“Good afternoon, Miss Ray.” He politely tipped his hat to me, and then to the liar, “Mr. Bane!” The sheriff"s voice lightened. “What a surprise to see you her’, sir. I forget this is one of your rentals.” The sheriff stepped up, extending his hand. Bane followed his gesture by gathering to his feet and complying with a hardy handshake.
“Yes, sir, Sheriff. I was collecting rent for my parents.” Bane smiled as if the day was just peachy.
I stood there, tongue-tied. Bane was my landlord. That explained why Sara wouldn’t fork over any information. I slipped a sideways glance at him, thinking this was one more mystery to add to the growing list.
Sheriff Jones cleared his throat, nervously fiddling with the ring of his hat. “Miss Ray, I’m not sure how to say this other than to say it,” he pau
