Page 107 of Line of Sight

Dan tried to shut out Riley’s voice while he ran through the possibilities in his head.

And then it came to him.

“He’s not talking about the murders.” He stared at Riley. “He’s talking about where it all began for Gary.”

Riley stilled. “You mean where Brad was found? Forest Park, Springfield. That’s easily another hour from here.”

Dan nodded. “And this time you really can’t come with me.”

Riley’s face was grim. “Don’t worry. He won’t see me. But I’ll hearyou, okay? And I’ll call Travers. We’re gonna need Springfield PD in on this.” He grabbed Dan’s arm. “I won’t put Gary in harm’s way, all right? We’ll stay back, but wewillbe there.”

Gary was already in harm’s way—and Dan had put him there.

Chapter Seventy-One

Sunday, January 27, 2019

5:45 p.m.

“HERE’S YOURjuice.” I handed him a glass.

“Thanks.” He glanced into the room. “I’m really pleased with it so far.”

“So am I.” I grinned. “It’s gone exactly as I hoped it would. By the way, I’m sorry I had to change my plans.” I gestured to the window, through which could be seen the darkening sky. “I know you prefer working in natural light, but it couldn’t be helped.” I watched the bob of his Adam’s apple as he drank.

When the glass was empty, he handed it back to me. “This is some place you have here.”

“A small place but mine own.”

He laughed. “Hardly small. How many bedrooms does it have?”

“Six. And eleven bathrooms.” I gestured once more to the window. “Set in over eight acres.”

“And yet you don’t seem to have any staff, which kinda surprises me.”

I shrugged. “Not today, I don’t. I didn’t want any witnesses, you see.”

“Witnesses?” He staggered, putting his hand out to grab the door.

“Are you okay?” I didn’t bother hiding my smile. It was too late anyway.

“I… I don’t feel so good.”

“Don’t worry. You won’t be feeling the effects for much longer.”

He swallowed, his eyes growing hazy. “I don’t… understand.”

I gave him a beaming smile. “You’re not meant to.”

When he collapsed, I gazed at him, prostrate on the hardwood floor.

Now to see if Dan Porter is as good as he thinks he is.

Chapter Seventy-Two

Monday, January 28, 2019

Forest Park, Springfield, MA