“That’s an exaggeration. And it’s not like Sheriff Callum is committing the murders.”
“You seriously don’t think he should be held accountable for failing at his job?”
I sputtered. “Failing? He hasn’t failed in the least. He’s solved all those cases. Doesn’t he get any credit for that?”
Liam’s gaze suddenly shifted to just behind me, and a knowing look came over his face. “Oh, I get it now.”
When I turned, Royce stood there, his face hard. His hair was damp from his shower, and he looked pissed.
I winced at his thunderous expression but said nothing.
Liam laughed. “Sheriff Callum, it’s nice to finally meet you in person.”
Ignoring him, Royce asked gruffly, “You’re Liam James.”
“That’s right.”
“What are you doing here?” rumbled Royce.
Liam’s smile faded. “Handing out election flyers. Gotta get the word out. I didn’t know this was your house.”
Royce scowled. “Seriously?”
“I swear, I didn’t.”
“You just happened upon my doorstep?” Royce sounded skeptical.
“That’s the truth.” Liam shrugged. “Angela Raiden gave me these addresses. I just go where I’m told.”
And if you become sheriff, you’ll probably do as you’re told too—by Michael Raiden.
“Come on now.” Royce gave a disbelieving laugh. “You must know the Raidens sent you here on purpose?”
“Why would they?” Liam frowned.
“Why would they?” I echoed. “Because they’re awful people, that’s why.”
Royce winced at my bluntness, and he put a hand on my shoulder. “They probably think it’s funny to ruffle my feathers.”
Liam grimaced. “I don’t believe they’re spiteful like that. I understand this is an awkward situation, but I think the Raidens are good people. I’ve known them for years.”
I sniffed. “They’re the furthest thing from good people.”
“Oh, come now,” Liam said. “They’ve pumped hundreds of thousands of dollars into making Rainy Dale a better place. Why, if not for them, the community theatre would have closed down last spring.”
I scowled. “Yes, and haven’t you noticed they cast Angela Raiden as the female lead in almost every production they’ve put on since? The woman can’t act, yet she gets the juiciest roles.”
Liam frowned. “Well, I think she made a wonderful Juliet.”
I rolled my eyes. “She should have played Juliet’s mother, obviously. Romeo looked like her son.”
Scowling, Liam said, “My point is simply that the Raidens care about Rainy Dale, and I don’t believe they sent me over here to annoy you. We’re simply spreading the word that thereneedsto be some changes made.”
Royce shifted impatiently. “I’m trying to be a good sport about all of this, but I’d appreciate it if you avoided my street. I don’t think that’s too much to ask.”
Sighing, Liam said, “That’s fine. Like I said, I had no idea this was your house.”
Some tension left Royce’s body. “Well, what’s done is done. There are plenty of other streets. I suggest you pick one of those.”
