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Shandra and Ruthie sat in Maxie’s alone. The two men had gone to the diner to start figuring out how much lumber would be needed to rebuild.
“It’s been good having Uncle Orin in my life,” Ruthie said, sipping her hot tea.
“I’m sorry you lost your father, but I’m happy you have an uncle in your life now. I know what it’s like to wonder about family you’ve never met.” Shandra’s phone jingled. It was a text from Ryan.
Chea just confessed.
She wasn’t shocked that it had turned out to be Chea. Texting back, she asked, I’m with Ruthie. Can I tell her?”
Yes.
We’re at Maxie’s, she texted back and shoved her phone in her pocket.
Shandra reached over and put a hand on her friend’s arm. “That was Ryan. He just got a confession.”
Ruthie set the cup down and grasped her hands. “Who?”
“Chea.”
Her friend’s face puckered in disbelief. “But she loved him.”
“Ryan thought in the beginning this had been a crime of passion. We just weren’t sure who had the rage in them to do such a thing.” Shandra squeezed her friend’s hands. “Do you want me to get Maxwell back here?”
Ruthie nodded as Ryan walked through the door.
Shandra texted Maxwell as Ryan gave Ruthie a hug.
“I’m glad we found the murderer, but I’m sorry it is so close to home,” he said, grasping Shandra’s hand and sitting down next to her.
“Maxwell is on his way,” she said.
The door shoved open, Maxwell strode to the table, breathing as if he’d ran the whole way. “What’s up?” he asked between gulps of air.
“Chea killed my father,” Ruthie said, her voice hitched as she said father.
“Oh, baby.” Maxwell pulled Ruthie to her feet and hugged her.
Shandra glanced at Ryan. He returned the concerned gaze.
Ruthie shoved out of Maxwell’s arms and studied Ryan. “Are you finished with what you need to do today?”
He shook his head. “I have to write up all the reports and file the proper paperwork.”
“How long will that take you?” Ruthie asked, putting her arm around Maxwell’s waist.
“Probably a couple of hours, why?” Ryan’s gaze flicked between Maxwell and Ruthie.
“Because I’m not waiting any longer. While you do the paperwork, Shandra can go pack for the two of you and Maxwell and I will pack. We’ll drive to Warner and get married by the Justice of the Peace with you two as our witnesses this afternoon. And we’ll celebrate by spending the night in Coeur d’Alene.” Ruthie gave one quick nod as if it was all settled.
Shandra grinned. “I like that idea. How about it sheepherder, can you get your work done so we can help our friends get married?”
Ryan shook his head at her and smiled at Maxwell and Ruthie. “Pick me up at three.” He kissed Shandra on the cheek and hurried out of the bar.
Shandra smiled at her friends, happy she could help them finally celebrate their commitment to one another. She and Ruthie could also look around for dresses for her wedding in eight months.