I wrapped my arms around her, guilt eating at me for not being able to give her those words in response. I forced levity into my voice. “Glad you do, because I’m going to be stuck to you like glue.”

She gave a hint of a laugh. “And that will be such a hardship.”

I grinned against her hair. “It will definitely have its perks.” My head snapped up at the sound of an approaching car. My muscles relaxed a fraction when I saw the lights atop the SUV. “Sheriff’s here.”

Bell sighed. “I bet we’re his two favorite people.”

“It’s his job, Bell. He doesn’t mind.”

Parker climbed out of his SUV. “You guys okay?”

I gave a quick nod. “We’re fine. I can’t say the same for Violet’s grave.”

“I’m going to check it out really quick, and then I’ll be back to talk to you and wait for the crime scene techs.”

I inclined my head in assent and rubbed a hand up and down Bell’s back. I wanted the right words to give her, ones that would ease her mind and bring comfort, but nothing I came up with seemed adequate. I could only promise one thing. “I’ll keep you safe. I’m not going anywhere.”

She tipped her head back to look me in the eyes. “I need you to be safe, too. Promise me.”

“I’ll be safe, too.”

Within a few minutes, Parker was striding back towards our SUV. “I’m really sorry you two had to find that.”

“Thanks.” Bell’s voice was soft, almost timid, and I hated the tone with everything I had in me. There was no sass or spunk, none of the usual life force that ran through everything Bell did and said.

I met Parker’s gaze. “It’s safe to assume now that this is definitely about Violet.”

“I’d say so.” He scrubbed a hand over his jaw. “Have you two come up with names for anyone I should talk to?”

Bell nibbled on her bottom lip. “No one seemed angry enough to do something like this. Or hurt Ford. But maybe I’m just not seeing things clearly.” She paused for a moment. “Did my parents have alibis?”

My heart broke for the girl who had to ask that question. I hated that there was enough doubt in her mind to think they were capable of it.

Parker rested his hands on his gun belt. “They said they were both home on the nights in question.”

“Can anyone verify that?” The question had to be asked.

He shook his head. “Neighbors can’t confirm either way.”

“And are you talking to anyone else? Any other suspects?” I was losing my patience with how slowly this investigation was moving. I needed Bell safe, and I needed it now.