Chapter 98

In Chapter 98 of “We Solve Murders,” Bonnie finds herself back at her mother’s home after an unexpected cancellation of a job that she had been counting on. Her mother’s reaction is far from warm, casting a shadow over Bonnie’s return. She can sense the disappointment in her mother’s expression as she breaks the news, which leaves Bonnie contemplating her own life choices. Three days later, Bonnie sits in Felicity’s office, accompanied by Tony, and the two of them are staring at a large holdall filled with over a million pounds, a discovery that neither of them had anticipated when they cut the bag open. Felicity, ever the pragmatist, considers handing the money over to the police but is torn by the idea. Meanwhile, Tony, seeing an opportunity, argues that such an amount of money could change Bonnie’s life and secure the futures of her children, giving them a chance at a better life. Bonnie, on the other hand, is firm in her belief that the money is tainted and, although it is physically clean, it doesn’t belong to her, and taking it would feel wrong. She insists that it represents illicit gains, something she can’t accept, despite the tempting idea of what it could bring.

As the conversation continues, Tony and Felicity challenge Bonnie’s assumptions, suggesting that the money is not inherently criminal, as it doesn’t involve drugs or anything illegal on the surface. Felicity then reveals that the money belongs to Mickey Moody, a man currently arrested for murder, which adds an interesting twist to the situation. Felicity believes that Bonnie should keep it, as there’s no indication or note asking for its return. Bonnie, however, struggles with the ethical dilemma, as she has always prided herself on earning an honest living and not relying on wealth gained from dubious sources. Felicity, sensing Bonnie’s hesitation, suggests that she could act as her agent, helping her navigate this morally complex situation. The idea is to transform the money into a legitimate business venture that could, in turn, help others, offering a new and more positive purpose for the money.

Bonnie, although still unsure, is reassured by Felicity’s argument that they can find a way to channel the money through legal means, committing a portion of it to help the families of victims who have suffered from violence. This offers a sense of redemption for what would otherwise be considered blood money. Despite her worries about how to explain the situation to her family, Felicity convinces her that hard work, determination, and integrity will be the keys to success, even without the support of rich parents or conventional resources. They engage in a discussion about the importance of self-belief and how luck plays a role in success. Felicity emphasizes that Bonnie has already demonstrated self-belief by coming to see her and asking for guidance, which marks the beginning of her journey towards something better. The chapter explores the complexities of morality, the allure of financial freedom, and the constant battle between doing what is right and seizing opportunities that seem too good to pass up.

Bonnie slowly begins to realize that the decision she is facing is not simply about the money—it’s about her own journey toward self-reliance and finding a way to move forward in life, even when things seem uncertain. She appreciates Felicity and Tony’s support, as they lay out a plan to turn the questionable sum into something positive. The moral gray areas presented in this chapter speak to the challenges individuals face when confronted with decisions that offer both rewards and consequences. Bonnie acknowledges the potential to turn the situation into a life-changing opportunity, despite its dubious origins, understanding that it’s possible to rewrite her future with the right guidance. This chapter, through its exploration of morality, wealth, and identity, underscores the complex nature of decisions and the power of taking control of one’s destiny, even in the face of uncertainty.