The Oracle (Fargo Adventures 11)

Renee gripped the tabletop. “Why would anyone think I killed him? We were friends.”

Sam said, “They must have some sort of evidence beyond a suspicion?”

“Her prints,” Torres replied. “On the murder weapon.”

“What murder weapon?” Remi asked. “I thought he fell.”

“He did. After he was stabbed with a chisel.” Torres focused on Renee. “The chisel was found beneath his body. Any chance you know how your fingerprints ended up on it?”

“I picked it up.”

“When?” he asked.

“After I discovered someone removed Echo’s face from the floor.”

“The police didn’t take the chisel for evidence?” Remi asked.

“I didn’t find it until after they left. I was more worried about the damage to the mosaic. I just picked it up. I wasn’t thinking it would be used for murder the very next day.” She turned toward Torres. “So, how do I get out of this?”

“You don’t. At least, not the arrest. But our presence will go a long way in making sure you’re taken care of and treated fairly. It helps that you’re known and respected in the community.”

Remi moved her chair closer, placing her hand on top of Renee’s. “I’m sure it’ll all get cleared up soon. We’ll get the best attorney we can.”

She nodded, her lips tremulous. “Thank goodness you’re both here.”

“We’re not leaving Tunisia until we get to the bottom of it. Right, Sam?”

“No. Definitely not. What’s our next step?” he asked Torres.

“Think like a prosecutor. Figuring out the motive is a good start.”

“What about the embezzlement?” Renee said. “The money we think Warren stole from the archeological dig.”

“Which,” Torres said, “must have made you angry when you found out.”

“Of course it did.”

“Angry enough to kill him?”

“No.”

“That’s what the police think. My point, Dr. LaBelle, is that once you find out why someone wanted Warren dead, you’ll be that much closer to figuring out who murdered him.” He looked at Sam. “After talking with Rubi

n Haywood last night, I have a feeling that this is where I need to excuse myself and give you some privacy.”

“I’ll wait with you,” Lazlo said. “I could use a bit of fresh air.”

“Privacy for what?” Renee asked Sam.

He waited until the two men walked out the door. “When it comes to finding answers, sometimes the most expedient route isn’t necessarily the most legal route. Especially if the police are involved.”

Renee slumped back in her chair. “I can’t let you two risk everything you’ve built …”

“Too late.” Remi gave her hand a squeeze, then looked at Sam. “Let’s call Selma and see what she’s put together for us.”

CHAPTER SEVENTY-EIGHT

Ears are usually uninvited guests.