“We realize that, but that could be for a myriad of other reasons.”

River was confused. How could he not see that Kevin was killed because Nathan came to see them about April? She said as much to Detective Armbruster.

“I’m sorry,” he said. “We’re just not sure Kevin Bittner’s death is connected to the podcasts of a young woman who fancied herself an amateur detective.”

Now River understood. “Have you looked at her site? Read her notes?”

“No. Of course, we can’t do that now. But my partner is going through everything you sent us. So far, she hasn’t seen anything that has overly concerned her. She did mention that some of the cases have already been solved by real law enforcement officers.”

River was trying not to lose her temper. Was this guy more concerned about his ego or solving the case?”

“Okay, look. Tony and I were just wondering if you were looking into Jeffrey Bailey.”

“Yes.”

He didn’t seem to want to expand on his one-word response. She looked over at Tony, who was off the phone and was watching her. She rolled her eyes.

“We just wanted to point out that Jeffrey Bailey isn’t April’s biological father, and that her mother was murdered when she was young. There’s a trust fund that Jeffrey oversees. April hasn’t taken any of the money yet. If she doesn’t show up for five years and is declared dead, most likely the money will go to him. We think you should check that out.”

“You think we should check it out?” The detective sighed. “Look, Miss Ryland, we do know how to investigate a crime. As I told you, we are looking into everything that might be connected to Mr. Bittner’s murder. And yes, we are also looking into Mr. Bailey. However, he has a solid alibi for the time of Kevin’s murder. And he wasn’t anywhere near the guard house the night the letter was dropped off to Mr. Hearne. Also, he was cleared of his wife’s murder years ago.”

“Thank you for sharing that, but . . .”

“Yes?”

River fought back a sudden rush of anger. This guy was treating her like some kind of naïve idiot who had no idea what she was talking about.

“For your information, my partner and I were trained by the FBI and worked for the BAU. We both served with distinction for several years. We do know what we’re doing. I’m telling you that Jeffrey Bailey may be involved in this.”

Armbruster snorted. “I’m trying to make it clear to you that we have things well in hand. If we need your help, we’ll let you know. I’m sure Nathan will contact you if we move him back to his own apartment.”

Before River had a chance to respond, the line went dead. She was boiling when she slapped her phone down on her desk.

“Whoa. What’s got you so upset?” Tony asked.

River told him about her conversation with the detective.

“I can see his point of view,” Tony said. “I mean, he doesn’t really know us. I don’t get the feeling that he’s stupid. I’m pretty sure he’ll look into Jeffrey with an open mind. He has no reason to cover for him.”

“He says he did,” River said, unable to keep the irritation out of her voice. “But he needs to dig deeper . . .” She took a deep breath. “Couldn’t you tell Arnie . . .”

“No.” Tony looked at her through narrowed eyes. “You can’t ask me to tattle on Detective Armbruster like he’s some kind of kid and I’m his babysitter. We just started wondering about Jeffrey Bailey, and it sounds like they already looked into him. That means they’ve been one step ahead of us. I know your ego may have been injured by this guy, but no one can take away your years of service and your incredible ability to see things most people never do. Just chill out and let’s keep working the case.”

“Did you just tell me to chill out?”

Tony grinned at her. “Yeah, but now I’m regretting it a bit. You’re still armed, right?”

River’s anger dissipated and she laughed. “Always.”

“Look, I know you’re probably concerned about Nathan going home, but if the complex has beefed up security and he won’t be alone, I’m sure it will be fine.”

“If you say so. I just want him to be safe,” River said.

“Well, maybe you’ll feel better when I tell you what that call was about.”

“Go for it.”

“I just heard back from the police in Walker, Michigan,” Tony said. “You know, about the missing mother, Emily Smallwood?”

“Sure.”

“Well, April solved another one.” Tony shook his head. “I can’t say this makes me completely happy, but it turns out that Emily’s son, Brandon, hired a couple of his friends to kill his abusive mother. The friends cracked under questioning. Brandon had promised them money after he inherited Emily’s estate. Brandon gave them some of it, but not all of it. He knew they would keep his secret because they didn’t want to go to prison. The police were able to convince them that Brandon was blaming them for the whole thing, so they shot their mouths off.”

“But Brandon hadn’t said anything, right?”

“Right.”

“I realize Brandon may have told himself he was trying to protect his sister,” River said, “but as we both know, there are much better ways. He could have contacted his father or family services for help.”

“You’re right. Anyway, the friends told the police where Emily is buried.” Tony shook his head. “This case makes me sad.”

“Me too,” River said. “But you know what? April seems to be closing more cases than a lot of police departments. I keep saying this, but she really impresses me.”

“I hear you.” Tony looked at the clock. “I think it’s time to get out of here. You have to prepare for tomorrow. What time do you want me there?”

“Supper is at six. Why don’t you get there at five? I may need you to talk me off the ledge.”

Tony chuckled. “Well, since your mother’s house is only one story, I think you’d survive the fall.”

“You know what I mean.”

“Yeah, I get it,” Tony said, grinning. “What can I bring?”

“I’d say wine if any of us drank.” River sighed. “Let me check with Mrs. Weyland. I’m not sure what’s on the menu.”

“Sounds good. Just call me later.”

While Tony gathered Watson’s things, she picked Watson up and held him in her arms.

“He can walk, you know,” Tony said.

“It’s a long way to the car and it’s freezing outside. I don’t want his paws to get cold.”

Tony shook his head. “You just want to carry him, don’t you?”

“Oh, hush. Let’s get going.”

As they walked toward the door, she realized she hadn’t grabbed her laptop or her notebook. She wouldn’t be working much over the weekend, and all of April’s information was with the police. Rather than put Watson down, she decided to leave her stuff behind. Monday would be here soon enough.