“You haven’t seen the news, I’m guessing.”
“No. What’s going on?”
“Our offices were vandalized last night and a fire started. They definitely suspect arson, because there was a note left by the alleged perpetrator stating that we harbored pedophiles. It’s pretty ugly.”
“Holy shit. Was anyone hurt?”
“No, fortunately. It happened overnight. Craig and Dana closed the offices until further notice. We’re supposed to do online appointments if we can. Dana is sending everyone an email with details soon, but I told them I’d call you.”
“Thank you. How bad is the building?”
“Bad. We’re not allowed in until the fire department deems the structure sound. Craig said because of the water and smoke, everything is likely ruined. Luckily, the convenience store across the street has outside cameras, so it’s possible they’ve got some evidence on them.”
“Wow. So I guess it got out in the news that the guy was being seen in our office?”
“Yep. There’s some new homicide detective who’s hungry to solve this. I guess that’s good, but it backfired for us.”
“Sounds like it. Thanks for keeping me posted. I’ll check my email in a bit.”
“No problem. Bet you’re glad you’re on a vacation and avoiding all this drama.”
I chuckle. “Yeah, for sure.”
“You can probably stay a few extra days if you want to. It’s not like there’s a rush to get back.”
“Good point. I’ll have to check my calendar to see what’s coming up.”
“Cool. Take care. I’m a text away if you need anything.”
“Thanks, Kerry.”
I end the call and exhale slowly. What an interesting turn of events. At least it takes the heat off of anyone but the vandals. I would expect that they’d be the primary suspects in the murder if they were willing to burn down our building in retaliation.
I better chill out though. All eyes are on this situation, and I’ve done so well staying off the radar—now is not the time to fuck up.
Sliding off the bed, my head filled with a thousand thoughts, I push through the chaos and consider my next move. If Nantes doesn’t mind, staying here for a few extra days is perfect. I can spend time catching up with him and his family and have the perfect alibi should anyone snoop too closely at me. Not that anyone would suspect a mild-mannered therapist to be a raging murderer, but it’s all hitting a little too close to home at the moment.
I put on some fresh clothes, then head to the bathroom to run some gel through my hair. I can already hear Nonna scolding me for being too skinny and plying me with delicious treats. I always wished I had a grandmother like her. She paid attention to all of her grandkids and had individual relationships with each ofthem. I don’t even remember either of my grandmothers. I was too young when they died.
By the time I exit the house and start my walk back to the main building, it’s midmorning and my stomach is growling. There are several cars parked out front and people already milling around the property. I head to the front door and slip inside, glancing around.
“Well look what the cat dragged in.”
I turn around to see the one and only Nonna marching towards me, arms extended.
“Nipote,” she says sweetly, wrapping her arms around me and squeezing with far more strength than her petite frame suggests. “It’s been so long.”
“Hi, Nonna.” I kiss her cheek. “How are you doing?”
“Can’t complain.” She gently smacks my cheek. “Look at you. Such a man now.”
“Time does that.”
She chuckles. “Still too skinny. Come. I made raspberry muffins.”
My stomach growls in response. “Is that what smells so good?”
Nonna takes my hand, leading me through the house, past the visitors, and into the kitchen. Nantes’s mom is there, putting slices of what looks like quiche on a platter. She looks up and a bright smile spreads across her face.
