A stocky older man opened the door before Jack even knocked. Jack introduced himself and stated the purpose of his visit.

The man’s face remained grim. “I’m JB, Pauline’s brother. Follow me.”

JB led him through the home, down a hallway, and past closed doors to one in particular. Jack hoped those gathered at the house would feel his compassion and understanding for Pauline’s loss. JB opened the door to allow Jack inside. He stepped into a bedroom and found Pauline in tears and Terra at her side.

Terra shoved her shoulder-length brown hair out of her face. “Pauline was sharing about the argument she had with Jim the night before he died.”

Jack glared at her. What are you doing questioning his wife?

Her brows pinched as she subtly shook her head.

Now wasn’t the time to reprimand her, but he would make sure Pauline understood his role. “I’m sorry for your loss, Mrs. Raymond. My name is Jack Tanner, and I’m a detective with the county. I’ll be investigating your husband’s murder.”

He drew out his pad to take notes.

Pauline wiped the tears away with more tissues, adding to the pile. A fist grabbed his heart and squeezed.

“I nagged him. I know I did. The washing machine had been causing problems for weeks now. And I was tired of it. I told him he could just wait for the repairman. I had to leave because my sister was having gallbladder surgery. I was going to stay with her overnight, but I got the call from the sheriff, so I came right home.”

“Do you know if Jim had planned to meet someone that night?” Jack asked.

Pauline blew her nose. “You do realize that Jim was in insurance? That meant he was often gone in the evenings meeting people to sell them more insurance. He was old school. Loved the personal touch, and his clients appreciated that. We lived on commissions and not a salary, so he was always working.”

“Did he have a home office?”

Pauline nodded. “He used to lease space downtown but recently decided to work from home.”

“Could you show me?”

Pauline rose slowly, and Terra supported her when she appeared unsteady on her feet. “His office is down the hallway. I already told the sheriff you’re free to look around and search wherever you need to. If you’ll excuse me, I want to wash my face.”

Good. That meant they wouldn’t need a warrant. She stepped into the bathroom. Terra turned to Jack and spoke in hushed tones. “I’m sorry. I came by to drop off a sympathy card and gift basket from my grandfather. Pauline somehow thought I was official and started talking. Dragged me into the room. I told her to wait and that someone was coming.” Terra rubbed her temple. “I should leave now.”