Chapter 4

Chapter 4 of We Solve Murders delves deeper into Jeff Nolan’s ongoing struggle with the ramifications of the recent murders that have deeply affected his business, Maximum Impact Solutions. The high-profile murder of Andrew Fairbanks, a fitness influencer and former client of Jeff’s, has attracted significant media attention, which is rapidly damaging Jeff’s reputation and his standing within his industry. Despite the ongoing police investigation, Jeff remains primarily concerned about the erosion of trust among his clients, a loss of confidence that could lead to significant cancellations of vital contracts. As Jeff juggles these mounting pressures, his usual confidence is shaken, and he realizes that his business’s success is increasingly at risk.

Max Highfield, a key consultant who works closely with Jeff, soon arrives at the office to discuss the growing fallout from the murders. Max, clearly frustrated with the state of affairs, expresses his concern over how these incidents are damaging their business relationship and reputation. While Jeff reassures Max that the murder of Fairbanks isn’t catastrophic for their clients, the conversation soon shifts to their shared involvement in the entertainment world. Max, in his usual dry wit, points out the vast pay disparity between their roles in consultancy and the entertainment industry, particularly in regard to prestigious awards like the Oscars. This discussion adds an extra layer of tension, as the personal and professional rivalries between the two men become more evident, highlighting the underlying complexities of their working relationship.

Amidst this exchange, Jeff reveals that Amy Wheeler, an operative working for him, is currently investigating the murders in South Carolina. Max, who has interacted with Amy in the past, hints at a deeper connection between them, though the full extent of their relationship remains unclear. The dynamic shifts further when Max mentions the possibility of joining Jeff’s rival, Henk, which instantly raises the stakes of their partnership and injects a competitive tension into the conversation. This mention of betrayal underscores the precariousness of their professional alliance, suggesting that the balance between trust and rivalry is always fragile in their world. Their interactions in this chapter offer a mix of casual banter and serious undercurrents, revealing that despite their years of collaboration, neither man fully trusts the other.

After Max leaves, Jeff turns his focus to Susan Knox, the head of HR at Maximum Impact Solutions. Their brief conversation touches on workplace dynamics, particularly the impact that Max’s actions have had on the morale of their staff. Susan’s dry humor contrasts with the ongoing chaos surrounding the company, but beneath her wit, the growing tensions within the business are apparent. The mention of François Loubet, a notorious criminal figure with ties to their industry, adds another layer of external danger to the situation. Loubet’s shadow looms large over the company, and Jeff is acutely aware that the problems he faces now are just the tip of the iceberg. As Susan leaves, the weight of the problems becomes even more apparent, and Jeff’s realization that things are spiraling out of control begins to set in.

The chapter takes a darker turn as Jeff reflects on the looming threat posed by Loubet. He pulls up an email he had written in a desperate attempt to get advice on how to handle the dangerous criminal. This moment highlights Jeff’s growing sense of urgency as he faces the combined threats of the murders, his crumbling reputation, and the dangerous figure of Loubet. The chapter closes with Jeff pondering his strained partnership with Henk, acknowledging that their relationship is fraught with complexities and risks. As the chapter ends, readers are left with a sense of foreboding, knowing that the challenges Jeff faces will only intensify as the story unfolds. This chapter is a turning point, marking a deeper dive into the relationships, threats, and challenges that will define the course of the narrative moving forward.