A Murderer's Heart by Julie Elizabeth Powell Read Free Book Online Page A

see her garden from this vantage point, Anne looked at the patchwork of fields before her.
    It always amazed her how lucky she’d been to find this house. For some reason developers hadn’t built in this area and the beauty of the place was breathtaking.
    She hoped the farmer would never sell this wonderful piece of land so that she could continue to bask in its beauty.
    After her run, Anne showered and tidied the house – though there was little need as Mrs Lund made sure it was thoroughly cleaned twice a week.
    Anne went into the garden and picked a basketful of fresh aromatic flowers. She filled the house with their scent – the roses were particularly heady.
    Satisfied, she worked some more on the coming week’s schedule and made notes to remind herself of things she mustn’t forget.
    Eventually she prepared a wonderful feast for her guests in her special room, the doors of which had been opened to allow in the warmth and smell of summer.
    With a last look, Anne was satisfied with what she saw then went to change once more, and was soon wearing a fresh white T-shirt, loose fitting jade cotton trousers and espadrilles on her feet – perfect for a picnic on a warm summer evening.
    She looked cool, comfortable and at ease as she welcomed her guests into her home, except for Sam who’d told her he wasn’t sure if he could make it, but if she didn’t mind would just turn up if and when.
    Of course she didn’t mind.
    Barbara had arrived first, at exactly 5.30pm – alone. She’d brought wine and a wicked box of chocolates for them to try later. Frank and his new conquest, Amanda, came next. She was as Anne expected; tall, blonde and very shapely. Anne could never understand how a successful man could fall for someone so….obvious. She reasoned he picked them because they didn’t use their brain – he probably had enough of women and their careers at the hospital. Still she seemed pleasant enough, and Frank looked happy.
    Jenny and David, each carrying a twin and a bottle of wine, apologised for being late. Wouldn’t you know it, Anne had been sick down the front of her dress and had to change – no nothing serious, just too much chocolate at lunch. The child certainly looked fine now as she grabbed her namesake around the neck.
    Holding onto her, Anne thought about the birth and realised how easily things could have been different. But here she was, as healthy as her sister and much loved.
    After hugging Sally, she let the children race into the garden.
    Smiling at the twins’ parents, she asked if everything was okay.
    “Yes, fine. There’s no need for you to come tomorrow, I’ll be fine with David,” whispered Jenny not wanting the others to hear.
    “Well, if you’re sure. Let me know if you change your mind, and please tell me what they say.”
    “Will do,” said David.
    As they went into the garden room, the doorbell rang again.
    The garden was full of people enjoying the late afternoon sun, eating the delicious food Anne had offered and drinking a little too much. The children were playing with Frank and, amazingly Amanda, with a ball they had found.
    Anne sat looking at the gathering with a feeling of peace.
    Sam had been able to make it in the end and sat next to her drinking a glass of wine.
    “It’s fantastic here, Anne, you must love to come home.”
    He sounded a little sad.
    Anne looked across at him.
    “Are you okay?”
    “Of course, I worry too much, and this peace is just what I need. I’m just envious of you finding a place like this, that’s all. But I’m glad you have.”
    He took her hand.
    “You’re a good friend, I worry about you sometimes, being on your own, but at least you have this.”
    “You do sound serious. Are you sure you’re okay?”
    “Yes. It’s been a wonderful evening. Those kids are brilliant. Have you ever wanted any of your own?” Sam asked.
    “Sometimes, but my work keeps me away from all that. Anyway, I have those two rascals.”
    Anne smiled as