Photo Bombed

by Daria White

  “I was at Martin Davis’ memorial.”

  Nora raised her eyebrows. “You were?”

  How would she play this? “Yeah, I think I saw you talking with Priscilla, his widow.”

  She and Nora walked into the semi-full parking lot.

  Nora adjusted her purse. “She’s… something.”

  Bianca didn’t respond.

  Nora paused her steps and turned to face her. “You two are friends?”

  “I’m friends with her daughter-in-law. Nicole Lee.” Could she ask Nora a question without being too obvious? Would Nora be defensive?

  “I see.” Nora cleared her throat. “Well, I hope things work out and whoever did this gets what they deserve.”

  “Were you close with Martin?” Bianca asked. She might as well keep her act up if it would get her the information she needed.

  Nora raised an eyebrow, as if surprised. She huffed. “I was his wife before he left me for Priscilla.” She shuffled her feet in the space she stood. “This was a mistake coming here. I don’t know why I thought coming to pay my respects would bring me peace. It didn’t.”

  “I hope I didn’t upset you,” Bianca said.

  Nora pinched the bridge of her narrow nose. “You seem to care about this family. My advice to you? Leave them alone. Especially Priscilla. She’s nothing but trouble. She’ll put on a smile one minute but turn on you in the next.”

  What? How would Nora know that? Was she only talking as a woman hurt and humiliated by her late former husband? How angry was she?

  “I’ve said too much.” Her thin lips pressed together for a moment. She toyed with the collar of her floral blouse. “Thank goodness I’m leaving town tonight. I can’t stay here knowing that he…”

  Bianca tilted her head, hoping she would finish.

  Nora sighed. “I didn’t get your name.”

  She extended her hand to hers. “Bianca Wallace.”

  Nora gripped her hand—tightly. “Stay clear, Bianca. Whoever did this to Martin will stop at nothing.” She released her grip and marched to her car.

  Had that been a warning? Who? That was the burning question. Who?

  Chapter 17

  “What is this? Thanksgiving dinner?” Bianca’s eyes widened at the smoked turkey on her mother’s kitchen island. Another Sunday meal after church that she couldn’t wait to indulge in.

  “I had it in the freezer and it needed to be cooked,” her mother said.

  Bianca bent over to smell it. “It’s not freezer-burned, is it?”

  Her mother eyed her. “No, it’s a good turkey. Have a taste.”

  Bianca reached for a piece of meat from the breast of the bird. She said a silent prayer in case her mother was wrong about the freezer burn. One bite and a hmm escaped her throat. “Okay.” Juicy. Flavorful.

  “See.” Her mother winked at her. “Grab the pan of cornbread dressing.”

  Jasper, Horas, and Casper ran into the kitchen. Horas stood on his hind legs, while the other two barked.

  Bianca’s mother gestured for them to go back to the living room. “Back. Go back.”

  Horas and Jasper obeyed, but Casper lingered. Bianca clapped her hands and he followed. Once he was out the kitchen, she returned to assist her mother.

  “Mom.” Bianca did as her mother asked and followed her to the dining area with the cornbread dressing. “Again, what’s with the fancy meal?”

  “We can’t have one?” her mother asked.

  “I just wondered.” Bianca set the pan on the cloth-covered table.

  Her mother tapped her fingers on the back of one of her wooden dining chairs. “I figured we could use a fancy meal. There’s been a lot going on in town. I thought it would help get our mind off things.”

  Bianca cleared her throat and walked back to the kitchen.

  Her mother trailed behind her. “What’s that look for?”

  Bianca didn’t tell her mother about her personal investigation. She rolled her eyes as she faced the cabinets. One moment she’d had the answer, and the next, she couldn’t tell who the culprit was. Perhaps her mother was right. They needed a break from it all. For now.

  “Nothing. A lot on my mind.”

  Her mother grabbed a glass pitcher of iced tea from her stainless steel refrigerator. “Want to talk about it?”

  Bianca could change the subject. “Well… Malcom called.”

  Her mother flinched. “Really?”

  “Yes. He wants Alyssa to spend the summer with him.”

  Her mother placed the pitcher on the counter. “What did you say?”

  “Alyssa is old enough to decide for herself. If she wants to go, I’m fine with it.”

  Her mother folded her arms. “I never thought I would hear you say that. After everything he’s put you through.”

  Bianca leaned against the counter. “I know, but he’s still her father. We’re not together anymore, but Alyssa will always connect us. I can’t change that.”

  Her mother gave a faint smile. “I’m proud of you. That can’t be easy.”

  “It’s difficult.”

  “Did I tell you I think you’re an incredible mother?” Her mother’s grin grew.

  Bianca’s limbs tingled with warmth. “Really?”

  “Why does that surprise you?” Her mother raised an eyebrow as if taken aback by her reaction.

  Bianca pinched the skin at her throat. “I guess I felt bad because… my marriage didn’t last like yours and dad’s.”

  Her mother’s lips parted, but then she extended her arms. “Come here, girl.”

  Bianca didn’t hesitate to hug her mother. Her mother patted her back and rocked her. Then she pulled back but placed her hands on her daughter’s shoulders.

  “I know I said you were too young, but sweetie, you were always beyond your years. You proved me wrong and I know you’re capable of anything you put your mind to. It did not disappoint me. I just hated that you got hurt.” Her mother’s voice choked. “I never liked seeing you hurt.”

  “Mom.” Bianca held back her own tears.

  Her mother touched her cheek. “Just because it didn’t work out with Malcom doesn’t mean you can’t experience love with someone else.” She sighed. “I guess… that’s why I’ve tried to work my matchmaking expertise with you. Not to force you, but I still want for you what I had with your father. Not perfect love, but unconditional love.”

  Bianca took her mother’s hand. “I appreciate that, but can you let me find it in my own time? I keep telling you, I’m okay.”

  Her mother bobbed her head. “I’m getting better, but I can’t help if I see an eligible bachelor whom I think will be perfect for you. But if—”

  “Mom?”

  Her mother held up her palms. “I promise no more matchmaking… unless I think he’s perfect for you.”

  “You’re not letting this go, are you?” Bianca shook her head.

  Her mother’s mouth twisted into a grin. “I will respect your wishes.”

  Bianca gave her mother two weeks. Her matchmaking skills couldn’t go unused.

  They both laughed.

  “Okay, we got the cranberry sauce,” Melanie said, toting in grocery bags with Alyssa by her side. Her sister pointed back and forth between Bianca and their mother. “Everything okay?”

  “Perfect.” Bianca’s mother winked at her.

  When the doorbell rang, the women turned their heads. The dogs barked as usual.

  “I’ll get it.” Her mother walked to the door.

  “I wonder,” Melanie said.

  “Wonder what?” Alyssa asked.

  “What are you talking about?” Bianca asked.

  Melanie wrapped both her arms around Bianca’s and Alyssa’s shoulders, forming a small huddle. “How much do you want to bet it’s Mr. Luther Burkes?”

  “Twenty dollars,” Alyssa said, but her lips parted when she stared at her mother.

  Bianca eyed her daughter. Then she faced her sister. “We don’t know that. He only came one ti
me.”

  “But we all know he’s got a thing for Mom.” Melanie added.

  “All right, Grandma!” Alyssa said.

  Bianca had to admit it was cute to see her mother and Luther together. Had he told her how he felt? So far, her mother had mentioned nothing else about them.

  “Come on in.” Her mother led Luther into the kitchen. “We were just getting ready to sit at the table.”

  Luther nodded his head in acknowledgement. “Nice to see you again, ladies.”

  “Hello,” Melanie and Alyssa said together.

  Bianca grinned. “Good to see you as well.”

  “Can you girls bring the rest of the food to the table?” Her mother then touched Luther’s arm and led him to the dining room.

  “All right now.” Melanie’s eyes followed them.

  “Grandma’s dating.” Alyssa bobbed her head. “That’s… different.”

  “You thought you were the only one?” Melanie commented, but then covered her mouth as if realizing her blunder.

  “Aunt Mel!” Alyssa’s eyes bugged as she made eye contact with her mother. “Mom, I was going to—”

  “I figured things were getting cozy with Kendrick.” Bianca folded her arms.

  Alyssa cleared her throat. “I’m… going to join Grandma and Mr. Burkes.” She grabbed the pitcher of iced tea.

  Melanie bit her bottom lip. “Don’t embarrass her too much.”

  “I’ll talk to her when we get home. Let’s see what’s going on with Mom first.”

  “Is everybody hooking up in town?” Melanie asked.

  “Are you?” Bianca tilted her head to the side.

  Melanie’s eyes scanned the room. “You know, I think I heard Mom call my name.”

  “Yeah, right.” Bianca reached into her pocket for her phone. “Give me a minute. I need to make a quick call.”

  “Okay.” Melanie exited the kitchen.

  Bianca inched closer to the window and found Malcom’s name. She was going to need specific dates so they could plan Alyssa’s trip. The dial tone rang in her ear and she tapped her foot as she waited.

  “Hello?” a woman said.

  Bianca turned her phone to check the number. He couldn’t have changed it in the last few days. “I’m calling for Malcom. This is Bianca.”

  “Oh, hi. He just stepped outside with the dog. This is Hope.”

  Hope. She should have known. She hadn’t talked to Malcom’s wife, not since the divorce had become final. Hope seemed nice, but how was her having an affair with her husband nice? Pressure increased as Bianca sucked in her cheeks to bite down. Almost three years since the betrayal, but she had to get used to her. If she’s what Malcom wanted, she could have him.

  “Hope, can you tell him I called? I wanted to get the dates for Alyssa’s visit in the summer.”

  “Sure. No problem. I’m looking forward to having her,” she said.

  “Thanks. Bye.” Bianca hung up. How was she supposed to end the conversation with her ex-husband’s new wife? Have a good day? Bianca rubbed at her chest. Some days were better than others, but at least she didn’t hate Malcolm anymore.

  Snapping her fingers, she wanted to call Priscilla too before she forgot. Her shoulders drooped when she only got her voicemail. Beep.

  “Hey Priscilla, I’m just checking on you. Let us know if you need anything. Also I’m sending you your anniversary photos in the mail so keep an eye out.” She sighed. “No rush to call back. Take all the time you need.” Bianca hung up.

  Pressing her phone to her lips, Bianca decided to send Nicole a quick message too.

  Hope you’re okay. Here if you need me

  Bianca’s phone buzzed again, and she wondered if it was Nicole responding. Not this time. It was a text message from an unknown number. Bianca opened it.

  STAY OUT OF IT!

  A slight chill went through her body. What? Who’d sent this? The killer? A wrong number? Bianca put away her phone. Forcing her limbs to relax, she licked her lips.

  “Bianca? Come on, let’s eat.” Her mother called out.

  “Coming.” Bianca stuffed her phone back into her pocket. Forcing a smile, she joined them at the table.

  Chapter 18

  After lacing up her sneakers, Bianca rolled her shoulders back. One perk of being an entrepreneur was she could switch up her schedule whenever she wanted. Once she dropped Alyssa off at school and mailed Priscilla her anniversary photos, Bianca went for a run. Hopefully the pictures would lift Priscilla’s spirits. Bianca even added a personal note, reminding Priscilla she would be there for her.

  Casper would have joined her in the park, but she’d left him with Melanie. Mel was not a morning person. Neither was Bianca, but after the disturbing message, perhaps a jog in the park would benefit her.

  She hadn’t replied to it. What was she supposed to say? She wouldn’t stop until the killer was behind bars? Was it the killer? She’d received random texts before. Solicitors called all the time from unknown numbers, and while Bianca didn’t care for them, it didn’t make them murderers. Thankfully, that was the only message.

  Blowing out her cheeks, she stretched her legs and arms. Was it all in her head? A slight heaviness took over her stomach. It was a threat. The police needed to know. That was what her mother would tell her.

  Bianca’s eyes widened. She wouldn’t tell her mother. Melanie, perhaps, but not her mother. Running at a steady pace, she followed the trail in the park and jogged. Her huffs became more intense as her feet slapped against the dirt road.

  Her heart rate increased. What if she was being followed? Sweat tickled her hairline, but she kept her pace as she ran. Bianca passed by the trees of various heights as she breathed in the morning humid air.

  Then she detected another sound against the path. Was it another runner? She looked behind her shoulder to see a man in a dark jogging suit with a baseball cap. His face seemed familiar with his strong chin, broad chest, and towering in height. He had to be over six feet.

  Bianca faced forward. There was no need to panic. She heard his huffs of breath. Would he pass her? Bianca didn’t look behind her again. She didn’t want him to think she was being suspicious. Then again, she was. He sounded closer as she heard the jarring of his feet against the pavement.

  Bianca’s instincts kicked in. She ran faster, praying that he changed courses or passed her altogether.

  The man puffed. “Trying to get away from me?”

  Bianca sprinted ahead. What was the plan? Trees lined them on both sides. He could kill her, hide her body, and no one would see. If she remembered the path, she would come upon the pond soon. Fewer trees and more visibility.

  Did she scream? Why had she left her phone in the car? When the pond came into view, she sprinted ahead. The parking lot wouldn’t be that much farther. Then she saw someone in the distance. Did she wave her arms? Yes.

  Bianca waved her arms in the air. “Help! Help!”

  A hand touched her back, which only made her run harder. She would be sore after this jog, but at least she would be alive. As she got closer to the person ahead of her, she recognized it as Detective Sims. Judging by his athletic attire, he’d come to work out too.

  “Detective!” she shouted.

  He didn’t ask questions, but appeared to brace himself to catch the guy behind her. What Bianca didn’t count on was the guy grabbing the hem of her jacket. He tugged, but then pushed her forward. Bianca tripped over her feet. She would fall into the pond.

  It happened so fast, but she reached out for Detective Sims to break her fall. He went with her into the water. Splash! Cold water hit Bianca’s face, but she felt hands around her waist and her body turned. She flailed her arms about her, looking for the bottom to push herself up. Thank goodness the pond wasn’t that deep.

  “Bianca! Bianca!”

  She gasped for air and turned to sit in the water. Bianca rubbed her eyes despite the blurriness in her vision. “Wh-What?”

  She felt firm hands on her should
ers. “Are you all right?”

  Bianca coughed. She must have swallowed some water. Gross. “I-I’m…”

  Detective Sims patted her back. “Take your time.”

  Blinking to see her surroundings, her head shifted to see the guy who’d pushed her. He was long gone. “Did he get away?”

  “Yeah, but I’ve got an excellent memory.”

  “Why didn’t you go after him? I would have been okay. Why didn’t you catch him?” she asked.

  Detective Sims motioned his hand to her left side. Bianca leaned in for a better look. A rock. A large rock.

  “Oh,” she said.

  “I didn’t want you to hit your head. I had to act quickly.”

  Bianca’s chest heaved as she slowed her breathing. “Oh… thank you.” She would’ve hated to be another victim.

  “Do you know that guy?” he asked.

  She shivered. “Can we get out of this pond first?”

  He chuckled and extended his hands. Bianca took them as she stood to her feet. She was soaked from head to toe. Great.

  “You sure you’re okay?”

  “I’ll be fine.” They stepped back onto the grass. She took off her jacket and wrung the water out onto the ground.

  Detective Sims asked again. “Did you know that guy?”

  “His face looked familiar, but I couldn’t tell. I don’t think he’s from around here.” Bianca draped her soaked jacket over her shoulder. “He was following me.”

  Detective Sims cocked his head to the side. “For how long?”

  “A few minutes while I was running. I thought nothing of it. Then he said, ‘Trying to get away from me?’”

  “Did he say anything else?”

  “No.” She shook her head. “I wonder if…”

  “Wonder what?” he asked.

  Now was her opportunity. “I got a… text yesterday on my phone. I was at my mother’s house. The message read, ‘Stay out of it’ in all caps.”

  Detective Sims pressed his hands against his temples. “You’re just now telling me this?”

  “You think there’s a connection with Martin’s—”

  “Ms. Wallace,” he said. They were back to that. “If you’re in danger, the police need to know. Don’t handle things on your own. Not something like this.”