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the call to the police. If there was a connection between the computer theft and John’s death, Zane needed to find out on his own. He could do that and still protect his unsullied start-up. He returned to the office to find that Riley remained glued to the phone.
    Zane didn’t feel comfortable with Cyphorensic Technologies going forward until he discovered what had happened to his friend and his wife, and to the software. In the meantime, he needed information that Riley might have. She appeared to be consumed with making a failing business work and did not act at all like someone who held a big secret in the palm of her hand.
    Zane was an entrepreneur. He couldn’t help but be interested in all the possibilities that could come out of cranberry farming, including a new challenge.
    Riley hung up the phone, slamming it a bit harder than necessary. She rubbed her temples.
    Zane’s chest swelled with admiration for the strong young woman. Add “new mom” to her task list. He hoped he wasn’t making a mistake in offering his help, but somehow her vulnerability had penetrated his better judgment. That much he recognized.
    She was John’s sister. Chad, John’s son. Zane owed it to his friend and partner to help his sister make this work. If he discovered what he needed to know in the process, so much the better. He noticed her staring at him and became aware he’d been caught up in his thoughts. He stood.
    She folded her arms across her chest and raised her eyebrows. “You know, you never did tell me why you dropped by. I know it wasn’t for pleasantries, since you’ve already stated at the funeral and on the phone that you needed to speak to me. It was important. Remember?”
    “I have a proposition for you.” John heard Chad begin to squirm on his quilt. He’d have to do quick work, convince her to agree before she had time to reconsider.
    Her incredulous expression urged him on. “John talked a lot about the cranberry farm—intrigued me. I’m an entrepreneur; I’d love to help in any way that I can.” He stuck his hands in his pockets to hide the fact that he was nervous, an altogether new emotion for him.
    “Look, I’m not sure what you have in mind, but this business is family owned and operated. It’s not like you can get it ready so that you can take it IPO or whatever it is you do. I know your type.” Riley applied ointment to her lips and rubbed them together then tucked the small container back into her pocket.
    She would be as much of a challenge as the business itself. Even better. “No, no. You misunderstand me.”
    “What about your company? How would you have the time?”
    Zane peered out a window that was in need of a good scrub and watched a man head to the office. He had to hurry. “I can’t do much with the company right now. I lost my key programmer. My only programmer.” He turned to face Riley. “But you know that. Cyphorensic is on hold for the moment.” Or at least until he decided how to proceed with it. Sensing her rebuff, he continued. “Think of Chad, if not yourself. Let me do this for Chad, for John’s memory. I can help you. It’s apparent you need assistance.”
    The door swung open, and Zane flinched. Had he won her over?
    The man stepped into the room then removed his straw hat and nodded at Zane. He looked at Riley. “Ma’am. I’ve already spoken to Mr. Sanderford, and he told me to come speak to you since you’re running things now. Sure wish you would’ve shown up sooner. Thing is… I’ve had to take another job.” He lowered his head. “I’m sorry about that. I’ve got two teenage boys starting to drive. That comes with a big insurance bill.” The man grinned as if he hoped to ease the tension.
    Zane wanted to smile at the timing, but he couldn’t. He hesitated before looking at Riley, because he knew the turmoil on her face would affect him.

five
    Oh great!
The day could not get any worse. Riley steeled herself against an onslaught of tears