Page 32 of If She Stayed
"Margaret was exactly what we needed," Sandra replied, her voice growing stronger as she talked about her friend."She had a master's degree in library science, extensive knowledge of classic literature, and a genuine passion for serious literary analysis.I know it might sound snobby, but she elevated our discussions considerably."
"But not everyone appreciated Margaret's approach to literary criticism, right?”DeMarco said.
Sandra's expression hardened slightly."Some of the newer members found Margaret intimidating, yes.But that was because they weren't accustomed to the level of intellectual rigor that serious book discussion requires."
Kate noted the defensive tone in Sandra's voice."It sounds like you supported Margaret's critical approach, even when it created tension within the group."
"I supported maintaining standards," Sandra said firmly."Eleanor and I founded this group with very specific goals.We wanted challenging book selections, prepared participants, and thoughtful analysis.When members started joining who wanted to turn our meetings into social hours, Margaret and I felt obligated to preserve the group's original purpose."
"Can you give us specific examples of conflicts between Margaret and other members?"Kate asked.
Sandra considered the question while wiping the last of her tears."Margaret could be quite direct when someone offered an interpretation that she felt was superficial or inaccurate.She would correct factual errors, point out missed themes, and challenge members to think more deeply about what they'd read.And any time it started to become just a chatty hangout, she always veered it back on track."
Kate leaned forward a bit and said, “We understand you've been keeping detailed records of the book club's activities over the years.Correct?"
Sandra's expression became guarded."I keep meeting notes, yes.It helps with planning future selections and remembering what we've already discussed."
"What do the meeting notes usually entail?"Kate asked.
"I maintain a database of every book we've read over the past twenty years, along with notes about our discussions and members' takeaways and thoughts.It helps ensure we don't repeat selections and allows me to recommend books based on individual preferences."
Kate felt a spike of interest.Sandra's record-keeping would give her intimate knowledge of every member's reading habits, preferences, and responses to specific types of literature."Do your notes include personal information about members' reactions and contributions?"
"Sometimes, yes.If someone has a particularly strong response to a book, or if they provide insight that enhances our understanding, I make note of it."Sandra paused."It helps me understand what kinds of selections will generate the best discussions."
"Mrs.Morrison, have you tried to remove newer members from the group?"
"I've had conversations with Eleanor about maintaining our standards, yes.When people join a book club, they should understand what's expected of them.If they want casual discussion about popular fiction, there are other groups that cater to those preferences."She shook her head and Kate saw that she was once again fighting with tears.“All of this… God, it seems so unimportant in the face of what’s happened…”
Kate could see the passion and frustration in Sandra's expression as she defended her position.She was about to ask another question, but DeMarco’s phone began ringing, interrupting the conversation.Demarco glanced at the screen and stepped away from the porch furniture to take the call.
Kate continued her questioning while DeMarco spoke quietly into her phone."During your years with the group, have you noticed any member whose behavior ever seemed concerning or unstable?"
Sandra shook her head slowly."Everyone who's joined our group has been educated, thoughtful, perfectly normal.We're very careful about who we invite to become members."
"What about former members?Anyone who left under difficult circumstances?"
"A few people have left over the years, usually citing scheduling conflicts.But no one who seemed angry or resentful enough to harbor grudges."
Before she could ask anything else, DeMarco returned to the porch, her expression grim.
"Kate, we need to go.That was the police.There's been another incident."
Sandra looked between the two agents with growing alarm."Another incident?What kind of incident?"
DeMarco's voice was tight with urgency."Eleanor Whitman was found dead in her backyard about fifteen minutes ago.Her daughter discovered the body."
Sandra let out a strangled cry and buried her face in her hands."Eleanor?”she shrieked.“Oh my God, Eleanor?"She looked up to Kate and DeMarco with a shocked and pleading expression.“What the hell is happening?”
Kate felt cold shock wash over her as the implications sank in.Eleanor, who had seemed so concerned about the safety of her book club members.Eleanor, who had been helping with their investigation.Eleanor, who Kate had specifically warned to take precautions and stay with family.
"Mrs.Morrison, we need you to be extremely careful about your personal safety," Kate said, standing up from her chair."Don't go anywhere alone, don't open your door to unexpected visitors, and call us immediately if you notice anything unusual.And for right now… please, head inside and lock your doors."
Sandra got to her feet and did what she was asked, sobbing the whole time.She walked like a zombie, her hand missing the doorknob twice.
“We’ll have someone come over to keep an eye on your home,” DeMarco said as she and Kate hurried down the porch stairs.
As Kate and DeMarco hurried toward their cars, Kate found herself wondering if they were dealing with a killer who was accelerating their timeline, or if Eleanor's death meant they had been completely wrong about the motives behind the murders.
