Secrets Never Told Page 18

  Josh gripped his own hand until it was white. “Thank you, sir, but there’s something I should tell you.”

  The governor sat quietly.

  “I’m currently under investigation by the media for an incident in New Mexico—”

  The governor interrupted. “I’m aware of those allegations. Surely you realize I vetted you before I made this decision.”

  “Well, sir, I—”

  “Did you kill that man who shot your wife? If you did, based on what I know, I could probably understand why you did.” He shook his head. “Terrible tragedy all around, just terrible.”

  “No, sir, I did not kill him.” But I wanted to, and would have, given the opportunity.

  “I got a phone message about ten minutes before you arrived. Perhaps you’d be interested in hearing it.”

  Josh nodded, but he wasn’t sure where this conversation was going.

  The governor hit a button on his desk phone. “Governor Larkin, this is Al Montero in New Mexico. We spoke a few days ago about Police Chief Joshua Hart from Madden, South Carolina. I just wanted to let you know that we are closing that case. The shooter has stepped forward and admitted guilt. We are continuing the investigation to wrap up the loose ends, but I wanted to let you know right away, as you said you wanted to meet with Hart. You have my number if you have any more questions.”

  The governor had his fingertips together, like children do when they’re making a church steeple, as he looked at Josh. “I take it from the look on your face you were not aware of this development.”

  Josh shook his head. “No, sir, I was not.” He wanted to run from the room, to run from the man who was turning his life upside down. What was going on?

  “Unless there’s something else about that matter you think I need to know, then the New Mexico matter is closed.” He tapped his fingers together lightly.

  “No, there’s nothing else.”

  The governor smiled. “Well, good then. Your appointment will run until the next general election, a little more than a year from now. At that time, should you wish to continue in that role, you will run, along with any other candidates. Of course, if you do the great work I’m assuming you will, you’ll have my full backing.” He stood and held out his hand. “Congratulations, Sheriff Hart.”

  CHAPTER 44

  Lindy’s sketch of the female suspect was circulated to law enforcement agencies across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia. A BOLO alert was issued, describing her as armed and dangerous.

  Since his meeting with Governor Larkin yesterday, Josh tried to stay focused on the task at hand: finding Boogie’s killers. SLED was assisting but the bulk of that responsibility fell on Josh’s shoulders now. The governor had agreed to withhold the announcement of his appointment for twenty-four hours. He didn’t have much time left. If Enid heard about it on the news first, there would be hell to pay. Josh had not talked to anyone at the sheriff’s office, as he didn’t want to arouse suspicions. He looked at the clock on the wall and then picked up his cell phone.

  Enid’s voice message said she wasn’t available, so he grabbed his hat and gun. “Pete, I’m going out for a bit.”

  “No problem, Chief. I got it.”

  Josh planned to talk to the mayor about appointing Pete as Madden’s interim police chief. She would likely say Pete was young and inexperienced, and he was. But he had done a good job while Josh had been in New Mexico, and Josh would mentor Pete, just as Boogie had mentored Josh. More importantly, the ladies of Madden loved Pete. He listened to their concerns and gossip and ate their pies. He was perfect for the job. But for now, Josh had to focus on his own situation.

  “Good morning, Chief Hart,” Ginger said when he walked into the newspaper office.

  “Morning, Ginger. Is Ms. Blackwell in?”

  Ginger winked at him. “For you, I’m sure she is. She’s locked in her office trying to finish an article before deadline.”

  Josh tapped on the closed door to Enid’s office.

  No response.

  “Enid, it’s Josh. I’m sorry to bother you.”

  The door swung open. “Josh. What on earth are you doing here?” She motioned for him to come in and then shut the door behind him.

  “Ginger says you’re on deadline, so maybe we can meet for lunch when you finish.”

  “Sure. Is everything OK?”

  “I need to run something past you.”

  “You look tired.”

  “I didn’t sleep much last night, but I’m fine.”

  Suddenly, Josh’s police radio crackled with Pete’s voice, “Chief, the governor’s office said because of Dr. Waters’ home invasion, he’s going ahead with the announcement and for you to assume responsibility ASAP.” Pete paused. “Do you know what’s he’s talking about?”

  Josh closed his eyes and sighed. So much for the twenty-four-hour delay.

  “What was that all about?” Then the color drained from Enid’s face and her hand went to her mouth. “You’ve been appointed county sheriff.”

  “I’m sorry you found out this way. That’s why I’ve been trying to get in touch with you. Can we talk about this tonight? I’ve got to get going.”

  Enid nodded. “Of course. May I at least get something in tomorrow’s paper? If the State runs it then too, at least we won’t be behind them.”

  Josh knew Enid was only doing her job, just as he was. She was in reporter mode, and he had to accept that about her. Unfortunately, tonight would not be a celebration of his promotion, but rather a reconciliation of two lives struggling to find their individual and their combined paths. Had he done the right thing accepting the sheriff’s position?

  ◆◆◆

  Josh walked into the Madden police station. “Pete, I need to talk to you,” he said, walking straight to the chief’s office, which would soon belong to Pete or someone else. “Bring some coffee, please.”

  Pete put the cup of coffee on Josh’s desk. “What’s going on?” he said, as he sat down in the metal chair across from Josh.

  “I wish I more time to say this the right way, but I’ve got to get going in a minute. Governor Larkin has appointed me to fill Sheriff Waters’ vacancy until the general election. Apparently, I start now.”

  Pete’s shoulders slumped, and he looked like a small child who had been abandoned. “What about your job here?”

  “I can’t make any promises. You know our mayor as well as I do, but I’m going to recommend that she put you in charge. Assuming that’s what you want.”

  “I’m not ready to fill your shoes. You know she’ll say that.”

  “You’re right. But you are ready to fill your own shoes and make this role your own. You did a great job while I was gone, and I’ll work with you on the things you need to know and do.”

  Pete sat up straight. “If you think I can do it, then I’m ready, Chief. I mean, Sheriff. Wow.”

  CHAPTER 45

  Somehow, Enid managed to finish her article and upload it for editing. Josh’s announcement had left her reeling. Once again, her world was in turmoil. Now, with him as county sheriff, his involvement with a reporter would be scrutinized even more closely.

  She walked down the hall to Jack’s office. He wasn’t there. She walked to the front lobby. “Ginger, do you know where Jack is?”

  “Sarah’s. Getting coffee.” Ginger shrugged. “Guess he doesn’t like mine.”

  “I need to talk to him, so I’m going to get an early lunch.”

  As Enid walked away, Ginger called out to her. “Sure, leave me here alone with only my bad coffee and a stale sandwich. And, no thanks, I didn’t want anything. But thanks for asking.”

  ◆◆◆

  The crowd in Sarah’s Tea Shoppe was thin. It was too late for the older crowd that came in for coffee or breakfast, and it was too early for the nouveau riche lunch crowd who had moved into the area. Things were changing in Madden. In fact, things were changing all around Enid.

  Jack was sitting in a booth near the
back, reading yesterday’s Wall Street Journal. His half-lens reading glasses were perched on the end of his nose. “Hey, what a surprise.” He motioned for Enid to join him. “You want some lunch?” He glanced at his watch. “It’s about that time. At least we’ll be ahead of the rush.”

  Enid laughed. “I never thought of Madden having a rush of anything.” She sat across from him. “I’m in the mood for a BLT with lots of mayo.”

  “Uh, oh. What’s wrong? You avoid extra calories like the plague, until you get stressed.”

  “And I’ll have sweet tea,” Enid said.

  “Now I know you’re losing it. Tell me what’s happened.”

  They ordered lunch, and then Enid told Jack about Josh’s appointment to county sheriff. Their food came before she finished talking, but neither touched it. After a few minutes, she sipped her tea. “Ugh, this is awful. How do you drink this stuff?”

  Jack motioned for their server. “Can we get a glass of unsweetened tea? The lady changed her mind.” He looked at Enid. “How do you feel about all this?”

  “I’m not sure. Lost. And a bit angry.”

  “You mean because he didn’t tell you before he accepted?”

  “Would that be awful if I felt that way?”

  “Would you have wanted Josh to turn down the governor?”

  Enid shook her head. “No, of course not. I just wish I had some time to adjust.”

  “Imagine how Josh must feel,” Jack said. “He’s probably adjusting as well. And now he’s suddenly in charge of finding his friend’s killers.”

  “He’ll also inherit the investigation of the bones found at the inn.”

  Enid and Jack ate in silence for a few minutes. “Anyway, I need some space for a short article about Josh’s appointment. I don’t have many details. Maybe I need to call the governor’s office.”

  “That’s not a bad idea. We don’t have an exclusive on Josh, even though we’d like to claim it. Maybe we can beat the other papers to it.”

  “I hope Pete gets to take his place. He deserves it, al-though I know he doesn’t have much experience.” Enid took another bite of her sandwich.

  “Let’s be sure to include a few comments recognizing Pete for stepping in while Josh was gone. Might help.” Jack handed a napkin to Enid. “Speaking of experience, or lack thereof, you’ve got mayo on your face. You obviously have no experience eating messy sandwiches.”

  CHAPTER 46

  When Josh arrived at Boogie’s house to take a statement from Jean, he talked briefly to the deputy who had been assigned to guard her. Given the attempt on Jean’s life, they were not taking any chances.

  Jean was sitting in Boogie’s old easy chair, the fabric on the arms worn from years of use. She was sipping bourbon. “I don’t normally drink the hard stuff, but today seems like a good time to make an exception.” She took another sip. “May I offer you some coffee or tea? I assume you’re on duty.”

  “I’m fine, but thanks.” Josh sat at an angle on the sofa so he could face Jean.

  “I’m glad you’re here. That makes me feel better.”

  “The deputy that responded to your call gave me the basics, but I wanted to follow up and see if you had remembered anything else, any other details.”

  Jean took another sip of bourbon and then set the glass on the small table beside her. “I’ve relived those few minutes a hundred times, but what I told the deputy is all I can remember.” She paused. “It’s funny how life is. There I was, tending patients and living a normal life when my father called and asked me to come home. Then he’s killed, and someone tried to kill me.” She sighed. “It’s almost too much for me to take in.”

  “Are you sure the man who attacked you is the same man who killed Boogie?”

  Jean nodded. “I can’t tell you the details of his features, but I’d recognize his posture and movements anywhere.” She paused briefly. “And he had on that same dark red baseball cap. It was him. I’m sure.”

  “Did you make contact with him when you lashed out?”

  Jean nodded. “As a doctor, I can’t believe I intentionally hurt another human being, but I shoved that knife in his shoulder.” She hugged her arms around herself and rocked back and forth in her chair. “I cut his arm too, but that was just a slash. The county investigators took the knife.” She rocked back and forth again. “It was covered in blood.” In Madden, Josh was the only investigator. Having a county crime scene investigation team was a luxury.

  Josh stood up. “I’m going to check out the kitchen. We’ll keep the deputy assigned to you until we catch this guy. There’s an APB out for him, although we don’t have a good description of him or a vehicle. We’ll just have to hope he does something suspicious and we’ll get a call on him. All the clinics and hospitals within one hundred miles have been alerted. If he stays in the area, we’ll get him.”

  “Thanks. I hope it’s sooner rather than later. By the way, Enid invited me to stay with her. Unless you have objections, I’m going to take her up on the offer.”

  Josh wanted to object but wasn’t sure why he should. “That was kind of her. I’ll ask my deputy to drop you off at her house.”

  “Your deputy? Does that mean you’re sheriff now?”

  Josh ran his hand through his hair. “Yes, ma’am. I guess I am.”

  ◆◆◆

  After the deputy dropped Jean off at Enid’s house, he assured them both he would be in his car, guarding the house until his relief arrived. Enid took Jean to the guest room and put fresh towels out for her. “Please make yourself at home. I don’t have many overnight guests, but I think you’ve got all the essentials here.”

  Jean hugged Enid. “Thank you so much. Everything is lovely. I won’t stay long. It’s just that . . .”

  “Stay as long as you’d like. I appreciate the company.” She hooked her arm in Jean’s. “I’ve got to get to work, but there are books, TV, stereo. Just do whatever you like. I’ll check on you later.”

  Jean sat on the edge of the bed. “Can I ask you one thing before you go?”

  “Sure.” Enid sat down beside her.

  “Chief Hart told me he’s sheriff now. That’s a nice promotion for him, but how do you feel about it?”

  Enid stood up and walked toward the door. “Honestly, I don’t know. As you might imagine, I have conflicting emotions. Of course, I’m happy for him. He’ll be a wonderful sheriff.”

  “But what about you? Can you two juggle your respective jobs and maintain a relationship?”

  Enid shrugged. “We’ll just have to see where all this goes.”

  Jean stood up and put her hands on Enid’s shoulders. “Would you give up your career for his?”

  A flood of emotions washed over Enid. She wanted to shout, kick, or cry. That was the question she had been avoiding. She had been down this road before, giving up her own dreams for someone else. Would she do it again? “I’ve got to run. But before I go, I have a proposal for you. It’s about those bones at the inn.”

  CHAPTER 47

  Jack sat across from Enid in the newspaper office conference room. He took off his glasses and rubbed his eyes. “You know I have to assign Dr. Jean’s story to another reporter.”

  Enid wanted to lash out at Jack but reminded herself that he wasn’t the problem. “I don’t think that’s necessary.”

  Jack perched his reading glasses back on his nose. “She’s staying with you, and your boyfriend is investigating an attack on her. How can you possibly stay objective?”

  “First of all, Jean’s staying with me is a non-issue. She’s not a suspect or under investigation herself, unless there’s something I’m not aware of. And, as for Josh, Sheriff Hart, we don’t discuss this or any other case. Not anymore.”

  Jack leaned back in his chair and shut his eyes. “Life used to be much simpler, you know.” He sat up again and looked at Enid. “I hate this, all of this, for you. It can’t be easy to juggle your personal and professional lives under the circumstances.”

&nb
sp; “Women have been doing it for years.”

  “Meaning that men haven’t?”

  “I didn’t mean that, but women have taken the brunt of it. No one would ask Josh if he’d give up his career for me.” Enid smiled faintly. “Of course, even if he would, we’d have a hard time living on a small-town newspaper reporter’s salary.”

  Jack feigned a frown. “What? Are you asking for a raise? It that what this is all about?”

  Enid slapped at his arm. “Stop making fun of me. This is my life.”

  Jack’s face softened. “I know.” He closed his notepad. “I’ll leave you on this story for now, but if there’s the hint of a problem or conflict of interest, I’ll have to reassign it. Agreed?”

  “Yes.” She watched Jack as he was leaving. “Jack?”

  He turned back to face her.

  “Thanks. You’re the best bossy friend and friendly boss all rolled into one that I’ve ever had.

  Jack winked at her. “I love you, too. Now get back to work.”

  ◆◆◆

  Enid walked into the police station. Pete, as usual, was staring at his computer screen. “Is Sheriff Hart in, or has he already moved out?”

  Pete looked up. “Hello, Ms. Blackwell. The chief, I mean Sheriff Hart, is in his office. Or at least his old office. It’s all a bit confusing right now. Anyway, I’ll tell him you’re here.”

  As Enid watched Pete walk to Josh’s office, she remembered how it used to be when Pete told her to go on back herself.

  Pete walked out of Josh’s office. “He says to come on in.”

  Josh was staring at his computer screen when she walked in. She tried to remember if the previous police chief, Dick Jensen, had ever even used a computer. “Thank you for seeing me.” She wasn’t sure whether to call him Sheriff Hart or Josh, so she just left it alone.