Andrea told her everything about how Piper and Carson were systematically withdrawing small amounts from people’s accounts all summer. “Who knows how much money we’re talking about,” she said, “but surely enough to fund a documentary and a nice life while other people were suffering.”

Lauren felt breathless. Had she and Graham lost money, too? “Do you believe Carson’s telling the truth that Piper was involved?”

“He showed me the bank information.”

“And do you believe Carson when he says he didn’t hurt her?”

“No, not totally. But he has an alibi. He seemed pretty confident, and he’s already been questioned.”

“But this doesn’t rule it out that it’s me,” Lauren said. “It just opens up the possibilities.”

“Someone else knew,” Andrea said. “Her name is Flora Haines—I actually know her father. I guess Carson paid her off and, as he put it, systematically blocked other parents in her circle from attending the school. But he was still afraid she was talking.” Andrea explained that the bracelets were what tipped off Carson. Flora made those bracelets for a sportswear clothing line she was starting, but he and Piper thought they were some sort of symbol of solidarity.

“Okay, but I didn’t know this Flora person,” Lauren said. “Why did I get a note?”

“I guess because you were talking to us,” Andrea suggested. “Carson also said Piper was really freaked out before her attack—she was afraid she was being stalked. Someone was trying to get to her.”

“Flora?” Lauren guessed.

“That was my thought, too, but why? What would she be coming for? She looks just as bad for taking the bribe. It’s someone else. And that person is who hurt Piper.”

Outside, a dog barked. Someone started up a leaf blower down the block.

“I really don’t think you did this, Lauren. Please don’t leave and go into some . . . rest cure. I mean, unless you want to—but don’t do it because you think you’re responsible or that you told on me. The police don’t know anything. And I need you to help us. I feel like we’re close . . . to something.”

Lauren ran her hands down the length of her face. “But what about other memories I’ve lost? I’ve said things, done things—and it’s gone.”

“That could be something serious, but it could also be you being an overwhelmed new parent. You think I remembered everything when Arthur was a baby? Whole weeks went by that I lost. And back then, I wasn’t even the mother!”