“I had Deputy Juan take the lead on that because of my personal relationship with the victim.”
“Oh, sure. Sure.” She bit her lip. “I assume River will do some serious time?”
I grimaced. “I’ve scheduled a psych evaluation for him. I don’t think he’s mentally all there. His sister’s death pushed him over the edge, that’s my guess.”
“I see.” She cleared her throat. “But you are charging him with kidnapping, right?”
“After some careful consideration, I’ve decided to recommend unlawful restraint.” Why was she so interested in what River was charged with?
“Is that as serious as kidnapping?” She frowned.
“It’s a misdemeanor but still a serious charge.”
She looked surprised. “Really? You only charged him with a misdemeanor?”
“Is there a problem?”
She laughed breathlessly. “No. No. I’m sure you know best.” She bit her lip. “The only thing is… I think it’s important that it doesn’t look like he’s receiving special treatment because he’s your friend.”
“River isn’t my friend.”
She gave a tight smile. “Well, you know him personally.”
I frowned. “Rainy Dale is a small town. I know a lot of the people I arrest personally. I don’t let that affect my decisions though.”
“Well, that certainly is good to know.” She gave another one of those fake laughs. “Favoritism might get you in hot water.”
“Favoritism?” I frowned. “I’m not showing River favoritism. You best believe that, Penelope.” Did she not realize how much I loathed River Martin? How could she not? I studied her, uneasiness still nipping at me. “You do realize it’s the DA who will actually officially charge River. Not me.”
She narrowed her eyes. “Yes, based on your report.”
“Uh-huh. A report I put a lot of time and thought into.”
“I certainly hope so, Royce.”
I gave a gruff laugh. “I’m sorry, is there some reason you’re so worried about all of this?”
Her smile was stiff. “I suppose I should just admit why I’m really here.”
“I think that’s probably a good idea.”
She sighed. “Truth be told, Royce, I’m in an awkward position.”
“How so?”
She grimaced. “As you know, the Raidens have been pushing hard for a special election to recall you.”
I wrinkled my brow. “You’re here because of the Raidens?”
“Kind of. I’m afraid Michael and Angela are still furious with you about their treatment during Archie’s murder investigation.”
“Talk about a dog with a bone.”
“I know.”
“All I did was question them like I questioned a bunch of other people. Includingyou.”
She sighed. “Be that as it may, they’re coming after you, Royce. I’ve tried to dissuade Michael from trying to get you recalled, but I’m afraid that man holds a grudge like nobody’s business.” She gritted her teeth. “He’s like a crocodile. Once he latches on, he never lets go.”
