Page 86 of Backwater Justice

“Great idea,” Myra said. “Isabelle will be back this afternoon. Then she may want to go up to Blaine.”

“It’s a six-hour drive,” Annie reminded her. “But my jet will be here later today, so Izzie can fly up there.”

“How are we going to explain that to Dickie and Oliver? Remember, only Milton knows that Isabelle is with us.”

“Good point,” Annie said. “Maybe I can work it into the conversation somehow.”

“We’ll figure it out. We always do.” Myra smiled.

* * *

Maggie phoned Dickie and asked if he was available that afternoon to do a short interview about the Spangler family business.

“I’d be happy to do it.” Dickie was a little more relaxed now that the latest package was sequestered away from any possibility of discovery. “Do you want to meet at the office?”

“That would be perfect. I’ll take some photos if that’s okay.”

“I’m sure it will be fine.” Dickie was all puffed up. Someone was actually interested in hearing what he had to say.

* * *

It was getting close to noon. Myra and Annie stopped at a gourmet shop and picked up a variety of sandwiches. Patricia had volunteered Ruby to prepare something, but Myra and Annie insisted they would bring lunch.

When they arrived at the Spanglers’, Patricia was on her way out. “Hello. Milton is on the patio. I’ll be back around three.” She zombie-walked to her car.

“Is she alright?” Annie squinted.

“She hasn’t been alright since we got here,” Myra replied, as she watched Patricia get behind the wheel of her BMW.

“Do you think that’s a good idea?” Annie motioned to Patricia starting the engine.

“We have our hands full, dearie. She’s a big girl.” Myra tended to agree with Annie, but what could they do? Tell Patricia they didn’t think she was fit to drive? That could cause a big issue. And they had work to do.

They entered the house and made their way to the kitchen, where Ruby was having a cup of tea. “Hi, Ruby! We brought lunch for Mr. Spangler. Can you help us with some flatware and dishes?” Myra asked.

“Of course.” Ruby got up, went to the large cupboard, and took out plates and platters and set them on the counter. “Beverages?”

“Herbal tea?” Myra asked.

“Yes. Peppermint, chamomile, ginger?”

“I’ll take peppermint,” Annie said.

“Ginger for me, thanks.”

Ruby busied herself with the tea making while Myra plated the sandwiches and Annie tossed the salad.

They brought everything out to the patio, where Milton was gazing at the spectacular view.

“Hello, darling!” Annie said as she carried the tray of goodies.

“Ah, two of my favorite people.” Milton got up and gave Myra a hug, then Annie, after she set the tray down on the table.

“This looks wonderful. Patricia has had me on pablum and kefir.”

“Oh, she does not.” Myratsk-tsked.

Once everyone was settled at the table, the women began their subtle interrogation.

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