way it's true, Uncle Pat,” Peter said as the others added similar comments.
Victoria stayed silent. She knew this was already tearing her family apart and she couldn't tell them it was all a lie. She had to keep her mouth shut. Her uncle gave her the evil eye, and she prayed she wouldn't crack.
They talked about it, tried to put their heads together and hoped it weren't true. Then, they went over the plans for the memorial service, which would only take about an hour, then a reception at the firehouse afterwards.
"The family needs to stick together. If news of this new suspicion gets out, there's going to be a lot of questions, accusations. They may even stop investigating Danny's case,” Uncle Patrick said.
"How can they do that? They still don't have a suspect in custody. It's still a murder case.” Victoria looked at her uncle for answers.
"It will still be considered a murder case, but not one of a cop. Instead, it will be the murder of an adulterer. The manpower involved with solving the case will automatically lessen. Tax payers’ dollars—there's no need to have so many good officers and detectives investigating such a case,” Connor stated
Victoria felt herself getting more and more upset. She wanted to tell them about the secret investigation, she wanted them to console her and tell her that everything was going to be all right. Instead, the realization she needed to be strong, to handle this without the family, was slowly sinking in.
"So if this information comes out, there's a possibility that my dad's case could go unsolved? This is ludicrous.” Victoria crossed her arms in front of her chest.
"It's a possibility."
"I can't see Tod letting anything like that happen. Let's focus on the ceremony and keep everyone together. It's important that the family comes together and shows how close and how strong we are,” Uncle Patrick said and everyone agreed.
She remained silent, deep in thought about the new information and the harm it could cause.
"Victoria, I'll pick you and Mom up at her house and drive you both to the ceremony,” Peter told her as the others began leaving.
"I'll meet you there.” She tried to walk away, but he grabbed her arm.
Everyone seemed to pause and watch her. She needed to maintain control and stick to her act.
"Don't you dare show up with him at Dad's memorial,” he scolded.
The thought hadn't even crossed her mind.
"I wouldn't do that, Peter. Besides, he will be there, but as a town board member, for political and personal reasons. Now, let go of my arm.” She pulled away, abruptly leaving.
* * * *
Peter was shocked. His sister would never act like this, and he didn't know what was wrong with her.
"Something's up, Uncle Pat. Did you see that? Her whole attitude today is wrong.” Peter watched Victoria get into her blue jeep and leave.
"I can see that too, and I hope Collins doesn't have a hold of her already."
"How could he? They've only been seeing one another..” Peter shook his head, as he placed his hands into his pockets.
"It makes me sick just thinking about it. I know the guy is attractive and women are turned on by him, but, Tory? It just doesn't fit."
"I agree with you, but remember she's been through a lot and has been dealing with it all head on and without assistance. Perhaps this is just a fling she needs to forget about Steven."
"She couldn't pick someone better? I don't know ... but every time I'm around her, I just don't feel as close to her. Why couldn't she confide in me or lean on me?"
"The Mardullo and Malley curse,” Uncle Patrick replied.
Peter squinted at his uncle, not quite understanding.
"Stubborn as hell and then some, every darn one of us. Your sister is tough to boot and they'll be no negotiating. Victoria's the one female in this family that can give us men a run for our money. Sherry is just as stubborn and tough. We have to go talk to your mom. I'd rather her hear this information from me than a stranger."
Peter shook
HRH Princess Michael of Kent