Page 76 of Charlie
“Would ye mind if we take a moment to question everyone living here to see if they are as enthusiastic about being here as Charles?”
Conor threw his hands up. “Go ahead. I have nothing to hide.”
Williams stood up. “Thank ye for your time.”
Conor moved around his desk and shook the men’s hands. “Charles can take you downstairs to meet the others, I’m afraid I have a class to teach. The children will be wondering what is taking me so long.”
I showed the policemen down to the kitchen, where the white noise from voices went silent the moment we entered.
“Everyone, this is Officer O’Hara and Officer Williams. They have some concerns about whether or not we’re here of our own free will and if we’re being brainwashed by Conor. Because of that they would like to speak to each of you alone to confirm that you’re fine.”
“Oh, for God's sake,” Sara exclaimed and gave the officers an angry stare. “What a waste of time.”
“Liv, why don’t you start by going with the officers into the living room?” I gave her hand a squeeze and looked at Williams, who seemed to be the senior of the two officers. “I assume you want to speak to each member in private?”
“Yes, please.”
Talking loud enough for anyone to hear me, I offered, “If you don’t feel comfortable speaking with the garda alone, Sara or I will be happy to stay in the room. You have the right to have an attorney present.”
Liv walked off with the policemen without requesting my help. It seemed logical because her conversation would be short as her part in all of this was new. Still, my protective side made me follow and listen at the door. My biggest worry was that she would tell the officers about Conor’s weird prank on Tuesday where he pulled out the gun and challenged Sara to show him loyalty by shooting herself. I couldn’t blame Liv for telling that story because I knew she’d been shaken by the incident, but I hoped she didn’t because it would make things worse for Conor.
“Yer full name, please.”
“Charlotte Liv Christensen.”
“Age?”
“Twenty-six.”
“American?”
“Yes.”
“Are ye a resident here?”
“No, I’m a guest. My boyfriend lives here and I’m staying with him while visiting Ireland.”
“Who is yer boyfriend.”
“Charles McCann – I mean Robertson.”
“How long are ye planning to stay?”
“I’m not sure. I’m hoping he’ll travel around Europe with me but right now we’re just taking time to get to know each other better. The relationship is still new.”
“How new?”
“We go back five years, but we reconnected when I bumped into him about a week ago.”
“Ah, okay.”
“Can ye confirm that ye’re here of yer own free will?”
“Yes.”
“Do ye feel that ye’re being brainwashed in any way?”
“No. I’m spending my time with Charles and the children who live here. I’m not really a part of the mastermind group.”
