Cross Roads by Fern Michaels Read Free Book Online Page B

to him. That doesn’t say much for us, now, does it? I’ve known Hank for a long time. The man sent Charles and me a wedding present. I’m having trouble with all of this, Maggie,” Myra said fretfully. “Charles is…I think Charles would have said something if he…suspected anything was amiss. They’re personal as well as undercover-business friends. They go way back. Who did you send there, and why aren’t you sure if Hank is in residence?”
    â€œIt’s not important who I sent. What’s important is that the person had a thermal-imaging camera, and he picked up on three persons in the house. There’s a housekeeper and a grounds-keeper. Jellicoe would make the third person. Or the third person could be the head of his personal security. My person said he’s seen him go into the house and stay for hours. I’m not sure. Like I said, the security at that farm is worthy of Fort Knox.”
    â€œBut if Jellicoe is up to something…illegal or…worse, why hasn’t whatever he was planning happened? It’s well over a year, and nothing particular seems to be wrong anywhere, so what is it specifically that is worrying you?” Annie asked.
    â€œIf I knew that, Annie, we wouldn’t be sitting here having a picnic in Rock Creek Park away from prying eyes and ears,” Maggie snapped irritably. “I just hate it when it won’t come together and I can’t figure it out.”
    Myra threw her hands up in the air. “I know the feeling.” She watched as a fat squirrel scampered toward the blanket. Two blue jays swooped down, then flew off. Annie tossed some of the breading from the fried chicken in the direction of the squirrel, which immediately picked it up and turned tail back to wherever it had come from.
    â€œWhat should we do?” Annie asked. “Do you think we’re in danger? Do you have a plan?”
    â€œNot yet. But here comes trouble. See that couple heading this way with a paper bag? What do you think the chances are of someone wanting to picnic in this exact spot where we are? Zip, that’s what. Come on, we’re outta here. There are devices on the market that can pick up conversations half a mile away. Farther, too, I’m told. Do not stare. Let’s see where they settle, then we pack up and leave. Act like everything is fine. If either one of you knows a joke, this would be a good time to tell it so we can all laugh.”
    â€œWe’re under surveillance? I-do-not-like-that!” Annie hissed as she threw more crumbs toward the squirrel, which had emerged to test the waters a second time.
    The women spoke softly about nothing as they watched the newcomers out of the corners of their eyes. All three women took note of the man’s Brooks Brothers loafers, the woman’s heels, and their business attire. There was no blanket being spread. A spur-of-the-moment picnic? A picnic on demand? Whatever was in the paper sack was staying in the paper sack.
    â€œTime to go, ladies!” Maggie said cheerfully. All it took was five seconds to scoop up the food and utensils and jam them into the picnic basket. Myra grabbed the blanket and stuffed it under her arm. Three minutes later, they were in the car.
    â€œAnnie, if you drive straight, you can loop around and be on the other side of this lot, and we can see when the picnickers leave, which I’m assuming will be within minutes. Can this baby burn rubber?”
    â€œWatch, you silly girl!” Annie said, flooring the gas pedal. “And we have liftoff!” Annie squealed as she followed Maggie’s directions.
    â€œMother of God, slow down, Annie. You just gave me whiplash! There it is, see the spot? Pull over and cut this engine. It sounds like it belongs to the Boeing Company.”
    â€œEveryone is a critic,” Annie grumbled.
    â€œOh, dear Lord! There they go! Maggie, you were absolutely right! Are we in danger?”