Page 74 of Artifice

“Henry works maintenance at Harbor,” Mrs. Potts said. “Three days ago, he told me he discovered someone has been falsifying students’ medical records.”

“Why would someone do that?”

“He’s not sure. It’s some type of coverup.” She drew a shaky breath. “He went to ask Principal Denarau about it. That was the last time I saw him.”

“The police—” Olive began.

“The police said he probably went fishing on his boat and will turn up.” Mrs. Potts’ voice hardened. “Henryhatesfishing. And his boat is still in the marina.”

Was someone in the police department in on this? Was that why they’d dismissed the missing person’s report?

Olive knew it was a good possibility.

Simon took the water pitcher from Mrs. Potts’ trembling hands and set it aside. “When exactly did your husband disappear? The timing might be significant.”

“Sunday.” Mrs. Potts wiped at her eyes. “I was at my sister’s, and someone went through our private residence while I was gone. But Henry wouldn’t bring anything home. He’s careful.”

Simon stepped fully into the hallway. “Mrs. Potts, I think you should tell us everything you know about Lighthouse Harbor. In return, we’ll tell you who we really are and why we’re here.”

Olive shot him a warning look, but he ignored it.

“We’re going to find your husband,” he continued. “And the missing students. But we need your help.”

Mrs. Potts straightened her shoulders, suddenly looking more determined despite her tear-streaked face. “Come to my private residence. No one will hear us there.”

Olive considered what to do.

Was this a trap?

Could she trust Simon?

Too much was uncertain right now.

Why hadn’t she told Tevin to stay with her?

Of all the times she needed backup, it was now.

CHAPTER 39

As Olive and Simon followed Mrs. Potts down the narrow stairs, Simon leaned close to Olive’s ear. “By the way, Dr. Wells is back in town. He arrived this afternoon for tomorrow’s board meeting.”

Olive nearly missed a step. “How do you know so much?”

“I know a lot of things.” His expression was unreadable. “Including why you’re the perfect person to bring down Lighthouse Harbor—or exactly the wrong one.”

The air left her lungs. What did he mean by that?

Before she could respond, they reached the bottom of the stairs.

Mrs. Potts led them toward the back of the house, her determined stride at odds with her earlier frailty. Olive followed, her mind whirling with questions.

Who exactly was Simon Long? Why did he think she could bring down the school?

And most importantly—what did Henry Potts discover that made him disappear?

They paused in the small living area of Mrs. Potts’ private quarters and turned to each other, now away from prying ears.

Or were they?