My flush undoubtedly morphed from red embarrassment to fuchsia anger. “Mark would never hurt Olivia. Ever. I can’t believe that you’re even suggesting it.”

“But he did ask Olivia to meet him in his office,” Mains said in quiet tones likely meant to pacify wife beaters and psychotics. It didn’t work on me.

I began rocking. “Yes, he asked her to meet him. But he would never hurt her.”

“So it is understood that Olivia was on campus to visit Mark. That’s what her parents believe.”

I folded my arm across my chest, waiting for the rest.

He didn’t disappoint. “According to Mrs. Blocken, Olivia is kindhearted and wanted to smooth things over between Mark and her before the wedding.”

With an unladylike snort, I held up my right hand to stop him. “Let me finish for you, Detective Mains. Mrs. Blocken is convinced that when Olivia arrived on campus, she tried to reason with Mark who waited until her back was turned and pushed her into the fountain. Am I close?”

“That was her estimation.”

I stood up, sending the rocking chair reeling on its rails. “In that case, I think we’re done here. I’m sorry that you wasted a trip.”

Mains stood as well. “Miss Hayes, the easiest way to end this is to prove whether or not your brother is responsible for the assault on Olivia Blocken. You’re making it difficult for me to do that.”

“I’m sorry, and if you wish to speak with my brother any further, I suggest you do so in the company of his attorney.”

“And who would that be?”

“Lewis Clive.”

“Have you thought of Olivia? Don’t you care what happened to your friend?”

I mentally staggered. “Of course I care about Olivia.” I held my voice level. “But Mark had nothing to do with her attack.”

I stomped to the door and opened it.

Mains placed his notebook back into his jacket pocket. “Thank you for your time.”

He smiled and stepped through the door. Black fur clung to his khaki-clad backside.