“The treasurer, but Jasmine Alfredo has signing rights as well.”
“You need to see their bank statements.”
Ashley nodded. “I’ve been trying, but I can’t access them.”
“The police would be able to issue search warrants.”
“I know, but I want to publish the story first. Once the police are involved, I won’t be able to do anything.”
He stared at the papers scattered across the table. “You need more help.”
The front door banged open. “Hello! Is anyone home?”
Matthew dropped his head to his chest. His sister was the last person he wanted to see.
Ashley jumped to her feet and threw the remaining sheets of paper into folders. “Is that Sally?”
“It is.” He moved the laptop out of Ashley’s way and slipped it into its case. “We’re in here, Sally.”
His sister strode into the kitchen. She frowned when she saw Ashley. “It’s true. You are here.”
Ashley closed the last folder. “Hi, Sally.”
Matthew’s sister tilted her head to the side. “I like your hair long. It suits you.”
“Thanks. Congratulations on getting married.”
No one would have thought the two women used to be friends. Matthew glanced at his sister, wondering why she’d come here if she knew Ashley was staying with him.
“I brought lunch with me,” Sally said. “I didn’t know if Ashley would be on her own or if she’d have company.”
Ashley’s shoulders relaxed. “The coffeepot’s hot. Would you like me to make you a cup?”
“That would be great. I’ll get the cooler out of my truck.”
Matthew followed his sister out of the house. “What are you doing here?”
“Making sure you’re okay.” She opened the passenger door and handed him the cooler. “Are you?”
“Of course I am. Ashley’s only staying for a week or two.”
“And then she’s going back to New York?”
He nodded. “Don’t lecture me about wearing my heart on my sleeve. Sean’s already done that.”
“Good, because someone needs to look after you.” She held onto his arm. “Promise me you’ll be careful.”
“Okay, I’ll be careful. I didn’t think you’d want to see Ashley.”
Sally sighed. “I need to apologize. I was angry about how she treated you.”
“She wanted to be a journalist in a big city.”
“Well, she certainly got what she wanted. I wonder if her job is worth everything she left behind.”
Matthew shrugged. “She hasn’t been back in three years. It must have been worth it.”
Sally stepped onto the porch. “You’re being awfully adult about her being here.”
