Chapter 15

The next morning, Cole is working from the dining room table, so I make my way to the living room to give him some space. Though I know my package hasn’t arrived yet, I check the front door just in case, and I find the next letter there waiting for me.

I bend down, picking it up and turning it over in my hand. This is letter number three of the promised six, and so far, we have no more answers, just a ton more questions. I’m not sure I have the stomach for whatever this may hold.

Still, my curiosity gets the best of me, and I tear it open as I cross the porch and lean against the railing, scanning the yard and road in the distance, wondering if the mysterious sender of these letters might be out there somewhere, watching me, waiting to see how I’ll react.

With that in mind, I turn my back toward the gate and pull out the letter, unfolding it quickly. A lump forms in my throat at the familiar font.

Bridget,

By now, you’ve discovered one of Vera’s darkest secrets, and you understand what a dangerous woman she was. I can’t blame you if you want to leave or call the police, but thank you for not doing so. I won’t stop you from doing whatever you decide is for the best once everything has come out, but there is still so much you need to know and that can only happen if you wait for the remaining letters.

I’m so sorry to say the next secret will be the most painful, but it is necessary, Bridget. You have to know everything, and unfortunately, I’m tasked with the burden of telling you.

Of all the blood on Vera Bitter’s hands, the worst is that of her daughter and son-in-law.

Vera Bitter killed your parents.

Their accident was never an accident.

It’s the reason she cut all remaining ties with your family. It’s the reason she was alone in the end.

I’m so sorry, but it’s true.

I only wish it wasn’t.

Signed,

A friend