An Appointment With Murder by Jennifer L. Jennings;John Simon Read Free Book Online Page A

mean, that’s a pretty big jump from not liking someone to thinking they’re a murderer.”
    “I agree. But he seems pretty sure of it.”
    “Maybe he’s blaming Jacob simply because there’s no one else to pin it on right now.”
    “Who knows?”
    “So,” Gabby smiled slyly and drummed her fingers on the bar, “just how gorgeous is Beth’s brother?”
    “What do you care?” I teased. “You don’t do men, remember? By the way,” I added, desirous of changing the subject, “are you going with me to Beth’s service tomorrow?”
    “Sure. Can we meet at the office? I have a few massage appointments scheduled for later in the day.”
    “That’s fine.”
    “So when are you going back to work?”
    “Wednesday. I’ve scheduled three appointments. I’m not so sure I’m ready, but I need to make some money,” I said, finishing my drink.
    “Tell me about it.” Gabby pushed off from her stool, reached into her purse, and pulled out her car keys.
    “Not back on track with everything yet? Don’t mean to pry. Just concerned.”
    “Oh, I’m getting by. And, really, thanks for asking.”
    “You know, I’ve been thinking. Why don’t you take some of my clients? I need to start slowing down. My body can’t take much more.”
    “Really? Are you sure? I mean, you’ve worked hard for the clients you have. You really want to give them away?”
    “I need to, Gabby. I’d rather have them go to you than to some other therapist. You have amazing, strong hands, you deserve a break, and they already know you. Speaking of your amazing hands, think you could work on my back one of these days?”
    “Of course. Anything for you.”
    “Don’t want another drink?” I asked, sensing she was anxious to leave.
    “Thanks, but I’m meeting some friends over at this new gay bar in town called Veronica’s. Would you like to join us?”
    “Boy, it’s tempting,” I said, manufacturing what was intended to be a wicked smile. “Maybe another time.”
    Gabby laughed. “You don’t know what you’re missing,” she said, discreetly giving her right breast a little squeeze, me a wink, and leaving me alone in the bar.
    It was early, but I probably should have gone home. Truth was, though, I was feeling a little restless. Between the general excitement of the day and my botched attempt at playing private eye, the adrenaline was still flowing. The business with Lindy had really gotten me riled up. I felt like I was onto something big. But I had to make a decision. Was I going to divulge what I’d learned today to the police?
    With no one at home to cook for, I decided to stay and have dinner by myself. A heaping plate of nachos sounded good. And what the hell, I ordered another margarita, too.

Tuesday, November 9
     
    Coombs Funeral Home was at the south end of town across from the park. As we walked in, Gabby and I found ourselves among a hundred or so people. So much for a private service. This was a full house. People were milling around in groups, speaking in hushed tones. Soft, melancholy music was playing in the background. I scanned the room, leaned in close to Gabby, and whispered; “I don’t see Jacob anywhere.”
    “Hmm. Maybe he wasn’t invited,” she mused.
    My eyes made another circuit of the room and I spotted Max standing next to a large framed photo of Beth smiling and leaning against a tree. An urn rested on a pedestal next to the photo. Max was talking with a young woman I assumed to be his girlfriend. She wore a navy blue dress, and her short, dark hair reminded me of Demi Moore’s in the movie Ghost. I took Gabby’s arm and we made our way through the crowd. As we approached the couple, Max turned and smiled.
    “Sarah, so nice of you to come.” He leaned down and air kissed my cheek.
    I introduced him to Gabby, whose cheek was treated to the same, sweet gesture. Gabby shot me a quick glance. The guy was a charmer, for sure. Max then introduced the young woman.
    “This is Melissa Foley,” he