by K E O'Connor
“I know how to do my job. I’ve studied zombies. I’ve seen first-hand just how dangerous they are.” Nick’s hands clenched and unclenched as we glared at each other.
“That doesn’t make you an authority because you’ve had a few encounters with zombies,” I said. “We all have. You need to be more open-minded about our residents.”
“You mean residents like Alex?” Nick asked.
His change of direction caught me off guard. “What about Alex?”
“He’s new in town. I don’t want you messing up his thinking about zombies, stopping him from doing a good job because the two of you are dating.”
My mouth fell open. “We aren’t dating! And I’m not messing up his thoughts. He has a mind of his own and can make decisions for himself. You don’t get to tell me who I can see.”
“I do when you’re interfering with an officer of the law,” Nick said. “Alex is new to the world of zombies. I don’t want you getting him on your side. I bet you’re only going on this date so you can get information about Bert.”
“I’m going on this date with Alex because he’s a lovely guy with an amazing smile. And he asked me.” My heart pounded. “Don’t seem so surprised that somebody wants to date the Zombie Queen of Zee Town.”
Nick’s scowl deepened, and a muscle twitched in his jaw. “Don’t put any crazy ideas in his head.”
I yanked the door open. “Goodbye.”
Nick opened his mouth but then snapped it shut and stalked away. Stool followed him, glancing over his shoulder to look at me.
He had no right to tell me who I could date. And he had no right to ask me to draw up a list of zombies most likely to bite just to make his job easier.
I looked at my arms, my pale skin almost glinting in the sunlight. Maybe I should fake tan, but it left a stain on everything and ruined the bed sheets. Forget that. I wasn’t going to hide the fact that I was beautifully pale just because that idiot had commented on it.
I rubbed my skin. It was amazing how much the color had changed. Maybe it was a hormonal thing.
Glancing down the road, I spotted Sybil walking toward me, wobbling in her wedged shoes. I hadn’t realized how late it had gotten.
I shoved down my anger at Nick and hurried back into the office to put the kettle on and arrange more cookies on the plate.
The bell over the door jingled just as I’d poured boiling water into the teapot. “I won’t be a second,” I called out.
Sybil poked her head into the kitchen. Her eyes still looked bloodshot, as if she’d been crying again, but she had a small smile on her face. “Could you make mine a coffee, dear?”
I wasn’t a coffee fan, but always kept a jar of instant in the cupboard. “Not a problem. Take a seat. There are cookies on the desk if you want some.”
“Lovely.” Sybil disappeared out of the kitchen.
I carried the drinks into the office and sat behind my desk.
“Thank you, dear.” Sybil took a sip of the coffee.
“I’m sorry for your loss,” I said.
“That’s kind of you.”
“Were you in town when you heard the news about Bert?”
“Yes, with Miriam. I arrived yesterday late afternoon. I had planned to see Bert while I was here.” Sybil shook her head. “I left it too late.”
So, she was in town when Bert was killed. She had motive and an opportunity.
“Do you find it odd where he was found?”
“Oh, not really. Bert was often out late on the course. Mole hunting.”
“Mole hunting?”
“He used to get so mad when they ruined the green. He’d sneak out late and try to catch them in the act. I felt sorry for the poor things. They don’t know where they’re digging.”
“I expect a mole has no concept of golf,” I said.
“Exactly. Anyway, it didn’t surprise me to learn where he died. It’s fitting in a way. Bert loved his golf.” Sybil’s mouth turned down. “So, what ideas do you have about Bert’s memorial?”
“The upcoming carnival will be an opportunity to commemorate Bert,” I said. “I wondered about having something in the procession itself. But his store already has a decorated vehicle. What about a commemorative book for people to write messages in about their memories of Bert? We can set it up in a quiet corner. What do you think?”
“It’s a good idea,” Sybil said. She took a cookie but didn’t eat it. She spun it in her fingers several times. “As I suspect most of Zee Town knows, Bert had a wandering eye and wasn’t the greatest of husbands.”
“I never listen to rumors.”
Sybil’s smile was a little condescending. “You should when it comes to Bert. They were true. But when we were first married, I loved him.”
“Things changed?”
“I could only put up with so much. When Bert moved his latest piece of fluff into town, it was the last straw.”
I was surprised Sybil was being so open about Bert. Perhaps she needed someone to talk to other than her overbearing sister. “Marriage must be tricky at times. I’ve never had the chance myself.”
“You’re young. There’s plenty of time for you,” Sybil said. “Didn’t I see that handsome young police officer leaving just as I arrived? He would be a catch.”
I snorted laughter. “Nick Morton! I can’t imagine anyone thinking he’s a catch.”
“He’s handsome enough,” Sybil said. “I’ve always liked the dark-haired, blue-eyed look. I can’t imagine why I married Bert. He was already receding on top when we met and he had brown eyes. His brother was the more handsome of the two when they were younger. I haven’t seen Colin seen I got back.” She reached into her purse and pulled out a hanky before dabbing her nose.
“I’ll never marry Nick. He’s so rude.”
“Oh, Bert was like that when we first met,” Sybil said. “He used to tease me about the mini-skirts I wore. It turns out, he was jealous that so many men admired my legs. He wanted them all to himself.” She gave a gentle laugh. “As I said, he wasn’t a great husband, but we had good times together. A memorial book is a lovely idea.”
“Can you supply some photographs of Bert to go alongside the book? We can put up newspaper clippings, too. I can get my hands on those. We’ll show people how much of an influence Bert was on this town.”
“Yes, I’ve got plenty of photos. I think that will be nice. I’m sure Colin will have things to donate as well. They were close when growing up.”
“Let’s see what information I’ve got on file.” I kept a record of significant news stories about the town.
It only took me a few minutes before I’d found several articles about Bert; opening his store, catching an enormous bass when he was sea fishing, and winning the annual Halloween fancy dress prize.
“Look at him in that costume.” Sybil ate a cookie as she studied the Halloween article. “He spent three weeks designing that thing. Every night he was out in the garage, adding bits to that alien head and tail. He almost took out my eye with the tail when he turned swiftly.”
“These will be perfect to use,” I said. “We can set up a display board behind the memorial book and give people fond memories of Bert.”
“I’d like that,” Sybil said. “I’ll drop off the photographs tomorrow.”
I kept my tone neutral, being careful to see how Sybil would react to my next question. “Do you think Johnny would have anything we can use for the memorial display?”
“Johnny Catt?” Sybil blinked rapidly and her cheeks flushed pink. “I don’t know.”
“They worked together for years. I thought he might have records of his own. They liked to go deep sea fishing together, didn’t they?”
“How do you know that?” Sybil stiffened in her seat.
“I used to see them when I was out for a swim,” I said. “They seemed more like brothers to me. You all must have been close.”
“Johnny did spend a lot of time with Bert.” Sybil snapped her purse shut and stood.
“I’d better let you get back to work. I know how busy you are with the carnival.”
“Thanks. Maybe I’ll drop by the golf store later and see if Johnny wants to add anything to the memorial.” I followed Sybil to the door.
“You shouldn’t bother him. Johnny will be busy now he has to run the business on his own.” Sybil fussed with her purse.
“Hopefully, he’ll squeeze me in,” I said, noticing the nervous hitch in her voice. I opened the door for Sybil.
“Very well,” Sybil said. “I’ll see you tomorrow with the photographs.” She tottered away, her purse clutched tightly to her side as she navigated through the tourists.
I shut the door and leaned on it. Sybil wasn’t keen on me visiting Johnny. Perhaps there was more to their relationship than a friendship. It was a good motive for wanting Bert dead. There was also the fact Johnny wasn’t averse to criminal activities, and Laura had said he was one for the ladies, especially Sybil.
I wasn’t ruling either him or Sybil out of Bert’s murder just yet. But I needed more information. I needed to meet with Johnny.
Chapter 12
I’d slept badly, tossing and turning, my thoughts keeping me awake as I tried to puzzle through who had killed Bert.
I’d also thought about Nick. Way too much for my liking. I shouldn’t care what he thought about me. Would he be nicer to me if I was some cute beach bunny with sun-kissed hair and a mahogany tan? That was never going to happen.
Dawn arrived with the promise of another glorious day. After giving up on sleep, I decided to clear my head with an early morning swim. Who cared that I was pale and had a passing resemblance to a zombie when soaking wet. I loved being in the water, bobbing along on the salty waves and digging my toes in the sand.
I was a strong swimmer, having learned to swim in the sea at an early age. I’d spent many happy hours splashing around in the waves or poking about in rock pools, looking for crabs and tiny fish.
I jumped out of bed, had a quick freshen up in the bathroom, changed into my green bathing suit and covered up in a pair of loose cotton pants, white vest top and a pink and white striped shirt. I pushed my feet into a pair of black flats, grabbed a couple of towels, my purse, and headed out.
The shops weren’t yet open and only a few delivery vans were in evidence. A gentle sea breeze ruffled my hair as I approached the harbor. I walked along the edge, enjoying the salty tang in the air. I waved to a few fishermen working on their nets or sorting their latest haul of fish.
I hurried down the stone steps and onto the soft sand, eager to be in the water. There were a few early morning joggers around and a couple of dog walkers, but other than that, I was on my own. It almost felt like my own private beach.
Removing my clothes and shoes, I tucked them behind a rock with my purse. I had no fear of them being stolen. The beach was almost empty, and I trusted the people of Zee Town.
I stood for a few seconds at the edge of the water, letting the waves trickle toward me and tease my toes. The light breeze meant there was barely a wave.
Another couple of steps forwards, and I was calf-deep in the water. It was chilly, and my skin broke out in goose bumps, but I carried on. The hardest bit was getting under the water. Once in, I’d be fine.
I strode forward a few more steps and pushed off. I swam to the first buoy, knowing that was a safe place to aim for. Any farther to the left and the currents became strong. I repeated my swim four times, gasping for air when my toes finally hit the ground as I neared the shore. It was just what I needed. My head felt clear.
I ran up the beach and dried myself before shrugging into my clothes. I grabbed my purse and shoes and walked barefoot along the beach, letting the breeze dry my hair.
I slowed as I spotted an egg-shaped lump in the sand. I walked over to investigate. It was a golf ball.
The Zee Town golf course butted up against the beach. It wasn’t unusual to find stray golf balls that had overshot the mark and landed in the dunes. Whoever had hit this ball must have an impressive swing. It had soared over the dunes and landed on the beach.
I picked up the ball and continued my walk, spotting someone waving at me as I reached the boundary of the golf course. I shielded my eyes against the rising sun and recognized Johnny Catt. He was dressed in lurid pink slacks and a tight white polo shirt, his cowboy hat jammed on his head.
“I think you found my ball,” he shouted at me.
I threw the ball in the air and walked toward him. What great timing. “Were you aiming for the sea?”
Johnny roared with laughter. “I’m still perfecting my swing. I spend far too much money on balls. I’m always losing them.”
“At least you’ve got this one back.” I handed him the ball. Johnny was in his late fifties, with a slight paunch and impressive arm muscles just beginning to fade to fat. His red nose suggested either too much sun or too much whiskey.
“Good swim?” he asked. “You went out far.”
I pulled my wet hair off my face. “It’s cold, but refreshing.”
“I’m not much of a swimmer myself,” Johnny said. “I love the water, though. I’ve got a little boat tied up not far from here. If you like the sea so much, you’d be welcome to come out with me so time.”
“That sounds lovely, but I get seasick.” Besides, being on a boat alone with Johnny didn’t interest me, not with his dubious reputation.
“That’s a shame. I’m looking for a new girl.” He winked at me.
“Did you lose your old one?”
That earned me another roar of laughter. “I love a funny girl. No, I didn’t lose her.”
“You mean to tell me you’re single?” I hoped my mock surprise appeared genuine.
“I have a few ladies, but no one serious,” Johnny said. “I do like a brunette, though.”
I tried to appear flattered. Sybil was a blonde. Maybe the rumors about their relationship were only that. “Actually, I’m glad I’ve run into you. I wanted to check everything was still okay for the carnival.”
“You mean now Bert’s turned up his toes?” Johnny adjusted his cowboy hat, sweat glistening off his forehead.
“Yes, Zee Town won’t be the same without Bert. Where were you when you heard the news?”
“The store. The police came in and let me know.”
“Did you see him the day he died?” I asked.
“Sure. He was in most of the day.”
“Bert wasn’t worried about anything?”
“Nothing comes to mind. He left the store around six that evening. Said he was getting dinner at the pub. I had no clue he’d go out on the course on his own. It’s no surprise. The guy was obsessed with golf. Just like me.”
“He didn’t ask you to join him?”
Johnny’s eyes narrowed. “No. Why all the questions?”
“I’m just puzzled about what happened.”
“Zombies, so the rumor goes.”
“You believe that? No one had it in for Bert?”
Johnny chuckled. “His ex-wife. People who lost to him at golf. His girlfriend. His brother. We even fell out sometimes. Bert was larger than life. That sometimes attracted the wrong attention.”
“Bert was such a lively figure.”
“That’s one way to describe him,” Johnny said. “There were certain figures he liked more than others. The feminine kind in particular.” His eyes ran over me.
I resisted the urge to squirm. “Is the store still okay to sponsor the event?” I couldn’t decide if it was the breeze from the sea or Johnny’s roving eyes that gave me the chills.
“I don’t see it being a problem,” Johnny said. “Bert thought it was a good idea. I can’t go back on his last wish. Drop by the office later when I’ve finished my game. I can give you the money then. We can celebrate with a few drinks afterwards.”
“That’s kind of you. I’ll stop by, but I’m ridiculously busy right now, what with the carnival a few days away.” The predatory look in Johnny’s eyes was unsettling.
I wouldn’t put myself in a room alone with him.
“I’m sure you do a great job, sweetheart,” Johnny said. “I always thought women deserved a shot in the office.”
I drew in a breath, trying not to let his patronizing words rankle. “It’s hard work, but I try.”
“You girls always amaze me. You look pretty, you cook, and you do the paperwork. Is there nothing you’re not good at?”
“Talking of amazing women, I bumped into Sybil Figgins today.” I watched his expression carefully. “She’s planning a memorial for Bert at the carnival. It means a lot to her to have his name remembered. Sybil loves being a part of this community.”
Johnny grinned. “That lady has a lot of love to go around.”
“Are you and Sybil close?”
Johnny’s grin only broadened. “In a manner of speaking. She’s good-looking for an older lady. I enjoy being around beautiful things.”
“She’ll need comforting now Bert has gone.”
“She sure will,” Johnny said. “I’m looking for a new lady, though. I like them young. I’ve got a lot of energy.” He brushed a hand down my arm.
“That’s good to know.” I backed up a couple of steps. “I’ll keep an eye out to see if there are any suitable single ladies in town.”
Johnny laughed. “Make sure you do. Send them my way. I’m a prominent business owner now. I expect I’ll be very popular. Are you sure you don’t want to get in early?”
This guy was creeping me out. “I’m a career girl. Married to the job.”
Johnny’s smile faded. “Women who love their work, age so much faster. They forget about making the best of themselves. Their heads get full of deadlines.”
Could Johnny be any more offensive? He probably could. “I should go. Work calls.” I turned to leave, but Johnny followed me.
“I was serious about those drinks,” he said. “You need to relax. All that filing and answering the phones must be tiring.”
Seriously? What decade did this guy think we lived in? “We can have a cup of tea when I drop by for the check.”