Conflicted Innocence Read online

  “We have to. Candice is a danger to everyone now!” I said.

  “It’s okay, Geri. I know what he’s talking about.” He took hold of one of Lee’s bloodsoaked hands. “I promised I wouldn’t. You’ve got to tell her yourself.”

  Their eyes locked and terror gripped my core.

  “Tell her I love her.” Suddenly, Lee’s hand dropped back to his lap, and the light from his eyes slowly faded.

  James’ wail tore the heart right out of me.

  Epilogue

  James handed me a cup before sitting down beside me. “You okay?” he asked.

  I smiled. A sad smile that I knew didn’t reach my eyes. “Fine, are you?”

  He nodded and turned to watch Grace busily trying to build a stack of large, multi-coloured bricks on the carpet.

  “Is Lydia asleep?” I asked.

  “Yes. The doctor sedated her in the end. You’re fine with her staying here, aren’t you?”

  “Of course. She’s welcome to stay for as long as she needs to.”

  “The police don’t want her to be alone, especially until Candice is picked up.”

  “I can understand that. I really can’t see Candice coming back. Especially now she’s wanted for murder.”

  “I know. Even so, I don’t think Lydia should be alone right now.”

  I nodded. “Are you going to tell her about Lee? About what he told you?”

  James had filled me in on Lee’s confession while sitting at the hospital waiting for them to stitch my hand.

  He shrugged. “How can I? She’s been through so much.”

  “Well, I think I’d be inclined to leave it for the police to work it out if I were you.”

  “I agree. No good would come of telling the truth. Those kids were out to rob him, and their deaths were indeed accidental. The only difference is Lee’s official version of events differed slightly.”

  “You’re a good man, you know.” I stroked his arm. “And you were a good friend to Lee.” I pulled him to me and held him tight.

  Then, his head in my lap, he finally allowed his tears to fall.

  THE END

  ABOUT THE AUTHOR

  Netta Newbound, originally from Manchester, England, now lives in New Zealand with her husband, Paul and their boxer dog Alfie. She has three grown-up children and three delicious grandchildren.

  For more information or just to touch base with Netta you will find her at:

  www.nettanewbound.com

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  For more books by Netta go to

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  Acknowledgements

  Massive thanks to my family—especially my husband Paul for all your support and encouragement.

  To my wonderful critique partners Sandra, Susan, Serena and Jules—you’re the best.

  To my Editor, proof reader and friend Sandra Toornstra. You’re amazing.

  And finally, to Tracy Fenton and The Book Club, a wonderful mixed group and readers and authors whose support and encouragement never fail to inspire and amaze me.