Inside the folder was one final sealed envelope. Open only if they come back.

I nearly laughed. “Oh, Eleanor,” I whispered.

Chapter 6 — With Witnesses

They came back two and a half weeks later. This time, Rebecca brought witnesses.

From the kitchen window I watched several cars travel up the lane and park across the grass like pieces being set on a board. Rebecca stepped out in black — what struck me at once as her sympathy outfit.

Trent followed, pale and unhappy. Behind them came his parents, Gerald and Diane Mercer, both stiff and carefully composed; Gerald carried a leather portfolio, Diane a camera.

My cousin Dale emerged last, looking as if he wished the earth would open beneath him.