CHAPTER FOUR-1
290 Words
CHAPTER FOUR
The detective and the chaplain exchanged glances, and Kenney lowered his voice when he explained, “Mr. Smithing, Eric was beaten to death. The damage was such that visual verification wasn’t possible. I didn’t share that with her. I’m telling you this because Maddie may want to see him when he’s released by the coroner’s office. Trust me, she doesn’t need that image in her head. None of you do.”
Chase blanched. “I see. I’ll make sure she’s not subjected to that.”
“Eric worked for you, Mr. Smithing, is that right?”
“Yes, he’s my CFO.”
“Do you know of anyone that might have wanted to harm him? Anyone you can think of?”
“No,” Chase answered. “No one. Eric was well-liked by everyone so far as I knew.”
Chase fielded a few more exploratory questions, and the three men moved back into the living room. Maddie’s mother Deborah was seated beside her daughter, holding her hand.
“What happens now?” Maddie managed through her tears.
Officer Greene stepped forward, extending a card to her.
“Maddie, here’s my contact information. Once they’ve done what they need to in Wyoming, they’ll be able to send Eric home to Texas. I can help coordinate that for you, if you like.”
“That would be very helpful. Thanks.”
“Here’s my card, as well,” Detective Kenney offered. “If you have questions, or if you think of anything that might be helpful, please reach out. And again, I am so sorry for your loss.”
Chase saw the policemen to the door and met Kathy as she was stepping onto the porch from the front walking path.
“Hey, Kathy, glad you’re here. She needs you. Come on in.”
“Thanks, Mr. Smithing.”
They made their way back to the living room, where Maddie cried softly. Kathy sat next to her and hugged her.
“I’m so sorry, Mad.”
***
- Writer
