Chapter 16

“Hi, sir. I’m so sorry for your loss.” Sterling walked closer to the man and extended his hand for a handshake. I was so nervous for him.

The man chuckled dryly. “Get out.” His voice was calm. “Get out before I call the police.” He avoided Sterling’s hand, walked right past him, and headed to his wife. “What are they doing here? Especially after what we now know,” He asked his wife in a tense whisper.

“I–I um, they came to apologize and to give their condolences.”

“Well, they can give them elsewhere. Have them leave and I’m seriously going to call the detective.” His tone was hard and serious.

“I think we should leave.” I tried to touch Sterling but he flinched away.

“No,” He said firmly and my heart dropped. “I did not kill Patty. I loved her with every fiber of my being! I gave every part of myself to her and the only reason I’m even now married to Heather was to secure a future for Patty and me!” He lashed out.

“Sterling,” I warned him. He was not to talk about this with anyon