Easter Buried Eggs (Black Cat Cafe Cozy Mystery Series Book 10)

by Lyndsey Cole

  Jason leaned back in his chair. “Here’s the thing. You strike me as a hard worker. Someone who keeps his eye on what’s going on. Am I right?”

  Marvin nodded and puffed up his chest a little with the compliment.

  “Sometimes I need an extra hand around here. You know, keep an eye on our house and the animals if we go away for the weekend or something like that.” Jason winked at Annie.

  “Would you feed me, too?”

  “Of course. I’m always looking for the right guy for that responsibility. Would you be interested?”

  Marvin sat up straighter and puffed his chest out even more. “You bet I am. I keep an eye on the comings and goings at Golden Living. Not that anyone knows, but it’s what I do.”

  “About that—” Annie began, but Jason kicked her again.

  “What Annie wonders is, how did you develop that talent?” Annie smiled. Jason definitely phrased that question better than she would have.

  Marvin set the crust of his pizza on the edge of his plate and looked toward the porch. In a hushed voice he said, “It’s not something I talk about.”

  Jason put his hand on Marvin’s forearm. Annie expected to see him flinch and pull away but, instead, he looked at Jason and said, “You have a lot of compassion. Not like so many others.”

  Annie’s heart cracked when she heard the sadness in Marvin’s voice. What happened to him to cause such despair?

  “What others, Marvin?” Jason asked with a gentleness in his voice.

  Marvin’s eyes filled but he pulled himself together before even one drop leaked out. His eyes hardened.

  Annie held her breath, waiting for Marvin to continue.

  “When I was a working man, I let my guard down one day and thugs robbed the office.” He shrugged. “I can remember every detail like it happened yesterday. Their guns, their masks, their angry voices, and the whack on my head that left a scar.” His fingers absentmindedly rubbed a spot on the back of his head.

  “It wasn’t your fault.” Annie was horrified and she wanted to console Marvin.

  He blinked and looked at her. “It was my job to keep everyone safe. I failed but it won’t happen again if I can help it.”

  “But what about Forrest?” Annie regretted her question as soon as it left her mouth.

  Marvin’s face tensed. “He wasn’t my responsibility. He made his own problems by cozying up to the wrong people. I watch out for the people living at Golden Living, and,” he leaned close to Jason and Annie, “something’s not right.”

  That was an understatement. Annie couldn’t keep the thought from niggling in the back of her mind that maybe Marvin killed Forrest, thinking he was protecting everyone at Golden Living.

  Was she looking into the eyes of a cold-blooded murderer?

  The thought saddened her, and at the same time, it gave her chills.

  17

  Annie was exhausted when she closed the door behind the last of her dinner guests, but her work for the night wasn’t over. She pulled out the papers that she’d taken from Golden Living and sat at the dining room table with Jason and another glass of wine.

  Jason put his hand on top of the papers. “You know, we could just turn these over to the police and let them see where it leads.”

  “We could.” Annie pushed Jason’s hand off. “But I’m not going to. If we find something, then we can make a plan.”

  Jason gently pushed Annie’s hand away, effectively covering the papers again. “How will you explain how this information landed on our table?”

  Annie sipped her wine. “If what I think, and Marvin also seems to believe, indicates something illegal is going on related to how Golden Living gets money from the residents, whoever misses these papers won’t be going to the police.”

  “Good point. They’ll be going after you. Did you think of that?”

  “I wasn’t even in Dawn’s office, as far as she knows. Thelma fainted, Sylvia fell in the hallway, there was such confusion and with so many people around, any one of them could have taken the papers. With a few hints strategically dropped and the rumor mill spreading them, it might just play into the power struggle between Dawn and Gloria.”

  Jason stroked his chin. “Tell me more about those two. Dawn is the manager and Gloria is the secretary?”

  “Right. Dawn switches between super nice and super rude; Gloria probably runs the show, at least behind the scenes, and I think she wants more credit and possibly more money. Martha heard through the Golden Living grapevine that she might have an addiction to prescription drugs which would put her in the market for some easy cash.”

  “If that’s true.”

  “Of course, if it’s true.”

  With his hand still on the pile of papers, Jason asked, “What are you hoping to find in here?”

  “I’m not sure. Sylvia said her money is running out and she has to move at the end of the month, but when she moved in, she got assurances that there was plenty of money for her to stay as long as she needed to. Where did her money disappear to?”

  Jason considered this information. “You need to get her bank statements and any other financial information so we can compare that to what may be in here. We can look for transfers to mysterious accounts for starters, but it won’t be easy. Does she have anyone, maybe a close family member, looking out for her?”

  “No. She’s on her own. Well, except for Martha who visits a lot, but I don’t think she’s been helping Sylvia with her finances.”

  Jason’s face lit up. “You may be on to something, Annie. We need to make a list of people at Golden Living who are on their own; no family or a close friend to keep an eye on their finances. They would be an easier target for anyone who is savvy about digging on the computer. It could be anyone at Golden Living targeting and taking advantage of those who are vulnerable.”

  “You mean, have them sign everything over and trust that Golden Living would take care of them? Who would be that naïve?”

  “It’s probably more complicated than that, but it makes sense to consider people on their own as the most plausible place to start to look for some type of money shenanigans.”

  Annie took one last paper from her pocket. “And there’s this.” She unfolded the paper and placed it on top of the rest.

  Jason’s eyes traveled between the paper and Annie. “What is it and how does it fit in with the other information?”

  Annie shifted in her chair and idly stroked Smokey who purred contentedly in her lap. “Thelma visited with someone at Golden Living who she used to know, Sean Woodman. He doesn’t interact with the other people living there but he did invite Thelma into his apartment. When I picked her up to go home, it was spacious, nice big windows facing a courtyard with an outside access. Thelma said it’s two apartments converted into one.”

  “It sounds like he has plenty of money to enjoy his privacy and a fancy apartment. What’s the problem with that?”

  “Thelma is generous in finding the good in people, but her visit with Sean left her uneasy. Once she mentioned she was considering moving to Golden Living, his interest in her finances took over the conversation.”

  “Thelma wants to move?” Jason’s eyes opened wide and his jaw dropped.

  “No.” Annie waved her hands in front of herself, like she was waving away his shock. “It was only our plan to try to get information from Dawn, actually. We didn’t even know Sean would jump into this conversation. And another thing. He had one corner of his apartment set up like an office with a couple of computers.”

  Jason leaned his head back and twisted it from side to side. “I’ll humor you for a minute longer. How does Sean fit into this money scam? Is he working alone or with others?”

  “I know it all sounds kind of ridiculous but there is a connection. Forrest, the guy who was murdered, appeared to be friendly with Sean, at least according to Marvin.” Annie held up her finger to keep Jason from interrupting. “And, Forrest negotiated a sale for Sylvia. She’s desperate for money an
d she sold a family lithograph by Norman Rockwell. I saw it in Sean’s apartment.” She sat back and let out a big sigh.

  “What you are telling me is that someone is scamming the folks that reside at Golden Living out of their savings.” He tapped his reading glasses on the pile of papers. “You think there could be information in here to expose this scam. Forrest could be the common link but he got on the wrong side of whoever is running it and ended up dead.”

  Annie nodded her head vigorously. “Right. Is that so far-fetched?”

  “Nope. But looking for that connection in these papers is going to be like looking for a needle in a haystack. The only hope is to get more information from Sylvia to see where her money actually went and then the police can take over. And find out what bank Golden Living uses.”

  “The other thing that has been bothering me is about Marvin. He always seems to be in the area, keeping an eye on the comings and goings whenever something happens. He hated Forrest and didn’t seem to be upset at all that he’s dead. I’m not sure I want him to be privy to anything we uncover. Just in case.”

  “Just in case he’s the murderer?”

  “Exactly. But then the rest of my theory connecting a money scam to the murder has no merit. I don’t think Marvin is the type to force elders out on the street.”

  “Or he has you completely bamboozled. I think Marvin knows how to play someone to get what he wants. Be careful around him.”

  Jason stood and stretched. “Are we done for the night?”

  “I think I’ll take Roxy out for a short walk. Do you want to come?”

  “Okay. It’s a cool night. A good chance to clear my head from all this.” He waved his hand over the papers on the table.

  At the sound of her name, Roxy was off the couch and waiting at the door. Annie stuck her small flashlight in her pocket and pulled on a flannel shirt. Jason followed Annie and Roxy outside.

  The spring air felt fresh and clean. Lights across the lake reflected on the water, making it look like stars twinkling on the choppy surface. A barred owl hoo-hooed in the distance. Annie slipped her hand into Jason’s and matched her stride to his. Roxy dashed back and forth across the trail, following whatever smells her nose picked up.

  “Do you really think Marvin could be the killer after the story he told us tonight?” Jason asked. “That incident from his working past shaped his life. Even if he hated Forrest, I think he has a stronger drive to protect people.”

  “I hope you’re right. He’s a quirky guy but I’m getting attached to him. I’d hate for him to be the killer, even if it was for what he thought were the right reasons.”

  The lights from the houses set back from the path were enough to illuminate the trail. When they got near Thelma’s house, Annie was surprised to see it well lit up still. She nudged Jason with her elbow. “What do you think those three are up to?”

  “Maybe Thelma’s crossword puzzle? Wouldn’t that be a gift to you?” He laughed. “Seriously, I wouldn’t be surprised if they are discussing Sylvia’s situation. If she is out of money and has to move, maybe they’ll figure out a solution.”

  “Thelma doesn’t beat around the bush, so you could be right. Maybe she’ll offer Sylvia a room in her house. Thelma’s son doesn’t want her living alone and Sylvia could be good company.”

  They walked in silence for a few minutes. “Did I tell you that the murder weapon belonged to Sylvia?” Annie felt Jason’s hand tighten around her fingers.

  “No. That tidbit has been missing from the narrative.” Jason sounded annoyed.

  “And, she shot her husband in self-defense twenty years ago.”

  “Maybe she shot the Easter bunny because he tried to rob her apartment? Come on, Annie, you can’t eliminate a possible suspect because you like them. When were you planning to tell me these important details?”

  “You’re right. Sylvia and Marvin need to be considered as suspects. I got sidetracked with the papers and Sylvia’s financial predicament.”

  “I know you did, but that financial predicament put her in Dawn’s office at the time of the murder. I think all this money stuff is a wild goose chase so you don’t have to look at the facts which are staring you in the face about someone you like.”

  Annie knew Jason was at least partly correct. She didn’t want Sylvia to be the murderer, but she had to consider that what she wanted might not be reality.

  “Get Sylvia’s financial information and find out more about her gun and her history. There isn’t a rule that says a killer can’t be dressed as a little old lady that wrings her hands and acts helpless. Don’t forget that.”

  18

  Annie was happy she didn’t have to get to the Black Cat Café first on Saturday morning. Leona had that responsibility squarely back on her shoulders.

  The oldies station blasted when Annie opened the door after the sun was up. Leona sang and danced between the work island where she had the mixer set up and the oven which was already filling the café with mouthwatering aromas. Delicious cakes, moist muffins, crumbly scones, and juicy pies covered the counters. And, of course, plenty of Leona’s special Easter hot cross buns were cooling on racks. It would be virtually impossible for anyone to enter and leave empty-handed with all the temptations on display.

  Unless they ate their treats and put on blinders before leaving.

  “You’re full of energy this morning,” Annie said as she tied on a red apron with black cats leaping in the air.

  Leona turned the mixer off and pointed her wooden spoon at Annie. “Thanks to you. I haven’t felt this refreshed in a long time. You and Jason should go away for a night or two.”

  “My thought exactly.” But Annie’s planning would have to wait.

  Mia arrived, and the three women efficiently got the café ready for a holiday weekend rush.

  Annie stocked the pastry display with warm-from-the-oven blueberry muffins, fruit tarts, individual lemon cakes, and Leona’s own marshmallow Easter critters. Rich sour cream coffee cakes smothered with streusel topping and gooey custard-filled éclairs were ready to be added as soon as space was available. A special section was set up just for the dozens of hot cross buns that were sure to fly from the café.

  With the addition of a vase with daffodils on each table and booth, Mia stood back and surveyed the café. “The coffee’s ready and the drink cart is well stocked with a variety of teas, a bowl of freshly whipped cream, sugar, and hot chocolate mix.” Her voice held pride.

  With everything looking festive and smelling scrumptious, Annie fixed herself a coffee, sat down at the counter, and snagged a warm hot cross bun off the cooling rack while Leona’s back was turned. “I hope we have enough for this weekend.” She caught a bit of the sugar frosting with her tongue before it had a chance to drip on the counter.

  “I hope we have enough for today,” Leona said. “I’ll be baking plenty more this afternoon and tomorrow morning. I have a pile of orders on my desk that still need to be boxed up for pickup today which will put a good dent in what I’ve already baked this morning.” She wiped her forehead with the back of her hand, leaving a faint trail of flour just below her hair. “I loved my little get-away but it’s even better to be back!”

  Annie washed the hot cross bun down with the rest of her coffee and unlocked the café door.

  As if she had been waiting just outside for the sound of the lock, Martha pushed through, followed by Sylvia and Marvin. “Good morning ladies. It sure does smell scrumptious in here.”

  Marvin immediately made his way to the pastry display. He studied each tray before he looked at Annie. “I want that big hot cross bun that’s all the way in the back. Got to get my money’s worth.”

  Annie used a waxed sheet to reach in for the bun. “This one?” She knew they were all the same but if Marvin thought this one was bigger, she’d humor him.

  He shook his head. “No, the one next to it. And I’ll take two more in a bag to take with me. That one and that one.” He pointed to one on the
edge and another in the corner. “My mother, Peggy Sue, always made hot cross buns. Yours probably won’t be as good as hers.”

  Annie suppressed a smile at Marvin’s insult. It was part of his character, after all.

  He took his plate and made himself comfortable in the same booth he sat in on Thursday.

  Martha selected a blueberry muffin. “I know I should try something different but nothing ever seems to taste as good as Leona’s blueberry muffins. And I know these just got baked this morning.”

  “A lot of people agree with you on that, Martha.” Annie glanced at Marvin and saw he was busy eating his bun with a fork. She lowered her voice. “How was their night at Thelma’s house? Did you get any details?”

  “I didn’t get all the details but Marvin complained about her guest bed. It was too soft, I think he might have moved to the floor; and he said all the branches on the trees kept banging against the house so he couldn’t sleep. I don’t think Thelma will invite him back again. Sylvia slept well but I have the feeling she’s nervous about going back to her apartment. She insisted we stop here, not that I mind at all.”

  “She’s only having coffee and nothing to eat?” Annie saw that Sylvia was sitting across from Marvin staring out the window with only a coffee in front of her.

  “Give me another muffin for her. Maybe she doesn’t want to spend the money.”

  Martha carried two plates to the booth and slid in next to Sylvia. Annie’s attention was pulled away from that trio when Detective Christy Crank arrived at the pastry display. She definitely had her work look in place with her hair pulled into a tight bun.

  “Oh my. There are more choices here than hairs on the Easter bunny. What do you recommend?”

  Annie wondered if somehow that was a trick question. “Everyone loves the blueberry muffins, but Leona only makes these hot cross buns at Easter time.”

  “Hot cross buns, huh? I haven’t had one of those since the last time I visited my grandmother. I’ll take a half dozen.”

  “Since when did you develop such a big sweet tooth?” Annie knew Christy didn’t carry an extra ounce on her petite frame.