Bones, Booze & Bouquets

by Marianne Spitzer

  “No, Mr. Colroy, you aren’t in trouble. Annie told us everything down at the station.”

  Uncle Lyle dropped onto a chair next to Aunt Irene. “Good, you need to find that maniac, and I’ve told you to call me Uncle Lyle or at least Lyle until after the wedding. I’ll be your uncle then.” He grinned broadly at Clark.

  Clark smiled back. “I know Lyle, thank you. We’ll catch him, and I’m staying here tonight to keep a watch over Annie and Laci.”

  “That’s good, son,” Uncle Lyle told Clark. “Word around town is Bart Quigley was killed. I think Skip killed Willy and Bart. Skip saw Annie and Georgie in the basement of the Hagenbak house. He never saw me. Is Georgie safe, too?”

  “Yes, there’s someone watching her house, and she and Paul are aware of the situation.”

  Before Uncle Lyle could answer, Laci came bounding down the stairs and hugged Aunt Irene. She blurted, “I need to stay at your house. That man my mother wants to marry is keeping me hostage.”

  Not again. I thought they were getting along. Laci is back to calling Clark “that man.” It’s going to be a long two weeks until the wedding.

  “Annie,” Clark said looking at me. “Are you lost in thought? You didn’t hear me call your name.”

  “I’m sorry. I think I’m tired. Anyone want tea or coffee with Uncle Lyle’s muffins?”

  I heard Laci let out a huff. “I don’t want anything to eat or drink. I want to leave.”

  Clark shook his head, “I explained it to you. You can sleep in your room or a jail cell.”

  Laci clenched her fists and demanded, “Then take me to Beth Ann’s. Her house is protected, too. I don’t want to be here.”

  “No,” Clark said. “The Roberts family is protected, and you are, too. We’re not changing the plans.”

  Laci reached into the bag, grabbed a muffin, and stormed back upstairs.

  I called after her. “Good night, is Yummy upstairs with you?”

  “Yes, goodnight.”

  After her father died, Laci and I made a promise to each other that we would never forget to wish each other a good night no matter how angry we might be at each other. She remembered. I think there is hope for all of us to get along…eventually.

  I glanced at the clock and couldn’t believe it was nearly midnight. “It’s too late for coffee; anyone want some herbal tea?”

  Everyone shook their head.

  “Time for Lyle and me to head home. Keep the muffins for breakfast,” Aunt Irene said. “Don’t worry about us; I’m armed.”

  I waved to them as I stood by the patio door and watched them cross the yard to their cottage. Clark slipped his arm around my waist. “I hope we’ll be as happy when we’re their age.”

  “I leaned my head on his shoulder and whispered, “We will even if I’m only a fraction of how happy I am right now.”

  Before Clark kissed me, he pulled the patio blinds closed. “I know you have security lights, but there’s a lot of space between here and the lake. We don’t need an audience even if one of our officers is out there watching the grounds. I don’t know what type of person Skip Scrumbly is.”

  I gripped his hand as we walked to the sofa. “Do you really think he’ll come after Georgie and me? I know we left him tied up, but why else would he want to hurt us?”

  Clark sat down and pulled me on his lap. “He has no idea how much you know. I wish you had told me about the coins before you were caught in the cellar today, but part of your charm and the reason I fell in love with you is your tenacity.”

  “Then you agree that Skip killed Willy and Bart.”

  “You know I can’t talk about a case.”

  “That’s okay, I know he’s responsible. After all, the house belongs to the mayor, and I don’t see Mayor Scrumbly killing people. He and Phillips might be a bit shady, but I don’t see him as a killer.”

  “It’s time for you to stay out of this and let the police handle things.” I started to argue the point but he kissed me, and I lost my train of thought.

  I jumped and pulled away from him when I heard Laci’s voice. “Yummy needs to go outside. He can sleep with you tonight.” A moment later her bedroom door closed. At least she didn’t slam it this time.

  I let Yummy out and kissed Clark goodnight. I headed upstairs fatigue flowing over me like a flood. I was exhausted. Being arrested by a lunatic will do that to you, I guess. I still wish I knew why Detective Wilton is sure I killed Willy. After realizing I couldn’t have killed Bart, he still believes I killed Willy. I wouldn’t’ be surprised if he thinks I have a partner. Me, a killer. Ridiculous. That man doesn’t understand my sleuthing obsession. He’ll learn.

  I changed into my sunny yellow nightgown and laid down on my bed. Yummy found his favorite spot on my pillow, and we drifted off to sleep.

  I don’t think I moved until the sun streamed in the window. I forgot to close the blind. I’m still tired. It’s time to start my day.

  Chapter Fifteen

  Rubbing my eyes and hoping a shower will help wake me, my tired body moved toward the bathroom. Before stepping into the shower, I turned and peeked back at my bed. Yummy was sound asleep. Ahh, the life of a dog. I wish I were still asleep, too. The shower helped somewhat, but the coffee I smelled brewing when I stepped back into my bedroom will help more. Clark must be awake. I doubt Laci will make coffee for me this morning.

  Yummy snored quietly in his sleep. I slipped into my clothes, and as soon as I opened the bedroom door, Yummy barked and climbed off the bed. I laughed at his antics, but if the door opening wakes him, then he’s still a great watch dog. Maybe a bit small, but reliable.

  Clark was in the kitchen pouring himself a cup of coffee when I padded in barefoot. “Good morning.”

  “Good morning, beautiful,” he answered setting his cup down and kissing me until I needed to pull away to catch my breath.

  “Now that’s a way to start my morning.”

  “I promise to start your morning that way every day,” he whispered in my ear.

  Throwing my arms around his neck, I answered, “I can’t wait. Let’s practice.” Just as his lips met mine for the second time, Laci bounded into the room.

  “Mother, really, you have to do that in the kitchen?”

  Evidently, she’s still angry with me.

  “Good morning, Laci. Did you sleep well? We have Uncle Lyle’s muffins for breakfast.”

  She gave me half a smile and poured a cup of coffee and grabbed a muffin. She tried to walk out of the room, but Clark stopped her.

  “Laci, do you work today?”

  “Why?”

  “I’d like you to be close to someone today. I’m still concerned about your mom’s safety and anyone close to her. You can go to work with your mom.”

  Laci rolled her eyes.

  “All right, when your mom goes to work, you to go to your aunt and uncle’s and if you work at the diner today, let one of them drive you.” He stared at her with his ‘I’m a detective, and not joking’ face. I wonder if they teach that at the police academy.

  “Fine,” she snapped. “But I’m not going to the bookstore. I’ll stay with Aunt Irene until I have to go to work.” She glared back at him and left the room.

  “She’ll come around,” I assured him.

  “Or she won’t. Either way, we’re getting married in a few days, and she goes back to college at the end of August. Are you sure we’re going to survive the time in-between?”

  I shrugged. “We could move into the mansion and give her the north wing.”

  “Whatever you want.” He kissed me again. “I have to leave. Be careful today.”

  “I will. I promise. I’ll take Yummy with me, and I’ll be in the middle of downtown. Don’t worry.”

  “I’ll try. Text me when you get to work and a few times today.” He kissed me again and headed out the door.

  “I will and remember I have an officer that lives above the store,” I called after him.

  He smiled as he pulled
out of my driveway.

  Laci ambled into the kitchen with her backpack. “I called Aunt Irene; she said I could stay as long as I want. I don’t want to go but I will. I close at the diner tonight. Will you pick me up?”

  “Of course, just call or text. Have a good day, and this won’t last long. They’ll catch Skip Scrubly soon.”

  “Scrumbly? Like in Mayor Scrumbly?”

  I shook my head. I did it now. I have a big mouth.

  “Yes,” I admitted. “You can’t tell a soul. Do you understand? You know how people love to talk. If he overhears something about the police searching for him, he might take off. The police need to catch him soon. Laci, he killed two people. Please don’t share this with anyone. Promise me.”

  She nodded. “I promise, Mom. I didn’t think it was so serious. I’m sorry.”

  I hugged her tightly. “It’s why Clark was here last night and why we don’t want you home alone. I will take Yummy with me. He’s the best early alert system I could ask for.”

  Laci smiled a genuine smile. “He is that. You be careful, Mom. Okay?”

  “I promise.” She hugged me again, and I watched her cross the yard to my aunt’s cottage.

  A quick cup of coffee and a muffin and Yummy and I were off to work.

  ~ * ~

  Book delivery day starts early since the delivery man never arrives at the same time. My e-mail alert states anytime between seven in the morning until five in the afternoon. As soon as Yummy’s settled in the store, I should have time to run down to Lou’s for a takeout breakfast sandwich.

  I pulled into my parking spot behind the bookstore. A few vehicles were parked between my store and Lou’s, but that’s typical in the morning. Taking Yummy’s carrier out of the car, I stepped back to slam the car door when an eerily familiar voice growled in my ear.

  “Put the dog back in the car and don’t scream. You’re coming with me. My gun is pointed at the back of your head. Don’t make any fast moves.”

  Oh my, it’s Skip. I remember that voice. Clark was right; Skip is after me. Why me again? I don’t know anything. I was only looking for clues.

  I placed Yummy’s carrier in the car and closed the door blocking out Yummy’s incessant growling and barking.

  Fingers grabbed the back of my hair and pulled me closer. “Now, we’re going to walk to my truck. It’s the white one across the lot. I nodded.

  White truck? Is that white? It may have been white at one time, but I can’t tell if the gray is supposed to be white or the primer is the actual color. I’d best describe it as a spotted truck. Oh my, I’m losing my mind. Lord, please help me. Let someone see us. He wants to kill me.

  Skip opened the driver’s side door and pushed me in. “Get down on the other side and stay down on the floor.” He gave me another push, and I pulled myself to the passenger side floor. Just before he slammed his door, I thought I heard Lou’s voice yell, “Annie.” I hope he saw us. Skip raced out of the parking lot, made a quick right and then a left. He’s heading for the highway.

  “Why did you take me?” I stammered.

  “I want the coins.”

  “I don’t have them.”

  “Maybe not, but you’ll find them. I think you know where they’re hidden, and you’ll tell me.”

  I’m doomed. I have no idea where the coins are. There might not be any coins.

  “I think the coins were stolen or sold. All I found was an empty satchel. You can let me out here. I won’t tell anyone.” I shifted my weight since I felt my ankle falling asleep. This is not a good way to travel.

  Skip’s maniacal laugh made me shudder. “I know the coins weren’t sold. That satchel might have been empty, but someone took them and still has them.”

  “How do you know for sure?”

  “I listen. People talk. A word or two in a bar and tongues wag. The coins are still in town.”

  I think he’s delusional. How can anyone know if the coins are in town? I need to figure a way out of this and fast.

  “Someone could’ve sold them in Milwaukee or Chicago. You wouldn’t know, and you’ll never find what isn’t there.” I offered hoping beyond hope he would let me go. Unable to see his face makes it harder to gauge his reactions.

  A sudden right turn would’ve knocked me over if there had been room for me to move. He must be heading for the woods.

  Now we’re going north. I think Bart Quigley’s cabin is this way. Maybe the police will be here searching his cabin. Maybe this is where he died. I can only hope.

  Skip slammed on the brakes, and I bumped my head.

  “Hey.”

  “Shut up; you’ll be happy if all you end up with is a bump on the head.”

  I bit my lips together. There’s a lot I’d like to tell him, but I think I should be quiet.

  Skip opened the passenger side door and yanked me out of the truck. I glanced around, and I think this might be Bart’s cabin. It looks more like a shack, but who am I to judge. Bits of yellow police tape are still hanging on the door. The police have been here and gone.

  Oh, goodness gracious, Annie, the police won’t find you. They may find your body, but they won’t be out here to rescue you. I hope I did hear Lou’s voice and he called Clark or even the Grim Reaper detective. I need to figure a way out of here.

  Skip had a firm grip on my arm. “Now,” he spat. “We’re going in the building, and I’ll allow you five minutes to get comfortable and decide you’re telling me what I want to know. After that, I will get it out my way.” He pointed his gun toward the shack. “Walk.”

  We both stopped at the strange sound that emanated from the woods behind us. First, a howl and then fierce growling had me wondering where I’d be safer…inside or outside the shack.

  “What was that?” Skip stopped and looked around.

  “Wolves,” I suggested hoping to scare him into leaving.

  “Yeah, right,” he answered shoving me toward the shack again.

  I heard branches breaking and then running. Before I had a chance to look in the direction of the sound, Skip yelled and fell to the ground with a thud. His gun flew past my feet, and I grabbed it before I turned around to see what happened.

  “Brutus,” I gasped.

  “You know this animal. Get it off me now,” Skip yelled from underneath Brutus’ large body.

  “Good boy,” I said to Brutus and ran off in the direction of the woods. I know I can hide in the woods, well maybe I can.

  How did Brutus get here? I think we’re about a mile from Willy’s cabin. Maybe Brutus likes to roam, or he ran away. Either way, I’m grateful. Maybe he’ll keep Skip busy for a while. Now, run Annie run.

  I ran until I needed to catch my breath. Not hearing another sound behind me, I hope Brutus is keeping Skip busy. My mind debated my two choices. Do I continue to run or should I hide? Maybe a third option of walking as quietly as I can would be best. Heading West, I should run into Sawyer Valley. It isn’t a valley by anyone’s standards since we don’t have any large hills much less mountains here, but it is the lowest point in the county and our valley. A frequently used highway runs through it, and I should be able to catch a ride providing Skip doesn’t find me.

  All right, Annie, decide on a plan. Walk to the edge of the hill and scoot down. Do your best to keep quiet and hide behind trees or bushes until you get to the highway. Good plan, I can do this.

  Creeping through the woods, I stopped every few minutes listening for Skip. When I didn’t hear anything, I walked further. I took a deep breath of relief when I saw the clearing beyond the woods.

  I hope Brutus is keeping Skip busy and I can get to the highway. I don’t hear Skip behind me. If he doesn’t get away from Brutus and guesses I’m heading for the road; I should be safe. One more step brought me out of the woods and at the top of the edge of the drop to the valley. I should be able to descend without a problem.

  I heard a twig snap behind me and turned. I lost my footing and tumbled backward down the slope. Stopping at t
he bottom of the rise, I couldn’t catch my breath. Not only did my back hurt from landing on it, but I also managed to fall through a thistle patch. What felt like bee stings covered my bare arms and face. I could feel some through my shirt and jeans. This is not good. Trying to catch my breath and settle my nerves wasn’t working. I did the only thing I could; I sent an emergency text to my backup group: Georgie, Clark, Aunt Irene, and Uncle Lyle. One of them should see it right away, I hope.

  Help. Skip kidnapped me.

  Escaped. Fell down the hill into Sawyer Valley.

  I dropped my hand to my side and tried to breathe properly and fight the pain. My skin was itching and burning. What have I done?

  Within a minute, I heard my phone ding four times. They all received my text. They’re all coming to help. Please make it before Skip finds me.

  A loud bark and howl drew my eyes up the hill. Brutus sat at the top barking at me. He crawled down the hill more gracefully than I did and sat next to me. He licked my face and then dropped onto all fours laying his head on my chest.

  “Thank you, Brutus. I wish you could tell me where Skip is. Did you eat him? That might help. Sorry, boy, that wasn’t right. I think I’m losing my mind. At least he can’t shoot us unless he has a second gun.”

  At that point, I realized I still had the gun shoved deep in my pocket. I’m happy I didn’t shoot myself falling down the hill. If I see Skip could I shoot him? I hope I don’t have to find out.

  Brutus and I lay there, and I kept an eye on the hill. Slowly moving my body, I don’t think I broke any bones, but my skin is on fire. I patted Brutus on the head, and he snuggled closer to me. It’s amazing how a dog as big as a small horse can love to snuggle.

  “Thank you for saving me, Brutus. You’re a good dog,” I whispered just in case Skip was nearby.

  He rewarded me with a giant lick to my cheek. Brutus let out a loud howl, and I thought maybe I heard a siren in the distance. It couldn’t be coming for me, but if Skip is anywhere near, he may run thinking it is. I closed my eyes trying to fight the pain in my back but popped them open to keep one on the hill when I heard the sirens draw closer.