Page 34 of One Final Target

“No trouble. Like I said, I’ve missed you, my friend. Why haven’t you been at church?”

The question was asked without any acrimony, but Jodie couldn’t look Estella in the eye.

She shrugged. “I’ve been to church.”

“You come late and leave early,” Estella said matter-of-factly, without accusation.

“It’s just hard.” Jodie swallowed before her voice broke.

“Because Gus and Tony aren’t around?” Estella put her hand on Jodie’s. “God is still around.”

Jodie forced a half smile, determined not to break down. Being here in this kitchen brought back so many memories, each one stabbing at her heart like a dagger.

“Can we change the subject? I came here to ask you something.” The words came out sharper than she intended, but Estella didn’t seem to notice.

“Of course. What’s going on with you?”

Jodie took a sip of coffee, then set the cup down, trying to frame the question the right way. “I was wondering about a neighbor of yours, down the street a couple of doors. Dennis Collins.”

Estella frowned. “I don’t recognize the name. And I know all my neighbors. Which house?”

Jodie recited the numbers.

“Kent lives there. I don’t know his last name. Kent was best buds with Gus. He helped out a lot over here.”

The hairs on the back of Jodie’s neck stood up. Dennis had lied about his name.

“Kent. Did you like him?”

“I think I only ever said a couple of words to him. He was shy around women, at least Gus said so. Gus felt sorry for him. You know Gus and strays. He thought the guy needed male guidance. Why are you asking?”

“His name came up in the investigation. I don’t think it’s anything. He applied to be a cop at one time. I just thought I’d ask if you knew him.” She tried to sound nonchalant and drank more coffee.

“A cop? Not Kent.” She waved her hand dismissively. “You’re mistaken. He’s too timid. Though he was a big help to Gus infixing things. He was good with technology. He’s been gone for a few days now.”

“He moved?”

“No, but he had to go back east to take care of his sick mother. Been gone, uh—” Estella looked up and tapped on her chin—“since Thursday or Friday. You know the days all run together. He asked his next-door neighbor to keep an eye on the house.”

“Hmm” was all Jodie said. On the background packet he’d listed his parents as deceased. She sipped her coffee again and changed the subject. “You’re getting ready to leave?”

Estella nodded and looked around at the mess. “Yes, I am. Slowly. We started the process before...” Her voice trailed off. “Anyway, the house in Arizona will be finished in a month. I didn’t want to cancel. I’m moving on with the plans we made. Gus and I. Levi has been a big help.”

“I’m glad to hear it.” Jodie swallowed more coffee and stood. “I’m sorry to have interrupted.”

“Oh, Jodie, you’re never an interruption. I hope you’ll come spend some time with me before I go.”

Jodie managed a weak nod. When she moved away from the table, Macnut jumped up and pawed at her thigh.

“Oh, Mackie, you know better,” Estella said, and the dog got down, but he stayed close to Jodie.

“I know Gus saved him,” Estella said as she walked her to the door, “but Mackie has always loved you.” She stopped at the door. “Can I pray for you?” she asked.

Jodie’s voice caught in her throat, rendering her unable to speak.

Estella took her hand in both of hers and began to pray. “Oh, Lord, I lift up my friend to you. She’s still hurting—her pain isobvious—and I pray you will comfort her. Heal her heart. Most of all, show her in some way that Gus would never blame her for what happened. Amen.”

Before Jodie could bolt, Estella gripped her in a tight hug, tears rolling down her face.

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