Page 129 of Montana Manhunt

Inside their SUV, Grant said, “Where is the coffee shop, Violet?”

She gave him directions and leaned her head against Noah’s shoulder. “That was a hateful exchange.”

“You okay?” Noah asked.

“I suppose. I’m puzzled. Sweet doesn’t describe my aunt.” She shrugged. “Maybe she had a change of heart.”

Grant snorted. “Can’t see that happening.”

Truthfully, she couldn’t either.

Minutes later, Grant parked in front of the coffee shop. “Anyone hungry?”

Violet and the others laughed. She patted his shoulder. “I thought you’d opt for a steak and potatoes instead of a bagel or pastry.”

“I can handle a snack before dinner.”

They walked inside the shop. “What do you want to drink?” Noah asked.

“Chamomile tea. Rayne?”

“Herbal tea.”

“Take a seat with Ms. Raines,” Noah murmured. “Grant and I will get the drinks.” He and Grant seated Violet and Rayne. “Ms. Raines, what can we get you to drink?”

“Peppermint tea. Can’t handle caffeine this time of night.”

“Thanks again for agreeing to meet us here,” Violet said.

“Anything for Camilla’s sister. I’m just sorry it’s under these circumstances.”

“So am I.”

“Your sister was an outstanding employee and a good friend. I’m going to miss her terribly. I can’t imagine the pain you feel at losing a twin.”

“It’s rough,” she admitted. “How long have you known Cami?”

“Six years. I’m the one who hired her.” Melanie’s smile was wistful. “Camilla was my best hire, hands down. She cared about her kids.”

“Cami talked about them all the time. No names, of course. Just stories about the ones who made it out of the system and into a better life.”

“Sounds like her. She was their loudest cheerleader. I can’t tell you how many times she went toe-to-toe with cops, lawyers, and judges to provide the best care for her kids.”

Noah and Grant brought drinks to the table and joined the women. Noah handed Melanie and Violet each a cup. “Peppermint tea for both of you. Yours has chamomile as well, Violet.”

“Have you talked to Camilla’s boyfriend?” Melanie asked. “He was devastated when we lost her.”

“We’ve spoken to him a few times.” Noah sipped his drink. “What do you think of him?”

“He’s a good man and an excellent lawyer. We need him to go up against Jeff Hanson and lawyers of his ilk.”

“Hanson lives in Helena.”

“Part time. He also keeps a place here. Hanson’s law firm has an office in Morrison, so he takes on cases here, as well as in Helena.”

“Must be a pretty good lawyer to convince the firm to work with him like that.”

“He’s one of the best I’ve seen in a courtroom,” Melanie admitted.

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