The Survivor Read Free Page B

alibis and some don’t.”
    Tigo thought about the reports that had come through after the layoffs. Jonathan Yeat’s commercial construction business had been hit hard by the recession. “The media claim he turned on his own employees. To me, that’s a possible motive for murder. With his policy of hiring ex-cons, he walked a tightrope.”
    Linc walked to the window, where traffic sped by on US 290. “Jonathan and I grew up in a neighborhood where the life expectancy of an African-American male was twenty-eight. We wanted to make a difference. We thought getting an education would keep our families safe.”
    “There aren’t any guarantees.”
    “I know. Such a waste. Yvonne and I worked alongside Joanna and Jonathan building a church in San Paulo. Campingtrips, football and basketball games. Plenty of good times.” Linc drew in a sharp breath. “You’re right. Jonathan’s ministry of giving ex-cons a second chance might have killed his wife and daughter. Most of his employees are young African-American and Hispanic males with a history of violence.”
    Tigo admired Yeat’s dedication to helping others better themselves, but maybe he’d been too trusting. “Please give my regrets to Yvonne.”
    Linc shuffled papers on his desk. “Thanks. She’s in shock right now. Hard to work alongside a man in church, know his heart, and have him face a tragedy. I know I can depend on you and Ryan.” He picked up his Blackberry. “Sending the information now. I haven’t briefed Ryan.”
    “He had a situation at home but should be here within the hour.”
    Linc nodded as though he knew about the decision Ryan and Cindy had to make about her bedridden mother. “Didn’t mean to pry about Kariss. You’ve also been a brother to me, and I want to see you happy.”
    Just the mention of her name bothered Tigo. “You have too many other things to worry about without tossing my problems into the mix. We’ll find this bomber.”
    “Jonathan and his sons have 24/7 protection until an arrest is made. I talked to him briefly around noon, and Yvonne and I will see him later this evening. I’ll send you an update.”
    “Has anyone questioned his sons? Teen boys have ways of making enemies.”
    “Jonathan indicated they’ve kept their noses clean, and I’ve seen nothing to indicate otherwise—both in church and youth group. But let’s look at every angle.” He studied Tigo. “I know you and Ryan are exhausted, but if you could spend a few minutes talking to those boys before heading home, I’d appreciate it.”
    “I’m willing. I imagine Ryan is too.”
    “Then go on. The file sent to your and Ryan’s Blackberrysincludes Jonathan’s interview with HPD right after the bombing. I’ll let Jonathan know you’re coming.”
    Tigo longed for a bed—and an antacid, since the pizza kept resurfacing. But Ryan had the same sleep deficit. Neither of them would put their own needs ahead of Linc’s request—he was more than a friend. More than their SAC. Something about him ordered the lives around him. Ryan said the power rested in Linc’s faith, but Tigo was still exploring that aspect.
    In the hallway outside Linc’s office, Tigo read the initial report about the car bombing. Insane situation. Joanna was taking their daughter to an orthodontist appointment when the Lexus exploded in the driveway and killed them both. The explosion occurred outside the front gate of the Yeats’ massive home, destroying the car, a section of the iron gate, and the right side of a stone wall that bordered the property. The bad guy had probably wanted to see the explosion and had most likely watched from close by.
    Everything pointed to Monday’s layoffs. A wife and mother as well as an eleven-year-old little girl had been killed because of some idiot’s vendetta.
    Tigo stepped into an empty elevator, resolved to find the car bomber—beginning with interviewing the two sons. Maybe they’d seen someone loitering near their home.
    Tigo