Chapter 7

Chapter 7 of We Solve Murders reveals Steve Wheeler’s ongoing engagement with criminal cases despite his retirement. Although no longer actively solving crimes, he maintains an interest in certain cases that capture his attention, such as the recent murder of Andrew Fairbanks in South Carolina. This case, in particular, intrigues him because of its connection to his acquaintance, Amy. Fairbanks’s murder was horrific and involved multiple violent acts, sparking Steve’s curiosity. However, despite his professional instincts being piqued, Steve is forced to focus on personal matters that demand his attention.

Steve’s current focus is an investigation involving Mollie Bright, a young woman who has been stealing from her mother’s shop. Despite her emotional protests, Steve presents Mollie with video evidence, forcing her to admit her guilt. During their conversation, it becomes clear that Mollie is being threatened by a school bully named Lauren Gough, who extorts money from her. Steve sympathizes with Mollie’s situation, realizing that her actions stem from fear rather than greed. The bullying and social pressure weigh heavily on Mollie, and Steve’s heart goes out to her as he sees the damage caused by intimidation.

As Steve delves deeper into Mollie’s situation, he reflects on how social media and peer pressure play pivotal roles in the lives of young people today. He also begins to question the nature of parental relationships, particularly after seeing how hard Jenny Bright, Mollie’s mother, works to protect her daughter. Despite Jenny’s concerns, Steve reassures her that there is no evidence of her involvement in the theft, offering some peace of mind. In a lighter moment, Steve mentions receiving an unexpected envelope of money from an anonymous client, which further complicates his already mysterious day. The presence of such small, enigmatic moments helps break the tension, but Steve’s focus soon shifts back to the bigger concerns at hand.

The chapter also delves into Steve’s lingering thoughts about the unsolved murder of Andrew Fairbanks. As he reflects on the media’s coverage of the case, Steve becomes increasingly disillusioned with the lack of transparency from local law enforcement. He recalls his impression of Sheriff Justin Scroggie, whose polished exterior and formal demeanor only heighten Steve’s skepticism regarding the sheriff’s competence. The reluctance of the police to provide information fuels Steve’s growing concern that the case will remain unsolved for longer than anticipated.

In the midst of these personal and professional challenges, Steve shows compassion and understanding when he offers Mollie the chance to walk a dog he found earlier. This small gesture offers Mollie a brief moment of peace and highlights Steve’s natural protective instincts. Their exchange, filled with mutual respect and empathy, underscores a central theme of the chapter—how bullying and societal pressures can harm individuals. While Steve’s professional life remains entangled with unresolved cases, his interactions with those around him reveal the depth of his character and the importance of personal connections in navigating life’s more complicated moments.

Throughout Chapter 7, we witness Steve’s ongoing internal struggle between engaging with the world of crime he once knew and dealing with the more immediate concerns that come with caring for those around him. His complex relationship with Mollie, his frustration with the local law enforcement’s handling of the Fairbanks case, and his deep-seated belief in standing up against bullying offer readers a nuanced exploration of justice, compassion, and personal responsibility. These themes resonate deeply, encouraging the reader to reflect on their own reactions to similar societal issues and personal dilemmas. Steve’s narrative continues to be one of emotional depth, balancing professional intrigue with personal growth and a desire to do the right thing.