The murder of Clem and Caroline rush's dropout high school firned, Mary Lou, increases their desire to establish a unique school they hope will help prevent dropouts.
Clem and her sister search county records, which reveal the county education committee rejected Caroline's request to lease the old school building for her school in favor of a bar/gambling joint.
Martin Rush, their father, argues with Georgia State Police Captain Michael Tarnoff, Caroline's fiance, at the Rush home, then both leave without a word to the family. His death is also determined to be murder, but seems to have no connection to their friend's death.
Clem finds a report from a private investigator their father hired with proof of affairs with several women by Caroline's fiance. Pictures are mentioned though none are found.
Clem and Caroline's brother introduces them to the bartender at the bar where their friend worked. They meet at the Rush home to discuss his information, a diary found by the friend's mother, the PI report and his pictures, found by Clem. While sharing their information, the group is shocked when the murderer bursts into the room and attempts to take them hostage.