Chapter 20

CHAPTER 20

Murder is big news in a small town. Make it a murder-suicide with an Amish twist and the story goes viral—at least in terms of the grapevine. It’s ten A.M. and I’m sitting at the sewing table at The Calico Country Store. A subdued Laura Hershberger sits across from me, staring into a cup of coffee that’s long since gone cold. There are no customers in the store, but I’m thankful for the time alone with her.

“I can’t believe they’re gone.”

It’s the third time she’s uttered the words. I don’t look at her this time, just let her say what she needs to say. I stare down into my coffee, feeling more than is prudent for someone in my position, but that’s the human heart for you.

“For goodness’ sake, she was here just yesterday.” Shaking her head, she presses a hand against her mouth. “How could this happen? Why didn’t she give us a sign or something. Maybe one of us could have helped.”

“Was Levi depressed?” I ask after a moment.

“I don’t know.” She raises her gaze to mine. “You know how the Amish are. We don’t talk about such things.” She presses her lips together. “For better or for worse.”

I hold her gaze. “Was he distraught about his children and grandchildren leaving?”

“Of course he was, but this?” She shudders. “I don’t understand. He was so kind. Is it possible? Could he have done such a thing?”

“Did you know him well?” I ask.

Her mouth twists into a poor imitation of a smile. “I’ve known Levi as long as I knew Rebecca. He was quiet. Hardworking. A good man. Gentle. And devout.” She takes a breath and releases it slowly. “He was the first one in line to help when a neighbor needed it. The last to ask when he needed it himself.” Lowering her head, she rubs her temples with her fingers. “What he did … and taking her with him … it goes against everything the Amish believe in.”

“Maybe he didn’t do it,” I tell her.

Her head snaps up and she looks at me as if the thought hadn’t occurred to her. “But the newspaper … and the police are saying…”

“They’re still investigating. I don’t think it’s been determined yet.”

“If not Levi, then who?” She scoffs at the notion. “Who would do such a thing and why?”

“Did they have any problems with anyone? Neighbors? Family?”

Her brows go together. “Everyone loved Rebecca and Levi.”

The cowbell on the door interrupts. I turn to see Naomi, Ada, and Lena walk in, carrying their sewing bags. Laura and I get to our feet. The women are midway to us when Lena bursts into tears.