Page 66 of Under Fire


Font Size:  

“That’s because his wife filed for divorce and kicked him out of their home on the outskirts of Harmony.”

Matt pressed his hand against Delilah’s back as they climbed the stairs to the police station. “We’re at the station. Anything else that can’t wait until I’m in a more secure location?”

“The Frosts, the Randolphs, and Norris and a man named Donovan Cain all belong to a hunting club. Very exclusive. They also participated in shooting tournaments and won awards.”

He scowled. “How did lowlifes like the Randolphs become part of an exclusive organization?”

“Probably their connection to Norris. Watch your back, Matt. The Randolphs might be gone, but that leaves six other dangerous men who have good reason to target your girl.”

Matt gave Delilah a summary of the information from Zane, then escorted her into the station and asked for Detective Russell. Within a couple minutes, Russell appeared with a folder under his arm and motioned for them to follow him through the double doors. Instead of stopping at a desk, the policeman led them through the bullpen, down a hall, and into a room with a mirror, wooden table, four chairs, and a camera mounted in the corner of the ceiling.

“You brought us to an interrogation room.” Matt seated Delilah before taking the chair beside hers. If the detective thought he would catch them in a lie, he was in for a disappointment.

“Camera’s off and the observation room is empty. I checked before I came for you.” The detective sat and opened the folder. He handed them their statements and tossed a couple pens on the table. “Read your statements. If they’re correct and you haven’t thought of anything else to add, sign them.”

When they slid the papers back to Russell, the cop withdrew another sheaf of papers. “The ME sent Mrs. Holloway’s autopsy report.”

The grim expression on the detective’s face told Matt the results before he’d said a word.

“Did Mom die of natural causes?”

Russell shook his head. “I’m sorry, Ms. Frost, but your mother died of suffocation.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

Delilah stared at the Harmony detective after his shocking revelation. She and Matt had walked in on her stepfather standing over her mother with a pillow in his beefy hands. Maybe her first instinct had been correct. Was it possible Randy murdered his wife?

“You need to talk to Randy Holloway.” Matt wrapped his hand around Delilah’s.

Russell’s gaze sharpened. “Why?”

“When we walked into Michelle’s hospital room, we found Holloway standing over his wife with a pillow in his hands while the monitors were going off.”

“That won’t be enough for a conviction. I need proof or a confession, but I’ll bring him in for questioning. Maybe he’ll have something to get off his chest.”

“Check hospital security cams.” If Holloway wasn’t guilty, the cameras should show who entered the room before Delilah’s stepfather.

“I know how to do my job, Rainer.” Russell shoved back from the table and stood. “You’re free to go. Tell Ramsey and his wife to come sign their statements. If I’m not here, one of the other detectives in the bullpen will have access to them.” Russell stalked from the room.

Delilah sat back, dismayed at the final exchange with Russell. “We’re making enemies in Harmony.”

“I don’t care if Holloway and Shannon are angry. Russell, however, isn’t used to outsiders making suggestions. Wouldn’t matter if we were federal law enforcement. He’d still resent us. It’s worse because I’m in private security.”

“Even though he knows the quality of Fortress operatives?”

“He’s territorial. Can’t say that I blame him.” A pointed look at her. “I’m territorial about you and your safety. I don’t trust the police to keep you safe.”

“I want him to find out who killed my mother. Do you think Randy is guilty?”

“It appears that way.”

“But you’re not satisfied with that explanation.”

He shrugged. “Too easy. I think someone is setting up your stepfather for your mother’s murder.” Matt stood. “Let’s get out of here. I’ll treat you to a cup of tea, then we’ll visit Norris.”

Her stomach knotted as she followed Matt from the interrogation room. The last thing she wanted to do was confront the man who played a major role in the worst day of her life.

The coffee shop was bustling with customers again. Sasha waved at them from a corner table. Delilah and Matt weaved through the tables filled with animated customers sipping hot or cold drinks and nibbling on pastries.

Source: www.allfreenovel.com
Articles you may like