"She doesn't have to answer that," Ms. Wietz says to Jillian. "Continue."
"So Mr. Novak took you to get something to eat, then dropped you off before eleven?" Jillian asks.
"I don't remember the exact time," I say.
"And did you hear from Jackson again after he dropped you off?"
"Yes. He called to tell me goodnight. But I don't know what time that was."
"You could check your phone."
"Her phone records are private," Ms. Wietz says.
"The timing of the call is important for the case," Jillian says.
"Then a judge can request those records if necessary," Ms. Wietz says. "For now, they'll remain private."
"What time did it happen?" I ask.
"Rumor, you don't—"
"We can't give out those details yet," Jillian says, interrupting Ms. Wietz. "Tell me what else Mr. Novak said when he phoned you last night."
I glance at Ms. Wietz. "I'd like that to remain private."
Jillian keeps her eyes on me. "Ms. Halliway, please keep in mind that the information you provide could be used to help, not harm, Mr. Novak."
"Ms. Halliway has already answered your question," Ms. Wietz says. "Do you have anything else to ask her?"
"Tell me your feelings about Kristen Reynolds," Jillian says.
That question wasn't in the script but I answer it anyway. "She went to my school and sat at my table at lunch."
"And how did you feel about her?"
"She doesn't need to answer that," Ms. Wietz says, getting up. "I think we've talked enough for today."
Brock and I stand up and follow Ms. Wietz to the door.
"If you have further questions," she says to Jillian, "direct them to me."
Jillian gives her an annoyed look but Ms. Wietz is already out the door and walking to the front. Brock and I hurry to catch up to her. None of us speak until we're in the car.
"How do you think it went?" Brock asks Ms. Wietz.
"She thinks Rumor was involved."
"She does?" I say, leaning forward toward Ms. Wietz. "How could you tell? She barely said anything to me."
"Her expression said it. She thinks you and Jackson conspired to kill Ms. Reynolds."
"I disagree," Brock says. "I didn't think her expression said anything at all. She was stone faced, just like the detectives who've questioned Braden."
"I know Jillian," Ms. Wietz says. "She has a chip on her shoulder regarding the wealthy. She especially hates wealthy children. She believes they're spoiled and allowed to get away with things. It's why I requested someone else question Braden during the first investigation."
"I do remember her being rather harsh with him," Brock says.
"How do you know so much about her?" I ask Ms. Wietz.
