Chapter 50

In Chapter 50 of We Solve Murders, François Loubet updates his associate, Joe Blow, with a letter that offers a glimpse into the intricacies of his plans. Loubet takes a moment to reflect on the absurdity of their situation, particularly the suggestion that he should avoid killing Amy Wheeler, a task that he believes is essential for the completion of his objectives. Loubet elaborates on the importance of Amy, who previously served as his bodyguard in London, positioning her as an integral piece in his strategy. By enlisting Rob Kenna’s help, Loubet has secured a layer of anonymity, effectively making it easier to pin any mishaps on Amy. This plan allows Loubet to use her as a scapegoat, ensuring that his tracks remain covered should anything go wrong. He is calculating and aware that every action must be precise to maintain control of his criminal endeavors.

Loubet’s tactics grow more sinister as he reveals the strategic placement of evidence to implicate Amy in multiple crimes. He has ensured that her blood has been left at key crime scenes, which, despite Amy having no motive, will lead any investigation directly to her. The presence of her blood serves as undeniable evidence, connecting her to these criminal activities in a way that will make it difficult for anyone to believe in her innocence. Loubet is confident that even those closest to Amy will begin to doubt her, adding to the layers of doubt and suspicion surrounding her. In his mind, Amy is now more than just a bodyguard—she has become a tool to protect his own secrets and serve as insurance against his possible exposure. He sees her as an expendable asset, with her life hanging in the balance of his grand scheme.

However, Loubet is fully aware that the moment Amy is killed, the plan will pivot significantly. He intends to notify the authorities of her death, prompting them to compare her blood to the one found at the various crime scenes, thereby cementing his alibi. This move, Loubet believes, will leave him untouchable by linking Amy directly to the crimes without implicating him in any way. Yet, he is also mindful of the delicate balance he must strike between keeping her alive as a safeguard and eliminating her when she is no longer needed. His careful contemplation of the timing for her death shows his calculating nature, aware that the slightest misstep could cause his whole plan to unravel. The duality of needing her as insurance while considering her death shows the cold, pragmatic side of Loubet, willing to sacrifice anything and anyone to protect his position.

As Loubet ponders his next moves, he acknowledges that once his current objectives—such as ensuring Amy’s demise—are completed, he must delve deeper into understanding Joe Blow’s identity. Loubet begins to entertain the idea that Joe may eventually become another obstacle, possibly requiring the same fate as Amy if he becomes a liability. This realization points to Loubet’s manipulative nature, constantly calculating who is useful to him and who isn’t. While managing these concerns, Loubet remains focused on severing his ties with Maximum Impact, though he still plans to exploit influencers for his financial schemes. His approach reveals a mindset that thrives on deception and control, viewing people as mere tools to further his goals. Loubet’s ability to manipulate others for his benefit is evident in his smug observation that there are always more “fools” to take advantage of. The chapter ends with Loubet reaffirming his resolve to manage the complexities of his operations, knowing that the key to his success lies in remaining hidden behind layers of deception while minimizing his exposure. The narrative highlights his cunning and ruthless nature as he orchestrates his moves with precision, keeping a tight grip on those around him.