Burning Down the House by Constance Barker & Savannah Mills

Author:Constance Barker & Savannah Mills [Barker, Constance & Mills, Savannah]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Constance Barker
Published: 2023-10-11T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 18

The rhythmic clicking of Fiona’s pen as she tapped it against her notebook acted as a metronome to her racing thoughts. Her investigation of Wyatt Rhodes' death had taken an unexpected turn, and she now found herself with two remaining persons of interest: Landon Shaw, the real estate developer, and Derek Rhodes, Wyatt's estranged son. She knew she had to approach them carefully, but her curiosity was like a fire in her chest.

"Let's start with Shaw," Fiona murmured under her breath, sliding into her car. She'd heard whispers about the man – his ruthless reputation, his penchant for charming those in power, and his unwavering determination to get what he wanted. He’d also been seen arguing with Wyatt just before his death. If anyone could provide insight into Wyatt's final days, it would be him.

The walk to Shaw's office building felt all too short, and Fiona found herself hesitating before the glass doors. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the encounter. As she stepped inside, the chilled air from the air conditioning enveloped her, raising goosebumps on her arms.

"May I help you?" A receptionist looked up, her smile tight-lipped and professional.

"Hello, I'm Fiona Byrne," she said, flashing a friendly grin. "I have some questions about Wyatt Rhodes. I was wondering if Landon Shaw might have a moment to speak with me?"

"Let me check," the receptionist replied, her fingers tapping out a message on the keyboard. After a moment, she nodded. "He has a few minutes now. Right this way."

Fiona followed the receptionist down a narrow hallway adorned with sleek, minimalist artwork. She noticed the sharp contrast between the opulent office space and the warm, lived-in atmosphere of the library where Wyatt had spent his days.

"Go right in," the receptionist announced, opening a door to reveal a spacious office. The room was dominated by a large, mahogany desk, behind which sat Landon Shaw – a man whose presence seemed to fill the space entirely.

"Ms. Byrne," he greeted her, his voice smooth and authoritative. "Please, have a seat."

"Thank you for making time for me, Mr. Shaw," Fiona said, perching on the edge of the plush leather chair across from him. She clasped her hands together, trying not to let her nerves show.

"Of course," he replied, steepling his fingers. "What can I do for you?"

Fiona leaned forward, her hazel eyes locked on Shaw's. "Mr. Shaw, I'm aware that you were interested in developing the library property. It's also come to my attention that you were seen arguing with Wyatt a week before his death."

Shaw raised an eyebrow but maintained his composure, his tone remaining level and controlled. "It's true that I had plans for the land the library sits on. And yes, we argued about it. However, that doesn't make me responsible for Wyatt's death."

"Can you tell me where you were at the time of the fire?" Fiona asked, studying his face for any sign of discomfort.

"Of course," Shaw replied smoothly. "That day I attended a charity gala in the city.

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