If the project proceeded, the surrounding property could become extremely valuable.
Detective Ortiz examined the photographs.
“Do all seven women still live in the area?”
Mom hesitated.
“Not anymore.”
“Where are they?”
She pointed to the first woman.
“Agnes Vale. She was the oldest member of our circle.”
I studied her face.
Agnes had a bright smile and sharp blue eyes.
“She passed away six weeks ago,” Mom continued.
The detective looked up.
“Are you certain?”
“We attended a memorial service.”
“Did you see her body?”
Mom frowned.
“No. Her family said she'd been cremated privately.”
Detective Ortiz wrote something down.
Mom pointed toward the next woman.
“Helen Parker moved into assisted living last month.”
“And the others?”
“Gloria Bell went to stay with relatives. Edith Morris sold her home unexpectedly. June Harris hasn't answered my calls in weeks.”
The detective became very still.
“And Margaret Wilson?”
“She's in the hospital.”
