Page 123 of Don't Say a Word

“Easier said than done,” I muttered.

“Alina will understand whatever truth you find,” he said.

“I’m afraid I’ll never be able to prove he was killed.”

“But if you know, that will be enough. Alina will rest easier.”

“No, it’s not enough. Yes, I believe the killer will receive eternal judgment, so don’t tell me God has a plan. I get that. But he needs to be in prison. It’s not just Elijah. It’s everyone else who may cross him. Once someone gets away with murder, it’s easier the second time. And the third.”

“Like I said, clear your mind and you’ll find the truth.”

Sometimes, Rafe’s platitudes annoyed me. It wasn’t always easy to stop thinking.

Mom approached us, smiled at her younger brother. “We’re keeping you out late.”

“Father Brian is celebrating the morning Mass. I’m having too much fun. Did Mom and Dad leave?”

“Not yet, but I think they’re heading in that direction.”

Rafe rose, kissed me, kissed his sister, and said, “I’ll go say goodbye.”

And with that, he left me with Mom. In the past, it would have been wholly uncomfortable. For the three years we were estranged, Rafe did more than anyone to bring us together. It pained him that we didn’t talk, and when we did, we argued. Now, we were better. Not perfect, but better.

She sat in the seat he’d vacated. “Jack told me you were followed today.”

“Yep.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I told Jack.”

“I’m concerned, Margo.”

“I have it under control. I know what he looks like, his vehicle, I’m keeping my eyes open.”

“Jack said he may have followed you from the office. Which means he knows who you are, where you work, and could know where you live.”

“I’m aware.”

“You’re not taking this seriously.”

“Iam,” I assured her. “Veryseriously. I promise,” I added when she didn’t look convinced.

“You have always been tenacious.”

“I get that from you.”

Mom’s lips twitched. “Perhaps. But I preferred the safety of the courthouse, the system of justice, checks and balances. You prefer the field. Where things get sticky, and often dangerous.”

“So does Jack,” I said. “Did you give him the same lecture?”

“Oh, yes. When he joined the police academy I had many sleepless nights. I’ve prosecuted two cop killers over my years. Just by putting on the uniform, he put himself in harm’s way.”

“Because you and Dad taught us to care about our community and do what we could to help people. Jack’s a natural protector.”

“So are you.”

“Not really.”