CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY SEVEN – LOOKING OVER HER SHOULDER

Maria hurried over, concern etched on her face. "Are you alright, cara? You look pale." Joan nodded weakly. "I'm fine. Just... not used to talking to the police." Maria patted her arm reassuringly. "You did well. Very calm. Don't worry, they're just doing their job." "Do you think they suspect anything?" Joan whispered. Maria shook her head. "No, no. They always ask many questions. It's normal. Come, let's have some tea to settle our nerves." As they sipped their tea in the back room, Joan's hands still trembled slightly. "Maria, I'm sorry if I've brought trouble to your shop." Maria waved her hand dismissively. "Nonsense. You've been nothing but helpful. Besides, a little excitement is good for business, no?" Joan managed a small smile. "If you say so." The next few days passed uneventfully, but Joan couldn't shake the feeling of unease. She found herself glancing over her shoulder more often, startling at sudden noises. One afternoon, as Joan was helping a customer, the shop