Picnics, Pies and Lies

by Cindy Bell

  Ally blushed and wondered if he knew that she and her grandmother had put up a bit of a fight.

  “I think it just seemed like a bit of an overreaction. Of course, at the time everyone was under the impression that it was an accident.” She stepped up beside him and added her plate to the sink.

  “That’s what the police first assumed when they arrived at the scene. But things started changing when there were no eyewitnesses, and it seemed as if all arrows and bows were accounted for.” He slipped an arm around her waist. “That’s when it started getting sketchy. If it was an accident there would have been some kind of evidence to point to that, most importantly, someone who would recall firing or seeing someone firing in the wrong direction. Can I wash these for you?”

  “Not now, let’s go out and get some fresh air.” She led him out onto the porch, hoping that the distraction and the cool air would relax him enough to get him talking.

  “Good idea.” He stepped up behind her as she leaned on the railing and looked out at the neighborhood surrounding them. “How are people reacting?”

  “Hardly anyone is leaving their houses. We had no customers at the shop.” Ally rested her head back against his shoulder and closed her eyes. “I think many people are frightened.”

  “I was afraid of that.” Luke frowned.

  “Do you think all of the concern is warranted?” Ally pulled away and began to slowly pace the porch. A glance at the street proved her previous statement. No one was out walking their dogs at twilight. That was unusual, as there was normally a parade of neighbors she could wave to as they passed by. She paused at the porch railing again.

  “I can’t say that it’s not.” Luke rested his elbow on the railing and leaned close to her. “A man was just riding in a canoe and out of nowhere he was shot with an arrow. If we could have proven that it was an accident, then no, there wouldn’t be anything to be concerned about. But since we couldn’t, now we have to wonder. Was someone at the picnic just to stir up trouble? Is there a lunatic out there somewhere that wants to randomly pick off people whenever he has the chance? If that’s the case, then it might be best to stay inside, stay at home. But no, I don’t really think that’s what happened here. My theory is that Josh had an enemy and that enemy used the picnic as an opportunity to take him out. However, until we know that for sure, we have to be careful.”

  “I guess that makes sense. I just can’t figure out who Josh’s enemy might be. I spoke to Frank this afternoon, and he doesn’t seem like someone who would cause anyone any harm. Then there’s Christian. He seems a little off. Did you know he lives here now?”

  “Yes, I found that out today. What were you doing talking to Frank?” His gaze settled on hers with an inscrutable determination.

  “I just wanted to see how he was holding up. He wasn’t doing well. He was at the bar, and quite intoxicated.” Ally shrugged as she returned his gaze. “I was also curious. I thought maybe he had something to do with it.”

  “Did you?” He slipped his hands into hers and drew her close to him. “So what kind of scandalous information did you find out?” His probing gaze made it impossible for her to look away.

  “Hmm, I’ll tell you mine if you tell me yours.” She lifted an eyebrow and smiled.

  “How did I not see that coming?” He laughed. “All right, we do have a suspect. I’m only telling you this because I know I can trust you not to spread it around, and because I don’t want you worrying that some random assassin is out there roaming the streets.”

  “Who is the suspect?” Ally’s heart pounded as names fluttered through her mind.

  “Billy McArtle.”

  “Karen’s son?” Her eyes widened, then she shook her head. That name hadn’t even crossed her mind. “No, that doesn’t make sense. He wasn’t even at the picnic.”

  “As several witnesses told us. However, the only piece of evidence that we have is the arrow that was lodged in Josh’s body. It took a little time, but we traced the arrow back to him. It’s a custom arrow, so there’s no way it could belong to anyone else. It belongs to him, and that indicates that he was there, no matter what he or anyone else says. Anyway, I can’t say much more than that. But I don’t think you need to be concerned. We’ll have this straightened out in a day or two.” He smiled. “So as usual, your instincts were right about Frank.”

  “Thanks Luke, that makes me feel a lot better.” She released a long breath. “Let’s hope tomorrow is a better day.” She snuggled against his chest as he embraced her.

  “It will be.” Luke kissed the top of her head. “I should get home, though. I need to be up very early tomorrow to file some paperwork with the courts. Thanks for dinner.”

  “You’re welcome. Get some rest.” Ally tightened their hug, then pulled him into a slow kiss.

  “Oh, you always make it so hard to leave.” He sighed. That same excitement that had first sparked between them, rushed through her again.

  As Luke headed down the steps to his car, she was reminded of just how lucky she was. After he pulled out of the driveway she continued to study the street for some time. If Billy was the main suspect, she wondered why the police wouldn’t announce that. She guessed it was because they weren’t able to place him at the scene. That was the same reason she was uneasy about him being the suspect. Was it possible that he was hiding out somewhere? And if so, why? It seemed strange to her that he would target Josh, someone his family was obviously close to. If what Frank said was true, about Josh inheriting some property and furniture when Billy’s father died, then maybe Billy was jealous? But there was plenty more to leave to him. She didn’t think he would be that greedy. Then again, she didn’t know Billy well at all. Maybe tomorrow she would have to change that.

  Chapter 7

  Charlotte arrived at the chocolate shop with a heavy heart. It was a relief to see that people were out on the sidewalks again, but it was a heavy burden to think that perhaps someone from Blue River had been the murderer. When Luke had spoken with Ally the day before about the possibility that Billy McArtle was the killer, it had stunned her. She’d been around Billy now and then as he grew up. Never once had she noticed anything about him that might make him a killer. However, Ally also mentioned finding a photograph of Josh and Billy together when they were younger. Perhaps there was some undercurrent in their relationship that had motivated Billy to kill him.

  Charlotte began preparing fresh chocolates for the display. A few minutes later she heard the sound of the side door opening.

  “Ally?”

  “Yes, it’s me.” She stepped in with a smile and a white paper bag in her hand. “I brought us breakfast.”

  “Oh, thank you!” Charlotte grinned as she recognized that it was from her favorite bakery. “You know how to brighten my spirits.”

  “I figured today might be tough. With everyone getting back into their routines, I’m sure we’ll get some customers.” Ally set the bag down on the counter, then headed for the sink. “Let me just wash up and I’ll finish up with those chocolates.”

  “I’ll start the coffee pots.” Charlotte headed for the cylinders while Ally took over filling the molds. She loved every minute of working with her granddaughter, and the fact that she had so much more freedom since she’d turned things over to her. She still liked to work in the shop, but it was nice to know that she could take a day off when she needed to. “How are you doing this morning?”

  “Okay. It was nice to see Luke last night.” Ally moved the molds into the refrigerator to cool. “I just can’t shake the idea that he’s wrong about Billy, though.”

  “I can’t blame you for that. I never thought of Billy as being an aggressive kid. Sure, he had his share of problems, but I don’t think he was ever violent.” Charlotte finished the coffee pots, then turned to face Ally. “But how else would his arrow have been there? The idea that he was hiding behind some bushes waiting for his chance, seems very unlikely.”

  “I agree.” Ally wiped her hands and joined
her near the coffee pots. “I just think that if he wanted to kill Josh, there were other ways he could have accomplished that. It’s possible that he and Josh had some bad blood between them.”

  “Hold that thought.” Charlotte glanced up at the clock. “I’ll go unlock the front.”

  “I’ll get these coffees set up.” Ally grabbed two of the canisters to carry out front. Her grandmother walked to the front door, unlocked it, and flipped the sign to open. Their first customers usually came in for coffee, although some liked chocolate to start their day. A few minutes after she unlocked the door, it swung open, and in walked Mrs. Bing, Mrs. White, and Mrs. Cale. The trio were tangled close together as they approached the counter.

  “Good morning, Charlotte.” Mrs. White leaned on the counter and offered her a strained smile. “Though I’m not sure if I should be calling it good.”

  “I think it’s appropriate. It’s a new day. Right?” Charlotte nudged the sample tray towards them. “Enjoy, ladies.”

  “Oh, thank you!” Mrs. Bing sighed. “I’m so sorry we didn’t come by yesterday. It just seemed unwise to take that risk, what with a murderer on the loose.”

  “For the thousandth time, there is no murderer on the loose.” Mrs. White rolled her eyes. “I told you, it was little Billy. He’ll be in jail soon enough.”

  “What?” Ally’s heart dropped. “What makes you think that?”

  “Oh, please honey, you’re not the only one with connections.” Mrs. White popped a chocolate in her mouth.

  “She’s been having tea with the desk sergeant,” Mrs. Cale explained in a dramatic whisper. “Just tea, she says.”

  “It is just tea!” Mrs. White’s cheeks reddened. “Anyway, you didn’t hear it from me, but it was little Billy’s arrow that killed Josh.”

  “Well, that doesn’t surprise me.” Mrs. Bing pursed her lips. “Honestly, I’m surprised that it took this long.”

  “Why do you say that?” Ally rested her hands on the counter and watched as the women continued to pick at the sample tray. It was well worth the free chocolates for all of the information they provided about the town and the people that lived in it.

  “Look, it’s no secret that Billy felt slighted. His father left him nothing.”

  “Nothing?” Charlotte’s eyes widened. “But they were quite well-off. Surely he left Billy something?”

  “Nope, not one cent.” Mrs. Cale clucked her tongue. “Little Billy had it coming, though. He wouldn’t do a thing his father said. Honestly, it got much worse after his mother died, poor boy.”

  “I don’t understand.” Ally frowned as she looked between each woman. “What did Billy do that was so terrible he should be cut out of the will?”

  “His father expected him to go to college, Billy refused. He expected him to get a well-paying job, Billy ended up working on cars. Not only that, but the allowance he did receive from his family, he blew each month on gambling and girls.” Mrs. Cale rolled her eyes. “That’s pretty short-sighted if you ask me.”

  “I think everyone would agree with that.” Mrs. White raised an eyebrow.

  “So, he must have been pretty upset that Josh inherited some things.” Ally chewed on her bottom lip.

  “More than upset. Livid! When Anita inherited just about everything, he was sure that he would get what was left.” Mrs. White shook her head. “But he didn’t, Josh got the rest.”

  “Wait, did you say Anita inherited just about everything?” Charlotte gasped with surprise. “I had no idea.”

  “Most people don’t. She’s kept that information quiet. But yes, she and Karen were good friends, and after Karen passed I think she and Mr. McArtle grew very close as well, hint, hint, wink, wink.” Mrs. Bing nudged Mrs. Cale in the side.

  “Ouch! Why did you do that?” Mrs. Cale swatted at her.

  “They had a relationship?” Ally was stunned. “I totally missed that as well.”

  “It was just a rumor.” Mrs. White fixed a steady glare on Mrs. Bing. “A vicious rumor. No one knows if it was true. Either way, the point is that Anita did inherit most of the estate, and all of the money.”

  “Wow, no wonder Billy was upset.” Ally shook her head. “He must have been expecting a big inheritance.”

  “He was. I think he planned to sell the property that Josh inherited,” Mrs. White said.

  Ally locked eyes with her grandmother as she recalled Mr. Lawdale’s mention of a lawsuit.

  “Do you know if he filed a lawsuit against Josh?” Ally looked back at Mrs. White.

  “I don’t know. I imagine he might have. But I couldn’t say for sure.” Mrs. White took one more of the chocolates on display. “Could I have a box of these please?”

  “Sure, let me get that for you.” Charlotte began to fill up a box. “Speaking of Anita, I still have to take her trays to her. Please remind me, Ally.”

  “I will.” She replenished the sample tray for Mrs. Bing, who was still picking, but had run out of her favorite kind.

  “Thank you so much.” Mrs. White accepted the box of chocolates and handed over payment. “Let’s go, ladies, before you eat these poor women out of house and shop.”

  “Try to have a good day, ladies.” Ally waved to them as they left the shop.

  * * *

  The chocolate shop became quite busy throughout most of the morning and afternoon. Although there were a few murmurs about Josh’s death, not too many people brought it up in conversation.

  It was nearly time to close up when Frank stepped into the shop. Ally’s nerves went on edge the moment she recognized him. He seemed far more sober than he had the day before. As he plodded his way towards the counter, Charlotte turned to smile at him.

  “Welcome, Frank, how are you today?” Charlotte’s tone was warm, but Ally could sense a tension underneath that warmth.

  “Better than yesterday.” He shrugged. As he skimmed the chocolates on display, Ally studied his expression. She didn’t detect any malice in it, but he also didn’t seem very relaxed. “Can I try one of those?” He pointed to a cherry caramel.

  “Sure.” Ally pulled the tray out and set it on the counter so he could choose one. “Usually we have some samples out, but we’re just about to close up.”

  “Oh?” He glanced up with wide eyes. “I’m sorry, I didn’t realize. I was just looking for a way to brighten my day.”

  “I understand, and there’s no huge rush. Go on, take whichever you like.” She offered him an encouraging smile.

  “Thanks.” He picked out one of the chocolates, then took a step back from the counter. “I just thought buying some candy might make me feel a little better.”

  “It might.” Charlotte met his eyes. “It’s so important to try to get back to normal after such a terrible event.”

  “Yeah.” He took a bite of the chocolate and let the caramel stretch out in a long string.

  “Here.” Ally thrust a napkin in his direction, but it was too late, the caramel snapped and landed on his chin.

  “Oops.” He laughed and took the napkin from her. “Thanks. Hey listen, do you know where I can find Christian?”

  “I’m not sure?” Ally packed up a few of the chocolates into a small box. “Why are you looking for him?”

  “I just have some things I want to discuss with him. I know he lives around here somewhere, I just don’t know where.” Frank locked eyes with Ally. “You seem to know just about everything. Where does he live?”

  “Frank, maybe it’s best that you give yourself a little more time to recover.” Charlotte poured him a cup of coffee and set it down on the counter. “On the house. And the chocolates, too.”

  Ally offered him the box. “Just relax and enjoy them.”

  “No, sorry, I can’t accept that. I always pay my debts.” He tossed a ten-dollar bill on the counter. “Keep the change.” He picked up the box of chocolates. “Ally? Where does he live?” He leaned over the counter enough to make it clear that he was attempting to intimidate her.

  “
I’m sorry. I don’t know. He’s new to the area. I think he’s only here for a short time. You could maybe ask at the post office?”

  “Great idea.” He held her gaze for several seconds, then nodded, and left the shop.

  “What do you think all of that was about?” Charlotte murmured as the door swung shut behind him.

  “Nothing good.” Ally pursed her lips. “There was some wildness in his eyes.”

  “I still say we can’t rule him out as a suspect. Especially since he was planning to start a business with Josh. That kind of relationship can go sour real fast.” Charlotte turned to grab a cloth to wipe down the counters.

  “I thought yesterday that he was drowning his sorrows, but he could have just as easily been drowning his guilt.” Ally let the conversation fade as she began to prepare the shop for closing. As they were locking up, Charlotte cleared her throat.

  “Ally, would you mind if I came in late tomorrow morning? I keep forgetting to take the trays back to Anita, and I want to make sure I get them to her.”

  “Sure, no problem.” Ally smiled at her. “I bet this has nothing to do with wanting to pump a little information out of her about the affair she might have had with Billy’s father?”

  “Who me?” She grinned. “I would never do something like that.”

  “Never,” Ally agreed with a stern nod. She hugged her grandmother goodbye, then headed back to the cottage. She hoped that Luke would make another appearance, but he texted her to let her know that he would not be able to make it. She guessed that it had something to do with the case, but knew he was too busy to answer any of her questions.

  “Well, I guess it’s just us tonight.” Ally settled on the couch with her plate. Peaches and Arnold climbed up to join her. She laughed as they sat on either side of her with wide, hungry eyes. “Oh, are you both going to beg? Didn’t I already feed you, you greedy little things?”

  Peaches sniffed and widened her eyes even further.