The Bead Seller

by Wendy Meadows

  “We have too many unknowns for sure,” Brenda said. “We’ll have to question everyone.”

  When Mac determined the body could be moved to the morgue, the technicians came forward to load her gently onto a gurney. The coroner’s van slowly drove away. Mac and Bryce strung yellow tape around the area where the actress was found. Bryce pushed a few more stakes into the soft ground and widened the spot. Mac told him to ban all visitors from the area, which meant more yellow tape at the pathways. Two officers were assigned to stand watch and make sure no one entered the area.

  “I want to know where everyone walked or stood when they were here. I’ll find out if anyone other than guests took walks during that time.” Brenda went ahead of Mac, who told her to start asking questions of those awake. “Start with Scott Wilson.”

  The somber group gathered as told. Brenda asked Scott to come with her to the private alcove. His hands shook, and his face remained ashen. She offered to get him a cup of tea before they started, and he accepted. When they sat across from one another, Brenda began.

  “I know you found Kelly.” He shuddered. “Did you see anyone at all down there?” He shook his head no. “What about before all of you left? Who else was down there enjoying the nighttime ocean view?”

  “I didn’t see anyone besides us, but I wasn’t paying attention, either.” He clasped and unclasped his hands. Brenda prodded him to tell her about the others who were there. “I didn’t pay attention to them in any particular way because Kathryn spent the whole time bugging me. I couldn’t even enjoy the serenity I hoped for. I was angry with Kathryn and everyone witnessed that. We…had a bit of a spat, I guess. When we got ready to come back here, Kelly said she was going to take another fifteen minutes and enjoy the peacefulness.” He wiped his brow with the back of his hand. “I should never have left her alone.”

  “The blame lies with whoever took her life.” Brenda told him she was sure he would be questioned further since he was the one who found Kelly.

  “I’ll do whatever it takes to find who did this.”

  Brenda decided to interview Tiana Lockser next. She had thought about Mac’s words when it came to her abilities. He was probably right that Tiana could tell all of them things she overheard from conversations. It was simply a matter of putting tidbits together.

  Tiana walked along with Brenda until they reached the alcove. Brenda asked the same basic questions she had asked Scott.

  “I didn’t notice anyone down there other than those who are staying here. It could have turned out to be a pleasant evening, but Kathryn Parker had other ideas.” Brenda asked her to elaborate. “She was determined to get Scott’s attention. He gave more than one sign to her he wasn’t interested, but nothing deterred her. Kathryn was very jealous of Kelly and wanted Scott back. From the argument I overheard, they had been an item and he broke up with her.”

  “Do you have any idea who could have wanted Kelly dead?” Brenda asked for specific details.

  “Kathryn hated her. She could have a motive, I suppose. Most of the cast loved Kelly except for Kathryn.”

  “I hoped that perhaps since you have psychic abilities you may be able to shed some light on the matter. Shouldn’t you be able to solve it right away for us?” Brenda joked. However, she wasn’t really joking, in her mind. She wanted to know if the woman was a fraud or not.

  “My powers don’t work like that. I’ll need time to really concentrate on the events. I have to clear my mind and may be able to see something I can’t right now.”

  Brenda gritted her teeth. Tiana meant once she picked up on conversations she could put things together and come to some conclusions. None of which would prove anything, Brenda thought. She felt her opinion changing over into the skepticism her husband held.

  “The detectives will want to speak with you in the morning. Please don’t go anywhere until one of them does that.”

  Rocky Masters was next in line. His serious demeanor was emphasized by his slightly stooped shoulders. Brenda noted his receding hairline and thought he looked older than fifty-four.

  “I don’t usually join in on outings like that with the others. Some of them can get on my nerves.” He shifted in the chair. “Kelly truly gave a marvelous performance. It’s a tragedy. Her acting skills were superb, and she outshined all of them. Kathryn thinks she is good but she’s no actress at all. Scott is arrogant and a fair actor perhaps, but doesn’t hold any outstanding qualities.”

  Brenda listened as the former chef spilled his judgments of others and wondered what his purpose was. “Did you see anyone else on the beach with your group?”

  “I didn’t see anyone I didn’t know. I wanted to return to the bed and breakfast sooner but stayed to listen to the argument Kathryn and Scott carried on. Kathryn even asked Scott if he would take her back if Kelly was dead. Some of us were quite shocked at that. She went too far.”

  Brenda hesitated after hearing that comment. “No one else has mentioned that part. How did Kelly take that?”

  “I believe she was a little shaken at first but then chose to ignore it. I think she was trying to be polite and not listen in on the argument between Scott and his ex. Kathryn has always had a vendetta against Kelly, and it really came out tonight in front of all of us.”

  Brenda thanked him and gave him the same instructions before calling the next guest to be interviewed.

  Keith Moore was shaken and told Brenda that Kelly didn’t deserve to die like that. “She had her whole life and wonderful career ahead of her. Who could have done such a thing to her?”

  “That’s what we are here to find out, Keith. Did you see anyone down there other than the guests?”

  He shook his head no at first and then sat forward. “I did see someone in the shadows near the huge rocks. I couldn’t tell if it was a man or woman, but whoever it was appeared to be searching for something. Maybe someone out looking for shells. I only noticed the figure once and maybe they left after that. I actually thought it might be a homeless person—they were sort of shuffling around and looked a bit slovenly, though I couldn’t see much in the dark. Probably a person using an empty fishing hut for shelter. I don’t know for sure.”

  Brenda asked for more description of the person he observed.

  “As I said, I only got a brief glimpse. The person was rather short, and it was hard to see anything else in the darkness.” Brenda took mental notes. When asked, Keith related the story of Kathryn’s and Scott’s argument. “It was quite disturbing and ruined the stroll for the rest of us. Kelly looked like she was ignoring the whole situation, but I doubt she was. It was hard to block it all out. Kathryn is self-centered, and if things don’t go her way she can get out of hand.”

  After instructions to remain close by, Brenda asked the last interviewee to come in. Jeffrey Johnson’s ordinary countenance was drawn tight and his eyes darted back and forth until he sat down. Dark brown eyes finally settled directly on Brenda.

  “How long have you known Tiana?” Brenda asked.

  “We’ve known one another for many years. Her gift is what drew me to her at first. We have enjoyed theatre together for many years. We rarely miss a good play. When we heard this troupe would be here the same weekend we had booked a stay here, we were both delighted. I can’t believe that woman was murdered down on the beach.”

  “We are supposing that’s what happened. There are no conclusions to anything yet.”

  “Of course,” Jeffrey said. “I understand the investigation is just beginning.”

  “Do you and Tiana always take vacations together?”

  He chuckled. “We sometimes go our own ways. I am an avid reader of thrillers, which can prove boring for Tiana. She likes to be around action, you know, museums and parties and tourist attractions. She rarely reads books. She does enjoy it when I tell her details of one I’m reading.” He paused. “She enjoys social gatherings but isn’t one to talk incessantly among others. She takes in more than some are aware of. She is excellent in her cra
ft as a psychic and my admiration of her gift grows by the day.”

  “I’ve never heard abilities like that referred to as a craft.”

  “It’s a word I pulled out of my hat. I’m probably the only person you’ll ever hear describe it like that.”

  Brenda then began the usual questioning. Jeffrey stated he had seen no one on the beach he didn’t know. “The hour was late, and I suppose most people were asleep in their beds.”

  After Jeffrey left, Brenda went to her office and waited for Mac to return. They agreed to meet in the bed and breakfast in case Brenda found it necessary to ask someone to hang around for more questioning that night. When he and Bryce came inside, Brenda told them the coffee pot was ready for them. They sat in the kitchen and sipped the hot liquid.

  “The coroner stated Miss Reed died of strangulation. It’s very early to come to conclusions but he thought the killer used something soft, since rope marks weren’t indicated. He suggested perhaps something like a soft belt or tie from a bathrobe. Of course, he’ll know more after a full examination.” Mac realized he repeated himself and asked Brenda about information she may have gleaned from the guests.

  Brenda told the two detectives details of her interviews. “I told all of them they would be subjected to more interviews. No one will leave the premises until told they can. I’ll get over here early in the morning to get the word to the rest of the troupe and guests.”

  Bryce stood when they decided nothing else remained to be said. He said goodnight and promised Mac he would be at the police station first thing in the morning. He glanced at his watch. “I guess that means in a few hours.”

  Brenda and Mac locked the bed and breakfast and walked the pathway to their home.

  “Has Kelly’s family been notified?” Brenda asked.

  “Janice went back to the police station to take care of that. It’s something she is good at doing, though it’s never pleasant for any of us.”

  The next morning, the rest of the guests awakened in shocked disbelief at the news. Carol Morgan wiped her eyes repeatedly before hurrying from the room, her breakfast plate untouched. The others nibbled at their food. Brenda observed the faces from the sideboard where she assisted in refilling coffee cups while Allie and Phyllis served them. Keith Moore appeared. His face looked haggard, as if he hadn’t slept at all. He asked Allie for a slice of wheat toast and coffee.

  “I don’t feel much like eating a hearty breakfast.”

  Rocky Masters walked in behind Tiana and Jeffrey. “That was quite a night,” Rocky said.

  Brenda stared at him and realized he seemed to enjoy the unwarranted excitement that upset everyone else. Tiana looked at him quickly and then latched onto Jeffrey’s arm.

  “I don’t know how you can seem so jovial about it all, Rocky,” Kathryn said. “Maybe you know more about Kelly’s death than the rest of us?” She raised perfect eyebrows in his direction.

  “You were the one who suggested she might be killed. Don’t you recall how you put that up to Scott when you argued?” Rocky’s stooped shoulders straightened and fell again. “You even asked Scott if Kelly was dead, would he take you back.”

  The elegant face grew taut and turned ashen. “I taunted him, Rocky. There was no hidden meaning at all.” Rocky smiled apologetically and turned away.

  Dr. Arthur Walker sat observing at the end of the table. He picked up his fork and took a bite of succulent fresh sausage followed by toast. Arthur had not lost his appetite. In between bites, he peeked at anyone who was carrying on a conversation. Allie refilled his coffee cup. The doctor was the only guest who left the table after eating every morsel of his breakfast.

  The behavior of several of her guests caused red flags to rise in Brenda’s mind. She focused on Keith Moore again when he excused himself. Half his toast remained. His coffee cup was empty. She followed him to the hallway.

  “I’ve been thinking about the figure you saw on the beach last night, Keith. Have you come up with any more details? Often after one sleeps on a matter, clarity follows.”

  “I didn’t sleep at all and have been thinking of the person as well. I feel sure it was a woman, but like I told you, I believe she is a homeless person. I did think it was curious how often she bent down to the sand. I’ve seen people often scrounge around on beaches looking for anything of value that others may have left, but usually in daylight for better vision.”

  Brenda immediately thought about the gypsy-like woman who introduced herself as Grace Baker. “Could you tell if she wore colorful clothing?”

  “The moonlight wasn’t directly on her and she stayed in the shadows. I’m not sure about that.”

  Mac had left very early for the police station, but Brenda expected him back at the bed and breakfast soon as promised. Tim Sheffield arrived, and Brenda answered his questions. The rumors of the dead actress made their way through Sweetfern Harbor before most partook of their early morning coffee.

  “I’ll help in any way I can,” Tim said.

  “It’s early yet in the investigation, Dad. The best thing to do right now is to pay attention to the guests. Let us know if you overhear anything suspicious or see anything that may trigger suspicion.”

  Molly Lindsey arrived at Morning Sun Coffee to greet a line of customers waiting at her door. Before opening, she prepared coffee and wondered why everyone was there so early. When the first customer walked in, she soon knew the answer.

  “Kelly Reed was beautiful and a superb actress,” said one woman. “She seemed like a very nice person when she autographed my program last night. Who could have done such a thing?”

  “Things like this happen all the time,” said her companion. “Jealousy, rivalries. It’s like a soap opera, all those famous people. There’s always as much drama in their lives off-stage as on.”

  As soon as Molly got a brief break, she called her mother. Phyllis told her what had happened and that all guests were asked to stick around until interviews were completed. Molly wanted to go to Sheffield Bed and Breakfast to watch the unfolding first-hand but knew this was one day when customer flow wouldn’t end until nightfall.

  When Mac arrived, he and Brenda sat once again with the guests who had been interviewed the night before. He spent more time with Kathryn Parker and Scott Wilson than the others. Kathryn realized she was a suspect in the incident and told Mac she wanted a lawyer before further questions if he suspected her.

  “Everyone is a suspect right now, Kathryn,” he said. “I’m sure you can understand why we must ask these questions. It’s no secret you disliked Kelly, but that doesn’t mean you killed her.”

  Kathryn relaxed and told him the entire incident upset her. “It could have been any one of us.” Mac asked what motive anyone would have to kill any of the cast members. Kathryn spread her hands out in defeat. “I don’t know that. To be honest, I don’t know a motive for anyone to murder Kelly, but someone clearly did.”

  Brenda thought there was no more to get from Kathryn at this point. They seemed to be going in circles with her. After she left, Mac wanted to call Scott next. Brenda suggested they get Rocky Masters in next. She explained the exchange between him and Kathryn at breakfast.

  “I don’t want to say he seemed happy about the turmoil, but his attitude left something to be desired under the circumstances.”

  When Rocky joined them, Mac asked the first question.

  “How well did you know Kelly Reed?”

  “I never met her until I agreed to accompany the cast this season. They wanted to make sure they got nutritious meals along the way, and I wanted a break from my lifestyle. Sometimes we stay in rented houses instead of bed and breakfasts and then I cook for everyone. I met Kelly the first day, along with the others.”

  “Have you ever known any of her relatives?” Brenda explained she asked merely to help bring any relationships together that could be pertinent to the investigation.

  “I’ve heard of her father. He has business in the culinary world but mostly in Eu
rope, as I understand it. Since I am a chef, his name has come up in my circles.”

  “Do you know why anyone would want Kelly dead?” Mac asked.

  Rocky shook his head. “I can’t think of anyone in our group that could do such a thing. There have been normal disagreements among everyone, but that follows since we are thrown together so much. It can get nerve-wracking sometimes. But certainly no one is a psycho. Wouldn’t we notice something like that?” He paused. “But maybe I wouldn’t, since I’m not around them as often.”

  Chapter 6

  Searches

  Brenda waited for Mac to talk about those interviewed so far. He ran his fingers through thick blonde hair, and Brenda was momentarily distracted thinking about how handsome he was.

  “We haven’t gotten very far, Brenda. The coroner found no drugs or alcohol in Kelly. There were no marks other than the one made by strangulation. Whoever it was came from behind her and she had no idea the person was even there. It was quick and professional, no signs she fought off the perpetrator.”

  They discussed guests and their mannerisms. Rocky Masters and Scott Wilson appeared fit, as if they worked out regularly. Rocky’s stooped shoulders indicated either an injury or perhaps he aged faster than most, but his hands were those of a younger man.

  “We still have guests not interviewed,” Brenda said. “We haven’t talked with the doctor or the hairdresser.”

  Brenda and Mac convinced Carol Morgan it was time to talk with her. The assistant to Kelly dried her tears and nodded her head in agreement. Brenda asked her if she preferred talking with them in her room and Carol nodded her head again. Carol sat on the edge of the bed and Mac pulled up the corner desk chair. Brenda sat in the narrow Queen Anne rocker.

  “How long did you know Kelly?” Brenda asked.

  “I met her toward the end of her time in acting school. I had just completed my studies in cosmetology. We were ten years apart in age, but it took me until my late twenties to realize what I wanted to do with my life. We hit it off right away.” Carol wiped a tear with the back of her hand. “She received many commendations during that time and was a born actress. I knew she would do well in the career. It was everything she wanted, which I believe explains her pleasant approach to life. She was a natural.”