“Georgie wears her heart on her sleeve. She once cried for days when she couldn’t save an abandoned lamb. If she’d killed someone, no matter whom he’d threatened, she would be devastated. She hasn’t shed a tear.”
“Have you run your theory past her?” Dot asked.
“She denies it, but she can’t lie for shit.”
Dot nodded in agreement. “She’s protecting someone.”
“Going to gaol for manslaughter is a big step for anyone, let alone someone who has done bad things to your family,” Sam said.
“Lee saved Tess,” Brandon pointed out. “That might be enough for Georgie.”
“He must have saved Matt as well,” Sam said. Then Georgie would take the fall.
“Why not just say so?” Nhiari asked.
“Because he’s still working for Stonefish,” Brandon said. “You report Lee killed the kidnapper, and he’ll have Stonefish after him.”
It made complete sense. The only question was, why? Why had Lee turned against his organisation?
“You’re implying Stonefish have people in the police.” Dot turned away and brushed back her hair.
“Tess already suggested it,” Brandon said. “Everything is digital these days. The guy wouldn’t have to be in Retribution Bay to get access to your report.”
But it would be something to look into. They didn’t know how long Stonefish had been operating out of the area, but if they had someone on the police force, it would make sense why they hadn’t been noticed until recently.
“Can you get Georgie to tell the truth?” Nhiari asked.
“Can you get Matt to?” Brandon countered.
“You’d have a better chance,” Nhiari said. “Matt knows I have to report anything he tells me.”
“I’ll work on Georgie. She’ll crack eventually.”
“And then you’ll tell us,” Dot put in.
“Only if you don’t record it.”
Another glacial stare, but Dot nodded.
Maybe they could make some progress.
Chapter 13
When Penelope and the others arrived back at the homestead, Faith took charge. “I’ll hitch the horse float and go pick up our horses.”
“Is there enough space to turn around?” Amy asked.
“I’ll find it.” The determination in her voice concerned Penelope. They’d already called the police the moment they had reception, but Faith’s actions suggested there was still a threat out there.
“I’ll help,” Lara said.
Amy unlocked the kitchen door, threw Faith the car keys, and then led Penelope inside.
“Are Georgie and the others in danger?” Penelope asked.
Amy shrugged. “Probably not, but whatever is buried is enough to freak Brandon out, so I want everyone back at the house where I know it’s safe.”
Understandable. “Is there anything I can do?”
