Shea, Collins, Chief Mackall, and Ben were all watching through the one-way mirror. The interview would be recorded, and the camera was on and blinking. Stan sat at the interview table, hunched over like an old man. He hadn’t shaved or combed his hair. Lainie could not remember ever seeing him so unkempt. In Hawaii he’d appeared tired and stressed, but now he looked like he’d been living on the streets for a month.
Putting her notebook under her arm, Lainie opened the door and went into the room to hear what Stan had to say.
CHAPTER 34
Stan’s head was down on the table when Lainie stepped into the room. He raised his head as she closed the door behind her, and she thought she saw light come into his eyes.
“Lainie, thank God. How are the boys?”
That question surprised and disarmed her a bit. She swallowed. “They’re fine, with Mom and Dad.”
Stan seemed visibly relieved. “Please tell them I didn’t do what I’m being accused of.”
“How can I tell them that, Stan?” She stood at the table.
His eyes widened. “What do you mean? You know me. I’m not a killer.”
“Do I know you?” She pulled the chair out and sat. “Where’s Evie?”
He leaned back in his chair and stared at her saying nothing.
“Detective Shea advised you of your rights, didn’t he? Do you understand them?”
“Yeah, I understand. I don’t want a lawyer. I’ll talk to you. You have to believe that I am innocent.”
“Why didn’t you answer my question about Evie?”
“I didn’t hurt Evie.”
“That’s not what I asked. Where is she?”
He put his head down on the table again. “I thought you of all people would believe me.”
“What’s to believe?” She fought to keep emotion out of her voice. “You haven’t answered any of my questions. You told Detective Shea you wanted to talk to me. I’m leaving if all you want to do is lie to me.”
“He’ll kill me.” He spoke so low she barely heard him.
“Who?”
“You know who.”
“Say it.”
He raised his head. “Vine took her.”
Lainie lost her voice for a moment. Her heartbeat pounded in her ears, and her mouth went dry.
When she could speak, she lowered her voice. “What do you mean?”
“I know I haven’t been—” His voice broke, and he took a couple of minutes to compose himself. “I know I wasn’t the best husband. I cheated, okay? I admit it. I was conned.”
“What does that have to do with Evie? Did Vine con you?”
“Crystal. She made it sound so easy.”
“You’re talking in circles, not completing thoughts. Just tell me what happened to Evie.”
“I don’t know where to start.”
