Page 123 of Forbidden Need

“It?” he asked.

“It’s the best solution for all of us. I’ll write it, so I can control the flow of information and respect. The Chronicler gets something to print so we can’t be accused of a coverup. And you can assure the higher-ups breathing down your neck that you have your mob-affiliated employee under control.”

“I have been getting calls.”

“From?”

“Everyone I ever met. People have questions. And they don’t all mean well.”

“I read the obit,” she said, “the whole feature. Thank you.”

“Your grandfather was popular.”

“In some circles. In times of intrigue, the volume of the villagers rises. Next week something else will take over the gossip mills.”

“That mean we’ll get your piece before then?”

“I can give you something. Maybe we make a continuing feature for a few weeks.” Although it was clear in her head, Steeple was a step behind. “My grandfather was murdered. Investigating the crime has taken us down a rabbit hole. This will not be a quick solve.”

“Murdered at home,” he said, serious. “Was it personal or professional?”

She stood up to head for the door. “I’ll work on it today.”

“Keep in touch.”

Pausing, holding the handle, she asked, “If you hear anything…”

“You’ll be the first to know.”

For some reason, what he’d said just sank in. “Who’s been calling?” Her interest piqued. “You said people had been calling. Anyone I’d know?”

“A bunch of people.”

“You said they didn’t all mean well.”

He shrugged. “It’s just a rumor. Like you said, the gossip mill.”

“Steeple,” she said, arching a brow.

He surrendered. “We got a tip.”

“About the murder?”

“About you… You and Ire.”

“A tip?” she asked. “We’re together. What else is there to know?”

“I wasn’t gonna mention it. I thought about calling, but—”

“Steeple.”

“Is it possible there’s… a flash drive?” A flash—ah. Oh, God. “Word is it’s something juicy. I don’t know what, but—it’s nothing. I’m sure it’s nothing.”

“Who?” she asked.

“Who?”

“Who tipped you?”

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