Page 128 of State of Grace (First Family 2)

Paula thought about that for a full minute. “She said the older one, Grace, was troubled.”

“Did she say how so?”

“Just that Mark and his wife had a lot of issues with her. She was very willful, didn’t listen to them, constantly broke their rules. That kind of stuff.”

Sam’s backbone tingled with the sensation that told her they might be on to something. “Has she ever been violent that you know of?”

“I honestly don’t know that.”

“Is there anything else you can tell me about things Pam might’ve told you about Mark or his family?”

“I really can’t think of anything, but if I do, I’ll call you.”

“Thank you for your help. We really appreciate it.”

“I really hope you find the person who did this.”

“So do we.”

When they were back outside, Sam said, “Call McBride and tell them to focus on Grace Ouellette first. Get me everything they can find on her first and then her brother, Aidan, and her sisters Michaela and Alexis.”

While Freddie conveyed her orders to Jeannie, Sam drove to Mark Ouellette’s insurance office.

“They’re on it,” Freddie said. “What’s our next move?”

“I want to talk to Mark Ouellette again. If one of his kids was pissed off about his affair, he might know about it. I want to see his face when I ask him about that.”

“Good call. Let’s do it.”

When Gonzo and Cameron arrived at the home where Tiffany Thorn and her son were staying, he showed his badge to the officer standing outside the front door.

“She just came back a short time ago, Sergeant,” the patrolman said as he handed their badges back to them after a thorough examination. “A real nice lady.”

The young man’s voice dripped with sarcasm.

“I had the unfortunate opportunity to spend time with her last night,” Gonzo said.

Grinning at his comment, the officer said, “Her mother came to stay with the boy while she was on TV going off about your boss and her husband.”

“Thank you for the info, Officer McDaniels,” Gonzo said.

“Happy to help.”

“We’re here to pick her up for a formal interview at HQ. Will you back us up? I don’t expect her to go easily.”

“You got it, Sarge.”

Cameron stood next to Gonzo as he rang the doorbell. When Tiffany Thorn answered it, he noted that her hair and makeup were flawless, as if maybe a professional had prepared her for her TV appearances.

“Did you find Bryson’s killer?”

“We think so.”

Her eyes went wide. “Oh good. That’s such a relief. So we can go home, then?”

“Not quite yet. I’m going to need you to come downtown to MPD headquarters with me.”

“Why?”