Lars’ daughter dislikes Katherine but when the young woman is kidnapped, they are puzzled. The murder of Lars’ daughter and one of his employees makes solving the mysteries necessary. Can she learn before Lars becomes a victim.
Editorial Review
With every book, I think the Katherine Miller Mysteries can't get any better. I'm always wrong, because they always do. ~ Writer Gail Roughton
I joined the pair. “I’ve checked the house twice. He’s
not here.”
She brushed her hair from her face. “I’ve been out all
day. Been busy with preparations for the party. Did you try Carl or Damon?”
Don raked his hair in an awkward parody of his
sister’s graceful gesture. “The office was the second place I called. Carl and
Damon were in a meeting and couldn’t be disturbed. The secretary said Dad
wasn’t with them.”
“Maybe Daddy had some last minute shopping to do in
preparation for Aunt Katherine’s visit.”
“He sent Consuela to the store.” Don glared at his
sister. “Didn’t you notice his car’s still here?”
“Never looked.” She smoothed her blue sweater over her
slim hips. “What’s eating you? Ever since Ramona died, you’ve been jumping at
shadows.”
“We’ve talked about what I plan to do.”
“And I’ve said it’s impossible.”
Don rose. “Right now, I’m worried about Dad. Haven’t
you noticed how edgy and distant he’s been lately?”
Bonnie laughed. “That’s just your imagination. He’s
been fine.”
“He’d never go off without leaving a note for Aunt
Katherine. You know how much he’s looked forward to her visit.”
Bonnie planted her hands on her hips. “He was more
worried about how she’d fit in with our friends. I’m sure he’s gone off with
one of his cronies.” She turned and manufactured a smile that left her blue
eyes as cold as diamonds. “No disrespect meant, but you don’t move in the same
circles as Daddy and I do.”
My jaw clenched. Back east Lars and I have the same
set of friends. While the people here were unknown to me, as a nurse and former
choir director, I’ve dealt with the rich, the poor and the in-betweens.
A few calming breaths controlled my anger and my need
to lash out at this rude young woman. I couldn’t allow myself to forget what
was important and that was my friend’s whereabouts.
“For heaven’s sake, have you forgotten Dad’s missing?”
Don grasped his sister’s shoulders.
“You don’t know if he is. He could be anywhere. Maybe
he’s planning something for my party. I know he wants the affair to be as
perfect as mine usually are.”
“So glad you’re pleased with your social success, but
get real. Did Dad mention having any new problems with the business?”
While they bickered, I tried to recall the little I’d
learned from Lars’ phone call. “Last night when we talked he seemed worried
about his retirement plans and—”
“Just what did he say?” Don asked.
Bonnie jerked away from her twin. “I doubt he would
tell her anything and there couldn’t have been a problem or I would have known.
He’s turned everything over to me.”
“Are there missing records?” Don asked.
“What do you care about the business as long as you
and your br...child can live off the profits?” She stabbed her finger toward
the sleeping child.
“I’ve never taken a cent I haven’t earned.”
“Pardon me if I don’t believe that. What about the
house where you’re living rent free?”
“You have the same benefit. Does Dad charge you rent
for the mansion you talked him into building to enhance your image?”
“The house is necessary.”
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Nice excerpt!
ReplyDeleteOoh love love this line: She turned and manufactured a smile that left her blue eyes as cold as diamonds.
ReplyDeleteI loved the excerpt. Such great writing.
Great excerpt! Lots of things to settle out, including the mystery! Good Luck! Thanks for sharing. I love mysteries!
ReplyDelete