Free Stolen by Jordan Gray

“We’ve found nothing missing.”
    â€œInteresting.” Crowe’s tone indicated that he wasn’t overly concerned that none of their possessions had been stolen. “Thieves that break in, then don’t steal.”
    Michael leaned back in his chair. “I appreciate your thoughtfulness in coming here to warn us.”
    Crowe hesitated, then nodded. “I considered it my civic duty.”
    A lazy smile played across Michael’s lips and Molly couldn’t help watching her husband more than Crowe. Michael was a better showman.
    â€œPlease excuse me if I appear rude, but I’ve never known you to be so civic-minded in the past.”
    If Crowe took offense, he didn’t let on. “We’re practically neighbors.” He swiveled his gaze to Molly. “I did come for another reason, as well, Mrs. Graham. This one concerns you. And the documentary efforts.”
    â€œReally? In what regard?”
    â€œGiven that poor woman’s death, I thought it was possible some of the people who had funded the documentary might try to pull out.”
    Molly kept her face relaxed. As a matter of fact, she had received two calls so far stating exactly that.
    â€œThere has been some anxiety, but I expect it will blow over.”
    Crowe smiled. “I hope that it does. I understand this project is near and dear to your heart.”
    Molly decided not to play the man’s game. Crowe was more transparent than he believed. “I’m not worried about the documentary, Mr. Crowe. The funding is all in place, and I’m sure that once the initial shock subsides, the investors will see reason and believe in this project again.”
    â€œOf course they will, Mrs. Graham.” Crowe shrugged and gave her another smile, wider this time. “In the eventthat some of them decide this situation presents more risks than they can deal with, I’d like to offer my support.”
    â€œI appreciate that.” Molly returned his smile. She noticed Michael watching her. Her husband’s eyes were bright with amusement.
    Crowe hesitated for a moment. “I didn’t just mean moral support. Though you have that, as well. I was referring to financing your project.”
    â€œReally?” Molly was determined not to let Crowe wriggle off the hook so easily. “As I recall, you weren’t overly receptive when I sent you a prospectus.”
    â€œI’ve had a change of heart.” To the man’s credit, he spoke with a straight face and no detectable insincerity.
    â€œAll right then. If I need further funding, I’ll let you know.”
    â€œExcellent.” Crowe stood and took a fresh grip on his cane. “Mrs. Graham, thank you for your hospitality. I’ll see myself out.”
    Irwin appeared almost magically in the doorway with Crowe’s coat and hat.
    Crowe took his things from Irwin, then said his goodbyes and followed the caretaker to the door.
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    â€œH AVE I EVER MENTIONED how creepy that man is?” Michael stood at the window overlooking the parking area in front of the main house.
    Outside, the burly driver opened the back door of the luxury sedan and allowed Crowe to crawl in. The wind caught the chauffeur’s jacket for just a moment, lifting it enough to flash the revolver snugged in a holster on his belt.
    â€œYou have.” Molly walked to Michael’s side. “On several occasions. On that, we agree.”
    Michael glanced at her as the luxury sedan rolledsedately toward the front gates. “So what do you think that was all about?”
    â€œThat was a fishing expedition. He was trying to ascertain how much of an impression last night made on us.”
    â€œMy thoughts exactly.”
    Molly turned away. “I’ve got to get started. I’ve done everything here that I can do. Time to get out and make the rounds. See that everyone is settled. Simon hopes to do some of the primary filming in the next