She collapsed to the ground, covering her head with her hands. There was no point in running now. She was so tired.
He stopped, and glancing up, she saw him roll down the window.
Now she could see his expression. He looked so concerned.
Tears started to stream down her face. She was trapped, and she’d been so close to being free.
“Now, now,” he said. “I’m here now, Shawna. I’m here to help you. I don’t mind that you ran. I’m just glad I found you, so we can have our talk.”
She needed to run. She had to get away, but she couldn’t. She had no strength left. This had been her last attempt. He’d known and he’d seen and he had followed her from the time she’d left. There was nowhere she could go. And nobody to hear if she screamed.
He was getting out of the car now. She saw his shadow move.
He appeared at her side and crouched down.
“It’s okay. I just didn’t want to scare you. I could hear you screaming for help. I came as fast as I could.”
She saw him smile. And she saw his hand reach out, and he touched her on the shoulder.
“Don’t worry,” he said. “Everything’s going to be fine.”
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
May sped back to Callum’s house, with Kerry in the passenger seat, feeling eager and anxious to interview Callum’s mother. Thank goodness for Owen and his local knowledge, which had allowed them to take this next step.
Hopefully they would make progress with this next interview. May felt sure that Mrs. McGee would be able to tell them something that would bring them closer to the truth.
As Kerry drove, her phone started ringing.
“Well, look at this. It’s Mom on the line,” she said, sounding happy. She switched the phone to speaker and picked up the call.
“Hey, Mom!”
“Hey, Kerry!” May heard her mother’s delighted tones resound around the car. “Are you here in Fairshore?”
“Not in Fairshore at the moment. We’re nearby, though, in Chestnut Hill.”
“Who’s we? You and that wonderful young, dynamic investigation partner of yours?”
“No, Mom. It’s me and May. Say hi!” Kerry waved the phone in May’s direction.
“Hi, Mom,” May said, sounding as enthusiastic as she could.
“How lovely to think of you two sisters together!” Her mother sounded genuinely pleased. “I must say, this case has really traumatized the neighborhood. I’ve had a few people asking me what May’s doing about it and if there’s any hope in sight. I told them not to worry, that they’re bringing Kerry in, and that it will all be sorted out soon.”
May felt shame overwhelm her. She didn’t think her mother even noticed how humiliating her words were. She was so used to thinking of Kerry as her golden daughter, the one who was not just talented but had actual superpowers.
“We’re working together,” Kerry said kindly.
“That’s wonderful. Of course you are. When you’re wrapped up, I need to see you. We have so many wedding details to discuss. Do you think you’ll be done by dinnertime?”
“We’re hoping so,” Kerry said.
“Then come for dinner. I’ll make us something special. Roast lamb, perhaps?”
“Sounds good, Mom.”
“And May, you’re invited too, of course! I’m sure you’re eager to discuss a few wedding ideas.”