AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“We are in the sense that we’re residing in the same condo in D.C.”
“Okay, then are you two more than work partners?”
“Mary, I’m a lot older than she is.”
“You didn’t answer my question. And, news flash, lots of older men date much younger women.”
“No, we’renotmore than work partners.”
“Okay.” She sat forward. “So, Hawkins?”
“Why are you having doubts? It was a clear-cut case.”
“Maybe too clear-cut.”
“That doesn’t make sense. And what’s your evidence?”
“I don’t have any. And I don’t know if he’s telling the truth or not. But I just think since the guy’s dying and he came back here to clear his name, maybe it’s worth a second look.”
Decker did not look convinced but said, “Okay, how about now?”
“What?” she said, looking startled.
“Let’s go over to where the murders took place. I’m sure no one’s moved in there after all this time, not after what happened.” He paused. “Just like my old home.”
“Well, you’re wrong there. Someonedidmove into your old place.”
Decker’s jaw slackened. “Who?”
“A young couple with a little girl. The Hendersons.”
“You know them?”
“Not really. But I know they moved in about six months ago.”
“And the other place? Is there someone there too?”
“Somebody moved in there about five years ago. But they left about a year ago when the plastics manufacturing facility closed down and went overseas to join all the other factories that used to be in the Midwest. It’s been abandoned since then.”
Decker rose. “Okay, you coming? It’ll be like old times.”
“I’m not sure I need any more ‘old times.’” But Lancaster rose too and grabbed a coat that was hanging on a wall peg. “And what if it turns out Hawkins was telling the truth?” she asked as they headed to the door.
“Then we need to find out who really did it. But we’re not there yet. In fact, we’re not even close.”
“You don’t work here anymore, Decker. Finding a murderer here after all this time isn’t your job.”
“Finding killers is myonlyjob. Wherever they might be.”
