Patricia’s voice had lost its honey. Pure steel.
Now I don’t know what lies these investigators have been feeding you, but
her phone rang. Richard’s phone rang at the same moment. They looked at each other. Something passed between them. Fear, I realized. Real fear.
Richard glanced at his screen. His face went white.
Patricia.
His voice cracked.
It’s the police.
The doorbell rang.
Uncle Thomas was closest to the door. He opened it without thinking, still processing what was happening.
Marcus Webb stepped inside, badge visible on his belt. Two uniformed officers flanked him.
Patricia Carter.
My mother didn’t move. For the first time in my life, I saw her completely still, frozen, like an animal caught in headlights.
I’m fire investigator Marcus Webb. He crossed the room in four steps. You’re under arrest for arson in the second degree and insurance fraud.
This is ridiculous.
Patricia finally found her voice. It came out shrill. Nothing like her usual composure.
Evelyn set me up. She’s been planning this. She’s sick.
Ma’am, you have the right to remain silent.
Marcus took her arm, not roughly, but firmly.
Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.
Don’t believe her?
Patricia twisted toward the family. Mascara starting to run.
She’s unstable. She’s been making things up since the fire.
You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford one, one will be provided for you.
The handcuffs clicked into place. The sound echoed in the silent room.
Richard tried to step toward his wife, but the second officer blocked him.
Mr. Carter, we have questions for you as well. Please come with us.
I didn’t. I wasn’t.
Richard’s face crumpled.
It was her idea. All of it. I just
Richard.
Patricia’s scream was raw.
Shut up.
But it was too late. The family had heard.
Aunt Margaret sank into a chair, hand over her mouth. Cousin Brian looked like he might be sick. Uncle Thomas just stood there shaking his head slowly.
I watched them lead my mother out the door. She didn’t look back at me. She didn’t have to. We both knew how this ended.
continued on next page
For complete cooking times, go to the next page or click the Open button (>), and don't forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends.
