Chapter 4

Marion shot me a quick, sharp glance, then forced a smile. “Nothing to worry about. Probably just the spy begging for mercy. Doesn’t matter.”

Dad nodded and glanced at the people gathered in the yard.

“You all can go now. And make sure the yard’s cleaned up before you leave.”

It was a clear dismissal, but Marion wasn’t ready to give up. “Mr. Johnson, is there anything else? Let me stay with you.”

“No need.”

Dad’s reply was firm as he strode back into the house.

He was looking for me.

Soon enough, he returned outside. “Did any of you see anyone in the house?”

Marion exchanged a quick look with the woman beside her. “No, Mr. Johnson. All we saw was this spy.”

“Where is she?” His voice took on a dangerous edge.

There was a flicker of fear in Marion’s eyes before pointing at me on the ground. “She’s right there.”

I could feel Dad approaching.

Today was the anniversary of Mom’s passing, so I’d dressed up, hoping that somehow she’d see I was doing okay. However, after all I’d ju