Page 22 of Raging Inferno

Presley’s brows raised. He’d thought of the same thing before she’d brought it up.

“Nancy and Gene Babcock’s family have been notified, so it’s okay to let the women know they passed away. Also, Gene’s brother confirmed they were doing home renovations, so the cause of the fire sounds legit.”

“Thanks for letting us know.”

“Do you believe me now?” Presley asked Reggie. “What are the odds of two friends dying the same way days apart? I’d say statistically improbable, if not impossible.”

“I’m not completely on board.” She opened her mouth to protest, but he tacked on, “Let’s say I’m not discounting the possibility of foul play.”

It was a start.

“I’ll keep you posted about any developments.”

They said their goodbyes and headed to Jessie’s address. Dominic pulled up to a gatehouse. Presley was impressed. Jessie had done well for herself.

“Captain Bianchi, it’s good to see you,” the guard said. His nametag read Phil.

“You too, Phil. Is Jessie in?”

“Do you have an appointment?”

“No, but I was hoping she’d see me. It’s important.”

“Hold on.”

Phil returned to the booth and came out a minute later. “She said go on up.”

“Thanks.”

Phil pushed a button, and an aluminum arm rose to let them pass. Dominic maneuvered along the driveway that ended at a stately Antebellum-style house with soaring columns and rocking chairs on the covered wraparound porch. It looked as if it belonged on an expansive plantation in the deep South.

“This is where Jessie lives?”

“It is. She married Sam King.”

Presley gaped at him. “No. Really?”

“Yep. His father owned several car dealerships around the area, and he’s set up to inherit everything.”

“I remember. I bought my first car from his dad. Sam always had the best vehicles.”

“He did,” Dominic agreed. “We were all jealous, but he was good about letting us drive them.”

Presley studied the opulent mansion as they ascended the massive steps. It boasted several balconies and multiple pillars. It was grand. Extravagant.

“I don’t remember this house.”

“The Kings had it built after their marriage. It was Jessie’s design.”

Dominic rang the bell. Soon, a woman appeared and opened the door.

“Mr. Bianchi. It’s good to see you.”

“You too, Celia.”

“You can wait in the parlor. I’ll let Mrs. King know you’re here.”

Parlor? How many people had those these days?

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