Page 16 of Little Twisted Things

“Not bad,” I lied.

“Good. Remember when I told you that I was going to create an evening discussion group for students who want to dive deeper into literature beyond the classroom?”

“I remember.”

“Well, tonight is our first discussion group meeting.”

“How many students signed up?” I asked.

“Fifteen. Isn’t that great?” I could hear the excitement in his voice.

“It really is, Alex.”

“The group should end around ten o’clock.”

“Okay. I’ll see you when you get home.”

“Are you okay? You sound different,” he asked.

“I’m great. I’m in Marathon right now.”

“For?”

“Doing a little browsing since it’s my day off.”

“Well, enjoy yourself. I have to run. I love you.”

“Love you, too.”

Good. With Alex gone tonight, it’ll give me time to figure out what to do about Detective Walker.

8

Detective Paige Walker

Mrs. Hadley set two mugs of coffee on the table before taking a seat across from me.

“I’m sorry. I still don’t understand why a detective from New York is here,” she said.

“I understand how unusual this must seem. I’m following up on a homicide investigation I worked. It has now become a cold case.”

“What does this have to do with Kevin?” Kris frowned.

“There are similarities between the two cases. Unfortunately, I can’t discuss the specifics.”

“I understand.” She nodded.

I pulled out my notebook and set it down in front of me.

“If it’s okay. I’d like to ask you a few questions.”

“Okay,” Kris said.

“Did your husband know anyone from New York?”

“Not that I’m aware of.” She brought the coffee mug to her lips.

“Did he go on any recent trips?”