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BACK IN HIS ROOMS, Winston retrieved his journal from his locked desk. He’d had a long soak—nearly an hour—and was sure to get one of Mrs. Bradley’s stern looks, but it was worth it. He rested his hand on the book. Warmth flooded his palm. Would he sense Riley’s hand again? Had he really felt it before? After a minute of feeling nothing more than a fool, he pulled his hand away and rubbed his palm on his handkerchief.
He stared at the book before him. How had it become so precious to him in such a short time? Riley, living in another time, had helped him immensely with his case. The thought still filled him with wonder. Would Riley want to continue the connection? He opened the journal with a shaky hand.
Dear Jack,
I’m so glad to hear that you are safe. It’s easy for me to say this, as the events we investigated happened so long ago, but perhaps it’s best—in the long run—that Cole fled. What would have happened to his daughter had he been sent to prison or executed for his crimes? I keep thinking of that innocent girl. He preserved her life through his crimes. Better that she never learned that terrible truth. I don’t know; does causing a death to save a life make it less criminal? Likely not, but perhaps more understandable.
You have nothing to rebuke yourself for. You found the truth.
I discovered nothing more in the archive’s files about Cole, which I assume means he doesn’t return to Vancouver. I hope that is sufficient resolution for you.
Jack, I’ve enjoyed our exchanges, and if you agree, I’d like to continue them.
With warmth,
Riley
Winston pulled Riley’s photo from the back of the book. How quickly this woman had become vital to his work. And yet they would never meet, except for within the pages of this journal.
A warm wave of relief swept over him; she wanted to continue their correspondence. Jack returned the photograph and picked up his pencil. Steadying his hand on the page, he wrote a single word in reply.
Yes.
The End.
He chases crooks. She researches the past. When a financier is found hanged, can they solve his death? Book 2: Hanging at the Hollow Tree will be released in Summer 2022. Pre-order at all major retailers: https://sarahmstephen.ca/the-journal/.