Page 40 of Concrete Evidence
“Remind me to check on what happens with the senator’s ranch and business in the event he’s out of the picture.”
Roden typed into his phone. “And how much control Craig currently has.”
“Right. Did you know Senator Elliott built Buddy’s home, got him started raising beef cattle, and set him up financially in the home-building business?”
“Before or after the family split several years back?”
“After. Media reported the whole mess. The senator refused to comment while Buddy accused his father of holding back profits from the ranch and business.” Marc grinned. “A question for you since your specialty is tackling sensitive info.”
Buddy and Saundra’s native, white-stoned home trimmed in cedarlooked more like a lodge than a single-dwelling home. If the massive square feet measured up to the workmanship outside, the couple lived in luxury.
Buddy met Marc and Roden at the front door. Observing Avery Quinn ElliottII took Marc back to younger photos of the senator. Same thick hair turning to silver, but his gut spilled over his belt buckle. Not so with the senator. Buddy requested their IDs before he opened the door. Marc and Roden also handed him their business cards.
Buddy opened the door wide and pointed. “We can talk inside, if you’re okay with it.”
Marc guessed right—the Western lodge-type entrance spread to a huge two-story living area. The three took a seat on distressed leather chairs, and Marc opened the interview by thanking him for his time. “We have a few questions about your father.”
Buddy eyed them suspiciously. “I’ve already informed the Army investigators about the family relationship. The senator and I don’t speak. Neither do I hear from my daughter. Why ask me the same thing?”
“To confirm they haven’t contacted you since then.”
“No, and I don’t expect any social visits.”
Roden took over the conversation. “You have a handsome place here. It must take a lot of elbow grease to maintain the house and grounds.”
“My wife and I have sacrificed for what we have. I saved to buy the land, build our home, and keep it afloat with the home construction business.”
Lie number one.
“Did you design and complete the construction?”
“Yes. Took a while but was worth it. My wife and I did most of the work ourselves.”
Lie number two.
“No wonder you’re proud of this.” Roden gestured around them. “It’s a shame your daughter doesn’t visit you.”
“The senator has her manure-deep in his politics and religion.”
A tall, attractive brunette entered the room and introduced herself as Saundra Elliott. Avery had inherited her mother’s high cheekbones and slender build. Marc and Roden stood and shook her hand. “Please, sit, Agents. I heard Avery’s name. Is she okay?” She eased onto a chair beside her husband.
“Various law enforcements are looking for her.” Roden nodded at Marc, and the two resumed their seats.
“I’m sure she’s aware of the senator’s every move,” Saundra said. “Avery refuses to have a relationship with us.” She tilted her head and offered a thin smile. “We hope one day she’ll come to her senses. Our door’s open for her, but the senator had better keep his distance.”
Buddy harrumphed. “She’s like a wild mustang. Our daughter is capable of applying herself when the answers are in a book, but when it comes to common sense, she’s clueless. Ever hear the lights are on but no one’s home? When she was a girl, I tried to instill street smarts in her. Sometimes I thought I was successful and other times nothing. I’m sure the senator is dictating her every word and action.”
“Family problems have a way of bringing out the worst in us,” Roden said. “I have daughters too, and as much as we love them, sometimes we don’t understand the way they think and act.”
Buddy eyed them. “Why does the Army and FBI want to question them?”
“A good friend of the senator’s, Liam Zachary, was murdered,” Roden said. “Did you know him?”
“No, sir. Do you have evidence the senator is responsible? I’ve seen his violent streak, and I wouldn’t want to be on the receiving end.”
Marc had read about the senator’s verbal temper but nothing about a physical problem. He listened so Roden could continue the interview.
“Tell us about his violent streak.”
