Page 30 of The Artist

“I have to eliminate you as suspects and I’m trying to be thorough at my job so there is no question of favoritism in anyone’s mind.Unfortunately, Peter is right.He is Horace Beecher’s alibi, but he’s not for Horace’s men.I just have to find them.”

“That’s probably going to be harder than not.If I were Beecher, I’d have gotten them out of the country as soon as possible.”

“I’m already checking the flights out of Aspen, between the time of the murder and subsequent fire and now.I haven’t contacted all the private planes that might have left after the fire, especially if they didn’t file a flight plan.”

“Does that happen a lot?Not filing a flight plan, I mean?”asked Peter.

Miranda sighed and her shoulders slumped.“More often than you would think.”She sounded tired.

“Can I get you some coffee?”Alexis offered.

The deputy shook her head.“I still have to talk to the sheriff about my findings and see what he wants me to do now.But thanks.”She headed toward the door but stopped before opening it.“I don’t have to tell you, but don’t leave town.”

Peter nodded.“I guarantee we won’t be going anywhere until this is solved.”

Miranda took a deep breath and let it out slowly, then she nodded.“Good.I’m glad to hear I won’t have to worry about you two.Thanks for your cooperation.”Disappearing through the door, she closed it behind her.

He looked over at Alexis.“Will you be all right if I leave for a bit?”

She turned her gaze to his.“I’ll be fine.I don’t need a babysitter.”

“I didn’t say you did.”

“Then go.I’m fine.”She waved him toward the door.

“Fine.”Peter left the house, wondering what in the heck had just happened.Was Alexis angry?Why?