A Trick of the Light

Clara is filled with despair after her visit to the Dysons. Meanwhile, Gamache is in the bistro with Marois and Castonguay. Castonguay is still anxious that Fortin will sign the Morrows first. Alone with Gamache, Marois admits Castonguay has an alcohol dependency, which accounts for his belligerence. Marois is confident Clara will trust his judgement over anyone else’s. Castonguay wants Peter’s more conventional art for his corporate clients.

After Marois leaves, Gamache sits with Ruth and notices Olivier watching them. Gamache tries to persuade Ruth to forgive Olivier, but she is reluctant. Ruth also tells Gamache that it was Marois, not Fortin, who intentionally got Castonguay drunk. Gamache encounters Beauvoir and immediately notices his expression, declaring, “He knew that look. Jean-Guy had news” (253).

An exhausted Clara confronts Denis Fortin at her home. Fortin asks for forgiveness and hopes she will reconsider their professional relationship.

Gamache goes with Beauvoir to the B&B, as the younger agent explains he has discovered another interview they can conduct. They ask the other guests to give them space to speak with Suzanne, who did not report she was working as a waitress during Clara’s party. Suzanne insists she had no idea Lilian was also there, adding, “I knew I had to tell you the truth.