“Nobody’s ruling that out,” Edwards said. “But after I talked to that PD, I got a call from a woman. Angela Burke? Does that ring any bells?”
“David’s mom.” Simone rolled her eyes. “Yeah, I know her.”
“Right.” Edwards rubbed a hand down his jaw. “Look, I don’t want to stir anything up here. I didn’t give her your name or nothing like that. But I guess he’d talked to her before he came here. Even though he was off grid, they were in contact.”
Shit. Holy shit.
“Oh yeah, they talk every day,” Simone said. “Always was a mama’s boy.”
“My point here is, somebody knew where he was before he came here. And now, no one does.”
“Okay, I get that.” Rhiannon took the slightest step inward, slightly in front of Simone. “But I don’t get how that’s her problem. Or mine. Or anyone else’s here.”
“I guess it’s not, ma’am.” Edwards raised his hands at his sides. “And I’m not saying I disagree with you. Considering the charges he was facing, and everything he’s done to Simone, it wouldn’t surprise me one bit if you’re right, and he did run to Canada. Ain’t like there’s service in the Yukon.”
“Then what’s your point here, kid?”
At Rhiannon’s voice, his grew timid. “Angela’s poking. She’s asking questions. It wouldn’t surprise me if she made a trip up here.”
“If she does, tough shit.” Rhiannon’s posture stiffened. “She ain’t welcome through my gates.”
“As is your right.” Edwards raised his hands in surrender once more. “And look, I know what this place is. I know how important it is. So does the sheriff. We know all the women here are victims, and we’re not gonna hurt you anymore than your pasts already have. But because we care about each other, we wanted you to know that someone’s asking questions. So it might not be a bad idea to lock up and keep things secure for the time being.”
Shit.
