Page 56 of Girl Betrayed

“What happened at Passages is a tragedy,” Dvita continued, “but it would be an even bigger tragedy to let the progress of many be erased by the actions of a few. I encourage you to keep your focus centered on the horizon, with your goals in sight. Know that my door is always open if there is anything you want to discuss regarding this terrible matter we’ve all endured. Considering the situation, Passages will remain closed until further notice.”

A murmur of discontent rumbled through the crowd.

“But … but, I will continue to conduct group sessions here and will be available for individual sessions as needed. There will be a flyer on the board with the dates and times of the group sessions, along with my availability for additional sessions. I encourage you to sign up after class if you have anything you would like to discuss pertaining to Taft.”

An older man in a yellow sweater raised his hand. “Do you know who killed him?”

Dr. Dvita studied him momentarily before answering. “Right now, the investigation is on-going. That’s why it’s so important for us to have these discussions. It’s possible that we may have information that could help the police.”

Betty spoke up. “We’ve already been questioned by the police.”

“Yes, but I think everyone here knows how things can get locked in our subconscious. Sometimes the tiniest details make all the difference. That’s why I’m acting as a liaison to the investigation. If you think of anything, please come to me first.”

Half a dozen hands shot up.

“Privately,” Dr. Dvita amended.

All but one hand went down. Dr. Dvita addressed the same man in the yellow sweater. “Yes, Carter.”

“Will we get in trouble?”

“No,” Dr. Dvita answered. “The police have assured me they’re not looking for anything other than cooperation.”

Another hand went up: Lincoln. “Some people are saying what happened to Taft is karma. Do you believe that?”

“Ah, you pose an interesting question.” Dvita circled to address the group. “Lincoln is suggesting the idea that the universe returns what we give it, in that Taft got what was coming to him.”

“Like vigilante justice?” another patient asked.

“Yes! Like Batman,” someone yelled.

“Max liked Batman,” another interjected.

After that the conversation swung like a pendulum of speculation and accusations.

“Do you think it was Max?”

“Why else would he be missing?”

“Maybe he’s dead, too.”

“Or he was the killer.”

An ache began to form in Claire’s jaw. She didn’t know how much more of this she could sit through. It felt like she was witnessing the precipice of something that would end with pitchforks and an angry mob.

Claire caught Betty’s eye across the room. She was right. They needed to find Max. And they needed to do it on their own.

40

Dana stood outside St.Ann’s, arms crossed protectively against the chilled spring air. While some places in the country were already enjoying the joyous season of rebirth, D.C. was still hidden under a blanket of frost as winter roared its final breaths.

She could’ve waited in the car where she’d be safe from the elements, but she wanted Claire to know she was here for her. Especially after the frosty welcome Dr. Dvita had exhibited earlier.

Mercifully, the rectory doors groaned open, and people began to filter out. Dana spotted Claire, still inside, speaking urgently to the girl with the unnaturally red hair again. Not wanting to interrupt, Dana hung back and observed.

When Claire finally exited the building, Dana greeted her. “Hey, how’d it go?”

Claire scrutinized her like she was weighing her response. “As good as could be expected, I guess.”

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