight to the front door. With one quick jerk, she pulled it open and stepped inside. The interior appeared similar to the police station, only even smaller. A few desks faced each other with a narrow path leading to an office. As she walked toward it, a man called out to her from one of the desks tucked in a back corner.

“Can I help you?”

“I hope so.” Bobbie smiled as she walked over to him. Between the auburn waves on the top of his head, and the bright smile on his lips, she found startlingly dark eyes looking straight at her.

“Just tell me what you need.” He stood up and offered his hand. “I’m Matt.”

“Bobbie.” She gave his hand a quick shake. “I’m just looking for some information, and I thought this might be the best place to get it.” She lowered her voice as she continued. “I’m also looking for some work if there’s any available. I’m a writer. I can write just about anything.”

“So, you’re gunning for my job?” Matt grinned as he looked her over.

“Not at all. I’m really here to write a novel, but I need to be able to pay the bills.”

“You can fill out an application online.”

“Okay, great.”

“You just moved into the cottage, didn’t you?” Matt asked.

“How do you know about that?” Bobbie’s eyes widened. “I just arrived in town.”

“Oh, everyone knows. Plus, it’s my job to know. In fact, I was going to reach out to you in a few days to do an interview. The locals love to hear about the new people who move into town. There aren’t many.”

“I can’t think about that right now. I just need some information on Paxon, please. I’m guessing you know about him, too?”

“Sure, I know all about Paxon. He’s been a thorn in the side of this community for a long time.” Matt frowned. “I guess he isn’t anymore.”

“What did he do that was so horrible? All I keep hearing is that he was a dangerous man. But if he was so dangerous, why wasn’t he in prison?” Bobbie eyed him closely, wondering if he would tell her the whole truth.

“Simply put, he got away with it.” Matt grabbed a file from the edge of his desk and flipped it open. “He and his buddy Drake were the local deadbeat teenagers in the area. They never really caused too much harm, a few stolen items here and there, always getting into fights. But one day, in their early twenties, they took things to a new level. They decided to rob the local grocery store, and in the process, they shot and killed the manager. It was the first murder in Newfield in decades. Sonny, the manager, was well-loved by the community. He went out of his way to always greet everyone cheerfully and take an interest in them. So, for him to be killed, it was a tragedy for the whole town. Drake took off and, by all accounts, ended up dead. So, there was only Paxon left to blame.” He flipped the file closed. “Unfortunately, despite them being bumbling criminals, they managed to make off with the money, at least a few thousand dollars. There was a huge lottery on that day, so the store sold lots of tickets, which is why they probably decided to rob it then. The money has never been recovered, and they left no evidence behind that could convict either one of them.”

“That sounds a little unbelievable to me.” Bobbie took a step closer to the desk. “Why would two petty criminals suddenly decide to rob a grocery store? And how would they be so good at it?” She held out her hand. “Can I see the file, please?”

“Okay.” Matt offered it to her, then watched as she flipped through it. “I like to keep a paper trail. It can be too easy to get rid of computer files.”

“There’s hardly anything here.” Bobbie glanced up at him.

“That’s all the information they had. Everything pointed at Paxon and Drake.”

“But a man was killed.” Bobbie handed him back the file. “That doesn’t seem right.”

“Maybe not, but that’s it.” Matt set the file down. “Is that all the information that you needed?”

“No.” Bobbie shook her head. “What do you know about ChemTree?”

“The company? Why are you asking about them?”

“I’m just curious.” Bobbie shrugged.

“Curious?” Matt ran his hand along his chin. “No, I don’t buy that for a second. You’re onto something. What is it?”

“I just want to know if you know anything about the company?” Bobbie locked her eyes to his and noted again their unusual hue. Could they be pure black?

“That’s not how this is going to work.” Matt slid the paperwork on his desk to the side and leaned toward her as he rested his elbows against the smooth wood. “You’re going to start by answering my questions.”

“Oh?” Bobbie continued to hold his gaze. “And who said you get to make the rules?”

A quick smile crossed his lips before he crushed it with a stern look. “I have the information you want, which means I get to make the rules. So tell me, why would you come back here?”

Startled by the question, Bobbie studied him with mounting suspicion. “I just moved here for the first time. I didn’t come back.”

“So, you really don’t know?”

“What don’t I know?” Bobbie’s heart raced.

“Oh, nothing, I must have gotten it wrong.” Matt averted his gaze.

“Really? Somehow I don’t believe that.”

“Well, you can believe what you want. I don’t have anything else to say about it.”

“Okay.” Bobbie tried to keep the frustration out of her voice. “So. what can you tell me about ChemTree?”

“I can tell you it’s the reason our lake looks the way it does.” Matt spun around in his office chair and snatched up a small, framed picture from the shelf behind him. “That’s what it looked like less than a year ago.”

Bobbie gasped at the sight of the bright blue water surrounded by lush foliage and scattered wildflowers. She took the frame from his hands and stared down into the photograph. “It’s always been this beautiful?”

“Until now.” Matt leaned closer to her again and appeared to be watching her reaction to the picture.

“What happened to it?” Bobbie set the frame down.

“Your guess is as good as mine.” Matt smirked.

“Look, I’m not interested in playing guessing games. If you have something solid to tell me about ChemTree, then I want to hear it, and if you think you know something about my past, which I think you do, please tell me about it. But this tough-guy-meets-private-investigator act you’re putting on, it’s getting old.”

“You think I’m tough?” A rakish grin crossed Matt’s lips, then faded as he stared back at her.

“I think you’re acting tough. There’s a difference.” Bobbie turned and started to walk away.

“Okay, okay. I can tell you more about ChemTree.” Matt stood up before she could get too far. “What do you want to know?”

“What do you know about the owner?” Bobbie walked back over to his desk.

“Colton Crenshaw?” Matt grabbed another file from his desk. “Quite a bit. I’ve been tracking his every move. Ever since that company opened, our lake has become polluted. I was working with someone to prove it, but that’s not going to happen now.”

“You were working with Paxon?” Bobbie watched shock pass across his features before his expression tensed again.

“I don’t reveal my sources.” Matt’s voice wavered.

“Even after they’re dead?” Bobbie tightened her lips. “I think it’s a little late to try to protect him now.”

“You have no idea what’s going on here.” Matt shook his head. “Paxon knew the risk he was taking. I couldn’t do anything to stop it.”

“So, you think Colton might have killed Paxon before he could prove that ChemTree was polluting the lake?”

“I think it’s possible. ChemTree stood to lose its good reputation and its welcome in this town, not to mention the cost of the cleanup. I think that gives Colton plenty of reason to get rid of the one person who was already an outcast in Newfield.”

“Interesting.” Bobbie turned away from him and walked toward the office door. “I guess I know where I’m headed next, then.”

“Wait, what?” Matt bolted after her, knocking over a stack of papers on his desk as he did. “Stop!” He grabbed the papers before they could fall, then rounded the desk to catch her just before she could reach the door.

“What is it?” Bobbie turned back to face him, only to find him inches away from her. She took a slight step back to create a little more distance between them.

“You can’t go there alone.” Matt’s tone evened out, but his gaze remained just as determined. “If what we suspect is true, and he did kill Paxon, what do you think he’ll do to you?”

“And you’re going to protect me?” Bobbie gave him a lopsided smile.

“Of course I will.”

“I suppose there’s safety in numbers, and you know your way around this town way better than me. Let’s go, then.” Bobbie turned back toward the door. “Besides, you still owe me an explanation for what you think you know about me.”

CHAPTER 11

Matt pulled open the newspaper office door for Bobbie and let her walk through first. “We can take my car.” He started toward a sedan.

“You’re avoiding answering my question.” Bobbie started toward her truck instead. “And we’ll take my truck.”

“Bobbie!” Matt turned toward her.

“What’s wrong?” Bobbie raised her eyebrows and grinned as a breeze tossed her dark curls across her face. “Are you regretting your offer?”

“No. Not even a little bit.”

Bobbie brushed her hair away from her face and opened the passenger side door of the truck. “Great, then hop in. No time to waste.” She walked around to the driver’s side and climbed in.

“Why exactly couldn’t we take my car?” Matt shifted a box of odds and ends out of the passenger seat and onto the floor by his feet, so he could buckle his seat belt.

“Do you think it’s wise for women to get into the cars of men they don’t know?” Bobbie shot him a disbelieving look.

“Right, good point.” Matt pointed down the road. “Just drive straight for about fifteen minutes. It’s on the right. You can’t miss it. It’s the largest building in town.”

“Did Paxon come to you about him testing the lake water?” Bobbie glanced over at him.

“Yes, he did. He was quite determined to stop the pollution.”

“Why did you give him a chance?” Bobbie watched the road as she rolled past thick clumps of trees that gave way to brief views of the large lake. “Everyone else around here seems convinced that no one should have anything to do with Paxon. So, why did you listen to him?”

“Because I knew he was right. But the samples that were sent out-of-state to be analyzed came back clear. So, no one was willing to do any more testing. Paxon insisted he would get the supplies and do the analysis himself. He was certain that someone had altered the results from the samples that were sent out. Or maybe the samples were never sent at all.” Matt shifted in his seat and looked in her direction. “He wanted to do something good for our community. He wanted to show he was a good person. He thought he could save the lake. That the damage could be reversed if ChemTree was forced to stop polluting it.”

“That doesn’t sound like a killer to me.”

“Many killers have done great things, Bobbie.” Matt cleared his throat as he looked back out through the windshield. “It’s coming up here on the right.”

“So, you worked with him, even though you thought he was involved in Sonny’s murder.” Bobbie turned into the large parking lot, found one of the only empty spaces, and parked. “I’m not buying that. You thought he was innocent.”

“Nothing about Paxon was innocent.” Matt opened the door and jumped down out of the truck. As his shoes hit the ground, he turned back to look at her. “But no, I don’t think he killed Sonny.”

Bobbie rounded the front of the truck to meet him on the narrow sidewalk that led up to the building. “So, who do you think killed Sonny? Drake?”

“I don’t have any evidence to prove anything.” Matt kept his gaze focused straight ahead as they reached the building. “I can get you in to talk to Colton, but be prepared that it won’t be a friendly conversation. He and I butted heads a few times while I was working on a story about the factory, and we didn’t exactly end on good terms.”

“If that’s the case, then why would he let you in? I might be better off going in on my own.”

“We have an agreement. I won’t publish articles attacking his factory as long as he gives me access to it and answers my questions.”

“Why would you strike that kind of deal with a man who you believe is polluting the lake?” Bobbie narrowed her eyes.

“I can’t prove any of my suspicions. I’ve tried to find anything that will shut this place down, but I can’t. So, even if I published an article every day about this, not that my boss would approve, because he has a thing about actually producing verifiable information, it wouldn’t make a difference. Words alone aren’t going to shut this huge company down. But Colton didn’t know that. So, I threatened to do exactly what you suggested and attack his company every chance I could unless he gave me access to the factory and himself to ask questions. He agreed to give me that access because his public image is more important to him than having to deal with me. And since he keeps the factory squeaky clean and is a professional liar, he thinks that there’s no risk to him by giving me access. But to me, it’s the only chance I’ve got of ever making a difference.”

“Oh.” Bobbie stared into his eyes as admiration surfaced within her. “That’s actually really smart.”

“You think I’m tough, and smart?” Matt’s lips curled into a warm smile. “I’ll take that. Now, do you want to go speak with Colton or not?”

“Yes, I’d like to hear what he has to say.”

As they walked through the door, a burly security guard strode toward them. “Matt, what are you doing here?” He adjusted his belt as he glanced over at Bobbie, then looked back at Matt again. “And you brought a guest?”

“I just need to see Colton. I’m sure he’s around. Just let him know I’m here and I need to talk to him, please,” Matt said.

“He’s not going to want to talk to you.” The guard raised his bushy eyebrows.

“Bruce, just tell him I’m here. He’ll see me.” Matt glanced over at Bobbie and offered her a reassuring nod.

“All right, it’s your funeral.” Bruce walked over to the security desk. He picked up a phone, spoke into it, then pointed to a small office off to the side of the main hallway entrance. “You two can wait in there.”

“I’m supposed to have access to the factory. You know that,” Matt said.

“You are, not you and whoever this is. Just do as you’re told for once.” Bruce sank down in the chair behind his desk and picked up a magazine.

Matt led the way into the small office.

CHAPTER 12

Despite the office being small, it lacked nothing in opulence. The stark white walls appeared to have never had any dust on them, and the cushions of the plush chairs were spotless. Large, framed photographs decorated each wall, each one featuring a different aspect of the factory and how it benefited the local community. Bobbie walked over to one of them and studied the smiling faces of the factory workers featured in it. Were they locals? Did they know what they were doing to their town?

Bobbie pushed away the thought as the office door swung open, and a tall, lanky man strode inside. He wore a white lab coat that hung to his knees and a name tag with the name “Colton Crenshaw” in bold, bright green letters.

“What is the meaning of this?” Colton leveled his gaze on Matt. “I was in the middle of something.”

“As you know, there’s a lot going on in town right now, since Paxon’s murder.” Matt clasped his hands behind his back as he faced the man who towered over him by almost a foot.

“Yes, I heard about that. Tragic, I suppose.” Colton shrugged. “What does that have to do with me?”

“That’s what we’re here to find out.” Bobbie spoke up, despite the fact he hadn’t even acknowledged her presence.

“And you are?” Colton’s nostrils flared as his lips tightened.

“She’s just a friend of mine.” Matt interrupted before she could respond. “But I do want to know, had you been in touch with Paxon?”

“Of course not. Why would I have any reason to be in touch with a criminal?” Colton glanced at his watch. “You need to get to the point. I have a lot to do.”

“We know Paxon had something on your company polluting the lake.” Bobbie took a step closer to him.

“Oh, do you now?” Colton glared straight at Bobbie. “I highly doubt that. If he’d had something on me, he would have used it.”

“Maybe he would have if he had the chance.” Bobbie narrowed her eyes.

“What does that mean? What exactly are you accusing me of?” Colton’s voice remained even, but his reddened face transformed him from a lanky businessman into something far more intimidating.

“I’m not accusing. I’m just trying to get to the truth.” Bobbie’s heart raced as she tried to sound more confident than she felt.

“The truth is I’ve got nothing to hide. So, this conversation is pointless. Bruce!” Colton’s voice bellowed through the still open office door. “Escort them off the property immediately.” He turned to face the security guard as he entered the room. “They’re no longer welcome here.” He spun back to look at Matt. “As for you, our deal is off. Print whatever you want. I know you have nothing on me.” He turned and strode out of the office.

“All right, let’s go.” Bruce gestured for them to follow him out of the building. “Please, don’t make this harder than it has to be.”

Bobbie held up her hands as she walked past Bruce toward the door.

Matt followed her. He pushed the door open for her, then stepped outside. The moment the door swung shut, he caught up to her and stepped in front, blocking her path. “What were you thinking, speaking to him like that?”

“What?” Bobbie raised her eyebrows. “He’s a possible murderer, and he’s poisoning an entire town. Forgive me if I don’t rush to suck up to him.”

“Do you even realize what you just did?” Matt rubbed his fingertips along his temples. “You’ve cut off all my access to Colton and the factory. That was my only in. Now, I have nothing.”

“What good was it anyway? He was never going to let you see the truth.”

“It was something. I might have found out something. Now there’s no chance. I need to clear my head.” Matt gave her a dismissive wave as he began walking in the opposite direction across the parking lot.

“Matt, wait. I’m your ride.” Bobbie started to follow him.

“It’s okay. I could use the walk.” Matt continued to walk away.

Bobbie looked back at the glass door of the building and saw Bruce standing in the doorway.

Her heart sank as she realized she’d upset Matt, and it hadn’t gotten her any closer to the truth.

As Bobbie drove back toward her cottage, she wondered if she’d made an enemy out of Matt. She definitely hadn’t intended to, but she was certain that she had. She needed to find a way to fix things. She turned into her driveway and parked, then closed her eyes and tried to make sense of everything that had just happened.

A loud bark made her eyes fly open.

She saw a curly-haired dog pull at the end of a leash in an attempt to get to her truck.

“Bailey?” Bobbie gasped as she climbed down out of the truck and looked up at Rachael who held the other end of the leash.

“He’s so happy to see you. Believe me, he wasn’t that happy to see me.” Rachael laughed as Bobbie crouched down and ruffled Bailey’s coat.

“He’s just who I needed to see.” Bobbie grinned as he licked her cheeks. “But I don’t understand. What’s he doing here? Did you adopt him?”

“Not exactly. I pulled some strings to get him approved for fostering.” Rachael looked into her eyes. “I was hoping that you would do the honor.”

“Me?” Pure joy burst through Bobbie. “Rachael, I would love to, but I’ll need to get some things. I don’t have anything for him.”

“Don’t worry. My mom ordered that Paxon’s house be cleaned out entirely due to the hidden cubby we found. When I realized all Bailey’s things were going to be tossed out, I brought them over here. You’ll have everything you need, and the animal shelter will help you with the rest. It’s better that he’s here than at the shelter, isn’t it?” Rachael smiled as she pet the dog as well.

“Way better.” Bobbie hugged Bailey and looked up at Rachael. “Why did you decide to get him for me?”

“Well, I figured you wouldn’t want to live alone, given everything that’s happening. And now you won’t be alone, and neither will Bailey.” Rachael’s smile faded some. “If you don’t want to keep him, it’s okay. I can find someone else to take him.”

“No, this is perfect.” Bobbie gave Bailey another hug. “What do you think, Bailey? Do you want to stay with me?”

Bailey licked her cheek.

“I’ll take that as a yes.” Bobbie grinned. “Now, if only I could make some sense of what’s happening in this town, I might be able to solve Paxon’s murder.”

“What are you trying to make sense of?” Rachael followed her into the house.

Bobbie filled her in on her encounter with Colton and Matt.

“Oh, Matt, he’s from out of town. To be fair, he’s lived here for almost ten years. But still...” Rachael smiled. “Don’t worry about him too much. He’s always after a story. As for ChemTree—” She winced as she sat down on the couch. “That’s going to be a hard thing to prove.”

While Rachael gave Bobbie the history of the company with the town, Bobbie set up her laptop in one corner of the living room, where she’d put a small foldable table and chair she’d brought with her. As she sat down on the chair in front of the computer, the flash drive fell out of her pocket.

“Do you think there’s any chance that no one ever sent those water or soil samples to be tested and just faked the results?” Bobbie picked up the flash drive. She glanced over at Rachael. She knew if she tried to hide the drive, it would bring more attention to it, so she tried to act casual and slid it into her computer.

“Anything is possible. I’d like to think it’s not the case, but I can’t say that for sure.” Rachael stood up and walked over. “What do you have there?”

“Oh, nothing. Just something I came across.” Bobbie looked up at her, hoping she believed her.

“All right, well, I have to get to work. If you need anything, feel free to call. It’s usually pretty quiet at the bar on Wednesday nights, but with everything going on right now, it might be busier than I expect.”

“I still need to come check the place out. But I think tonight I’ll work on getting Bailey settled in.” Bobbie’s stomach abruptly rumbled. “And getting myself something to eat.”

“Bailey is pretty good on his own, but you can order takeout from Scotty’s. We have a kitchen. Just pop in, pick it up, and you’ll be on your way.” Rachael grinned. “And I’ll make sure you get extra.”

“Thanks.” Bobbie leaned over to give her a quick hug.

Rachael hugged her in return and spoke just beside her ear. “And whenever you’re ready to tell me what’s on that flash drive, I’m all ears.”

CHAPTER 13

Rachael left the house before Bobbie could muster up a reasonable reply. She didn’t want her only friend in town thinking she was keeping things from her. But at the same time, Rachael’s mother had a big hand in how the town was run, and a part of Bobbie wondered if she might have a hand in the cover-up she suspected was happening with ChemTree, and possibly the cover-up of Paxon’s murder. She couldn’t risk Rachael revealing any of the information to her mother. She wasn’t sure what it would be like working with Matt after she’d upset him but she needed extra money. After quickly filling out an application for a job at the newspaper, Bobbie’s attention returned to the drive.

When Bobbie clicked on the icon for the flash drive to open it, a password request popped up. She sighed as she sank back in her chair. But then a wave of determination washed over her. She was going to do what she could to try and find out what was on the drive. She leaned forward and started entering possible passwords based on what she could find online about Paxon, which wasn’t much.

After a few minutes of trying unsuccessfully to figure out Paxon’s password, Bobbie gave in to the hunger pangs. She hadn’t had a decent meal since she’d arrived, and she needed to change that if she wanted to keep her mind sharp.

She placed an order with Scotty’s, fed Bailey, took him outside for a bit, and made sure he had ample water. “I hate to leave you, buddy, but I promise you’ll get some scraps.” She rubbed his coat, before he trotted over to his bed.

Bobbie smiled to herself as she watched him. She’d never owned a pet before, aside from the birds and squirrels she tried to adopt by feeding them. Uncle Jimmy always said he had enough trouble keeping them both alive, he didn’t need anything else to worry about. Those words had always annoyed her, but as she drove to Scotty’s, she wondered about them. She’d always thought it was just an excuse not to get a pet, but could he actually have been worried about their safety? She didn’t believe that he could have lied to her for no reason. There had to be something in their past that made him think lying to her was the better choice. But what?

Bobbie recalled Matt asking her why she’d returned to town. She felt as if he knew something even though he was trying to brush it off. Unfortunately, she’d probably burned that bridge and might never find out the truth. But what could he know? She’d searched numerous times, and aside from her parents being killed in a car accident nearby, and possibly the cottage, she couldn’t find any link to her past in Newfield or anywhere else.

Bobbie parked in front of Scotty’s and stepped inside.

Rachael waved to her with a bright smile. “Your order’s coming up right now. I made sure they gave you more than double, so there’s extra for you and some for Bailey. Trust me, it’s so good, you’ll want more than you ordered. I’ll go grab it for you.”

“Thank you.” Bobbie looked around the bar. The dim lighting revealed that only a handful of people were perched on barstools and scattered at tables around the small space. One man sat at the end of the bar with a deck of cards in his hands.

Bobbie watched as he shuffled them. When she looked up at his face, she recognized him as the man who’d gotten into an argument with Junior earlier that day.

“Roy, right?” Bobbie sat down beside him at the bar.

“Do I know you?” Roy glanced at her, then looked right back down at his cards.

“No. I’m Bobbie. I’m new in town. But I saw you earlier today at the shop on the corner. You seemed pretty upset.”

“I was.”

“About your brother, Drake? Have you seen him?”

“How would I see my brother?” Roy glared at her. “He’s dead.”

“Oh, it’s just that I heard he might have been seen in town.”

“Right, is that what you’ve heard?” Roy continued shuffling the cards as he shifted toward her on the barstool. “My big brother is wandering around this town?”

“Yes.” Bobbie watched the way he was able to shuffle the cards without ever looking at them, in a smooth, swift motion that created a sharp slicing sound. “There are rumors that he came back to kill Paxon.”

Roy abruptly smacked the deck of cards down on the bar.

Bobbie jumped at the sound and immediately met his eyes to assess just how angry he was.

“Drake loved Paxon. They were more like brothers than Drake and I ever were. He would never kill Paxon.” Heat darkened Roy’s gaze.

“But the theory was that Paxon killed Drake, right?” Bobbie asked.

“And the other theory is that Drake isn’t dead at all, right?” Roy smirked. Bobbie noticed his sudden shift in demeanor. “If you believe everything that everyone says around here, you’ll end up with a flea circus and an island in Nevada.”

“I get your point.” Bobbie leaned closer to him. “So, what do you think? He’s your brother. I doubt he’d be in town without telling you.”

“My brother is dead.” Roy tapped the deck of cards beside him. “He’s been dead for a while now. I gave up hope of ever finding his body, or figuring out what happened to him. But I know he’s dead. If he wasn’t, he would have contacted me. Now, Paxon is dead, too, and we’ll probably never know why.” He glanced back up at her. “I’ve come to terms with that. Maybe you should, too.”

“I’m sorry, but I can’t. I was just next door when he was killed. I’d spoken to him just a short time before. I need to know what happened to him.”

“Maybe you never will.” Roy snatched up the cards and slipped them into the front pocket of his button-down denim top. “Just because you want things to be a certain way doesn’t make them a certain way.”

“Maybe that’s because you won’t help me.” Bobbie watched him stand up from the barstool. “Are you telling me that you don’t know anyone who might have wanted Paxon dead? If he and Drake were so close, didn’t you ever talk with him after Drake went missing?”

“Paxon was accused of a crime, and although I don’t think that he killed my brother, that crime is probably the reason that Drake is dead. I doubt they committed the robbery at all, but if they did, I’m absolutely certain that Drake wouldn’t have been involved in any kind of armed robbery without Paxon talking him into it. So, maybe he didn’t kill my brother, but I didn’t want to be his best buddy, either. If you’re wondering who might have killed Paxon, maybe you should check out Sonny’s son.” Roy’s upper lip curled. “All he does is talk about how horrible Drake and Paxon were for what they did to his father.”

“The son of the grocery store manager who was killed? You think he might have killed Paxon for revenge?”

“I didn’t say that. I just said that you might want to check him out.” Roy’s eyes lingered on hers for a moment. “I don’t know why you moved here, but you might want to turn around and leave while you can. This place sucks you in and sucks you dry.” He strode out the door of the bar without another word.

“Well, isn’t he a ray of sunshine?” Rachael set a paper bag down on the bar in front of Bobbie. “I hope he didn’t give you a hard time. Roy always has something to fight about.”

“I guess losing his brother could explain that.” Bobbie glanced over at Rachael. “Do you think Drake is back in town? Roy seems to think that it’s impossible and he’s definitely dead.”

“I would have said no way, yesterday, but after Paxon was killed, it does make sense. Maybe Drake came back and wanted him dead,” Rachael suggested.

“Why would Drake want him dead, though? If Drake is alive and took off with the money, that means he left Paxon with nothing. Why would Drake want to kill Paxon? I would think it would be the other way round.”

“Maybe it was. Maybe Drake and Paxon had an argument, and Paxon pulled a gun, but Drake got the better of him.” Rachael glanced at a customer farther down the bar. “I have to check on him, but if you hang out here, we can talk about it more.”

“Thanks, but I think I need to talk to Sonny’s son. Do you know where he lives?” Bobbie pulled out her phone to look up the address.

“Why would you bother him?” Rachael’s tone hardened. “It might have been years ago but they’re still grieving. Sonny’s wife, Vera, and their kids, Patrick and Lisa, are still devastated.”

“I just want to get an idea of whether Patrick might have been involved in this. I mean, that would make more sense than Drake rising from the dead, wouldn’t it?” Bobbie held her gaze. “Please? Do you have the address?”

“All right, fine.” Rachael sighed. “But tread very carefully. Patrick still lives with his mom, and if this gets back to Chief Cullin, he’ll be furious that anyone disturbed the family.”

“I promise I’m not going to cause any trouble.” Bobbie typed in the address that Rachael gave her.

“Right, the same way you didn’t cause Matt any trouble?” Rachael smiled as she hurried off to take care of the customer.

Bobbie left the bar with her stomach rumbling from the mouthwatering smells that came from the bag she carried. Although she wanted to eat, she focused on getting to Sonny’s son first. She needed to get an idea of whether he might be involved. Luckily, the house was only a short distance away.

CHAPTER 14

Bobbie parked in front of Sonny’s family’s house and looked over the yard, which was neat and tidy, just like the houses around it.

She stepped out of her truck and walked up the narrow path to the front door of the small cottage. She noticed the threadbare curtains in the window. They fluttered, as if someone had just been peering through them. She started to knock, but her hand froze midair as she spotted something on the doorframe. She read the letters that had been carved into the painted wood and recently painted over. She trailed her fingertips across each one.

“Sonny and family.” Bobbie smiled to herself as she imagined the young man standing in front of his just purchased home, carving something that he had no idea his family would come to treasure so much after he was gone that they didn’t sand down the wood before painting it.

“Can I help you?” A woman who appeared to be in her fifties opened the door. Her long, dark brown hair had been wound into a loose braid that hung over her thin shoulder and seemed to be almost as long as she was tall.

“I’m sorry. I was going to knock, but I noticed this.” Bobbie gestured to the carving.

“Oh, yes.” She grinned as she peered at it. “I was so angry at Sonny when he did that. Livid! I wanted to chase him down the street, I was so mad. But now I love that it’s there.” She gazed at her with a puzzled expression. “Do I know you? You look a little familiar.”

“No, I just moved here. I’m so sorry to intrude. I don’t want to upset you, but I came here to find out a little more about your husband. I’m so sorry for your loss.” Bobbie felt the woman’s demeanor shift as her eyes narrowed and her lips pursed.

“A reporter, then? I figured you’d come out of the woodwork again, with Paxon dead.” Vera shook her head. “Like vultures.”

“I’m not a reporter.” Bobbie offered an apologetic smile. “I’m a writer. And I guess that’s what’s made me so determined to unravel what happened to Paxon. He was my neighbor for a few hours before he was killed.”

“Good riddance to that piece of garbage.” Vera scowled, any trace of the kind smile she’d once worn was wiped from her face. “He finally got what he deserved. I don’t have anything else to say about it. Now, get off my property!”

“What’s going on?” A voice behind Bobbie startled her.

Bobbie turned to see a woman who looked about her age, maybe a few years older, with short black hair and hazel eyes, walking up the driveway toward them.

Bobbie recognized the striking resemblance to a picture she’d seen of Sonny.

“Mom? What’s wrong?” a male voice called out from inside the house.

“It’s nothing, just someone being nosy. Come inside, Lisa.” Vera waved her daughter inside, then started to close the door as she stepped through.

“Please, wait. I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you, really. I’ve just lost someone dear to me, my uncle who raised me. I just mean, I know what grief feels like.” Bobbie tried to meet Vera’s eyes.

“Do you?” Vera threw the door back open, her eyes wild with a mixture of fury and despair as her daughter grabbed on to her hand. “Do you know what it’s like when someone steals your husband’s life away? He didn’t just die. Paxon or Drake, one of them no-good boys who were always causing trouble around here, they just pulled the trigger and stole him from me, and our children. Like it was nothing. And then, never even admitted to it, leaving no one punished for the crime. No closure for us.” She shook her head as she glared at her. “No, I don’t think you know what that feels like. Like I said, get off my property!” She turned and stormed away from the door.

“Yes, everybody needs to leave us alone.” Lisa’s voice wavered as she hurried after her mother. “It’s okay, Mom.”

A young man stepped into the doorway and gazed out at Bobbie with a frown. He had his mother’s eyes, and a shock of red hair. “I’m sorry about my mother and sister. My father’s death is still a very sensitive subject.”

“No, I’m the one who should be sorry.” Bobbie searched his eyes as she wondered if this docile, slender young man could be a murderer. “I really didn’t intend to upset them.”

“I’m sure you didn’t.” He offered his hand. “I’m Patrick.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Patrick. I’m Bobbie.” She shook his hand and detected a clamminess that surprised her. As she released it, she studied his expression. “Are you doing okay with everything that’s happened?”

“You mean with Paxon being dead?” Patrick nodded as a slow smile spread across his lips. “Yes, I’m fine with that. It might not be justice, but it’s some form of peace.”

“As I was telling your mother, I recently lost the man who raised me. He was like a father to me.” Bobbie cleared her throat. “I know losing him to illness isn’t the same thing as losing someone to violence, but it was still so terrible.”

“It is. It was shocking to think that someone took him from me, just because they were greedy and wanted money.” Patrick’s jaw clenched. “I promised myself I would never be like that. I would never put anything above the value of a life.”

In the back of Bobbie’s mind, she heard Rachael’s voice warning her about Chief Cullin, yet her mouth continued to move.

“Even revenge?” Bobbie locked her eyes to his.

Patrick’s smile faded into a dark chuckle as he looked away from her. “I knew that was why you came here. You just want to know if I killed Paxon, right?”

“You do have plenty of reason to have wanted to.” Bobbie’s tone softened as she read the hardness in his gaze.

“Like I said, when my father was killed, I learned the value of a life. I hated Paxon, sure, but I didn’t want him dead. I wanted him behind bars for the crime he committed. That’s justice. Not murdering someone in their living room. He wouldn’t suffer for what he did, then.” Patrick shook his head as he turned away. “Don’t come here again. My mother and sister can’t take it.”

Bobbie muttered a quick apology as he walked away. She turned back toward her truck with an uneasy feeling. Something felt wrong. It wasn’t until she started the engine that she realized what it was. Patrick had claimed he didn’t kill Paxon, but he knew exactly what part of his house he’d been killed in. How would he know that if he hadn’t been there? Could it already be public knowledge? She doubted it, but she couldn’t be sure.

After a few minutes of driving, Bobbie turned into the plaza that housed the newspaper office. She parked in front of its plain exterior and walked up to the door. With a firm tug, the door swung open.

Matt looked up at her from his desk in the back corner, his eyes wide, his lips curled in shock, before they straightened into a hard line.

“Surprise, I brought dinner!” Bobbie held up the bag as she smiled.

CHAPTER 15

“What are you doing here?” Matt watched with suspicion as Bobbie approached his desk.

“We both have to eat, right?” Bobbie shrugged as she pulled a chair away from an empty desk and positioned it in front of his. She dropped the bag of food onto his desk, relieved that Rachael had given her a lot extra, and looked into his eyes as she smiled again. “I hope you like fried and tasty, because that’s what I got.”

“From Scotty’s?” Matt’s expression briefly softened as he gazed at the bag before he looked back up at her. “No, you shouldn’t be here.”

“Don’t be dramatic.” Bobbie sat down in the chair and settled her purse in her lap. “I said sorry, didn’t I?”

“Did you?” Matt narrowed his eyes.

“I’m pretty sure I did.” Bobbie tried to ignore her racing heartbeat. If she wanted to solve this murder, she needed his help. If she wanted to find out about her past, it seemed as if he was her best hope. “But if I didn’t, let me do it again.” She cleared her throat. “Matt, please forgive me for⁠—”

“What’s going on?” a gravelly voice called out.

“Larry, she’s here to talk to me.” Matt shot to his feet.

The older man watched as Bobbie turned around to face him. “Oh, Bobbie.” He smiled. “I’m Larry. I run this place.”

“You paid for my coffee. Thanks again.” Bobbie returned his smile. “I hope you don’t mind. Matt has been so nice to me, I just wanted to repay him with dinner. Is that against the rules?”

“No. Not that it would matter.” Larry cut his gaze sharply in Matt’s direction. “Matt’s not a big follower of rules.”

Bobbie raised her eyebrows as she glanced back at Matt.

“I guess this means you’re working late again?” Larry checked his watch, then looked up at Matt.

“I guess.” Matt sank back down into his chair.

“Just make sure you lock up. And if I get one more complaint about you, we’re going to have to have a talk.” Larry turned and walked off toward the exit.

“Not a rule follower, huh?” Bobbie grinned. “Could have fooled me.”

“Bobbie, what exactly are you doing here?” Matt ripped open the paper bag and took a deep breath of the aromas that spilled out of it. “Because I know it isn’t to bring me dinner, or apologize to me. You want something.”

“It can be all those things, can’t it?” Bobbie began divvying up the food, relieved that it still felt warm. “I really am sorry. I can get a little wound up.” She opened up a package of cheese fries. “Or as my uncle would have said, I’m a loose cannon.”

“I’d agree with that.” Matt opened his own fries, along with a cheeseburger. “Oh wow, this looks great. I have to admit, I’m pretty hungry.”

“Me, too,” Bobbie mumbled around a mouthful of fries. “Oh no, I didn’t get any drinks.”

“No worries.” Matt popped open the bottom drawer of his filing cabinet and produced two bottles of water. “I keep my own stash. Sorry, I don’t have anything else.”

“This is perfect. Thank you.” Bobbie cracked open the water bottle, then watched as he took a big bite of his burger. “So, do you forgive me?”

“For ruining my connection to the most important story I’ve ever investigated?” Matt chewed for a moment, then shook his head. “No.”

“All right, fine. But will you help me, please?” Bobbie slid the flash drive out of her pocket and pushed it across the desk toward him. “I don’t know who to trust around here. But it seems to me that Paxon trusted you, and this thing is of no use to me if I can’t get into it. It has a password.”

“Where did you find this?” Matt set his burger down, wiped his hands on a napkin, then picked up the drive.

“It was hidden in Paxon’s pantry. He went to a lot of trouble to make sure it wasn’t found.” Bobbie watched as he slid it into his computer.

“The police couldn’t break into it?” Matt stared at the computer. Her silence made him look up at her. “Bobbie?”

Bobbie winced.

“You didn’t give it to the police?” Matt asked incredulously.

“Like I said, I’m not exactly sure who to trust around here. It seems pretty clear that whoever sent those samples out to a lab to get tested either didn’t send them at all, or changed the results. How do I know the police aren’t involved in the cover-up, too?” Bobbie held his gaze as her heart skipped a beat. “How do I know I can trust you?”

Matt gazed back at her, and the faint animosity that had been lingering in his eyes faded into warmth as his lips curved into a slow smile. “You do trust me, don’t you? Otherwise you wouldn’t have bothered to come back here and ask for my help. Your instincts are telling you that you can. Those are good instincts.” He turned back to the computer. “All right, let me try a few things. Paxon and I didn’t exactly hang out, but I know enough about him to have some ideas.” His fingers flew across the keyboard.

Bobbie ate her cheeseburger as Matt tried to find the password. She had no reason to trust him, and yet as she sat across from him, working through the most delicious food she’d tasted in a long time, she felt that she could. She hoped she wasn’t wrong to.

“I’ve got nothing.” Matt sighed as he sat back against his chair.

“That’s it?” Bobbie’s voice rose slightly. “Don’t you have some way around it or something?”

“You think I’m a hacker?” Matt grinned as he looked over at her. “I’m not that interesting.”

“Ugh, we have to get into it.” Bobbie stood up and rounded the desk. She leaned over him as she peered at the computer. “What would Paxon hold sacred?” She hesitated, then leaned farther across him to reach the keyboard.

Matt backed up as far as he could in his chair before the back of it hit the wall.

“Let’s try Drake, again. They were good friends, right?” Bobbie typed in the name with a few different combinations of numbers, including Paxon and Drake’s birthdates, which Matt gave to her. “Nothing.” She groaned.

“Listen, let’s just leave it for tomorrow. We’ll have clearer heads then. I can do some research into Paxon tonight. Maybe it’s an old address, or a pet he had when he was a kid.”

“A pet! How could I not think of that?” Bobbie gasped as she lunged for the keyboard again. In her enthusiasm, she slipped forward a little too far and started to lose her balance.

Matt grabbed her around the waist to steady her before she would have ended up in his lap.

“Oops, sorry.” Bobbie froze at his touch that had caused butterflies in her stomach and looked at him through the dark curls that curtained her face.

Matt released her as he stood up from his chair. “Here, why don’t you sit.” He slid the chair toward her.

“Thank you.” Bobbie pushed aside the feelings she was having for Matt and settled in the chair.

CHAPTER 16

Eager to focus on opening the flash drive, Bobbie slid the keyboard closer to her.

“Bailey.” She typed the dog’s name, then sighed as the password was rejected. “I really thought that would be it.”

“Bailey wouldn’t satisfy most password requirements.”

“Oh, you’re right. Let’s try a few numbers.” Bobbie began typing in a variety of numbers after Bailey’s name. After several tries, her shoulders slumped. “Maybe you’re right. Maybe this is pointless.”

“You don’t strike me as someone who gives up very easily.” Matt rested one hand on her shoulder as he peered at the computer. “Try a few more, then we’ll call it a night.”

“Okay, let me see. Maybe the numbers come first. Rachael said Bailey was three. Let’s try what his birth year might be and his name.” Bobbie typed in the four numbers, then Bailey’s name. An instant later, a file list popped up on the screen. “What?” She gasped as she bolted up out of the chair, nearly knocking over Matt who’d leaned in to take a closer look at the screen.

Matt chuckled as he avoided her unintentional headbutt. “I have to be careful around you.”

“I’m guessing I could say the same about you.” Bobbie looked up at him and immediately found the pride in his eyes to be yet another reason to smile at him.

“You did it.” Matt rubbed her shoulder and continued to look through the files. “Let’s get into these. Maybe there’s something I can use to finally blow Colton out of the water.”

“I guess you want your chair back?” Bobbie stood up and slid it over to him.

“That’s all right. You sit. I’ll grab another one. We can look at it together.” Matt pulled a chair over beside her and sat down in it. “Paxon wanted to meet with me, but he was killed before we could. I wonder if this is what he wanted to tell me about.”

As they looked through the files and finished the remainder of their meals, Bobbie couldn’t help but notice just how close he was to her. The warmth of his body heat, and the faint scent of his cologne made it hard for her to focus on the files that he opened. Which didn’t matter too much, because they mostly contained scientific terms that she didn’t have a grasp on.

“These are the results from the tests he’d been running, and they’re really troubling. He’d told me about some of the results, but it looks like he’d done a lot more testing since we last spoke.” Matt opened another file. “It looks like he was about ready to submit all this to an outside lab. See how he has every test result listed here with the date and time of the collection?” He pointed to the list. “This is a document he was ready to send.”

“And that’s what got him killed.” Bobbie sighed as she looked it over. “At least, it might have been.”

“You have some other theories? I’m going to print this.” Matt stood up and walked over to the printer.

“Well, there’s no shortage of people who might have wanted him dead since he was held responsible for the death of a well-loved member of the community. I had a conversation with Drake’s brother, Roy, and although he claims he doesn’t think that Drake is still alive, a lot of rumors are being passed around that he was spotted in town. Then there’s Patrick and Lisa, Sonny’s kids, who definitely have a reason to want revenge. Not to mention their mother.” Bobbie winced.

“Ah, you met the family.” Matt nodded as a smile crossed his lips. “I can see why you would suspect them. But they had all this time to kill Paxon, a couple of years, so why wait until now? I’ve heard the rumors about Drake being in town, too, but until I see him myself, I don’t believe it. I worked really hard trying to find him. I thought it would be a big story if I could either prove that he was alive, or dead. But his trail went absolutely icy. Which to me means he’s definitely dead.”

“Roy seems to think that as well. He also didn’t think that Drake would kill Paxon, even if he was still alive. He said they were like brothers.” Bobbie watched as he carried the papers he’d printed back over to his desk. “So, I think Colton is really our best suspect. He had the most to lose if all this came to light. Obviously Paxon was pretty scared of him, to go to all the trouble of hiding all this so well.”

Matt sat down on the edge of the desk beside her and read over the papers. “Yes, he was.”

“But not you?” Bobbie waited until he looked up at her, then continued. “You don’t seem scared of him at all.”

“I don’t scare easily.” Matt gazed back at her, his lips caught in a light smile. “People like that think they have all the power to get away with anything, but all it takes is one good journalist to change everything.” His smile spread wider. “Or in this case, one good writer. You cracked the password. We wouldn’t have any of this without you. You’re right to want a job here. You have great instincts, and a level of determination that’s pretty rare. I’ll see what I can do about getting Larry to hire you. But keep in mind, the pay is low, and Larry isn’t the easiest person to work for.”

“I noticed that he seems to have a bit of an edge to him.” Bobbie shrugged. “Or maybe it’s just him being from a different generation.”

“Oh, he’s definitely old school. But I would have faith in those great instincts of yours.” Matt pulled the drive from the computer and handed it back to her. “I copied all the files. But I think you know what you need to do with this.”

“Turn it in to the police?” Bobbie crossed her arms. “I thought you weren’t a rule follower?”

“I’m not. But I also know that evidence is important if we want to actually stop this company from poisoning our town. Without this evidence, the police will have nothing to go on. If we can prove that Colton is knowingly dumping chemicals into the lake, that’s a criminal act. Not only can his company be shut down, but he could do jail time himself. That’s why we have to make sure that we do everything we can, by the book.” Matt pressed the drive into her hand. “Just turn it in. It’ll be fine.”

“Why don’t you?” Bobbie offered it back to him.

Matt winced. “Let’s just say Kate and I don’t see eye to eye on quite a few things. I think she’ll take it a lot better coming from you.”

“Oh, so you’re not scared of Colton, but you are scared of Kate?” Bobbie stood up from the chair as she laughed. “I thought you don’t scare easily?”

Matt’s expression remained serious as he looked into her eyes. “Colton is one thing. Kate is an entirely different story.”

“Interesting.” Bobbie studied him for a long moment before she turned away. “I’ll turn it in to her, but I doubt it will go well. It’s going to have to wait until tomorrow, though.” She started toward the door.

“Why tomorrow?” Matt called after her.

“I have to go home and feed my dog.” Bobbie tossed a smile over her shoulder at him.

“You have a dog?” Matt kicked his feet up on the desk as he watched her stop by the door.

“Bailey. Maybe he’ll scare away any intruders.”

“You’ll need more than a goldendoodle for that. He’s more likely to lick the intruder’s hands than scare them off.”

“Don’t tell me that.” Bobbie laughed. “I’m using my safety as an excuse to take on a pet I’m nowhere near ready to have, in a house I’ve barely settled into.”

“I’m sure you’ll do a great job.” Matt smiled. “He’s a very lucky dog.”

Matt’s words followed Bobbie out the door. They brought a smile to her lips. Maybe she and Bailey were meant to be together.

CHAPTER 17

When Bobbie arrived at home, every muscle in her body was sore and she was ready to relax. She shut the door behind her and turned the lock. For a moment, she lingered by the door and closed her eyes. She thought back to the way Matt looked at her, his closeness, and the irritating sensations his touch left behind. None of that was part of the plan when moving to Newfield. Her intention had been to settle in, work through her grief, and finally write that novel. But so far, she hadn’t typed a single word. The idea that she might get to work as a reporter sent a jolt of excitement through her, but the thought of working side by side with Matt left her nervous.

“He doesn’t even like me. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if he still holds some resentment toward me after I lost his connection with Colton,” Bobbie muttered the words as she reached her arms out to Bailey who jumped up to greet her. She ruffled his curly hair and looked into his deep-brown eyes. “Aw, Bailey, it’s good to see you.” She attached his leash and took him out into the front yard. She realized now that she had a dog, she would have to clean up the backyard.

When they walked back into the cottage, Bobbie opened the bag of leftovers and smiled as Bailey stuck his whole head inside. “All right, hold on, you can’t eat out of the bag.” She walked over to his bowl and put the leftovers inside. She filled up his water, then trudged through the pile of boxes in the hallway to reach the bathroom. She hoped a shower would help reset her mind, and maybe, just maybe, write a sentence or two.

As Bobbie turned on the water and pulled back the curtain, her heart lurched. For a split second, she saw those bright blue eyes looking in her direction.

“It’s just a shadow. You have seriously lost your mind.” Bobbie shook her head, then recalled that she’d missed observing the class that Kyle had invited her to. “Maybe I can pop by tomorrow.”

Bobbie wasn’t sure how it would feel to train with someone who wasn’t Uncle Jimmy, but she knew she wanted to try. She didn’t want to be afraid of anything or anyone. She stepped under the hot water, closed her eyes, and tried to wash away every confusing experience she’d had since she’d arrived. Her mind traveled back to Matt’s comment about Kate. He claimed to be scared of her. But why? She’d been nothing but nice to Bobbie. Sure, she had a tough edge, but didn’t all cops to an extent?

As Bobbie got out of the shower and pulled on a long T-shirt to sleep in, she again considered whether she should just hang everything up and find somewhere new to go.

But where? She had no one to turn to, and no particular urge to explore the world. And, more importantly, she wanted to find out about her past. It looked like Uncle Jimmy had some connection to Newfield, and she wanted to know what it was.

Bobbie traced her fingertips along the doorframe of the bedroom she’d decided would be hers. There were only two to choose from. She remembered discovering Sonny’s carving on the doorframe of his home. Had her father ever done anything like that? Would her mother have been angry at him if he did? She had no idea. Bobbie could only remember glimpses and feelings of what they might have once been like. But she didn’t even know if they were real or imagined. She knew their deaths were the cause of the subtle ache in her stomach that she’d felt for most of her life.

Uncle Jimmy didn’t tell her much about her parents. She would ask, and he wouldn’t really reveal anything, instead changing the subject and being vague. She had no idea if she could believe what he did tell her about them, considering the lies he’d told her about himself. No matter how much research she did trying to find out more about her parents, she could find no trace of them aside from a record that they’d died in a car accident.

As Bobbie continued to run her fingertip along the painted wood, a chunk of spackle broke off into her palm. “Oh, great, now I’m ruining the place.” She looked over the spackle, then up at the hole it had been hiding.

She assessed its size and shape. It had to be from a large screw, right?

“It can’t be a bullet hole,” Bobbie mumbled to herself. Maybe the man who’d been taking pictures of her was the person who’d left the bullet hole behind? “You’re imagining things now.” She laughed.

Bobbie walked over to her computer. All this chaos would make for good content in her book, she was sure of it, if she just had enough energy to write it.

After about three paragraphs, she found herself sleep-typing about a topic that had nothing to do with the plot of her novel.

“All right, all right, it’s bedtime, Bailey.” Bobbie called the dog to her and took him outside.

As they walked back inside and to her bedroom, she did her best to avoid looking at the hole. She’d patch it up again, tomorrow, after she’d had some sleep.

As Bailey curled up beside her, Bobbie felt content and much safer. She felt sure he would let her know if someone tried to get into the house. At least, she hoped he would. She draped her arm around his warm, soft body and closed her eyes. She’d hoped for a lot when moving to Newfield, but never did she imagine a murdered neighbor, a goldendoodle, and a crush.

CHAPTER 18

Bobbie woke up the following morning to the sound of her doorbell ringing. She didn’t even know she had a doorbell. As she bolted up in bed, Bailey ran straight for the door with a few happy barks.

“Okay, maybe not a watchdog,” Bobbie mumbled as she swung her legs off the bed. She felt a little sore from unloading and unpacking boxes.

As the doorbell continued ringing, she tugged on a pair of pants and stumbled toward it. She glanced at the kitchen clock along the way and saw that it was only seven o’clock. She pulled open the door, curious and a little annoyed. “What is it?”

Rachael held out two cups of coffee and grinned. “Oh, no, is it too early? I wasn’t sure. I’m always up by five, but I didn’t want to get you up that early. I brought you coffee and bagels, and I fixed your doorbell.”

“Wow.” Bobbie’s mind spun as she tried to process Rachael’s words and peppy energy while still willing her own mind to wake up. “That’s a lot.”

“I know, right?” Rachael stepped inside. “Early bird and all that. I guess you’re not an early riser?”

“I do most of my writing after midnight.” Bobbie rubbed her eyes as she followed her into the kitchen. “But not last night. I was too tired. Thanks for fixing the doorbell.”

“You’re welcome. It was easy to do, and I was waiting for it to be seven before I knocked.” Rachael set the coffees down, along with a bag of bagels. “Are you hungry?”

“Absolutely. I’ll just be a minute. I want to get ready properly.” Bobbie hurried toward the bathroom, and after getting ready, met Rachael in the living room a few minutes later. She started to sit down, then saw Bailey scratching at the front door. “Oh, right, I have a dog now.” She grabbed his leash, hooked it on to his collar, then picked up her coffee.

“I’ll be out there in a second. I just want to check one of the bigger windows to see if I need to get different locks for them.” Rachael grabbed her own coffee.

As Bobbie walked Bailey around the front yard, she noticed a pair of women jogging toward her. She offered a mild wave with the hand that held the coffee as they started to run by.

“Oh, is that Bailey?” The younger of the two women slowed her pace, then began jogging in place right in front of the dog. “I wondered about what happened to him with Paxon dead.”

“Yeah, thanks to Roy.” The older woman rolled her eyes. “I’m telling you, nowhere’s safe anymore. You think you can just go for a jog in your neighborhood, but next thing you know, you might be tripping over a body. Isn’t that right, Julia?”

“What do you mean 'thanks to Roy'?” Bobbie held back a laugh as she watched Julia attempt to keep jogging in place while she gave Bailey a few pets.

“You haven’t heard?” Julia looked up at her with surprise. “I’d have thought everyone in town knew by now. Charlene, you heard it from Margaret at the bank, right?”

“Yes, I did. Roy might not be behind bars, yet, but he’s going to be. Junior saw him near Paxon’s house shortly before he was killed. It’s obvious that he decided to take matters into his own hands. I can’t blame him, really. He lost his brother and all, and the police didn’t do anything to put Paxon behind bars.”

“Is that so, Charlene?” Rachael stepped up beside Bobbie.

“Oh, uh, Rachael.” Charlene cleared her throat. “Of course, I don’t mean your mother. I just mean that it’s obvious Paxon got away with Sonny’s murder, and he probably killed Drake, too.” She shrugged. “Makes sense to me.”

“Well, fortunately the law states we need more than an accusation from a nosy neighbor to convict someone.” Rachael smiled sweetly at them both. “I’m sure that if the evidence is there, Roy will be behind bars soon.”

“Not soon enough, if you ask me. I want him caught.” Julia took off at a light jog with Charlene a few steps behind her.

“Those two are, um… interesting.” Bobbie looked over at Rachael. “Do you think they’re right about Roy?”

“I can’t say for sure. But I think it’s worth looking into, especially if he was near Paxon’s house, as they’re claiming. But Junior is the one who saw him?” Rachael made a noise deep in her throat.

“What is that?” Bobbie laughed as she started walking Bailey along the sidewalk again.

“Junior acts nice enough, but he has a dark side.” Rachael matched her pace with Bobbie’s. “I’m not saying not to trust him, I’m just saying not to turn your back on him.”

“Isn’t that the same thing?” Bobbie glanced over at Rachael.

“Not exactly. Or maybe it is.” Rachael gave a short laugh. “I just want you to be safe.”

“I was able to sleep better last night, thanks to Bailey.”

“Oh, that’s wonderful, I thought you might.” Rachael clapped her hands together as she grinned. “He’s doing his job.”

“Absolutely.” Bobbie recalled the flash drive in her pocket. “Rachael, listen. About yesterday when we found that hidden spot in Paxon’s pantry.”

“Yes?” Rachael looked up suddenly and waved. “There’s Junior now. Hey, Junior!”

Two men huddled beside a van appeared to be engaged in a heated argument.

“That doesn’t look good.” Bobbie watched them.

“It looks like Junior and Tate are having one of their fights. They’re only a year apart, and they might be brothers, but they fight like enemies. I don’t know how two hotheads came from a man as calm as Larry Coopers.” Rachael shook her head as she stamped her foot against the ground. “Hey, you two. Cut it out!”

“Larry Coopers? The owner of the newspaper?” Bobbie followed after her.

Rachael’s protests did nothing to distract the two men from their argument.

“I told you to stay out of it and keep your mouth shut!” Junior lunged toward Tate. “Don’t make me say it again!”

“You’re not listening to me.” Tate scowled at him and looked as if he might push him. “You’re an idiot. It’s not going to be that simple this time.”

“Keep quiet.” Junior lunged toward his brother again.

Rachael popped her fingers between her lips and released a shrill whistle that made them both jump. “To your corners, boys, before I call your dad.” She placed her hands on her hips.

“Rachael, Bobbie.” Junior turned to look at them. “Sorry, my little brother here is just so stubborn.”

“And my big brother is an idiot.” Tate kicked some dirt in Junior’s direction.

“Oh, keep quiet and just go back to your basement!” Junior took a step toward him.

“Enough.” Rachael snapped into action and stepped between Junior and Tate.

“You’d better not stand too close, Rachael, or I’ll get the wrong idea.” Junior grinned.

“Not a chance, pal. I don’t date men with tempers.” Rachael crossed her arms as she stared at him. “Shouting like that, really. How old are you now?”

“It’s just Tate. He gets under my skin,” Junior growled as he watched his brother take off. “He has such an easy life. Do you know my dad lets him live in his basement rent free? But he still can’t just be happy.” He sighed. “But I guess you two aren’t here to discuss my family.”

“No.” Rachael watched Tate until he disappeared down the street, then shifted her gaze to Junior. “I just wanted to see if what people are saying is true. Did you really see Roy by Paxon’s house shortly before he was killed?”

“Oh, that.” Junior nodded. “Yeah, I saw him. I hate to tell on the guy, but it’s the truth. We all have to do our part to get this murder solved. That’s for sure.” He looked into Rachael’s eyes. “I have an appointment with your mom to discuss it in about an hour. Any tips to stay out of handcuffs?”

“Stop fighting with your brother in the street.” Rachael pursed her lips.

“Good tip.” Bobbie grinned, though it faded as she recalled her own worry about having to turn in the flash drive to Kate. “So, you did see him? Was he actually on Paxon’s property, or just walking by, or what?”

“I saw him peeking in one of Paxon’s windows. I figured Paxon wasn’t home because I didn’t hear the dog barking.” Junior pointed at Bailey.

“You saw Roy looking in the window and you didn’t say anything about it? You didn’t think that was strange?” Rachael eyed him with a curled lip.

“I mean, sure it looked a little strange. But who am I to judge? I figured maybe Paxon had taken something of Roy’s. You know he is the town thief.” Junior winced. “Or was.”

“Paxon’s record had been clean ever since the robbery, you know that,” Rachael huffed. “Why did it take you until today to mention it? Didn’t you think it was important to tell the police when Paxon’s body was first found?”

“Look, I didn’t want to get Roy into any trouble. The police seemed to think it was a professional hit, so why would I suspect Roy?” Junior shook his head. “I don’t normally get people into trouble. But I’m sure you’ve heard Drake has been spotted around town, and I think he even sent Paxon a few texts or something, that’s what I’m hearing, anyway. So, then I thought maybe Drake and Roy might have gotten rid of Paxon together. The only reason I brought it up today is because I heard that Roy was claiming he was out of town at the time of the murder, and I knew that wasn’t true. So, why would he lie about it? It made me think maybe he really does have something to hide.”

“Well, it’s good that you’re coming forward with the information now.” Rachael held his gaze. “But if there’s anything else you know about what happened to Paxon, you need to share it right away.”

“Whatever happened to him, he had it coming.” Junior’s tone hardened. “If you want me to tell you that I’m heartbroken over a man who got away with killing someone who was very important to our whole community, that’s not going to happen.”

“I’m not asking you to tell me anything. But I do think you should consider that no matter who was killed, there’s a murderer out there, and you need to do whatever you can to make sure they’re brought to justice.” Rachael crossed her arms.

“That’s why I’m going to see your mom.” Junior walked off.

“What do you think?” Rachael looked over at Bobbie as they started down the street.

“I’m not sure, I thought that Colton was the killer, but now I don’t know. Maybe it was Roy.” Bobbie held tightly to Bailey’s leash as he sniffed his way down the road.

“I also don’t know what to think.” Rachael raised her eyebrows. “Maybe we should leave this to the police. My mom will get to the bottom of it.”

Bobbie considered that option. She could just go home, work on her novel, or at least try to, and do her best to forget all about Paxon.

Bailey gazed up at her as he nuzzled her hand.

“No. I need to help find out the truth. I want this solved. And I want to go see your cousin again and do some training. I want to look into this more and be able to defend myself.” Bobbie nodded. Uncle Jimmy had always told her that being prepared was the best form of defense.

“Let’s have those bagels, then I’ll finish off the window locks while you go see Kyle.” Rachael met her eyes. “But Bobbie, be careful. Kyle can help you out, for sure, but the best way to be safe is to not get yourself into danger.”

“I’ll do my best.” Bobbie smiled at her as they started back toward her cottage.

CHAPTER 19

As Bobbie drove to the martial arts studio, she thought about the way Junior had spoken about his little brother. She’d never had any siblings, but she’d had friends with siblings, and she’d seen how rough they could be with each other. But not as rough as Junior and Tate seemed to be. She parked in front of the studio and thought twice about her presence there. Yes, she wanted to be able to defend herself, but the thought of training with Kyle wasn’t like training with Uncle Jimmy. What if she made a fool of herself?

Bobbie pushed open the door and stepped into the familiar setting. It still struck her as a little strange to step off the sidewalk and into an entirely different world. From the décor to the padded floor, she felt as if it were part of a movie set. But the two people on the mats weren’t actors. One, she recognized as Kyle. The other surprised her. It was Patrick, Sonny’s son.

Bobbie watched as Patrick backed away from Kyle with his hands held up close to his face.

“Again, let’s go.” Kyle gestured for Patrick to come toward him.

Patrick lunged in his direction. As he did, Kyle stuck out his foot and flipped him over his shoulder.

Bobbie gasped at the ease with which Kyle performed the move. Patrick lay there.

“Don’t stop moving. Get up.” Kyle’s voice rose. “Reaction time, remember? If you lie there like that, you’re an open and easy target. What do you do next, Patrick?”

Patrick took a breath and jumped to his feet, dropped into a low crouch, and wound around to Kyle’s side as he drove toward his center mass.

“Yes, yes. Exactly. Keep going!” Kyle’s jovial words carried through the space.

Bobbie held her breath as she watched what was unfolding in front of her. With a twist of his leg, and a thrust of his shoulder, Patrick sent Kyle tumbling to the ground.

Patrick grinned as he bounced back away from Kyle. “I did it!”

Kyle launched back to his feet almost instantly and lunged toward Patrick and flipped him over his shoulder again. “Did you? Or did you forget something?” Kyle stood over Patrick.

Patrick sighed as he lay on his back. “Right.”

“Right. You never let down your guard. Arms always up. Keep yourself protected. Even if you think you can get away or your opponent is incapacitated, you need to always have your guard up. Let’s go again.” Kyle started moving from foot to foot. “Come on, let’s go.”

Patrick’s gaze wandered toward Bobbie. He stared at her for a moment, then got to his feet and shook his head. “No, I’m sorry, man. I’m done for today.”

“All right. You’ve worked hard.” Kyle rubbed Patrick’s shoulder as he started to walk away. “Don’t dwell on it. It’s hard to think of every scenario. You’ll get it. It just takes time.”

“I hear you.” Patrick spared a brief smile. “Thanks.”

“See you tomorrow?” Kyle nodded.

“I’ll be here.” Patrick avoided Bobbie’s gaze as he walked past her to where his shoes were stowed.

“Bobbie.” Kyle smiled as he stepped off the mats and grabbed a small hand towel to wipe some sweat from the back of his neck. “I missed you yesterday.”

“Sorry, I lost track of time.” Bobbie hesitated as she realized she had no reason to make up lies to excuse herself. “I’m not sure I’m ready for this.”

“Well, this wasn’t a self-defense class.” Kyle leaned against the empty reception desk as he watched Patrick leave the studio. “Patrick and I work one-on-one to meet his fitness and martial arts goals.” He gestured for her to follow him. “Come on, I have some free time. I’ll show you some of the things we use in the self-defense class.” He paused as she neared the mats. “Sorry, but you’re going to have to take your shoes and socks off.”

Bobbie slid her shoes and socks off, and followed him onto the mats.

“So, Patrick works with you every day?” Bobbie asked. Maybe Kyle would be her way to find out some information about Patrick.

“Just about, yes. He’s here at the same time, like clockwork. He just takes off Sundays because I often close the studio then. He would train every day if I let him, but it can be rough on the body sometimes. Sore muscles can be as bad as the flu. You’ve got to let your body recover.” Kyle walked over to a large punching bag that hung from the ceiling and waved her over. “Patrick is very dedicated.” He gestured to the bag. “Go on, take a swing.”

Bobbie peered past the bag, at him, as he stood behind it.

“Hold your hand like this in a fist, thumb on the outside to protect it.” Kyle demonstrated, then gestured to the bag. “Go ahead, show me what you’ve got.”

“Like this?” Bobbie curled her right hand into a tight fist, pulled back, and heaved a punch right into the bag, just like her Uncle Jimmy had shown her many times.

Kyle’s eyes widened at the resulting thud. “Nice, not bad. A little wide, though. You’re wasting energy by pulling back that far. Try it like this.” He delivered a hard punch to the bag, while keeping his elbow close to his side.

The bag rocked dangerously close to Bobbie.

“Impressive.” Bobbie took a step out of the way and smiled as everything she’d practiced with Uncle Jimmy started to come flooding back. He wasn’t a professional like Kyle, or at least she didn’t think he was, but he’d taught her a lot.

“Okay, try a few more.” Kyle held up the pads and she threw some punches at them.

Bobbie got into a bit of a rhythm and began enjoying it.

“Good work,” Kyle said as she stopped and tried to catch her breath.

“Thank you.” Bobbie hesitated before she asked the next question, but she wanted to know the answer. “Does Patrick own a gun?”

“What?” Kyle’s eyes widened. “I work with my students in the studio. What they do on their own time is not my business.”

“Okay. But do you know if he owns a gun?”

“Why? I have no idea.” Kyle walked over to the side of the mats and grabbed a bottle of water. As he took a sip, he met her eyes. “Oh, are you thinking what I think you’re thinking? That Patrick killed Paxon?”

“All I know for sure is that Paxon was shot, and that Patrick might have had enough anger over his father’s death to do it.” Bobbie followed him to the edge of the mats. “What I want to know is what you think.”

Kyle put the bottle of water down and started back over toward the punching bag. “Hold on, let’s use these for a bit.” He grabbed some focus pads from a shelf and slid them on to his hands.

When Kyle held them up, Bobbie hesitated. Her eyes shifted from his passive expression to the flat-padded surfaces he held up for her to strike.

“It’s just like the bag, just aim for the middle. See the target?” Kyle held up one pad higher. “Try and hit that spot. It’s okay if you don’t, though. It takes some time to get used to.”

CHAPTER 20

Bobbie curled her hand into a fist again and threw a wild punch at the pad.

Kyle ducked to the side just in time to miss the punch landing square on his jaw.

“Oops.” Bobbie flinched.

“It’s all right. It’s not the easiest thing to do at first. You have a lot of power, you just have to work on your aim.” Kyle ran over and grabbed a pair of boxing gloves from a rack and a new pack of hand wraps. “You’re going to need these if you keep training. They’re well worth the investment. You don’t want to overdo it and hurt your knuckles and wrists.”

“I’ll grab my purse.”

“After is fine.”

“Thank you.” Bobbie put on the hand wraps and gloves.

“Let’s go.” Kyle held up the pads.

“Okay.” Bobbie jabbed at the pad a few times.

“That’s great.”

Bobbie peered past the pads at him. “So, why do you think Patrick is training so much? Because his father was killed?”

“What I think is that Patrick holds a lot of grief over the loss of his father.” Kyle lowered the pads as he looked into her eyes. “And he wants to be able to protect himself if he’s ever threatened. For a lot of people, learning how to protect themselves is about feeling like they’re taking some kind of control over their lives again, after something tragic has happened.”

Kyle’s smooth, soothing voice lulled her for a moment. The way he spoke reminded her of the guided meditations she’d tried once on the advice of a therapist who attempted to help her work through her grief over the loss of her parents.

Kyle pulled the pads off his hands and dropped them to the mats. “Look, I know Patrick is a suspect in Paxon’s murder. But there’s no way I’m going to point a finger at him and accuse him of murder when I have no reason to believe that’s the case.”

“Do you have any idea who, aside from Patrick, should be a suspect, then?” Bobbie followed him as he walked off the mats again and slipped on some shoes, then he continued to the reception desk.

“Ninety percent of this town wanted Paxon behind bars. They wanted him to pay for what he did. We all loved Sonny. All right?” Kyle shifted through some paperwork as she took off the gloves and wraps and pulled on her socks and shoes. “So, do I think that Patrick, who lost his father due to Paxon’s reckless behavior, would want revenge for that? I don’t know what son wouldn’t. Do you?”

“No.” Bobbie stood in front of the desk as she recalled the early years of her childhood when she spent so much time wondering where her parents were. It didn’t matter how many times Uncle Jimmy sat her down and explained to her that they were gone, that there had been a terrible accident, and that neither had survived, she still expected them to return.

“Exactly. But the Patrick I know, the person he’s become, despite all the hardships he faced—he’s not a murderer. That’s the only answer I can give you.” Kyle handed her a small sheet of paper. “Fill this out, and bring it back next time. I have a class coming in, so I can’t give you a full session right now. But tomorrow at two, if you’re free, I’ll be here.”

Bobbie took the piece of paper, uncertain if she would be back. She handed over money to pay for the hand wraps. “How much do I owe you for the training?”

“We’ll sort that out next time. This was just a trial.”

“Thank you.” Bobbie smiled and started to turn away from him, then she turned back around. “Did you ever work with Roy? Drake’s brother?”

Kyle’s expression tensed. “No.”

“But you know something about him?” Bobbie stepped closer to the desk.

“I haven’t worked with Roy. But I’ve worked with a few people who have been on the wrong end of his drunken outbursts.” Kyle rested his hands on the desk and leaned closer to her. “If you’re going anywhere near him, you need to make sure that you don’t do it alone.” His soothing tone had shifted into an authoritative command. The Zen teacher she’d been working with a few minutes before seemed to have vanished.

“Okay.” Bobbie nodded.

“See you tomorrow?”

“See you then.” Bobbie turned and walked toward the door.

“Stay away from Roy, Bobbie,” Kyle called out.

Bobbie let the door swing closed as his warning about Roy ran through her mind.

On some level, she felt grateful that Kyle seemed to care, but on another, she wondered if she’d misjudged him from the beginning. Perhaps he wasn’t as passive as she’d first assumed. As protective as he appeared to be of his students, maybe he’d decided to take revenge on Patrick’s behalf? It seemed far-fetched, but she guessed it was possible.

Bobbie shook the thought from her mind. She didn’t want to suspect Kyle. She felt comfortable around him for some strange reason. But the suspicion still lingered in the back of her mind as she climbed into her truck.

CHAPTER 21

Bobbie started the engine just before her phone buzzed with a text. As she read the message from Matt, reminding her to turn in the flash drive, her heart sank. The last thing she wanted to do was deal with Kate. Bobbie imagined how angry she would be that she’d withheld possible evidence from her. But Matt was right, she had to give it to her, and sooner was better than later.

Bobbie grabbed an apple from a bag of groceries she’d yet to unload and took a few bites as she drove toward the police station. She would need her strength for what came next, she was sure of that.

After polishing off her apple and tossing the core in a nearby trash can, she faced the police station door. As she considered getting back into her truck, driving back to her cottage, retrieving Bailey, and just heading right out of town, everything inside of her told her that she couldn’t leave. Despite Newfield being foreign to her mind, her heart insisted that it was where she belonged. Though she had no idea why. She forced herself to open the station door and stepped inside.

Immediately, she spotted Kate and Chief Cullin, and at the same time, they both zeroed in on her. She edged her way farther into the police station as she felt the heat from Kate’s gaze.

“Bobbie! Welcome back.” Jasper walked toward her with a broad smile. “Good to see you again.”

“Thank you, sir. You as well.” Bobbie smiled in return.

“What can I help you with today?” Jasper settled his hands on his hips as he stared down at her.

“Actually, I came in to speak with Kate, if that would be all right?” Bobbie glanced over at Kate, who still had her pinned down with her gaze.

“Anything you need from her, I’m sure I can help you with.” Jasper’s smile faded some. “She thinks she runs things around here, but I’m not retired, yet, no matter what my belly says.” He chuckled as he gave his slightly rounded stomach a few swats.

“Oh, I’m sure of that.” Bobbie shifted her gaze to Kate again, then looked back at the chief. “It’s just that it’s a bit of a personal matter. You know.” She squinted at him.

“Oh. Wait. Uh, are you talking about female business?” Jasper lowered his voice and scrunched up his nose.

“Something like that.” Bobbie held back a grin at the horror in his eyes.

“Okay, sure, no problem. Kate, hey, Kate.” Jasper waved her over. “Bobbie here needs your expertise.” He began to back away from both of them. “Of course, let me know if I can help with anything else.”

“Female business?” Kate raised her eyebrows as she walked over. “What exactly might that be?”

“Listen, I just need to speak to you alone, please.” Bobbie averted her gaze. “It’s important.”

“Okay. Did you remember something?”

“Not exactly. Do you think we could talk outside?” Bobbie started toward the door.

“Bobbie, wait.” Kate stepped up beside her. “What’s going on here? Just tell me.”

“I’d really feel more comfortable if we could talk outside. And even more comfortable if maybe you left your gun and handcuffs in here, and promised me a running start?” Bobbie winced as she backed up closer to the door. Her attempt at humor did nothing to slow down her racing heartbeat, or soften the stern expression that Kate wore.

“I see.” Kate gritted her teeth, then pushed open the door for both of them to walk through.

The moment Bobbie stepped outside, Kate stepped in front of her.

“All right, out with it,” Kate demanded.

Bobbie took a slight step back. “I didn’t know what to do.” She slid her hand into her pocket. “I just wanted to make sure this didn’t fall into the wrong hands.”

“What is it?” Kate peered down at Bobbie’s hand as she held it out to her.

Bobbie opened her fingers to reveal the flash drive. “I found it yesterday, in Paxon’s house.”

“What?” Kate gasped as she snatched the drive out of Bobbie’s palm. “Please tell me you didn’t steal evidence from a crime scene!”

“Technically, it had already been released as a crime scene.” Bobbie shied back farther. “And I didn’t steal it. I just borrowed it. And now I’m giving it back.”

“Bobbie.” Kate sighed. “Why would you hide this from me? You said you were worried it would fall into the wrong hands. My hands? Is that what you were referring to?”

“Not exactly.” Bobbie licked her lips as she prepared a long speech.

“A straight answer. That’s all I want.” Kate gripped the flash drive tight in one hand while maintaining her intimidating stance. “Give me one good reason why you shouldn’t be in handcuffs right now for obstructing an investigation.”

“Please, don’t do that.” Bobbie gasped at the thought of being arrested. “I’ll explain. I thought that Paxon might have been killed because he’d found proof that ChemTree had been polluting the lake, and supposedly samples had been sent out that came back clear. I think that must have been a lie. So, I’m pretty sure there’s some kind of cover-up happening. I just didn’t know who might be involved in that cover-up. I never meant to cause any trouble.”

Kate’s tone softened a little. “Bobbie, you can trust me.”

“I’m trying to.” Bobbie stared into her eyes. “That’s why I’m here now.”

Grief flickered through Kate’s eyes.

Bobbie recognized it, but didn’t understand it. She watched as it disappeared, swept away by the professional hardness of a police officer’s gaze.

“All right, I’ll let it slide this time. But I’m warning you right now, if you ever pull something like this again, I won’t think twice about making sure you understand that the letter of the law applies to everyone in this town.” Kate took a step back as she looked over the drive. “I’ll get this checked out. If there’s a password, we might have to send it into the city to get it cracked.”

“I figured out the password.” Bobbie hesitated before she relayed it to her. “There’s a lot of information on there. Matt said you would need it for evidence if you were to pursue a criminal investigation against Colton.”

“Matt?” Kate looked up at her. “He helped you with this?”

“I didn’t give him much of a choice. But he wasn’t involved in taking it, and he told me I had to give it to you. So, here I am.”

“Did you tell Larry about any of this?”

“No. Why?”

“Just don’t, okay?” Kate’s tone sharpened.

“Okay.” Bobbie sighed and leaned back against the wall. “Kate, I’m sorry. I should have given it to you right away. I know pretty much everyone in this town had something against Paxon, but I only knew him as a helpful neighbor with a beautiful dog. Can you see why I’d worry that getting justice for him might not be the top priority for everyone?”

“I can see that, yes.” Kate slid the drive into her pocket. “But that’s not who I am. If a crime is committed, I’m going to do what I can to get to the truth. No matter who it is, or what it takes.”

“I believe that.” Bobbie swallowed hard as she searched the woman’s eyes for the grief she’d briefly seen. “Kate, do I have some sort of history here? Is there something I should know?”

“I have to get moving on this. I’ll be in touch, Bobbie.” Kate turned back toward the station and disappeared inside.

Disappointed that Kate had ignored her question, she walked back toward her pickup truck.

Determined to get some genuine answers to her questions about her connection to Newfield, she drove back to the newspaper office. She had a feeling that Matt knew far more than he was sharing.

CHAPTER 22

As Bobbie stepped into the office of Newfield News, her nerves sparked at the sound of two raised voices a few feet away from her. After a quick assessment of the nearly empty office, she spotted Larry and Junior as they continued to argue.

“No, you’re the one who isn’t listening to me.” Junior stepped closer to his father, his shoulders back, and his chin raised as if he was attempting to look down on the taller man. “I told you Tate was a problem, but you never listen to me!”

“You’d better watch your tone with me, Junior!” Larry glared at him. “I told you to get him in line. It’s an easy job. And yet you can’t handle it?”

“I’ve tried.” Junior scowled. “He’s hopeless. He might as well not exist at all. All he does is hide in that basement because you let him.”

“I won’t hear this anymore.” Larry pointed his finger straight into Junior’s face. “Get him in line. This is the last time I’m telling you. Got it?”

Bobbie braced herself for an explosion from Junior whose cheeks flamed with anger.

Instead, Junior suddenly dropped his eyes and nodded. “Yes, sir. I hear you.”

“Do you?” Larry stepped closer and bent down to meet his eyes.

“Yes, I do.” Junior looked up at him with a frown. “I’m sorry, I’ll try harder.”

“Good.” Larry looked toward the door, as if he’d just noticed someone had walked in. As his furious gaze settled on Bobbie, his lips curled into a subtle grimace. “Ah, Bobbie. Sorry, I didn’t see you there. Just a little family business we were attending to.” He glanced over at Matt who had his head down in some papers he held, then looked back at Bobbie. “I’m sure you understand.”

“Of course,” Bobbie muttered, though she didn’t have a clue. Uncle Jimmy had been strict at times, mainly when it came to her safety, but they would never scream and shout at each other as she’d just witnessed.

“By the way, I received your application, and I’ll need to see a few more samples, but as far as I’m concerned, you’re hired.” Larry smiled. “There isn’t enough work for a full-time position, so it will have to be as a freelancer.”

“Oh, that’s wonderful. Thank you so much. I’ll send you some more samples tonight.” Bobbie took his hand in a quick shake.

“Thank Matt.” Larry tilted his head in his direction. “He spoke very highly of you.”

“I will.” Bobbie walked over to Matt’s desk.

Matt only looked up when Larry had stepped into his office and closed the door.

“Congratulations, and welcome to the team.” Matt smiled.

“Thanks so much for the recommendation. I wasn’t sure if you would, after what happened.” Bobbie grimaced.

“A good reporter is gutsy, just like you. You have great instincts, and I’m happy to work with you. Anything you need, just let me know.” Matt stood up from his chair and walked around to the front of his desk to join her.

“Thank you. And you’ll be happy to know I turned in that flash drive.”

Matt put his finger to his lips and stepped closer to her, so that he could whisper in her ear. “Not a word about that, not here.” The sudden movement and closeness startled her. He led her toward a back door and out through it. “It’s important Larry never hears any of this.” He pushed the door closed behind them.

“All right, so why the secrecy? Kate was relieved that I hadn’t told Larry about the flash drive. She seems cautious of him.” Bobbie studied his strained expression. “I guess she was onto something?”

“What Kate knows is that Larry was integral in gathering evidence and pointing the finger at Paxon and Drake for the robbery and Sonny’s death.” Matt kept his voice soft. “He dug into their criminal history, found connections between them and other people who had committed robberies. He also produced some video of the pair at a gun range. Larry was very passionate about getting them convicted for the crime.”

“Except, he didn’t. Paxon was never convicted, and Drake disappeared. If he came up with all that evidence, then why didn’t Paxon get locked up?”

“It was all circumstantial. Larry leaned hard on Kate to make the arrest, but she insisted there wasn’t enough to go on. Larry has held it against her ever since. Then Paxon was arrested anyway. But the district attorney refused to prosecute without the weapon or some kind of physical evidence. Larry looked hard, and so did the police. But the evidence just wasn’t there.”

“Why do you think Larry was so fixated on proving that Paxon killed Sonny? Was Larry good friends with Sonny?”

“No, not really. Larry was fairly newly in charge of the newspaper when Sonny was killed. I think he wanted to make a big impression by breaking the story himself. He’s all about big splashes.”

“That makes sense. But I bet there’s a little more to the story.” Bobbie leaned back against the wall beside him and crossed her arms. “So, do you want to give me any answers, yet?”

Matt glanced over at her. “About Colton? I’m pretty sure that if he’s the one who took out Paxon, he probably hired someone to do it. But what I can’t work out is if he did, why didn’t he have the place searched, too? He would have wanted to destroy any evidence that Paxon had against him, not just Paxon.”

“Maybe Rachael and I interrupted that?” Bobbie suggested. “Maybe the killer hadn’t finished his assignment, and when he heard us coming, he took off.”

“That’s possible. But if Colton suspected stuff was still there to incriminate him or ChemTree, I’m sure he would have arranged for someone to search the place after the police left.”

“True. I didn’t come here to ask you about Colton, though. I came here to ask you about me, and what you know about my past.”

“Ah, I see.” Matt glanced away from her. “Nothing. Like I said, I must have been mistaken.”

“I don’t believe you.” Bobbie crossed her arms. “You obviously know something about me, but you refuse to tell me.”

“Well, there’s nothing I can do about what you believe. I need to get back to work.” Matt slipped past her and opened the door.

“Okay, if that’s how you want to play it.” Bobbie followed him and pushed the door shut behind her. “I’m quite certain I can find out the truth about what happened to Paxon, and the truth about my past, without any help from you.”

“Bobbie, don’t go running off and doing something stupid.” Matt searched her eyes.

“I’ll be fine.” Bobbie turned and walked out of the building. She didn’t believe he didn’t know anything about her history and wanted him to tell her exactly what he knew. How could she let something like that go?

Bobbie reached her truck and climbed inside. For a moment, she stared at the closed blinds that covered the front window of the newspaper office and wondered what secrets Matt was keeping from her, secrets he had no right to keep. Then the thought crossed her mind that maybe he really knew nothing about her history. He’d given her information that he didn’t have to give her about Larry and Kate. Maybe she’d overreacted. Maybe he was telling the truth.

Either way, Bobbie needed to get to the bottom of Paxon’s murder and the link she might have to the town. She started the engine and drove out of the parking lot with a renewed sense of determination. There were other ways to get answers.

CHAPTER 23

As Bobbie reached her house, she spotted Rachael and Bailey stepping out through the front door.

“Bobbie, I was just going to take Bailey for a walk.” Rachael smiled at her.

“Perfect. I’ll join you.” Bobbie bent down to ruffle behind Bailey’s ears as he wagged his tail. “It’s good to see you.” She stood up and glanced at the map she’d pulled up on her phone, then looked back at Rachael. “Do you mind if I join you?”

“I don’t mind, of course not, but you need to tell me what you’re up to.” Rachael handed the leash off to Bobbie and fell into step beside her.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. We’re just going for a walk.” Bobbie tightened her grip on Bailey’s leash.

“I get the feeling a walk is never just a walk with you.” Rachael nudged her with her elbow. “Am I right? You certainly seem to be walking in a particular direction.”

“Maybe. Okay, fine. Nothing gets past you, does it?”

“Apparently it does, because you snuck that flash drive right past me.” Rachael’s expression hardened.

“Your mom told you about that, huh?” Bobbie shied back from her stern gaze. “I’m sorry, I should have told you.”

“Yes, you should have. But why didn’t you?” Rachael’s voice softened. “I thought we were friends.”

“We are. But I didn’t want to tell your mother until I had a chance to look at it. And I didn’t want to put you in a position where I asked you to keep things from her.” Bobbie bit into her bottom lip. “I didn’t know what was best. But I was worried that the drive might fall into the wrong hands.”

“So, you went to Matt with it? Do you know what he did to my mother?” Rachael shook her head and sighed. “Of course you don’t. How would you know?”

“What did he do? Tell me.” Bobbie turned and looked straight into her eyes. “I feel like I’m constantly playing catch-up here. Everyone knows everything about everyone in this town.” She reached down to pet Bailey as he sat down beside her. “Can you please fill me in on some of these things?”

“All right, I’ll do the best I can. I don’t know every detail. But when my mother was investigating Paxon, and trying to find out what happened to Drake, Chief Cullin arrested Paxon. Even though it was the chief not my mother who made the arrest, Matt basically accused them both of being terrible police officers, breaking, or, at the very least, bending the law, because of the lack of evidence. He wrote a series of articles about it.”

“So, your mother really wasn’t involved in Paxon’s arrest? You don’t think that maybe Chief Cullin forced her hand?” Bobbie started walking again, and continued heading toward a particular house.

“No, she would never arrest someone if there wasn’t enough evidence to prove their guilt.” Rachael matched her pace, but eyed the neighborhood with suspicion. “Why don’t you just tell me where we’re going?”

“I believe you believe that about your mother, but maybe you’re not aware of how much influence Chief Cullin has over her.”

“No, that’s it!” Rachael stopped and turned to look Bobbie straight in the eye. “You listen to me, Bobbie. There’s no one in this world that I trust more than my mother. She’s an amazing woman who’s worked hard all her life to be taken seriously in this little town. She’s been mocked, put down, and even threatened because Chief Cullin wasn’t friendly with the idea of a woman on his police force. But she survived all that and became the toughest, most trustworthy officer that has ever walked these streets. I’ll never tolerate you questioning her honesty.”

Bobbie took a few steps back. Bailey looked between them.

“All right, I hear you. I’m sorry, I never should have said that. I’m sure you’re right. But what matters the most right now is getting to the truth. I want to go speak with someone.” Bobbie gestured to the sprawling house they’d come to a stop in front of, and glanced over at her. “You were right, there’s a purpose to this walk.”

“This is Larry’s house.” Rachael took Bailey’s leash from her. “Who are you going to talk to in there?”

“His son Tate. Larry and Junior were fighting about him earlier, and we saw Junior yelling at him not long ago. Something isn’t right in their family, and I want to know what.” Bobbie met Rachael’s eyes. “Are you okay to take Bailey back and I’ll come when I’m finished?”

“No way. I’m not leaving you here alone. But you’d better be sure you know what you’re doing.” Rachael pursed her lips as she looked over the house. “Larry is very wealthy with a lot of influence.”

“Don’t worry, Tate probably won’t even open the door for me. I’ll be right back.” Bobbie started toward the front door, then recalled that Junior claimed Tate never left the basement. She guessed that it might have its own entrance, and walked around the side of the house instead. Unnerved by the size of the house, she wondered if there might be hidden security cameras surrounding it. How long would it be before Larry realized she’d stepped onto his property?

Bobbie found a screen door at the back of the house and peered through the glass window at the small room and stairs beyond it. After taking a deep breath, she knocked on the door. Several seconds slid past, then turned into a few minutes, before she saw a shadow at the bottom of the stairs. The shadow lingered there, staring up at the door.

Bobbie knocked again, trying to infuse a friendly feeling into the pattern of the strikes.

The shadow turned into Tate as he made his way up the stairs and into the light that poured through the glass window. He stared at her through the glass, as if deciding whether or not to even acknowledge her, then reluctantly opened the door.

“What is it? I don’t want to buy anything.”

“I’m not here to sell anything, Tate.” Bobbie noted the heaviness in his pale-blue eyes, as if he’d seen too much in his life. “I’m Bobbie. I’m new in town, and I don’t really know anyone, and I just wanted to introduce myself properly and say hi.”

“Oh, okay?” Tate hesitated, then he opened the door all the way. “Do you want to come in?” He gestured for her to step inside, then led her down the stairs.

“Thanks.” Bobbie’s heart raced with every step she took into the dimly lit basement. She expected it to be filled with strange memorabilia and musty smells, but instead she discovered that the dim lighting actually emanated from rose-hued stone lamps, and soft, soothing music played from hidden speakers. Most of the décor in the basement appeared to be light and some even inspirational, from feathers, to horses, to posters that declared peace the ultimate goal.

A few overstuffed pieces of furniture were scattered around the living space, but the main focus seemed to be the large computer set up on a wall-length desk. There were three monitors, a few different keyboards, and several pieces of technology that she couldn’t identify. Her gaze lingered on a filing cabinet so filled with papers that a few stuck out of the drawers, and some were piled on top.

“Wow, nice place you have here.” Bobbie smiled as she sat down on the couch and watched as he sat in his desk chair.

“Thanks. I know it’s not much, but it’s where I feel the most comfortable.” Tate wiped his hands across his cheeks as he sighed. “Everything changed so much after my mother died. This is where I still feel her. A lot of these things were hers.”

“I’m so sorry for your loss.” Bobbie softened her tone. “I didn’t know.”

“It was a long time ago. I was only ten when she died. But I’m still trying to piece my life back together. My father and brother think I should be over it by now. They are, but I still can’t seem to move forward.” Tate shook his head. “Maybe they’re right. Maybe there is something wrong with me.”

“Grief is different for everyone, and everyone has a different timeline for healing. At least that’s what I’ve been told.” Bobbie sat forward and lowered her voice as she continued. “My parents died when I was very young, and a man I called my uncle raised me until he recently died as well. I think you can be surrounded by a room full of people, and still be very alone, when the people who understood you are gone.”

“Exactly.” Tate nodded. “She understood me in a way that my father and brother never could.” He sighed. “But she’s gone now. I guess we both have to figure out what happens next.”

“I’m hoping I’ll get back on my feet a little by taking a freelance job with your father.” Bobbie tilted her head toward his computer setup. “Do you work for the paper, too?”

“No. I don’t. Dad is always trying to give me a job there, but that’s the last thing I want.” A dark expression crossed Tate’s features before he shook his head. “Anyway. I mostly work for myself. I make and edit videos for people. It’s not a huge income, but it keeps me afloat, and it can be fun sometimes.”

“But that’s not all you do, is it?” Bobbie glanced at the assortment of books on the shelf beside his computer regarding well-known conspiracy theories.

“Oh, I do have my hobbies.” Tate grinned. “But you’d probably call me crazy.”

“Try me.” Bobbie smiled.

“Do you know there’s no proof that the Americans actually set foot on the moon?” Tate raised his eyebrows. “I mean, we all saw the video, but as someone who makes and edits videos, that’s pretty easy to fake. A lot of people think that the moon landing never happened and it was staged in a studio. But that’s not my theory.”

“No? What’s your theory?”

“My theory is that there was a moon landing, but it was an unmanned ship, and they made it appear as if there were people on it, and walking around the moon.” Tate shrugged. “The truth is the advanced technology just wasn’t there at the time for them to pull off a successful moonwalk.” He smiled. “Anyway it’s just a theory. I’m still working on it.”

“Interesting. It makes sense. Is there anything else you’re working on? Like Paxon’s death?”

“Uh, no. I’m staying out of that one. He probably ran his mouth off at the wrong person and got himself killed. Nothing mysterious about that.” Tate glanced at the filing cabinet, then grabbed a book off a shelf. “Now, if you want to know what really happened to the dinosaurs, check this out.” He passed the book over to her.

Bobbie began to thumb through it, then started coughing hard. She gasped to catch her breath, and waved her hand at her throat.

“Do you need some water?” Tate turned toward the stairs. “Hang on, I’ll run upstairs and get you some.”

Bobbie waited until she heard his shoes hit the landing at the top of the stairs, then bolted to her feet.

CHAPTER 24

Bobbie went straight to the filing cabinet in Tate’s basement. As she looked at the papers spread out on top, she gasped at the sight of pictures of Paxon, with bright red writing all over them. The pictures appeared to be surveillance shots, as if someone had been following him. Big, bold letters were scrawled across the photographs, making up words like lies, cover-up, and question marks. One particular phrase caught her attention.

“What have you done?” Bobbie mumbled.

“What are you doing?” Tate’s voice boomed at her from midway down the stairs. The glass he held slipped from his hand and shattered against the floor. He raced down the steps in her direction.

Startled, Bobbie stumbled back.

“You shouldn’t have done that!” Tate moaned, as if he might burst into tears, and gathered up the papers on top of the cabinet. “You shouldn’t have seen that. Get out! Get out now!”

Bobbie edged around him toward the stairs. “I’m sorry, Tate. But I’m trying to find out the truth, too. If you ever want to talk about it⁠—”

“Out!” Tate screamed as he stuffed the papers into the filing cabinet, then turned back toward her. “If you know what’s best for you, you won’t tell anyone about what you saw.” He lunged toward her.

Bobbie let out a short scream as she turned and fled up the stairs. She burst through the back door of the house and nearly tripped over Bailey who jumped up at her and barked.

“We came to check on you.” Rachael’s eyes widened at the sight of Bobbie’s expression. “What happened?”

“We need to get out of here, fast.” Bobbie grabbed Bailey’s leash and steered Rachael back toward the road.

“Are you okay?” Rachael quickened her pace to catch up with her.

“I’m fine, but I don’t know what to make of everything right now. All I know is that this town has too many secrets, and I feel like it’s impossible to unravel them.” Bobbie stopped in her driveway and turned to look at Rachael. She explained what she’d seen in Larry’s basement. “Please, go let your mother know that she should do anything she can to get into the basement before what I just saw is destroyed. All right?”

“I can try, but without a warrant—” Rachael’s voice trailed off as she shook her head. “Okay, Bobbie, I’ll talk to her. I’ll see what I can do. But are you going to be okay here?”

“I will be. I have Bailey. I’ll be okay.” Bobbie led the dog toward the cottage door. “I just need to figure a few things out.”

“Then I’ll stay with you, and we can figure it out together.” Rachael followed her to the door.

“No.” Bobbie sighed as she saw the disappointment cross Rachael’s features. “I’m sorry. You have no idea how much I appreciate everything you’re doing for me. But right now, what I need you to do for me, is tell your mother what I can’t. If I go to her with this, she’s going to ask me too many questions. Just do what I’m asking you to do, please.”

“I’ll go, but I’m going to check in with you to make sure you’re okay.” Rachael lingered a few seconds longer, then turned and walked off to her car.

Bobbie watched until she drove away, then led Bailey inside. She wrapped her arms around Bailey’s neck and held him close, willing her heart rate to slow. She needed to get her thoughts together.

Uncle Jimmy had always said she needed to learn to protect herself, and she decided that was exactly what she was going to do. And hopefully get more information from Kyle in the process. Bobbie filled Bailey’s bowl with fresh water, then she left the house, determined to get to the bottom of what had happened to Paxon.

By the time Bobbie stepped into Kyle’s studio, she’d begun to seriously doubt her decision. At twenty-four, she’d never exactly been sporty, and had a few extra pounds around her hips and waist, most of which she’d put on while taking care of Uncle Jimmy. She didn’t consider herself athletic or intimidating in any way. What business did she have training with someone like Kyle, who appeared to be in perfect shape?

Kyle tugged the neck of his T-shirt up to wipe some sweat from his brow as she walked in, revealing a set of abdominal muscles that could have been featured in any magazine.

“Bobbie.” Kyle smiled as he called out to her. “I’m glad you came back.”

“Yes, here I am.” Bobbie walked toward him.

“All right, get your shoes off and get out here. I have some time between classes. I want to see your kicks.”

Bobbie mumbled under her breath about how he’d only see her fall on her rear end, as she tugged off her shoes and socks.

“What was that?” Kyle walked over to the edge of the mats as his smile spread wider.

“I said, great, let’s do that.” Bobbie flashed him a smile as she stepped onto the mats.

“Uh-huh, somehow I don’t believe that.” Kyle gestured for her to stand across from him, but the moment she met his eyes, his smile vanished. “What is it? What happened?”

Taken aback by his ability to read her, she pursed her lips and looked away from him.

“Bobbie, you can tell me. What has you on edge?”

“I might have walked into the wrong basement.” Bobbie winced. “Tate’s.” She filled him in on what had happened.

“Tate is unpredictable. Every time I see him, he gives me this uneasy feeling. It’s like he’s carrying something too heavy for him to handle.” Kyle shook his head. “You shouldn’t have been alone there with him.”

“I saw the same thing.” Bobbie’s eyes widened at his description. “And he looks so sad.”

Kyle grabbed a large pad from the floor and slid it on to his forearm. “Since I know you’re not going to listen to my advice, let’s talk about what you could have done in that situation.”

“You mean other than scream and run away?” Bobbie watched as he held the pad out to her.

“This is how you do a front kick, to protect your toes. Curl them back and use the ball of your foot.” Kyle demonstrated. “Your turn. Give me a kick, right in the center of the pad.” He nodded as he met her eyes. “Getting away is the best option, but you won’t always have that choice.”

Bobbie’s heart pounded as she thought about what might have happened if she hadn’t been as quick to get out of the basement, or if Tate had been more determined to hurt her. She had no idea what he might have done, but if her suspicions were right, he’d killed Paxon, which might mean he wouldn’t hesitate to kill her, too.

CHAPTER 25

Bobbie lifted her leg and swung it in her best attempt at a kick. As her foot hit the pad, Kyle took a step back and smiled.

“That’s a good start. Keep going. And while you do, tell me exactly what you saw in the pictures that made Tate so angry.”

Bobbie hesitated as she wondered if she could trust him. It felt so easy with him, as if he already understood what she was going to say before she said it. But was she just being fooled by his kindness?

Bobbie swung her foot forward again, this time with a little more force.

Kyle switched to the other side and held up the pad for her other foot. “Try and turn your hip as you kick this time. You might find you get a little more power from that.”

As Bobbie described the photographs and the words on them, she slammed her foot into the pad.

“Nice. Great job.” Kyle’s voice lowered. “That sounds pretty ominous, and he panicked when you saw them. Not a good sign.”

“No, it’s not. But does it really make him a killer?” Bobbie frowned. “I’m not sure. I’m going to see what Matt has to say about it.”

“Please, don’t do that.” Kyle put the pad down to his side.

“Don’t do what?” Bobbie looked up at him. As her eyes met his, her heart fluttered. What was that? Was she attracted to him?

“Don’t tell Matt. He and Larry are very close. Anything you tell him is going to get back to Larry. If Tate had anything to do with Paxon’s murder, I guarantee you that his father will stop at nothing to protect him.”

“Matt would never tell Larry about this. He’s suspicious of Larry.” Bobbie glanced over her shoulder as some students entered the room. She took a step back from him. “I should go.”

“Okay, but please think about what I said. You don’t know Matt that well, yet, do you?” Kyle followed her to the edge of the mats.

“No, but I don’t know you that well, either.” Bobbie tugged her socks and shoes back on.

“True.” Kyle handed her a bottle of water as she picked up her purse. “Come back the same time tomorrow, so we can work on those kicks some more.” He jogged back onto the mats. “I’ll have more time.”

Once outside, Bobbie wondered about what Kyle had said. Could he be right about Matt? He wasn’t exactly easy to get along with, and she believed he knew something about her past which he was holding back. She couldn’t shake how she felt attracted to him, but was that because she was a bit lonely? It would explain why she’d begun to feel something similar with Kyle.

“Great, I’m going boy crazy,” Bobbie mumbled to herself as she started her truck. “That’s exactly what I need right now.”

Bobbie didn’t know what her next move should be. She didn’t know who to believe. Out of everyone, she trusted Rachael the most, but she also didn’t want to pit her against her mother. She needed some cold, hard facts to point her in the direction of whom she could rely on. “All right, let’s put Kyle’s theory to the test.”

Bobbie pulled out her phone to send a text and noticed that she’d missed one from Rachael while she was training with Kyle.

The texts from Drake to people around town came from Patrick’s phone!

Sonny’s son had sent them? Bobbie’s heart dropped at the thought. She dialed Rachael’s number.

“Quite the bombshell, huh?” Rachael didn’t bother with a greeting as she answered. “But listen to this. I’m putting you on speaker.”

A second later, Bobbie heard Chief Cullin and Kate arguing.

“I told you to bury it. It’s only going to muddle the investigation!” Jasper snapped.

“I won’t. It’s obvious that Drake isn’t in Newfield. He’s probably dead. There’s no way that these texts came from him. Do you really expect me to tie this case up with a bow, declare that Drake is the murderer and is still on the run, just so you don’t have to think about it anymore?”

“Kate, you’re being ridiculous!”

“No, I’m not. I found the proof that at least some of those texts originated from Patrick’s phone. Even though they were anonymous, using another number, the techs could trace them to that phone. Which means there’s no evidence Drake has ever been in town. We need to pick up Patrick for questioning.”

“Absolutely not!” Jasper’s voice rose. “After everything his family has been through? That’s not happening!”

Bobbie heard a door slam.

Rachael spoke up again. “Okay, I have you off speaker. It’s crazy here!”

“Do you know when those texts were sent from Patrick’s phone?” Bobbie’s heart pounded. “Is there any way that your mom can bring him in for questioning without Chief Cullin’s approval?”

“She can, but it’s a big risk. She could lose her badge over it. Hold on, let me check on the time.” A few seconds later, Rachael came back on the line. “They were all sent around the same time and same day. Shortly after we found Paxon.”

Bobbie’s mind spun as Rachael gave her the details. “No.” She frowned. “I don’t think Patrick sent those texts.”

“What do you mean?”

“He usually trains with Kyle at that time. You should call and check with Kyle. See if anyone else was in the studio while Patrick was there, or if Patrick left his phone at home. Maybe his mother or sister sent those texts.” Bobbie hesitated. “I’m not sure. But I don’t think it was Patrick or his family, but it had to be someone with access to his phone.”

“But why would anyone do that?” Rachael sighed. “It doesn’t add up.”

“It does if the person who sent them is the killer. They knew that the story about Drake being alive would blow up soon enough because Drake is dead. So, they wanted to make it look like Patrick sent them, which would make Patrick look guilty, as if he was trying to throw suspicion off himself. Think about it. He’s one of the best suspects because of what happened to his father. I’m sure that if someone wanted to frame someone else for Paxon’s murder, Patrick would be top on the list.”

“Oh, yes, that makes sense. And using Drake as a decoy sent them on a wild-goose chase, which bought the killer even more time.” Rachael gasped. “I have to tell my mother about this, right now. I’m sure she’ll check in with Kyle to make sure, but I think it’s possible you’ve just cleared Patrick as a suspect, Bobbie.”

“Great. So, now we know that Colton likely isn’t our killer because he didn’t do anything to destroy the evidence that Paxon had against him. We know that Patrick probably isn’t our killer because someone is trying to frame him. That leaves Tate.” Bobbie recalled what she’d seen in his basement. “But why would he want to kill Paxon?”

“That’s the million-dollar question, I think. Unfortunately, my mother can’t search the basement without a warrant, and there’s no probable cause for one. I’ll let you know if we find out who might have had access to Patrick’s phone.” Rachael ended the call.

Bobbie took a deep breath and closed her eyes. As much as she dreaded it, she knew what she had to do. If Tate was somehow involved in Paxon’s murder, she needed to know the truth.

CHAPTER 26

As Bobbie turned into the parking lot of the newspaper office, she hesitated. What if what Kyle said turned out to be true? She didn’t want to think about Matt being untrustworthy, or even worse, maybe involved in Paxon’s death in some way. But she knew that everyone was a possible suspect. Including Tate.

She’d really believed he was just an innocent bystander in the storm that was his family. However, after seeing those pictures, and the words scrawled across them, she’d started to suspect that Tate was hiding something serious. As she got out of the truck, the door to the office opened and Matt stepped outside.

His dark eyes stared straight at Bobbie, revealing a level of concern that surprised her as he started toward her.

“Matt, is everything okay?” Bobbie walked over to him.

“You tell me.” Matt lowered his voice and caught her arm as he steered her back toward her truck. “What are you thinking, showing up here after what you just did?”

“What do you mean?”

“Not here.” Matt opened the driver’s side door for her. “Get in.”

Startled by his abrupt manner and the serious tone of his voice, she hesitated.

“Bobbie, there isn’t time for indecision. You need to get in, and we need to get out of here right now. Before Larry sees that you’re here.” Matt walked around to the passenger door and swung it open.

Uncertain still, but determined to find out what had him so worried, she climbed into the driver’s seat and started the engine. As she backed out of the parking space, she glanced over at him. “What’s going on?”

“You tell me.” Matt turned in his seat to look at her as she neared the end of the parking lot. “Bobbie, why would you ever go into Tate’s basement? Why didn’t you tell me?”

“How do you know about that?” Bobbie’s heart sank as she realized that Kyle’s warning about Matt, because he was close to Larry, might have been valid after all.

“Let’s see, Junior called his father about you being in his basement, and Larry shouted at me about you breaking into his house and harassing his son!”

“What?” Bobbie gasped as she eased into a parking spot near a closed bookstore. “That’s not what happened!”

“I’m sure it’s not.” Matt shook his head. “All of this could have been avoided if you’d just told me what you were up to. I thought we were becoming partners.”

“Partners?” Bobbie raised her eyebrows. “Is that why you’re slowly feeding me tidbits of information?”

“What did you find?” Matt ignored the question and slid across his seat. “I know you found something in there, otherwise Larry wouldn’t be throwing the tantrum he is.”

“There were pictures,” Bobbie said.

“Pictures of what?”

“Of Paxon. And Tate had written all over them. At least, I think it must have been Tate. Things like, lies, and why, and question marks. He’s clearly very upset about something. I went there just to talk to him, and he let me in. He told me how different he is from his father and brother. And when he went to get me a glass of water, I found the pictures. When he saw me looking at them, he lost it. I think he did it. Or his brother. Or his father. I’m not sure how, or why, but I think they’re wrapped up in all of this. What do you think of me accusing Larry or his sons or all of them of murder?”

“I think I agree with you.” Matt frowned. “I wish I didn’t. But I’ve been connecting all the dots. I wasn’t just working with Paxon on exposing ChemTree. I was working with him to prove that he and Drake had never been at the grocery store that day.”

“Are you saying Paxon was innocent of the robbery?” Bobbie’s eyes widened.

“I believe he was, and so was Drake. All the evidence against them came from Larry. He dug up all the information he could on them, and tried to make sure the murder was pinned on them. But I think Drake found out about it, and had a way to prove their innocence. You see, Drake and Paxon claimed to have an alibi for the time of the robbery. They were at a concert on the other side of town. But there were no receipts, no one to back up their presence there. I think Drake realized he had something. I don’t know, a receipt, a picture, a credit card statement. Something to show that he and Paxon weren’t at the grocery store, and when Larry found out, he went after him. But what I can’t figure out is why.” Matt sat back and closed his eyes. “Why would such a successful man throw everything away? Just because his big story was going to be blown?”

“Because he would do anything to protect his sons,” Bobbie murmured as the pieces began to fit together in her mind. “Junior and Tate are about the same age as Paxon and Drake, and around the same heights and builds. The robbers wore ski masks, right?” She glanced over at him. “Right?”

“Right.” Matt’s eyes darted back and forth as he considered what she’d said. “Yes, that’s possible. That’s the only thing that makes any of this make sense.”

“So, if it really was Junior and Tate, based on their heights, Junior killed Sonny. Larry framed Paxon and Drake for the murders, then killed Drake to keep him quiet. Then when Paxon started to get to the truth, to some kind of proof of his innocence, Larry knew that he had to act fast to continue to protect his sons. So, he killed Paxon.” Bobbie gripped the steering wheel tight. “That’s it, it’s Larry, but how do we prove it?”

CHAPTER 27

Bobbie’s cell phone began ringing. She snatched it up and answered. “Rachael, did you find something?”

“Yes. My mom went to Patrick’s house to speak to him. He insisted he leaves his phone at the house when he trains. He doesn’t want any distractions, which makes sense, because I get distracted so easily, and I think⁠—”

“Rachael! Does that mean it was his mother or sister who sent the texts?” Bobbie’s heart raced as she wondered if she’d gotten everything wrong.

“No, my mom verified that Lisa was at work at the bank. Vera claims she didn’t send them, either. She says she doesn’t even know how to send a text, which tracks with her lack of a cell phone. When my mom asked her whether anyone else had access to the house, she said that she leaves the back door open for her landscaper to come in and get water or snacks whenever he needs them.”

“Landscaper?” Bobbie took a sharp breath. “Is it Junior?”

“Yes!” Rachael nearly squealed with excitement. “It’s Junior, but we have to keep that quiet. Mom is worried that the information will get back to Larry. So, make sure you don’t tell Matt.”

Bobbie passed a guilty look in Matt’s direction. From the volume of Rachael’s voice, she knew he’d heard every word.

“All right, thanks so much for the information.” Bobbie ended the call.

“So, Rachael’s telling you to stay away from me?” Matt nodded. “That makes sense.”

“It doesn’t matter right now.” Bobbie threw her truck into reverse. “We need to find Junior. He may be the murderer after all. But how do we find him?”

“I think I know where he is.” Matt glanced over at her. “I make it my business to keep track of him. He’s been on my radar for a while now. I’ll tell you where to turn.”

As Bobbie followed his directions, she also noticed him pull out his phone and type out a text. She resisted the urge to ask him who he sent it to. However, her mind burned with the possibilities. A part of her worried that he might be leading her right into a trap.

“There.” Matt pointed to the house a few doors down from Paxon’s.

As Bobbie parked, Junior stepped out from the backyard of the house, pushing a mower in front of him. As he saw the two converging on him, he turned off the mower and pulled off his gloves. “What are you two doing here?” He glared at Bobbie. “I know what you did to my brother today.”

“And we know what you did with Patrick’s phone.” Bobbie folded her arms.

“What are you talking about? You need to stay out of my way.” Junior tossed his gloves on the ground and glared at both of them. “When my father finds out about this, you’re both going to pay.”

“You’re going down, Junior.” Matt’s voice hardened. “The police know about the texts. They know you killed Paxon.”

“I didn’t!” Junior scowled. “I didn’t kill anyone. I sent those texts because my dad wanted a good story for the headlines. That’s all!”

“Is that why you shot the manager at the grocery store, too?” Bobbie stared hard into his eyes as his face grew pale. “To give your father a great story?”

“You really don’t know how to keep your mouth shut, do you?” Larry spoke up from a few steps behind Bobbie.

She turned to look at him and flinched at the sight of the gun in his hand. Matt pulled her close and attempted to shield her with his arm.

“Dad! What are you doing?” Junior gasped as Larry aimed his gun in Bobbie and Matt’s direction.

“What I have to do, Junior, for you, and your brother,” Larry snapped.

“You covered this all up.” Bobbie pointed at Larry. “Your sons committed the robbery and killed Sonny, and you framed Drake and Paxon to cover it all up. When they were going to prove their innocence, you killed them to keep them quiet.”

“You have it wrong. I didn’t kill anyone.” Larry trained the gun on her. “Matt, if you know what’s best for you, and for her, you’re going to lead her right into the backyard. Understand?”

Matt’s grip tightened around Bobbie.

“No!” Bobbie pulled out of Matt’s arms and took a slight step toward Larry. “If we go out of sight, you’re going to kill us like Junior killed Sonny and you killed Drake and Paxon.”

“What?” Lisa stepped out of the bushes at the side of the property.

Bobbie squinted at her.

“You killed my father?” Lisa gasped as she reached into her purse and pulled out a gun. She aimed it straight at Junior.

“What are you doing?” Junior held up his hands.

“Ever since my father was shot I’m always prepared.” Lisa tried to steady the weapon, which had a silencer attached, with trembling hands.

“Just hold on a second.” Larry cleared his throat. “We can talk this through.”

“Talk what through? Talk through the fact that Junior killed my father?” Lisa scowled.

“Lisa, you killed Paxon?” Bobbie blurted out as everything started to fall into place. “And Drake?”

“I thought they’d killed my father.” Lisa’s voice wavered as she kept the gun trained on Junior. “I killed Drake because I thought he must have been the one who pulled the trigger. I couldn’t let him get away with that.”

“Why did you wait so long to kill Paxon?” Bobbie took a slight step forward, desperately hoping that help would arrive.

“Because Paxon started claiming his innocence again. Because he came to my mother and said that he and Drake were innocent and he was going to prove it to her.” Lisa’s voice filled with venom. “He brought everything to the surface again. She was so upset. So distraught. I thought he was the reason my father was dead. I couldn’t let him upset her. I couldn’t let him get away with everything. My brother believes that there’s no justice in revenge, but I disagree.” She aimed the gun straight at Junior and took another step toward him as her eyes turned cold. “But it wasn’t even Drake or Paxon. You made me kill two innocent men for nothing.”

“Drop the weapon,” Larry shouted, his gun still trained on Lisa. “Don’t do this.”

“I have to. I have no choice. I have to make sure my father’s murder is avenged.” Lisa released the safety on her gun.

“I’m warning you, Lisa,” Larry growled. “If you try anything, I’ll shoot you.”

“Everyone, relax.” Bobbie took another step toward Lisa which placed Bobbie directly in the firing line of Larry’s gun.

“Bobbie!” Matt shouted her name just before he tackled her to the ground.

Bobbie heard the explosion of the bullet, and felt the breeze of it as it blew past the top of her head. Fear deeper than she’d ever experienced rocketed through her, followed by a recognition of the sound, as if she’d heard it before. She felt Matt’s weight on top of her as he held her down, as if she might try to bolt.

Bobbie could barely form a thought, let alone an escape plan. As her mind began to stop spinning, she heard the sirens, and the shouting.

“Drop the weapons! Drop them, now!” Kate’s voice cracked right through the chaos.

Bobbie turned her head enough to see Lisa kneeling on the ground with her hands behind her head. She caught a glimpse of Junior, who looked frozen from shock, and noticed Kate as she strode toward Larry with her gun aimed at the back of his head. “Make one move, Larry, and it’s all over.”

Bobbie saw Larry’s nostrils flare as he released the gun from his hand, and it tumbled to the ground just a few inches away from her. She felt a rush of relief as she realized that no one had been hurt.

“Thank you, Matt,” Bobbie whispered.

Matt whispered back, “I won’t let anyone hurt you.” He stood up and reached down to pull her to her feet.

As Bobbie turned over and reached up for his hand, she looked into his eyes. A shiver of shock and fear stole her breath as she gazed into one dark sphere, and one, the brightest blue she’d ever seen. She drew her hand away before he could grasp it and scrambled to her feet.

Bobbie heard Larry, Junior, and Lisa being handcuffed behind her, and was aware of another officer retrieving their guns. But none of that mattered as she stared into Matt’s mismatched eyes.

“Bobbie, what’s wrong?” Matt reached for her hand again.

Bobbie ducked back away from him and ran right into Kate, who wrapped an arm around her shoulders.

“It’s all right, Bobbie, you’re safe now.” Kate squeezed her shoulders. “It’s all over.”

Bobbie wanted to share in her celebration, but she couldn’t look away from Matt. It couldn’t be possible. Could it? Could he really be the same man with bright blue eyes, who’d taken pictures of her through her cottage window?

CHAPTER 28

Bobbie sat in the back of Kate’s police car and stared down at her hands as she tried to make sense of what had just happened. She’d begun to trust Matt, she’d even started having romantic feelings for him, and he’d been lying to her from the very first time she’d met him. He was the one who’d taken pictures of her at the cottage. Bobbie had never seen eyes like his before, and she likely never would again. She guessed he covered them with dark contacts, and one must have been knocked loose when he tackled her to the ground. When she was pretty sure he’d saved her life.

Bobbie closed her eyes and sank down deeper in her seat. As much as she was relieved that the murders were all solved, a part of her wished she could turn back time, to a moment when she still believed Matt was a good man.

A light knock on the window startled her eyes back open.

“Please, Bobbie, I can explain.” Matt stared at her through the window, both contacts gone now.

Bobbie looked away from his bright eyes and cringed. “Get away from me. I know who you are.”

Matt opened the door and crouched down just inside of it. “Please, just give me a chance to explain.”

“How can you explain taking pictures of me through my window?” Bobbie swung her head around to face him. “I actually trusted you. But this whole time, you’ve been lying to me.”

“I had to.” Matt lowered his gaze for a moment, then looked back up at her as he frowned. “When I heard someone had moved into the cottage, and they suspected it was Donny and Roberta’s daughter, I didn’t believe it. I’ve been researching your family for years, and to be honest with you, I was sure that you were dead.”

“What?” Bobbie stared at him, too shocked to be angry. “Why would you research my family?”

“Your last name has been changed, and I wanted a picture of you, so I could verify it with a picture of your mother, to see if there could really be a match.”

“Answer my question. Why would you be researching my family?”

“Your parents were criminals, Bobbie.” Matt winced. “I’m sorry, I know that has to be shocking to you. I didn’t want to tell you this way. But they were criminals, and they weren’t killed in an accident. I know your father was killed by a rival, and I believe your mother was, too. Until a few days ago, I believed you had been killed right along with her. No bodies were found, but there was enough evidence to make the assumption.” His voice trailed off as she sank down in her seat and squeezed her eyes shut. “I’m so sorry, Bobbie.” He reached out and placed his hand beside hers but didn’t touch it. “When I realized that you really were Donny and Roberta’s daughter, and that you had no idea about your link to Newfield, and about who your parents actually were, that’s when I realized that telling you the truth would change your whole life.”

Bobbie’s mind raced as she tried to make sense of what he’d just told her. Her parents were criminals? They’d been murdered? She couldn’t even begin to make sense of it and focused her attention back on Matt. “You just wanted a picture? You weren’t going to hurt me?”

“No. I would never hurt you.” Matt brushed her hair gently back from her face and looked into her eyes. “I’m sorry I scared you. To be honest, you startled me when you came at me with that broom. And then I knew it was too late to explain. I should never have snuck up on you like that.”

“But your eyes are so dark, I don’t understand. You were wearing contacts?”

“Yes. I have since I was in middle school. The kids made fun of my eyes because they were such a bright shade. It got to the point that I was wearing sunglasses every day and getting in trouble with the teachers. So, my parents let me get contacts. I don’t wear them when I’m taking pictures because the tint causes a bit of a haze in my vision.” Matt glanced away. “Besides, I have a camera in front of my face, so people can’t see my eyes. Everyone around here only knows me as having dark eyes.”

“This is all too much. You have to be wrong. My Uncle Jimmy would have told me about this.”

“Jimmy.” Matt nodded. “Your parents had a partner they worked with often. His name was Jameson Clive. I’m guessing that he changed his name to Jimmy when he took you.” He studied her expression as his own brow furrowed with confusion. “What I don’t understand is how he got you.”

“What about the cottage? Am I living in my parents’ old house?” Bobbie grabbed his hand before he could pull it away. “You have to tell me the truth, Matt.”

“Yes. Your parents didn’t live here very long before they were killed. But they made quite an impression on the town. When I came to town and heard about the story, I asked Kate about it, and she told me to stay out of it. To leave it all alone and that the cottage was off-limits. But when no one was renting the cottage, I saw her go in there sometimes.” Matt frowned. “There are secrets here, Bobbie, but they’re your parents’ secrets, not yours. You are who you are, you’re not them.”

Bobbie nodded a little as she tried to process what he’d said. As much as she wanted to believe him, the revelation had created a new understanding of the way she’d felt her whole life. She knew something was missing, and she was always searching for answers.

“I just need some time to think about this.” Bobbie pulled her hand away from his. “Just give me some time?”

“Okay.” Matt stood up, but leaned back down toward her. “I know you may have your doubts about me now, but I promise you, I’m going to prove to you that I’m on your side.”

Before Bobbie could begin to process what Matt had told her, Kate opened the other door and slid into the seat beside her.

“Is it over, Kate?” Bobbie glanced at her.

“Yes. Lisa’s lucky that Larry isn’t the best aim and the bullet missed her, and you’re lucky that Matt tackled you to the ground. You never should have put yourself in the line of fire like that. Lisa has been arrested for Paxon and Drake’s murders. Junior has been arrested for obstruction because he sent the messages that were supposedly from Drake and made Roy a suspect because he thought his father had killed Drake and Paxon, and he was trying to protect him by pointing suspicion elsewhere, and I’m working on charges against him for murdering Sonny and both him and Tate for the robbery. Tate came to the station not too long after you left his house and turned himself in. He said he wasn’t like his father or his brother, and couldn’t live the rest of his life knowing that he was partly responsible for Sonny’s death, even if he didn’t pull the trigger. He needed to make amends.”

“He didn’t shoot Sonny?”

“No, he was involved with Junior in the robbery. Junior shot Sonny by accident, and Larry directed all the evidence at Drake and Paxon to cover it up. Apparently, Junior wanted some extra cash and he roped Tate into it. Then things got out of hand. Like Junior, Tate suspected that his father had killed Drake and Paxon and was gathering the information to try to prove it, at least to himself.” Kate leaned back against the seat and looked up at the ceiling of the patrol car. “Turns out they had it wrong. Larry was only responsible for the cover-up.”

“Then it’s true that Drake and Paxon really were innocent the whole time?”

“Yes, it’s true.” Kate looked over at Bobbie. “It’s easy to misjudge people sometimes, Bobbie.”

“Matt told me a bit about my parents. You recognized me when I came to town, didn’t you?”

“Yes, I recognized you.” Kate swept her fingertips across Bobbie’s cheek as she held her gaze. “You look just like her, Bobbie, absolutely identical. I swear if I’d thought you might still be alive, I never would have stopped looking for you.”

“Why are you so sad? Why would you care about a criminal’s child?”

“She wasn’t just a criminal to me.” Kate smiled some as she let her hand fall away from Bobbie’s cheek. “She was my best friend, and aside from my family, the person I cared about most in the world. There are a lot of things you don’t know about her. But one thing that you should know is your mother would have done anything to keep you safe.” Her eyes misted with tears. “And she did, because here you are.”

“Here I am,” Bobbie murmured as she looked out the window at the street that had become her home again. Running from the past wouldn’t change it, but was she really brave enough to face it? Was she really prepared to uncover her family’s secrets and discover the truth about her past?

The End

***

I hope you enjoyed reading A Murky Murder. Ready for more of Bobbie and Bailey’s sleuthing adventures? The next book in the series is A Perilous Package. If you’d like to receive an email when I have a new release, please join my cozy mystery newsletter.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cindy Bell is a USA Today and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author. She is the author of over one hundred books in thirteen series. Her cozies are set in small towns, with lovable animals, quirky characters, delicious food and a touch of romance. She loves writing twisty cozy mysteries that keep readers guessing until the end.

When she is not reading or writing, she loves baking (and eating) sweet treats or walking along the beach with Rufus, her energetic Cocker Spaniel, thinking of the next adventure her characters can embark on.

If you’d like to receive an email when she has a new release, please join her cozy mystery newsletter at https://www.cindybellbooks.com.

ALSO BY CINDY BELL

LAKESIDE COTTAGE COZY MYSTERIES

A Murky Murder

A Perilous Package

DUNE HOUSE COZY MYSTERIES

Dune House Cozy Mystery Series 10 Book Box Set (Books 1 - 10)

Dune House Cozy Mystery Series 10 Book Box Set 2 (Books 11 - 20)

Dune House Cozy Mystery Series Boxed Set 1 (Books 1 - 4)

Dune House Cozy Mystery Series Boxed Set 2 (Books 5 - 8)

Dune House Cozy Mystery Series Boxed Set 3 (Books 9 - 12)

Dune House Cozy Mystery Series Boxed Set 4 (Books 13 - 16)

Seaside Secrets

Boats and Bad Guys

Treasured History

Hidden Hideaways

Dodgy Dealings

Suspects and Surprises

Ruffled Feathers

A Fishy Discovery

Danger in the Depths

Celebrities and Chaos

Pups, Pilots and Peril

Tides, Trails and Trouble

Racing and Robberies

Athletes and Alibis

Manuscripts and Deadly Motives

Pelicans, Pier and Poison

Sand, Sea and a Skeleton

Pianos and Prison

Relaxation, Reunions and Revenge

A Tangled Murder

Fame, Food and Murder

Beaches and Betrayal

Fatal Festivities

Sunsets, Smoke and Suspicion

Hobbies and Homicide

Anchors and Abduction

Friends, Family and Fugitives

Palm Trees and Protests

Road Trip, Risk and Revenge

Fruit Smoothies and Felonies

Sunshine, Scents, and Suspects

LITTLE LEAF CREEK COZY MYSTERIES

Little Leaf Creek Cozy Mystery Series 10 Book Box Set (Books 1-10)

Little Leaf Creek Cozy Mystery Series 10 Book Box Set (Books 11-20)

Little Leaf Creek Cozy Mystery Series Box Set Vol 1 (Books 1-3)

Little Leaf Creek Cozy Mystery Series Box Set Vol 2 (Books 3-6)

Little Leaf Creek Cozy Mystery Series Box Set Vol 3 (Books 7-9)

Little Leaf Creek Cozy Mystery Series Box Set Vol 4 (Books 10-12)

Little Leaf Creek Cozy Mystery Series Box Set Vol 5 (Books 13-15)

Chaos in Little Leaf Creek

Peril in Little Leaf Creek

Conflict in Little Leaf Creek

Action in Little Leaf Creek

Vengeance in Little Leaf Creek

Greed in Little Leaf Creek

Surprises in Little Leaf Creek

Missing in Little Leaf Creek

Haunted in Little Leaf Creek

Trouble in Little Leaf Creek

Mayhem In Little Leaf Creek

Cracked in Little Leaf Creek

Stung in Little Leaf Creek

Scandal In Little Leaf Creek

Dead in Little Leaf Creek

Scared in Little Leaf Creek

Felled in Little Leaf Creek

Deceit in Little Leaf Creek

Secrets in Little Leaf Creek

Poisoned in Little Leaf Creek

Silenced in Little Leaf Creek

Last Dance in Little Leaf Creek

Broken in Little Leaf Creek

Skeletons in Little Leaf Creek

CHOCOLATE CENTERED COZY MYSTERIES

Chocolate Centered Cozy Mystery 10 Book Box Set (Books 1 - 10)

Chocolate Centered Cozy Mystery Series Box Set (Books 1 - 4)

Chocolate Centered Cozy Mystery Series Box Set (Books 5 - 8)

Chocolate Centered Cozy Mystery Series Box Set (Books 9 - 12)

Chocolate Centered Cozy Mystery Series Box Set (Books 13 - 16)

The Sweet Smell of Murder

A Deadly Delicious Delivery

A Bitter Sweet Murder

A Treacherous Tasty Trail

Pastry and Peril

Trouble and Treats

Fudge Films and Felonies

Custom-Made Murder

Skydiving, Soufflés and Sabotage

Christmas Chocolates and Crimes

Hot Chocolate and Homicide

Chocolate Caramels and Conmen

Picnics, Pies and Lies

Devils Food Cake and Drama

Cinnamon and a Corpse

Cherries, Berries and a Body

Christmas Cookies and Criminals

Grapes, Ganache & Guilt

Yule Logs & Murder

Mocha, Marriage and Murder

Holiday Fudge and Homicide

Chocolate Mousse and Murder

SAGE GARDENS COZY MYSTERIES

Sage Gardens Cozy Mystery 10 Book Box Set (Books 1 - 10)

Sage Gardens Cozy Mystery Series Box Set Volume 1 (Books 1 - 4)

Sage Gardens Cozy Mystery Series Box Set Volume 2 (Books 5 - 8)

Birthdays Can Be Deadly

Money Can Be Deadly

Trust Can Be Deadly

Ties Can Be Deadly

Rocks Can Be Deadly

Jewelry Can Be Deadly

Numbers Can Be Deadly

Memories Can Be Deadly

Paintings Can Be Deadly

Snow Can Be Deadly

Tea Can Be Deadly

Greed Can Be Deadly

Clutter Can Be Deadly

Cruises Can Be Deadly

Puzzles Can Be Deadly

Concerts Can Be Deadly

MADDIE MILLS COZY MYSTERIES

Maddie Mills Cozy Mysteries Books 1 - 3

Slain at the Sea

Homicide at the Harbor

Corpse at the Christmas Cookie Exchange

Lifeless at the Lighthouse

Halloween at the Haunted House

DONUT TRUCK COZY MYSTERIES

Deadly Deals and Donuts

Fatal Festive Donuts

Bunny Donuts and a Body

Strawberry Donuts and Scandal

Frosted Donuts and Fatal Falls

Donut Holes and Homicide

WAGGING TAIL COZY MYSTERIES

Wagging Tail Cozy Mystery Box Set Volume 1 (Books 1 - 3)

Murder at Pawprint Creek (prequel)

Murder at Pooch Park

Murder at the Pet Boutique

A Merry Murder at St. Bernard Cabins

Murder at the Dog Training Academy

Murder at Corgi Country Club

A Merry Murder on Ruff Road

Murder at Poodle Place

Murder at Hound Hill

Murder at Rover Meadows

Murder at the Pet Expo

Murder on Woof Way

Murder at Beagle Bay

NUTS ABOUT NUTS COZY MYSTERIES

A Tough Case to Crack

A Seed of Doubt

Roasted Peanuts and Peril

Chestnuts, Camping and Culprits

BEKKI THE BEAUTICIAN COZY MYSTERIES

Hairspray and Homicide

A Dyed Blonde and a Dead Body

Mascara and Murder

Pageant and Poison

Conditioner and a Corpse

Mistletoe, Makeup and Murder

Hairpin, Hair Dryer and Homicide

Blush, a Bride and a Body

Shampoo and a Stiff

Cosmetics, a Cruise and a Killer

Lipstick, a Long Iron and Lifeless

Camping, Concealer and Criminals

Treated and Dyed

A Wrinkle-Free Murder

A MACARON PATISSERIE COZY MYSTERY

Sifting for Suspects

Recipes and Revenge

Mansions, Macarons and Murder

HEAVENLY HIGHLAND INN COZY MYSTERIES

Murdering the Roses

Dead in the Daisies

Killing the Carnations

Drowning the Daffodils

Suffocating the Sunflowers

Books, Bullets and Blooms

A Deadly Serious Gardening Contest

A Bridal Bouquet and a Body

Digging for Dirt

WENDY THE WEDDING PLANNER COZY MYSTERIES

Matrimony, Money and Murder

Chefs, Ceremonies and Crimes

Knives and Nuptials

Mice, Marriage and Murder