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“Until then, Ben, listen to me Do not trust anyone And that means anyone”

I knew that “anyone” included Jacob Gill, and even my father It probably meant Dabney and Yvella too But did it alsome this cautionary advice? Could I trust LJ and Elizabeth?

“We’d best be on our way,” LJ said “Isn’t there a back door out of here?”

I pointed to it

“Don’t forget what I said, Ben Keep your head down”

LJ opened the little door that let onto the alley He glanced around, then turned back “Nobody around Let’s go, Elizabeth”

She turned to me with a smile that spoke of her concern

“Ben, please let us help We’re your friends Maybe your only friends”

Chapter 84

ALMOST MIDNIGHT Another knock ca house

I shot the bolt and the door swung open

Moody Cross was standing there in a white jumper And not a little terrified She pushed past me and slammed the door shut

“Papaw sent me”

“I guessplace is the worst-kept secret in Mississippi,” I said

She was out of breath “We need help A lady froirl out to warn us Said they’s a group ofout to kill me and Papaw and Ricky”