Chapter 36

36

I was sitting in my mother's living room, talking to her and Harvey about the investigation.

"Well, I'll be," my mother said. "You think you know a person, and to think it all happened on our quiet little street."

"Hard for me not to feel sorry for Rosalyn," Harvey said. "If she was being abused by her husband, and she felt she couldn't get out of the situation, she did what any animal does when it's caught in a trap."

"I feel the same way about the situation," I said. "There are those who wouldn't have sympathy for what she did, but none of us know the hell she went through with him."

"What about Cordelia?" my mother asked. "You don't think Rosalyn had anything to do with her death, do you?"

"I don't, and it's where Foley and I differ. He believes she's responsible for both murders. I don't see a strong enough connection."

"Well then," my mother said patting me on the knee, "I guess your job isn't done yet, is it?"

"It's not, and I'm not sure where to go from here."

"You'll figure it out, dear. You always do. Care to stay for dinner?"

"Sure, I'm on my own tonight."

"Where's that strapping young man of yours?"

"Giovanni is out of town, meeting with his cousin to talk about a new business venture. He'll be back in the morning."

"Wonderful. I made some lasagna last night. I have plenty left over for the three of us. I'll whip up a quick salad, and we'll be all set. Come, help me set the table."

I followed her to the kitchen, where I noticed the entire countertop was covered in photos.

"What are these?" I asked.

"It's my fun pet project. While helping Octavia, I've been taking photos here and there when I can, trying to preserve campaign memories for her. Once she gets voted into office again, I'll put together a little scrapbook, give it to her as a gift."

"I'm sure she will appreciate it."

My mother handed off some plates, silverware, and napkins, and I set the table.

While she made the salad, I returned to the counter, browsing through the photos. As I glanced at the first few rows, something caught my eye—or rather, someone.

I picked up one of the photos and turned it toward my mother, pointing at it. "Have you ever seen this man before?"

"Oh, yes. Let me think. Dustin something. Clement or Clemus … Wait, no. It's Clemens. Dustin Clemens. Nice fellow."

"When and where was this photo taken?"

She gave the question some thought. "I'm not sure. Would have been in the last month. I believe Octavia was speaking in Magnolia Park that day. Have you been there since they made all the wonderful improvements? The bathrooms are gorgeous, nicer than mine. Why do you ask?"

"How do you know Dustin? And how does he relate to the events you've been attending?"

My mother tapped a finger to her cheek, thinking. "Come to think of it, I'm not sure. We never got that far in our conversation. It was a combined event."

"What do you mean?"

"Both candidates were speaking."

"Benjamin was there?"

"If it's the one I'm thinking of, yes. I've been to so many functions over the last month, they're all blending together."

"Have you ever taken Cordelia to an event?"

My mother tipped her head to the side and said, "Yes, I took her to a few. I was trying to get her out of the house."

My heart was racing, thoughts running in and out, puzzle pieces connecting at long last.

"Listen, Mom, I know I said I would stay for dinner, but I just remembered that there's an errand I forgot to run. Is it okay if I step out for a bit? Save me a plate, and I'll be back."

"Sure, I can, but dinner's almost ready. Why don't you have a seat, and you can run your errand after?"

I grabbed my handbag off the counter, slipped the photo of Dustin inside, and sprinted toward the door. "I would if I could, but this errand is one that cannot wait."