in to visit Pam.”
“Maybe she changed her mind and went to work.”
“I was worried enough about her that I went by the pharmacy, and she didn’t show up there either.”
She frowned. “While I love Ashlynn, she’s not always the most responsible person in the world.”
“But why would she ask me to take her to the jail, then not go in?”
She shrugged. “Maybe she changed her mind. Her boyfriend was arrested for possession several months back. I’m fairly certain she went to see him while he was in jail. Maybe she remembered what it was like and changed her mind.” She shrugged. “She’s a flighty girl.”
“So you’re saying I have nothing to worry about? Because I would feel responsible if something happened to her.”
She waved her hand in dismissal. “She’s fine. She probably called a friend to give her a ride.”
I nearly told her that I’d only brought Ashlynn because she’d struggled to find a ride, but I suspected she’d downplay that as well.
“Well, if you hear from her, tell her I’m worried,” I said.
“You hardly know her. Why would you be worried?”
“Because, like I told you, I feel responsible for her after dropping her off. I worry that I should have stuck around to make sure she got in safely.” Then I added in frustration, “She is pregnant, you know.”
“Of course I know,” she said, sounding irritated. “I was the one who took her to the doctor for her first prenatal checkup. I was also the one who took her to get birth control, fat lot of good that did her since she didn’t take the pills.” She released a sigh and some of her anger faded. “While I do question why you’re so concerned, believe me when I say it’s unfounded. This is typical for Ashlynn’s behavior. Her parents were at wit’s end with her, and I worry that her father will kick her out on her keister. Then again, maybe that’s what she needs.”
“She’s counting on you for help.”
“I’m sure she is, and while I plan on giving her plenty of tough love, I won’t let her and her baby sleep out on the street.” She grimaced. “Only don’t tell her I said that.”
While I was still worried, Selena knew her better than I did. “She won’t hear it from me.”
“Good.” She took a sip of her tea. “I’m not surprised Ashlynn wanted to see her mother, but I am surprised she defied her father. No one does that. Maybe that’s why she didn’t go inside. She realized it wasn’t worth risking his wrath.”
“Maybe.” The more I thought about it, the more likely that seemed. Her father might not be a good man, but she was probably dependent on him. Even more so now that she’d lost her job. Maybe she was flighty, like Selena had said, but I also suspected she was trying to protect her baby. Her mother was a lost cause. Her baby needed her more. “Ashlynn said her mother has a public defender, but I’m worried that he’ll consider her case cut and dry and not try to get the best possible sentencing for her.”
She shook her head. “I love Pam with my heart and soul. She’s like the daughter I never had, but she killed that man in cold blood. All her apologies and excuses won’t bring him back.”
“Has she apologized?” Then a new thought hit me. “Have you seen her?”
“I went to see her yesterday, but it was like she was in a catatonic state. When I asked her why she did it, she got a glazed look in her eyes and started mumbling, ‘I’m sorry.’” Selena shot me a look of disapproval. “Why are you insertin’ yourself into this family’s lives? Why are you so concerned about the children in Drum? Why are you livin’ with the grandfather of the boy you saw murdered?” She leaned closer. “What are you up to?”
My mouth parted in surprise. “I just like to help people, and now that Drum’s my home, I want to give back to my community.”
“Nobody gives back to their community in Drum.” She shook her head. “You’re up to something, I just don’t know what it is.”
Not only had I not gotten answers, I’d just made this woman suspicious of me—which was exactly what I’d set out not to do. “I don’t know what to tell you, Miss Selena. Hank needed someone to take care of him after Seth died, and I needed a place to stay. It worked out