us you visited Wendall frequently in prison. This video was taken before there were any attempts on Addison’s life. From where I’m standing, it looks like you had knowledge of Wendall’s intentions. Or worse, you’re helping.”
“No.” Steven stiffened. “I would never hurt Addison. Never.”
He was so adamant, Jason was tempted to believe him. But Steven had lied to them in the past and done a convincing job of it. He couldn’t be trusted.
Steven stumbled back and sagged against the edge of the picnic table. His hands gripped the wood hard enough to turn his knuckles white. “I was worried. That’s why I’ve been watching your office.”
Addison’s lips flattened into a thin line. “So you knew my life was in danger and you didn’t say a word to me?”
“No, I didn’t know anything for sure. Let me explain.” He took a deep breath. “After he went to prison, Wendall wrote me letters. He apologized for things that had happened during my childhood and begged me to visit him. Over time, we built a relationship. I thought he was a changed man.”
“He tricked you.”
Steven ran a hand through his thick hair. “Worse. He was using me.”
“What does that mean?” Jason asked.
“After Wendall was released from prison, he started dropping comments.” Steven swallowed hard. “They were easy to ignore in the beginning, but eventually, it became clear Wendall was attempting to manipulate my feelings toward Addison.”
Addison bit her lip. “He wanted you to hate me.”
Steven nodded. “It’s hard to describe how things progressed. Wendall didn’t wake up one day and insist Greg’s death was your fault. If he had, it would’ve been easy to walk away from him. It was more subtle than that. And by then, my dad and I had a close bond. I…I didn’t want to lose the relationship we’d built, so I ignored what was happening right in front of my face.” He lifted his gaze to hers. “I’m sorry, Addy. I’ve made a lot of mistakes.”
She let out a long breath and her shoulders dropped. “I know what that’s like, Steven. I was married to Greg. I know exactly how complicated relationships can get, especially when manipulation and abuse are involved.”
Jason rocked back on his heels. Addison might be willing to overlook Steven’s cowardly actions, but he wasn’t. The man knew his father held ill will toward Addison and said nothing to warn her. Nor was he upfront when they spoke to him a few days ago.
“If you knew Wendall was a threat to Addison, why didn’t you turn him into the police?” he asked.
“You don’t understand. Wendall didn’t want to kill Addison.” Steven’s expression hardened. “He wanted me to.”
Addison’s mouth dropped open. “What?”
“Wendall hated prison. He never wanted to go back. My dad hoped to manipulate me into doing his dirty work for him. I refused, and we had a fight. After that, Wendall disappeared and I haven’t seen him since.”
“When was this?”
“About a month ago.” He gestured toward her phone. “That’s why I was watching the outside of your office. I didn’t think Wendall would try anything on his own, but I couldn’t be certain. Again, I’m sorry, Addy. I should’ve been upfront with you.”
She tilted her head, a crease forming between her brows. “Why weren’t you?”
“I was ashamed.” A flush crept across Steven’s face and his gaze skittered away from hers. “Wendall fooled me. I thought he wanted a relationship with me, but all he actually cared about was hurting you.”
Jason’s gaze narrowed. He wasn’t completely buying Steven’s act. Something about this wasn’t ringing true. Nor was it logical. Steven claimed to care about Addison, but he did nothing to warn her. Why?
Steven checked his watch and stood. “I’ve got to go. My client is waiting.” He paused. “Addy, there’s one more thing. I’m not sure my dad is the one after you now. As much as Wendall hates you, he despises prison more. Killing you is risky. That’s why he wanted me to do it.”
Jason locked eyes with Steven. “Do you know where Wendall is?”
“No.” He picked up the cardboard tube from the table. “If he contacts me, I’ll let you know. But he won’t. Wendall has no use for me now.” Steven nodded toward Addison. “Stay safe.”
He strolled across the parking lot and got into a silver pickup. Steven barely tapped the brakes as he peeled out of the parking lot.
Uneasiness plagued Jason. He rubbed the back of his neck. “I hate to say this, Addison, but Steven knows more than he’s saying.