“Of course, and—” He stopped, and Lucy continued, “Ginny had some odd questions about the detectives who came to your house. I didn’t think about it much at the time because kids process information different than we do, but in hindsight I think she was saying, in her own way, that she didn’t trust them. Why would she not trust cops? Have you had a run-in with law enforcement? I’m not saying it wasn’t justified, just that in general kids who have a parent or relative in trouble with the law often have a negative view about law enforcement.”

“Neither Jill nor I have been in any sort of legal trouble, nothing that would necessitate police involvement. I served my country for nine years, my kids respect people in uniform—the military and law enforcement.”

“I didn’t mean to offend you, Mr. Young, we’re just trying to figure out what Ginny was thinking. And with her being a girl, I don’t think the detectives asked her specifically if she saw Ricky after his family disappeared. I think they questioned Joe, assuming that Joe was Ricky’s friend.”

Young didn’t say anything.

“I’m not saying that Ginny lied,” Lucy quickly added. “I’m suggesting that she was never asked, and I want to ask her directly. Firmly, but I’ll be kind.”

“I’ll pick them up at school at lunch. We’ll be at the house at twelve fifteen.”

A little later than Lucy wanted, but she wasn’t going to push it.

“Thank you.”

She ended the call and let out a long sigh. “I thought he was going to block us.”

“So did I, at least at first. So the bank now?”

“Yes. According to Laura, the manager is the same as three years ago. Frank Pollero.”

“And if we’re right, he’s part of whatever conspiracy killed that family. And if he is, I want him on accessory to murder.”

So did Lucy.

Lucy and Nate walked into the quaint bank in Kerrville. It was a small chain, with fourteen branches throughout central and southern Texas, and it specialized in small-town service. The corporate bank had an excellent reputation, but each branch was run separately.

Frank Pollero had been the branch manager for fifteen years. He was in his early fifties with a receding hairline, cherub face, and kind smile that reminded Lucy of a younger Clarence from the classic film It’s a Wonderful Life.

“Thank you for taking the time to meet with us,” Lucy said.