"Full Bloom" - читать интересную книгу автора (Evanovich Janet, Hughes Charlotte)

Chapter Three

Annie opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out.

Theenie peered around her. "How nice to see you awake. You're just in time for dinner."

Wes ignored her, his gaze fixed on Annie. "I asked you a question."

"Okay, but you're not going to like the answer."

"Somehow I managed to figure that much out for myself."

"It's not Annie's fault," Theenie said, beginning to fidget with her hands. "As hard as it must be for you to believe, she's had nothing but your best interests at heart since she accidentally hit you, uh, twice."

"The medication Doc gave you was stronger than we thought," Annie said, deliberately being vague. She didn't want Doc listed in Wes's lawsuit.

He stared back at her for a full minute. Finally, he sat up and rubbed the back of his head, wincing when he touched the knot. "How long have I been out?"

"All day," Annie said.

"What the hell did the man give me, a horse tranquilizer?"

Annie and Theenie exchanged looks. "It was an accident," Annie said.

Wes scowled. "Another accident? There seems to be a lot of that going around." His gaze narrowed on Annie. "Are you the one who undressed me?"

"I did that," Theenie cut in quickly. "I'm accustomed to seeing naked men. It used to be part of my job."

Wes seemed to ponder that before turning back to Annie. "I want my clothes, and I want them now."

Annie pointed. "They're hanging on the back of the door here. While you get dressed, I'll prepare you a plate. We're having meat loaf." She and Theenie hurried from the room.

The group was silent when Wes entered the kitchen a few minutes later, fully dressed, with the exception of his denim jacket, hooked over one finger. He leaned close to Annie. "Mind telling me what happened to my boxer shorts?"

"Oh, I left them on top of the dryer," Theenie said. She stood and hurried into the laundry room, but when she reappeared she looked confused. "They're gone." She looked at Destiny.

"What? You think I took them?"

"Well, they didn't just walk away."

The three women looked at one another, then at Erdle.

He shook his head. "I don't wear boxer shorts with hearts on them."

All eyes landed on Wes. "I got behind on my laundry, and they were my last pair. Besides, I didn't know they would be on display in a house full of strangers."

"I'm sure they'll turn up," Annie said. "Won't you join us for dinner? I know you have to be hungry."

Wes hesitated. Finally, he draped his jacket over the back of the chair and sat as everyone began passing food to him. Annie had prepared him a glass of iced tea and set it beside his plate. He stared at it for a moment.

"I didn't poison it," she said.

He took a tentative sip.

They ate in silence. Destiny finally broke it when she asked how Max and Jamie's wedding plans were going.

Theenie gasped and slapped her hand over her mouth. "We're not supposed to mention names," came her muffled reply. She cut her eyes to Erdle.

"What do I care who's getting married here?" he said with a shrug.

"Please don't discuss it with anyone," Annie told him. As she gave Destiny an update she could feel Wes's eyes on her. She looked at him, and their gazes locked for several seconds before she looked away.

A clatter from above made them pause and stare at the ceiling.

Wes glanced around the table at the anxious faces. "Are there other guests here?"

"It's just the wind rattling the windowpanes," Annie said.

"Yeah, right," Destiny muttered.

Theenie looked at Wes. "You know, our Annie puts on the most beautiful weddings," she blurted, obviously trying to change the subject. "Her clientele is growing by leaps and bounds."

"Is that so?"

"Her parties are just grand."

"I don't think Wes is interested in all that," Annie said, her face growing warm.

Theenie went on. "Annie usually does all the cooking, but Lovelle and I help. We're full-time tenants. Lovelle is away at the moment. We used to have another tenant named Dora, but she died."

Wes arched one brow and turned to Annie.

"It wasn't my fault. She was elderly and died of natural causes."

"How long have you had this place?" he asked.

Annie was surprised he was being civil to her. "The house has been in my family for generations, but I only opened the bed-and-breakfast a few years ago. This is my slow season."

He sat back in his chair and regarded her. "I might be interested in renting a room."

Everybody gaped. Erdle, in the process of swallowing, almost choked. "You'd actually rent a room from her after what happened? Man, you must be desperate."

"I only need a place for a week or two, and I hate motel rooms."

"Well, I …" Annie tried to pull her thoughts together. She glanced at Theenie, whose face seemed to have drained of color. Destiny looked amused.

"I can provide references," he said. "Except for that short stint in prison."

Theenie dropped her fork, and it clattered in her plate.

"Just kidding," Wes said.

"You should rent him the master bedroom," Erdle said. He looked at Wes. "It's huge. Has cable TV, a fireplace, one of those claw-foot tubs in the bathroom, and a big mirror on the ceiling."

"Wow, that sounds like my kind of room," Destiny said.

Annie managed a tight smile. "I don't normally rent it out. Only if I'm booked and have no other choice."

"Why aren't you using it?" Wes asked.

Erdle answered for her. "She moved out of it when her husband ran off with another woman."

"Thank you for sharing, Erdle," Annie said.

Wes seemed to be doing his best to swallow a smile. "How long has your husband been gone?"

Annie avoided eye contact. "Three years."

"Does he live around here?" Wes asked.

"If I knew where he lived I would serve him with divorce papers." She gave a dismissive wave. "I'd rather not talk about it."

"I'd like to see the room after dinner if that's okay."

"I have other rooms."

"Yes, but I'm willing to pay twice what you would normally charge for the master."

"Why on earth would you do that?" she asked.

"Because it offers a lot more than a motel room and because the food is good here." He almost smiled. "And I have a thing for overhead mirrors."

"Amen to that," Destiny said, drawing a frown from Theenie.

"I'd jump on that, Miss Annie," Erdle said, "seeing as how you could use the money."

Annie finally shrugged, trying to appear indifferent. "Sure." She would show Wes the room, but that didn't mean she was going to rent it to him. Annie didn't have to look at Theenie to know the woman was probably gnawing her bottom lip ninety-to-nothing.

* * * * *

Thirty minutes later, Annie led Wes to the second floor and into the master suite. The bronze and gilt furniture had been hand-carved along the lines of French provincial, only fancier — or ostentatious, as her mother had often remarked — adorned with hearts, curlicues, and rosettes. As in the dining room, the red walls and red velvet draperies were in keeping with the original decor. Annie had left the nineteen-inch color TV that her husband Charles had purchased for the room.

"What a shame," Wes said, looking at it.

Annie gave him a puzzled look.

He shrugged. "I don't think television sets belong in a husband and wife's bedroom, but that's just me." His gaze wandered to an overstuffed chair and ottoman near the fireplace.

"I converted all the fireplaces to gas," Annie said. "It's really nice falling asleep with a fire burning."

He turned to her. "Oh yeah?"

The look he gave her made her think of snuggling between crisp sheets and thick blankets on a cold night, hair-roughened legs entwined with smooth ones, a warm fire painting shadows on the walls. Annie crossed her arms. It felt weird standing alone with Wes in the bedroom she'd shared with her husband for two years. "The bathroom is through that door," she said, nodding toward it.

Wes turned his attention to the lavishly carved mirror over the bed. "Nice," he said. "Did you decorate this room?"

"Oh no," she said quickly. "It was done by an ancestor. The family insisted on keeping the house as close to the original design and decor as they could. With the exception of the kitchen," she added. "The original kitchen was detached from the house, as kitchens were in most homes of that era. It burned."

"Your ancestors had unusual tastes."

"Yes."

"Where do you sleep?"

Annie tried not to let herself gaze too long into those liquid brown eyes. "Next door. And Theenie is just across the hall," she added, and then wondered why she'd felt it necessary to let him know they wouldn't be the only ones sleeping on that floor.

"There are five bedrooms on the third floor, although some are small. My grandmother had an elevator installed once she began having trouble getting around, but it's slow and cantankerous." She couldn't help noticing the odd way he looked at her. Was he sizing her up? Trying to decide if she was really as crazy as he thought? She probably was crazy to even think of renting to him.

"I can't believe you moved out of here. Bad memories?"

He asked a lot of questions. "It just felt too big for one person."

He cocked his head to one side, studied her lazily. "Your husband obviously wasn't a smart man. I can't imagine why he would cheat on you."

"It's quite possible he was a jerk," she said matter-of-factly.

"Well, you're still young. You'll meet your prince charming one day."

"I like my life just fine the way it is."

"Is that why you wear those big shirts? So guys won't notice you?"

He suddenly smiled, and Annie felt her toes curl. Jeez! "Yeah. I'm one of those women who have to dress down in order to keep the men at bay."

"You still look pretty damn good."

"I might have to resort to sackcloth."

He reached into his back pocket and pulled out his wallet. "You'll probably want references so the blue-haired lady doesn't jump ship the minute I move in."

He fished through several business cards, handed one to Annie. "This guy will vouch for me."

"Was he your warden?"

"My banker." He gave her another card. "And this is my lawyer. I just pay him a flat fee to keep me out of the big house."

"That's always helpful. What kind of business are you in?"

"I'm a professional photographer."

She couldn't hide her surprise. It sounded so tame, and the man before her looked anything but. "How interesting. Maybe you'll show me some of your work."

"I don't think you'd approve."

Both brows arched high on her head. "Oh yeah? What kind of pictures do you take?"

"Mostly women."

"Um." She opened her mouth, closed it, and then opened it again. "Are they, uh, you know?"

"Some of them wear clothes."

Annie gulped.

"You'd make a perfect model." He reached for a stray lock of hair and twirled it around his finger. "The rich texture of your hair, slightly mussed, as though you just climbed from your bed after making love. The rosy flush I just brought to your cheeks by mentioning it."

Her scalp tingled at his touch, sending tiny ripples of pleasure down her back. Theenie was probably wondering what was taking them so long. "I don't think so," Annie said, thinking how much she sounded like Theenie. She stepped back and tucked her hair behind her ears.

"Doesn't matter. I've branched out. I like traveling to different parts of the country taking pictures of quaint little towns. 'Course, it's not as much fun as what I used to do, and it doesn't offer the fringe benefits." He winked.

Annie stared dumbly. "Do you have any questions about the room?"

"How soon can I move in?"

* * * * *

It was not yet nine o'clock the next morning when Annie called a meeting of sorts with Theenie and Destiny. "I've decided to go ahead and rent a room to Wes Bridges."

Destiny shrugged. "Hey, it's your house."

"Oh my," Theenie said. "Are you sure?"

"I know he looks, well—"

"He looks like one of those biker dudes," Theenie said.

"Just because he rides a Harley doesn't make him a biker," Annie said. "He's a photographer, and he has excellent references."

Destiny took a sip of her coffee. "A photographer, huh?"

Annie nodded. "He wants to take pictures of Beaumont. Because of its historic value," she added.

"What does he plan to do with the pictures?" Theenie asked.

"I don't know. Maybe he sells to travel magazines."

Annie noticed Destiny frowning. "What?"

"Something doesn't feel right."

Annie and Theenie exchanged glances.

"You think he might be lying?" Theenie said, gripping her coffee cup. "Do you sense we're in danger?"

Annie rolled her eyes. "Of course we're not in danger," she said, wishing Destiny would keep her concerns to herself instead of giving Theenie something else to worry about. "I wouldn't have rented to him unless I felt he was safe."

"He's not likely to kill us in our sleep or anything like that," Destiny said as though trying to reassure Theenie, which only caused the woman to start her lip-nibbling routine.

Annie felt the beginnings of a headache. "I've already told him he could have the room." She'd barely gotten the words out of her mouth when a door slammed upstairs. Annie and Theenie jumped.

"What in blazes was that?" Theenie said.

"It's just the wind," Annie said dismissively, refusing to meet Destiny's gaze.

"How can it be the wind when all the windows are closed?" Theenie asked. "I'm telling you, something isn't right in this house, and it seems to be getting worse. And now we've got a man moving in who could be a cold-blooded killer for all we know."

"He is not a killer," Annie said.

Theenie didn't look convinced. "You don't know that. You don't know that his references are valid. He could have paid somebody to lie for him. Killers do that sort of thing for each other. And remember, he even mentioned he was in prison. What if he wasn't joking? What if—"

"He's not dangerous," Annie interrupted, "and I don't think he's trying to hide anything. He told me stuff about himself that he didn't have to tell me."

"What stuff?" Destiny asked.

Annie gave a big sigh. "I wasn't going to mention it, but, well, he admitted that he used to take pictures of women. I sort of got the impression they weren't wearing much."

Theenie looked shocked. "You mean they were nude?"

Annie nodded.

"That's probably where they got that old saying: less is more," Destiny said.

"Oh my," Theenie said. "You know what that means."

Both Destiny and Annie looked at her questioningly.

"It means he probably wonders what we all look like naked."

Destiny chuckled. "Then he and I are even, because I've been wondering the same thing about him."

Annie didn't respond, but for some insane reason she wasn't crazy about the idea of Destiny thinking about Wes in the buff.

"Especially after seeing him in his underwear," Destiny added. She leaned closer to Theenie. "Why don't you enlighten us?"

Annie looked at Theenie, almost ashamed that she was as eager as Destiny for information.

Theenie blushed profusely. "I most certainly will not discuss such private matters. I was acting as a professional when I, um, undressed him, so it's not something I would have noticed."

"Oh, give me a break," Destiny said. "You may have a little age on you, but you're not blind."

"May we change the subject?" Theenie asked.

Annie nodded. "Good idea. I have more pressing matters. Has anyone seen Erdle? His car isn't in the driveway."

"I heard him go out last night," Theenie said. "Probably passed out somewhere. But if you think you're going to chase him with that rolling pin again, you're wrong. I hid it."

"I don't need a rolling pin," Annie said. "I've got my bare hands."

* * * * *

Annie stormed into the kitchen shortly before lunch, almost bumping into Theenie, who was watering houseplants. "Erdle is still not home," she said.

"That's it! I'm throwing him out the minute he shows up." Annie spied Danny Gilbert sitting at the kitchen table and blushed. "Oh, hi, Danny."

"Bad day?" he asked.

She shrugged. "I'm just irritated with Erdle, but that's nothing new."

"I hear you got problems with the house."

Annie glanced at Theenie.

"Well, Danny is a carpenter," the woman said. "I showed him the damage in the ballroom."

"You should have come to me sooner, Annie," he said. "I can take care of the floor. I even have my own sander."

"Oh, I couldn't possibly impose—"

"Don't be silly. Of course, this means you're going to have to go see that new western with me."

Annie moaned. "A western? I'd rather sit through The Mummy again than watch a western."

He grinned. "That's part of the deal, Anniekins. Take it or leave it."

Annie hated to ask for help, hated to put people to any trouble, but she was desperate. "Oh, all right," she said, pretending to be put out. "I suppose you'll expect me to spring for the popcorn, too."

The doorbell rang. "I'll get it," Theenie said. She hurried into the living room.

Danny was discussing what color stain he wanted to put on the floor when Theenie returned with Wes beside her. "Look who's here," she said, eyes darting about the room nervously. "He even brought his clothes."

Annie did not miss the fact that Theenie had her arms crossed as though Wes might somehow be able to see through her prim white cotton blouse. She also didn't miss Danny's raised brows. Not that she blamed him. Wes looked like the worst kind of ruffian standing there in his faded jeans, a black T-shirt, and his denim jacket. He carried a large backpack.

"You were expecting me, right?" he said.

It took a few seconds for Annie to find her tongue. "Yes, of course." She turned to Danny, who was still staring. "This is Wes Bridges," she said. "He's renting a room for a couple of weeks. Wes, this is my good friend Danny Gilbert."

Neither man made a move to shake hands. Finally, Danny nodded. "Nice to meet you."

"Same here," Wes said. He turned for the stairs and, without another word, hurried up.

Annie felt Danny's eyes on her even before she looked his way. His look was incredulous. "What?" she asked.

"You actually agreed to let that guy move in?" he whispered.

"I wasn't crazy about the idea myself," Theenie said. "Not that Annie bothered to ask my opinion, mind you, and I'm pretty sure he has a checkered past."

"It's only for two weeks," Annie said, wishing Danny wouldn't worry about her so much. Theenie said it was because he was sweet on her, even though Annie always insisted that Danny was only acting out of friendship. "Besides, he has excellent references."

"He's here to take pictures," Theenie said, giving a massive eye roll. "But I'm not going to expand on that topic in mixed company."

Danny's eyes softened. "Annie, if this is about money …"

She didn't miss the tender look, the genuine concern in his voice, and Annie was certain it didn't go unnoticed by Theenie. It was times like this that she wondered if the woman might be right about his feelings toward her. "You're beginning to fret as much as Theenie," she said lightly.

The front door opened and closed, followed by the sound of light footsteps. Annie looked up to find her other tenant, Lovelle Hamilton, standing in the doorway.

"I'm baaack," she announced with a flourish.

Annie smiled. "Welcome home." Lovelle was an ex-ballerina who'd never made it big, although to hear her tell it, one would have thought otherwise. One of her claims to fame was having met Mikhail Baryshnikov at a cocktail party. She was string bean thin due to a daily dance regimen she practiced in Annie's ballroom.

"How was your trip?" Theenie asked.

"Fabulous. You know how much I love New York, having lived there most of my life. My daughter and I shopped at all the best stores, of course. I bought everybody gifts." She glanced about the room. "What's wrong? Why does everyone look so tense?"

"We have a new guest," Theenie said.

Lovelle smiled. Even at seventy-something, the woman was still striking, her makeup perfect and her platinum blond hair cut in the latest style. No blue rinse for Lovelle. "That's nice. I hope she's easy to get along with."

"It's a he," Theenie replied.

"Oh, goody. Is he handsome?"

All eyes fell on Annie.

"I suppose some women would consider him handsome in a rugged sort of way. I prefer a more conservative look." She punctuated her remark with what she hoped was a high-handed sniff, but the truth was she'd been thinking about Wes Bridges more than she should. Her thoughts had run amok the minute she caught sight of him in those boxer shorts.

The back door opened and Doc stepped inside. "I just stopped by to see if our patient fully recovered yesterday."

"What patient?" Danny asked.

Annie waved off the remark. "It's a long story." She turned to Doc. "He's fine. In fact, he just moved in."

"You let him move in?" Doc asked, his brow furrowing. "What about the lawsuit?"

"What lawsuit?" Danny asked. "Wait; let me guess. Another long story."

Annie nodded. "Something like that."

"Would you like a cup of coffee or iced tea?" Theenie asked Doc.

"No, I can't stay. I just learned my daughter in Tampa is having gallbladder surgery, so I'm flying down to help out with the grandkids, although they're old enough to do for themselves. Don't know how long I'll be gone."

"I hope the surgery goes well," Annie said. "Do you want me to grab your mail and newspapers while you're away?"

"The Martins already offered. It's less complicated for me to travel now that Leo is gone," he added sadly.

Annie nodded. Leo had been a stray dog eating from bags at the garbage dump when Doc had found him. Doc had brought him home, cleaned him up, and the two had lived in harmony for fifteen years before Leo died in his sleep of old age some eight or nine months ago. Annie had looked after the animal when Doc traveled; in turn, he had taken care of Peaches the few times Annie went away. "Well, you have my number," she said. "Call me if you think of something."

"Thank you." Doc started to leave and then turned. "Oh, I almost forgot. Do you need to borrow my gardener? I paid him for the whole day, but he finished up early. Man works hard and fast, unlike Erdle."

"Is he good with a tiller?" Theenie asked. "Annie wants the ground tilled behind the carriage house so she can plant a vegetable garden."

"He can do anything that pertains to yard work." Doc looked at Annie. "You want me to send him over?"

"I would love to borrow him," Annie said, delighted. Things were definitely beginning to look up. "Thank you, Doc, and have a safe trip."

He nodded and disappeared out the door.

Danny stood. "I need to run home and get my sander. Maybe by the time I get back I won't be so confused." He shook his head as he let himself out.

"I think Danny is jealous of Wes," Theenie said.

Annie arched one brow. "You're not serious."

"I've noticed the way he looks at you."

"No way," Annie said firmly. "Danny and I have known each other since we were kids. He's like a brother to me." They didn't look convinced.

Lovelle said, "You have to admit he comes around a lot."

Annie grabbed her jacket from a hook by the back door. "Have the two of you forgotten that I'm still legally married? Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to talk to Doc's gardener."

* * * * *

Wes unpacked the few clothes he'd brought with him. He opened the closet door to hang his jacket and found several men's suits pushed to one side. Annie obviously hadn't gotten rid of all her husband's clothes. He checked the pockets. Nothing. He moved to the window, pulled the curtain aside, and saw Annie talking to a man in denim overalls. Wes left his room and listened near the top of the stairs for a moment. The others seemed to be deep in conversation. Very quietly he made his way to the door next to his, opened it, and stepped inside.

The bedroom held Annie's scent, clean and fresh but not flowery or overbearing like some perfumes. Wes closed the door, taking care not to make a sound. The simple four-poster bed was covered with a bright quilt. Beside it, a night table held a telephone and several books. He checked the window again; Annie was still talking to the man. Wes turned and began to search the room.

* * * * *

Annie finished her conversation with Doc's gardener and started for the house. She heard the sound of Wes's motorcycle engine as she climbed the back steps and entered the kitchen. He obviously wasn't hanging around for lunch. She opened the refrigerator, pulled out several packages of luncheon meat and cheese and the potato and cheese soup she'd made two nights before that was popular with her tenants. She heard a noise in the dining room and decided to check it out. She pushed open the swinging door and found Theenie and Lovelle standing before an open drawer in the buffet. They jumped when they saw her.

"What are you two up to?" she asked.

Theenie looked flustered. "Oh, um, we thought we'd check the silver and see if it needs polishing."

"You polished it three days ago," Annie said.

"Yes, but we want to make sure it sparkles for the wedding."

Annie looked from one to the other. Lovelle glanced away; Theenie began fidgeting. "You know I don't use my grandmother's silver for business functions. I have special flatware that I bought in bulk," she added, although she knew Theenie was perfectly aware of that fact. Annie noted a cardboard box on the table and looked inside. Her grandmother's serving pieces, each in its individual velvet pouch, had been placed inside. "Okay, what's really going on?"

"It wasn't my idea," Lovelle said.

Theenie's face reddened. "Now, Annie, I know you're not going to like this—"

"You're hiding the silver," Annie said in disbelief.

"I thought it best under the circumstances," Theenie whispered. "One can never be too careful."

"She thinks the new guest might steal it," Lovelle said.

Theenie shot her a dark look. "Traitor."

Annie crossed her arms over her chest. "Put it back."

Theenie hesitated. "If you say so, dear."

Annie was still shaking her head when the doorbell rang. She found Jamie and Max standing on the other side. "Well, hello," she said, delighted to see them.

"Hello to you, good-looking," Max said, dropping a kiss on her cheek. "If you get any prettier I'm going to have to change brides."

"See that?" Jamie said. "We're not even married yet, and he's already looking at other women."

Annie grinned at Max. She had liked him the minute they met. "He can't help himself. I'm hot stuff." She stepped back. "Come in."

"We just stopped by to drop off Destiny's mail for her column," Jamie said.

"You're in time for lunch. I'm about to heat up a big pot of my famous potato and cheese soup." She noted the sudden pained expression on Jamie's face. "Ooops, I forgot about the diet."

"I'm not on a diet," Max said, "and I love potato soup. Jamie can wait in the car with Fleas."

Jamie nudged him hard.

"You can't leave poor Fleas in the car," Annie protested.

Jamie chuckled. "He refused to get out and risk running into Peaches."

"I can put her out."

"Don't worry," Max said. "Muffin is singing Celine Dion songs to him."

Annie shook her head. Muffin was Max's talking computer, and she possessed the technology to do everything except bear children. In fact, she was more like a real-life assistant than a piece of machinery.

"I insist you stay for lunch," Annie told Jamie. "I'll make you a nice salad with fat-free dressing."

Jamie sighed. "I was afraid of that."

Destiny looked happy to see Jamie and Max. "Sit down," she said, pulling out the chair beside her, unaware that Peaches had already claimed it. The cat snarled and hissed. "Uh-oh, the cat from hell is using that chair. Perhaps you should choose another."

"I've never known Peaches to be in such a foul mood," Theenie said.

"It's because of the ghost," Destiny told her.

Max looked interested. "Ghost?"

Destiny nodded. "I'm surprised Jamie didn't mention it. You wouldn't believe what all goes on in this house." She leaned closer to Max and started to say something.

"What can I offer you to drink?" Annie interrupted before Destiny had a chance to regale Max with stories. Annie had no desire for Destiny to share with Max Holt all the craziness that went on in the house.

"I'm fine for now," Jamie said.

Max nodded. "I'm okay."

"It's like this," Destiny began.

"Are you sure?" Annie almost shouted, making them jump. "I have coffee, tea, orange juice, apple juice, diet root beer—"

They shook their heads and turned their attention back to Destiny.

"… Two percent milk, soy. You know, I'll bet a glass of wine would be nice. I can—"

"Annie, what's wrong with you?" Jamie asked. "Why are you so jumpy?"

"It's the new tenant," Destiny said with a big grin. "You know, that half-naked guy you helped us stuff in the bathtub yesterday? He just moved in."

Max looked at Jamie. "Huh?"

* * * * *

Wes turned into the driveway of a modest ranch-style house, parked, and cut his engine. He removed his motorcycle helmet, climbed from the bike, and made his way toward the front door. The woman who opened it had hair the color of black shoe polish, wore a bright red caftan with matching lipstick and lime green bedroom slippers. A long, skinny cigarette dangled from her mouth.

"Wes Bridges?" she asked, talking around the cigarette. "I expected you yesterday." She had a three-pack-a-day smoker's voice; sounded like she'd been sucking on them since first grade.

"Life isn't always predictable, Mrs. Fortenberry. May I come in?"

"Yes." She stepped back and waited for him to enter before closing the door behind him. "You can call me Eve." She motioned to a lumpy chair that was the same avocado green as the dated shag carpet. Wes sat.

Garlic hung heavy in the air. Wes blinked and rubbed his eyes. The ash on Eve's cigarette was an inch long. He eyed it closely.

"I'm making spaghetti for a sick neighbor," Eve said. "Do you like garlic?"

"In reasonable doses."

"It cures all sorts of ailments, you know. May I offer you something to drink?" When Wes declined, she sat on the worn sofa across from him. She took a deep draw from her cigarette, and the ash grew longer. Finally, it fell unnoticed by her on her dress. "Now then," she said. "What have you got for me?"

"I've rented a room from your daughter-in-law."

She gave a dry hacking cough. "You work fast."

"I don't believe in wasting a client's time or money," he said.

"What do you think of Annie? Is she a kook or what? Her grandmother was a kook. Like they say, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree."

Wes looked thoughtful. "It's too soon to tell."

Puff, puff, cough. "And how 'bout that house? I ask you, have you ever?"

"Nope, never."

"You know it's an old bordello or, as my daddy would say, God rest his soul, whorehouse."

Wes arched both brows. "Oh yeah?"

"Before the Civil War. I read up on it a long time ago." She paused. "Did Annie mention my son?"

"I was told he left her for another woman."

"That's the cock-and-bull story she gave the police, and the reason they did such a piss-poor job of investigating. That Lamar Tevis, he's the police chief, is an idiot. He bought this fancy-schmancy deep-sea fishing boat three years ago. He's going to retire as soon as he pays it off and start a deep-sea fishing charter service. He's just biding his time until then."

"You don't believe your son left Annie?" Wes asked.

"Hell no. I wouldn't have hired you otherwise."

Wes glanced around the living room. "Perhaps we should go over my fees again."

"My check for your retainer cleared the bank, didn't it?" she said stiffly. When he nodded, she went on. "I can cover your expenses, Mr. Bridges. As I told you over the phone, my husband died three months ago. Fortunately, he had a sizable insurance policy, so I was finally able do something about my son's disappearance. I'll spend every dime of it if I have to in order to find out what really happened to Charles."

Wes gave her a kind smile. "Eve, your son's car was found at the Savannah airport. No luggage. He cleaned out the savings account he shared with his wife. He had enough money to fly anywhere in the world."

She looked embarrassed. "My son worked hard for that money. Do you have any idea how much it costs to keep up a place the size of Annie's? The electric bill alone would break me." She took a long drag from her cigarette. "There was no record of him getting on a plane, no paper trail, nothing. We've already been over that. The bottom line is Charles would never have stayed gone this long without contacting me. No matter what the circumstances," she added. "I spent twice the going rate to hire you because you're supposed to be the best in the business. I want my son found."

* * * * *

Annie and Theenie were in the process of cleaning up after lunch when Danny Gilbert arrived back with his sander. Annie insisted that he eat something before going to work. As he waited for Annie to prepare him a sandwich and heat a bowl of soup, Lovelle recounted her days as a professional ballerina.

At the other end of the table, Destiny, Jamie, and Max discussed newspaper business and chuckled over a couple of letters that had been addressed to the Divine Love Goddess Adviser.

"Some people are so loopy," Destiny said. "Listen to this one: 'Dear Love Goddess Adviser: Some months ago I discovered my husband was a cross-dresser. After the shock had passed, I decided to make the best of it, and now we share our clothes. What has me so frustrated is the fact that he doesn't ask if he can borrow my clothes; he just grabs what he needs out of my closet. When he returns an outfit I often find food stains on it, but he never offers to take anything to the dry cleaners. I have complained, but he doesn't listen. Could you please settle this dispute? I fear our marriage may be in deep trouble unless we can work this out.' "

Max and Jamie laughed.

"Oh, and listen to this one," Destiny said. " 'Dear Love Goddess Adviser: I am probably overreacting, but I suspect my husband is cheating on me. He doesn't return home some nights until almost midnight, and he reeks of Chanel Number Five. I have found lipstick on his shirt collar, long scratches on his back, and the other night when he undressed, his underwear was on backward. Do you think I'm just being one of those suspicious wives?' "

Jamie laughed until her sides hurt as Destiny continued to read several more. Annie was happy to see her friend looking more relaxed, and the private smiles Jamie and Max shared when they thought nobody was looking would have made most women envious.

Danny finished his lunch and carried his dishes to the sink, where he rinsed them. Wes entered the kitchen, a camera hanging from his neck. All eyes turned to him, and the chatter stopped. "You must be the other new guest," Lovelle said, and introduced herself. She had met Destiny earlier.

"Nice to meet you," he said politely.

Max stood and made introductions as well. If Wes recognized Jamie, he didn't say anything. "Nice camera," Max said. "Are you a photographer?"

Wes nodded. "I've been able to get some great shots this morning. Beaumont is a beautiful town."

"It grows on you fast," Max said.

"Wes, would you care for a sandwich?" Annie asked, wishing just once she could round up everybody at the same time for meals. Seemed like she was always offering somebody something to eat; felt like she was working at the Huddle House.

"I grabbed something earlier," he said. "Nice to meet you," he told Max and Jamie as he headed upstairs, stepping aside for Theenie, who was on her way down.

"Good grief!" Lovelle said when Wes was out of hearing distance. "Where did you find him?"

"He sort of found us," Annie said.

"Annie almost killed him," Theenie said. "Then Doc almost killed him."

"Perhaps I should explain," Annie said. She had opened her mouth to do just that when she heard a man's voice out back shouting her name. He sounded frantic. "What in the world!" She threw open the back door and found Doc's gardener racing across the backyard, calling out to her loudly.

Footsteps sounded on the stairs and Wes hurried into the kitchen. "What's going on? Is somebody hurt?"

Annie was already on the back porch, the others behind her. The gardener stopped at the back stairs, staggered once, grabbed the porch rail. His face was ashen. He tried to speak.

Annie hurried down and touched his arm. "What's wrong?" she said. "Are you injured?" She looked for blood, didn't see any.

"It's terrible," the man managed. "Worst thing I ever seen."

"What is it?" she demanded.

"Back yonder. Behind the, um, that carriage house."

Wes pushed through the group and cleared the back steps in one jump. He was the first to arrive at the gaping hole, with Max and Danny right behind him. Wes knelt beside it, and his eyes froze at what he saw. "Holy shit!"

Max joined him. "Holy shit is right."

Wes looked at Danny. "Keep the women back."

Danny turned. "Don't come any closer, okay?" he told them.

Theenie and Lovelle came to an abrupt halt, but the others rushed forward.

"What is it?" Annie said.

Jamie blinked several times, trying to make sense of what she was looking at. "Bones?" she asked.

"It's a skeleton," Max said.

Annie gave an eye roll. "Oh, Jeez, it's my grandmother's dog. She had Erdle bury him somewhere back here after he died. I'd forgotten about it."

Wes shook his head. "Sorry, Annie, but this is no dog. It's a human skeleton."

"Oh, I can't see this," Theenie said, backing away. She turned and hurried toward the house. Lovelle followed.

Annie stared back at Wes in disbelief. "That's ridiculous!"

"He's right, Annie," Max said.

"It looks human to me, too," Jamie said, and Destiny agreed.

Annie stepped closer and looked. "Oh, shit, I have a dead person in my backyard! Oh, shit. Oh, shit."

"There's some kind of cloth there," Max said.

Wes nodded and glanced over his shoulder. "Look, this is obviously a crime scene, and I'd rather not jeopardize any trace evidence." He didn't see the look Max gave him. "So I'd appreciate it if everybody would please move back."

Danny convinced the women to step away.

"It's not like I've never seen dead people before," Destiny told him. "They follow me everywhere I go."

Max and Wes were quiet as they studied the site. "Looks like the cloth was yellow at some point," Max said, "although it's hard to tell."

"There's some kind of insignia on the material," Wes said.

Max grabbed a stick. "Only one way to find out."

Destiny stood there, a knowing look in her eyes.

"Be careful," Wes whispered. "There could be hairs or fibers."

"You sound like you know what you're talking about," Max said, very gently lifting a portion of the material.

"I watch a lot of TV. Enough to know we shouldn't be doing this. Okay, hold it right there, and I'll see if I can read it." Taking great care not to disturb anything, Wes leaned forward. "Looks like a C and an F."

"Have you found anything?" Jamie called out.

"Some kind of yellow material," Max said. "Could be a shirt or a jacket. Initials CF on it."

Annie and Jamie looked at each other, their eyes wide and disbelieving. "No!" Annie said. "That's impossible!" She shook her head. "It can't be. It just can't be."

"Annie …" Jamie stepped closer, reached out.

"No!" Annie cried, and pushed her away.

"What the hell?" Wes leaped to his feet and raced toward Annie as she screamed. He shook her hard. "Annie, what is it?"

She opened her mouth, tried to speak, couldn't. Her eyes were glazed.

Wes looked confused but did as he was told.

Jamie looked at him. "It's a jacket. I was with Annie when she purchased it. CF stands for Charles Fortenberry."

"My husband," Annie choked. Her eyes rolled back in her head before everything went black.

Wes was there to catch her.