Inside the Room
Raines sat stiff in the chair, tie loosened, face tight.
He looked up as Scout entered. No smile.
“Is this a joke?” Raines said.
Burke stayed near the door.
Scout didn’t sit. He planted both hands on the table.
“You lied.”
Raines exhaled sharply. “I gave you a statement.”
“You lied about the typewriter.”
“I didn’t.”
“We served a warrant. There’s no typewriter at your house.”
Raines blinked once. “You tore through my home over a word.”
“You made it up.”
“I said it because it was easier than explaining my personal life.”
“Your personal life doesn’t explain a typewriter that doesn’t exist.”
“This is ridiculous.”
“You lied about the violet too.”
Raines’s eyes flashed. “What violet?”
“You were on video at the greenhouse buying one. Same day Tessa’s cabin was broken into. Same day a violet appeared inside.”
Raines stared at him. “So now I can’t buy a plant?”
“You put it there.”
“No. I didn’t.”
“Then why lie?”
“Because I knew you’d twist it.”
“So why’d you buy it?”
“It was for someone else.”
“Sure it was.”
Raines leaned forward, offended. “I’ve worked my entire life for my reputation?—”
“Where is she?” Scout cut in.
Raines went still.
