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Silas took a moment to consider the question. “Christopher had a passion for the arts, and the Terrene Theater was a manifestation of that passion. Rainey, as a household maid, was primarily involved in domestic affairs. While they may have shared conversations about the future of the town, Christopher was the one directly involved in these projects.”
Jule added, “Christopher had grand ideas for Waverly Junction. Fiddler’s Restaurant was meant to be a gathering place, a hub for the community. The theater and the restaurant were his way of contributing to the cultural and social fabric of the town.”
Olivia brought them back around again to her previous question. “Is there a reason why the land to the west hasn't been developed? Did it hold significance in Christopher's vision or future plans?”
Silas nodded. “Yes, that land was reserved for future development, a part of Christopher's broader vision for the town. However, after Christopher’s death, we put the plans on hold.”
“Besides the Terrene Theater and Fiddler’s Restaurant, are there any other holdings in Waverly Junction that were part of Christopher's vision?” Olivia asked, wanting to explore the extent of the projects and properties connected to Christopher's dreams.
Jule pressed her lips together. “We own a lot of downtown properties. He wanted to create a Waverly Cultural Center in the space where Ashcroft Mall is. Christopher proposed a space that would house art galleries, workshops, and technology exhibits, providing a platform for local artists and innovators. In his memory, we created the Innovation Hub. It’s dedicated to fostering technological advancements and innovation within Waverly Junction, serving as a space for tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs.”
“Are there any other spaces being used for purposes other than what Christopher intended, like the mall?” Olivia asked.
“No,” Silas answered.
“And now? Even with the loss of the theater and restaurant, are those plans on hold?” Michael asked.
The Waverlys stayed quiet. The door opened, and in walked Sinclair Waverly. Both detectives stood to welcome him.
“Good afternoon, Detectives. What brings you here?” Sinclair asked.
Seventeen
Sinclair Waverly, an enigmatic and austere figure, commanded attention with an air of reserved authority. He possessed a commanding stature, standing tall with a posture that exuded confidence and self-assuredness despite his eighty-five years. Dressed in an impeccably tailored suit, Sinclair was the epitome of sophistication and refinement. His movements were deliberate, measured, those of someone accustomed to being in control.
Sinclair's gaze, a penetrating shade of green, seldom revealed his mind’s inner workings. As he looked at Olivia, she did her best not to flinch at his intensity. He made everyone acutely aware of his control. The way Silas and Jule reacted made it clear both were fearful of disagreeing with him.
Michael introduced himself and Olivia. As she and her partner sat with Sinclair, she deferred the responsibility of relaying their ongoing discussion with Silas and Jule. The atmosphere in the room tensed as Michael navigated the delicate conversation.
“Mr. Waverly, we've been discussing the recent arson fires, the loss of Christopher and Rainey, the discovery of Rainey’s newborn, and Christopher’s vision for the town.” Michael balanced his notebook on his knee.
Olivia watched as Sinclair listened attentively, his stoic demeanor giving away little. She picked up the discussion. “Now, regarding the arsons... Is there anyone you know of who might have a motive to destroy buildings that belong to you or your family?”
Olivia's question hung in the air. Her gaze shifted between the three Waverlys, capturing the tension of the moment. The question itself hinted at the possibility that the fires were not arbitrary acts of arson but calculated moves aimed at dismantling the dreams and plans of their only child and grandchild, Christopher.
Sinclair, known for his reserved nature, pressed his lips together before responding. “Christopher's vision faced opposition, disagreements within the family and the community. It's unfortunate, but success often invites envy. However, targeting properties with deliberate intent... that's another matter entirely. We will continue our plans and Christopher’s.
“We are in the process of the Historical Building Revitalization Project. We are renovating the entire historical district for shops, restaurants, and hotel space with convention areas. It will also include middle-class housing and a supermarket.
“Christopher created the Waverly Junction Consumer Club. He understood residents needed a place to buy things at a reduced cost. He felt having one in Waverly Junction would keep out the other big-box stores. He also wanted to create the Waverly Junction History Museum to showcase the history of the town. It was supposed to be beside the library. Thankfully, we have the collection in a warehouse. The materials are safe.”
“Sir, where are those materials?” Olivia asked.
“A warehouse on the east side. I’ll get you the address. Hopefully when the insurance comes through for the library, we will quickly rebuild.”
The conversation veered toward the Terrene Theater and Fiddler’s Restaurant again. “Do you have any idea why someone would want to burn those places down?” Her eyes searched Sinclair’s for any signs of hidden knowledge.
As they spoke of owning the burned buildings and the insurance covering the financial losses, Olivia probed deeper, trying to understand potential motivations behind the arson. The Waverlys exchanged glances, their expressions untroubled.
“We've racked our brains trying to figure that out,” Mrs. Waverly admitted. “Aside from being an inconvenience to us, we can't understand why anyone would target us like that.”
“Have you looked into the injured and your tenants? Maybe the issue is there?” Michael asked.
Olivia hated what she was feeling. She believed them.
“Mr. Waverly, development on the western parcel has been dormant since Christopher passed away. Is there any reason someone might believe you would begin development there?” Michael asked.
“Yes,” Sinclair answered.
