“What a dreadful thing. And from someone she trusted!”
I watched her carefully.
Mom stepped aside.
“Come in.”
I immediately felt uneasy.
But Detective Ortiz had advised us not to confront anyone based solely on suspicion.
So I remained polite.
Marian sat at the kitchen table and folded her hands.
“I've been trying to help the authorities understand how Alex gained access to these women.”
I looked at her.
“Did he work for Silver Hearth?”
She hesitated.
“He occasionally delivered supplies for us.”
“Occasionally?”
“Yes.”
“Then why did someone from your organization come to my mother's house yesterday?”
Her smile faltered.
“What?”
“A man named Caleb claimed I'd arranged a home safety assessment.”
Marian looked surprised.
“I'll have to investigate that.”
I held her gaze.
“Please do.”
She turned toward Mom.
“Ruth, perhaps you should stay with relatives for a while. It's dangerous for you to be alone.”
Mom shook her head.
