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All three of them jumped when the door opened, the painting disappearing from view as it slid into the recess.
Mrs. Cain walked into the art room, frowning. “What is going on? Have they offered an explanation for barging into our home?” She glared at Gary. “The police commissioner’s wife is a friend. You can be sure I’ll be speaking about—”
“Della.” The senator gave her a sad smile. “I’m going to the Boston police department with these gentlemen, ‘to help with their inquiries,’ I believe the phrase is. I suspect there will be officers here shortly. Let them take whatever they want.” He fixed her with a hard stare. “Whateverthey want.” Then he turned to Gary. “Make sure they don’t damage it?”
Gary gave a nod. “I’ll make a call. I know someone who’ll assist in its removal.” Lori would take great care with it.
Senator Cain glanced at the door. “There are no permanent fixings through the stretcher. It’s held in place with turn buttons.” He squared his shoulders. “Let’s go.” Another glance at Gary. “Will I have to wear…?”
Gary saw where he was headed. He shook his head. “Cuffs won’t be necessary in the circumstances.”
The senator flashed him a look of gratitude. “Thank you.” And with that, they escorted him through the house and out to the car. Mrs. Cain followed them, aghast, calling out that she’d contact the family lawyer and have him go to the precinct.
Senator Cain said nothing.
Gary got behind the wheel.
We’re about to learn the truth behind Cheryl’s death, and I’m not sure I want to hear it.
A truth he felt sure would break Pete Raskin.
2:00 p.m.
GARY WASabout to go to the interview room where Senator Cain awaited them when his phone rang. It was Travers.
“Sergeant Michaels informs me we have Senator William Cain in custody.Custody? What on earth have you dug up?”
“I’ll tell you when we’ve spoken to the senator. Am I okay to let Dan sit in on the interview?”
“Seeing as he’s probably been instrumental in getting you to this point, I would say yes. And Gary? Come to my office as soon as you’re done with the senator.”
Gary told him he would, then hung up.
Dan’s grim expression mirrored Gary’s own internal turmoil.
“Let’s get down there.” No sooner had the words left Gary’s lips than his phone buzzed. He fished it out of his pocket and peered at the screen. “It’s from Sean Nichols. The class reunion is in September. It’s being run as a charity dinner, and there will be a raffle to raise more funds. Tuxedos to be worn.”
“Tell him we’ll be there.” Dan cocked his head. “Do you own a tux?”
“I’ll rent one.” Gary composed a quick reply, then stared at the door.
“I know how you feel.” Dan’s voice was low. “I can’t believe it either.”
“Then let’s go hear his story.”
They headed down to the interview rooms to find an officer standing outside.
“Senator Cain’s lawyer just arrived. He’s in there now.”
Gary glanced at his badge. “Thanks, Lomax.” He opened the door and they went inside.
Senator Cain sat at the table, in quiet conversation with a smartly dressed man. A jug of water and two glasses were in front of them. Both men fell silent as Gary and Dan took their seats facing them. Gary checked the recording apparatus was functioning properly and went through the routine of assuring the senator was aware of his rights.
Gary opened his folder. “Let’s start with what happened the day Cheryl died. Do you remember everything?”
“Senator, I—”
Senator Cain patted his lawyer’s arm. “You’re here because Della sent for you, but I’m afraid all you’re going to do is sit there and listen. I’ve kept quiet for long enough.” He regarded Gary, his face drawn. “Believe me, that day has haunted me for the past twenty-six years.”
