Paintings Can Be Deadly (Sage Gardens Cozy Mystery Book 9)

by Cindy Bell

  “Ah, just give me the name.”

  She handed him a slip of paper and he walked over to his computer. “Is there a reason you want to know about David’s finances?”

  “He might be involved in some theft or insurance fraud, or both. I can’t say much more than that.”

  “I understand. At least it’s not some poor sap getting nabbed for buying candy and jewelry for another woman.”

  “Poor sap? If he’s buying things for his mistress, I’d say the wife is the victim.” She sat down in a recliner not far from his computer. “Don’t you think?”

  “I don’t know. I used to think so, but as life gets longer, sometimes I wonder. What if you married the wrong one? What if you fall in love with someone else? Is that really such a terrible thing?”

  “I wouldn’t know.” She shrugged and laughed.

  “Nor would I.” He winked at her. “But I can tell you that if I was married at my age I would want my freedom to choose what I did with my life. I wouldn’t want to feel obligated to a decision that I made many years before.”

  “That is true. Life changes over the years, and it changes the person you are. But the courteous thing to do is end a relationship before starting another,” Jo said.

  “Maybe. I just don’t know if it’s that simple anymore.” Walt continued to type. “People always think you can get married, and when it doesn’t work out, you can just get divorced. But they never think about the finances. Marriage, sure, it’s just a piece of paper, but what’s beyond that is far more binding than any piece of paper could be. You own a house together, bank accounts together, debt together. It is endless and unraveling it all, especially late in life, is not an easy task.”

  “I’ve never really thought about that, but I guess you’re right.”

  “Maybe that’s why people stay together when they shouldn’t.”

  “Maybe,” Jo said.

  “Well, from what I can tell he has a very bad credit rating. He’s dodging bill collectors. His money must be very tight. He is up to his ears in debt.” Walt continued to type information into the computer.

  “That just confirms what my friend told me about him. Thanks Walt.”

  “Anytime. If I come across anything else, I’ll let you know.” He walked her to the front door. “Or if you want to share something else.”

  “That’s it for now.” She grinned.

  “I’m always happy to help you.”

  “I know that, Walt. Thank you.” She smiled.

  “Yes, Jo thank you, I mean you’re welcome.”

  Jo grinned as she closed the door behind her. On her way back to her villa she considered what information she had about David.

  When she reached her villa she placed a few calls to some local fencing contacts. She wanted to be sure that Bruce wasn’t still in the business. When she got hold of one particular contact her skin crawled with memories of her interactions with him.

  “Well, well, nice to hear from you, Jo. Do you have something for me?”

  “I’m not involved in that life anymore, Boggs.”

  “But you called. Is there something else you want from me?”

  “Yes. Some information on a couple of people.”

  “Information? What, are you a cop now?”

  “No, I just need some information.”

  “What for?”

  “Are you going to help me?”

  “Are you going to pay me?”

  “If that’s what it takes, then I will. But only if you actually have some information for me.”

  “Give me the names.” She gave him David and Bruce’s full names.

  “All right, meet me at six. You know where to find me.”

  “Okay, I’ll be there.”

  “Bring cash.”

  “Yes, Boggs.” She rolled her eyes and hung up the phone. Although she wanted the information she wasn’t sure if Boggs was telling her the truth and would give her the information if he had any, or if he was just baiting her so that he could see her in person. She glanced at her watch and saw that it was already late. She had missed lunch so she threw together an early dinner. As she ate she jotted down what she already knew about both Bruce and David. She also added her own thoughts about her experiences with Bruce. She wanted to believe that he was trustworthy, but her past made it impossible.

  A few minutes before six Jo parked around the block from Boggs’ office. He rented a small space, not a shop or a building, but just a tiny office without a sign. He hopped between three or four of the offices, but she always met him at the same one. As she suspected his beat-up motorcycle was parked in front of the office building. As she walked up to the door she prepared herself for what she might face. Boggs had a reputation for violent outbursts, especially if he wasn’t shown the respect he believed he was owed. She pushed the door open and stepped inside to find Boggs crammed behind his desk. He was at least fifty pounds heavier than the last time she saw him.

  “Jo, I wasn’t sure if you’d show up.”

  “I wasn’t sure if you actually had information for me.” She sat down as far from his desk as she could manage.

  “I do.” He scrutinized her from across the desk. “But I’m not sure that I want to give it to you.”

  “I brought the money.”

  “Good. But that’s not what I’m concerned about. I’m concerned about whether or not you’re working with the cops.”

  “Boggs, please, you know me.”

  “Do I? It’s been a long time since I’ve heard your voice or seen your pretty face. I thought we were friends?”

  Jo gritted her teeth and lowered her eyes.

  “Are you going to give me the information or not?”

  “Watch your tone, girl.”

  “I’m hardly a girl.” She laughed. “Aren’t we both a bit old for this, Boggs?” She sat forward and met his eyes. “I’m here to do business not play cat and mouse.”

  “Maybe you should play, if you want the information. Tell me about your life.”

  “No, I’m not here for small talk. I’m here for information, which I’m starting to see you don’t have.” She stood up from her chair.

  “Sit down.” He pointed to a chair closer to the desk. Jo froze where she stood and considered whether to turn and leave. If she did Boggs would be angry, but by the time he extricated himself from the desk she would be long gone. However, she would lose him as a contact, and that wasn’t something that she wanted to risk. She sat down in the chair that he directed her to.

  “Fine, I’m sitting.”

  “Good. You’ve lost some of your manners over the years.”

  “Or maybe I’m just not as easily intimidated.”

  “Maybe, but you should be. Perhaps you forget how long my reach is?” He brushed a napkin across his upper lip to sop up the sweat that gathered there.

  “I’m aware of your reach, Boggs, and I’m not here to disrespect you, but the information I need is time sensitive.”

  “All right. I didn’t find much on Bruce, but David is definitely active.”

  “Who is he selling to?”

  “I don’t know. Things aren’t like they used to be. Everything is digital now. Maybe he’s selling on some website somewhere, I can’t keep up with that technology. The point is, some of my customers have been sniffing around him lately, which means he’s probably selling somewhere. Honestly, I’m upset about it, because he knows he should be going through me.”

  “But you don’t think Bruce is involved?”

  “If he is there’s not even a whisper about it. How are you caught up in all of this? I thought you went straight.”

  “I did, I still am. Bruce asked for my help.”

  “Ah, I see. So, anything for Bruce, but not even a phone call for me?”

  “I called you now didn’t I?”

  “I guess. Better late than never.”

  “If you come across any information about who David is selling to, give me a call, all right?” She wrote her
number on a piece of paper and slid it across the desk to him.

  “Are you going to answer?” He smiled at her as she backed away towards the door.

  “For you, Boggs, of course.”

  As soon as Jo was outside the door of the office she thought about changing her number. Maybe if she wasn’t so keen on finding out information about David, she would have. Boggs left a shiver down her spine that was hard to shake. She got into her car and drove back towards her villa. It was just dark. As she reached her villa the sounds of the frogs that populated the tall reeds around the water, filled the air. She took a breath of the scents that wafted from her garden before she stepped inside. Maybe there would be another way that didn’t include relying on Boggs’ information, but for now it was all that she had.

  Chapter 3

  When Jo woke the next morning she checked her phone right away. With no calls from anyone she was discouraged. So far she had no real leads, except information from Boggs which may or may not have been accurate. She logged into her computer and started doing some research on David. She wanted to find out as much information about him as possible. Engrossed in trying to find some new information she was startled when her cell phone rang.

  “Hi Samantha.”

  “Did you forget?”

  “Forget about what?”

  “The picnic! I’m picking up burgers for everyone.”

  “Oh sorry, I guess I lost track of time. I’ll be there.”

  “Great!”

  After she hung up the phone she sent a text to Bruce.

  Just an update- I am working on verification. I will text you when I have anything solid.

  She tucked her phone into her purse then left her villa. The slope of the path that led down to the lake afforded her a view of the picnic table her friends used as a meeting place before she ever reached it. She could see Eddy already seated there, along with an assortment of brown paper bags. She smiled as she reached the table.

  “Looks like lunch is already here.”

  “Yes, it is. Sustenance,” Eddy said.

  “I’m not sure it’s nutritionally sound, but a good cheeseburger can really hit the spot sometimes,” Jo said.

  “If you like cheeseburgers you should go by the community center tonight as they’re having a special dinner, hot dogs and cheeseburgers for free,” Eddy said.

  “Mm, tempting. But I have to do a stakeout tonight.”

  “Oh?” Eddy handed her a cheeseburger then set the bag in the middle of the picnic table. “What kind?”

  “It’s something for a friend.”

  “The favor you mentioned?”

  “Yes.”

  “Do you want company?”

  She glanced up at him and smiled.

  “Nice of you to offer, but no, I’ll be fine.”

  “Is it in a safe part of town?”

  She rolled her eyes.

  “How did I know that was going to be your next question? Eddy, it’s not the fifties anymore, I’m perfectly capable of taking care of myself.”

  “Careful now, I’d be just as worried about Walt if he was the one doing the stakeout.”

  “So would I!” She laughed and shook her head. “I’ll be fine.”

  Samantha’s laughter drew her attention to the path by the water. Walt and Samantha walked towards them with wide smiles on their faces.

  “It took a little convincing, but I got him here.”

  “Well done!” Eddy smiled.

  “Burgers!” Samantha grinned. “I’ve been looking forward to this.” She plopped down on the bench beside Jo. “I made sure I got you a burger that you will like.” She nudged Walt’s side with her elbow.

  “Thanks Samantha, but that doesn’t change what the burger is made out of, does it?” He cringed.

  “Just try not to think about it.” Samantha patted his back.

  “This looks delicious.” Jo picked up her burger with both hands and took a big bite of it. A bit of the sauce trailed down her chin.

  “Oh Jo, that’s just…well how could you, here.” Walt thrust a napkin towards her.

  “Thanks, could you get it for me?” She tipped her chin towards him. His cheeks flushed as he patted at her chin with the napkin. She tried not to laugh.

  “There, that’s better.” He sighed and picked up his burger. After a careful inspection to make sure that it was plain, well done, and lightly salted he took a bite.

  As the four friends shared their junk food, Samantha updated them on the current happenings at Sage Gardens. “There’s going to be an art auction to raise money for a cruise at the end of the year.”

  “A cruise?” Eddy scoffed. “That’s just one more way to sucker money out of you.”

  “I think it would be fun.” Samantha took a sip of her soda.

  “Cruises are notorious for spreading viruses.” Walt shuddered. “Enjoy your cruise, because when you get home you’re going to be erupting from both ends.”

  “Walt!” All three of his friends shouted at the same time.

  “What?” Walt glanced around at them.

  “We’re eating.” Jo scrunched up her nose.

  “I could have mentioned that the chances of contracting severe illness from undercooked meat are just about equal to coming home from a cruise with a tummy ache.”

  “That’s it, you’re not allowed to talk until we finish our food.” Eddy jabbed a finger at him. “Not another word.”

  Walt frowned and took another bite of his burger.

  “Maybe Jo could tell us about her stakeout tonight instead?” Eddy met her eyes.

  “A stakeout? You didn’t tell me!” Samantha pouted. “I could have made muffins.”

  “No muffins, and no company.” Jo shook her head. “This one I’m doing solo.”

  “Why? Wouldn’t it be safer to have a second person with you?” Samantha picked up a french fry.

  “I have my reasons. I’d appreciate it if you understood that.”

  “I do.” Samantha finished her burger then wiped her hands together to brush off the crumbs. “But if you need anything, we’re only a phone call away.”

  “I know.” Jo smiled. “I’m glad you are.”

  “So, about this art auction? I assume that you’re all going to participate?” Samantha asked.

  “What is the point if I don’t want to go on the cruise and I could care less about art?” Eddy shook his head.

  “The point is I’m in charge of making sure that we have enough people signed up to make the auction worthwhile.” She pulled a small clipboard out of her purse. “So sign up!” Eddy eyed her for a moment then smiled.

  “Anything for you, Samantha.” He signed his name on the clipboard then handed it over to Walt along with the pen.

  “Oh, I have my own.” Walt reached in his pocket and pulled out a pen. “Do you have any idea how many germs are on pens?”

  “I’d rather not know.” Eddy chuckled. “Add it to the list of things you’re not allowed to tell me.”

  “Okay.” Walt signed his name and handed the clipboard to Jo. Jo took Eddy’s pen and scribbled her name. Then she grabbed a napkin and scrubbed at her fingertips.

  “Very funny.” Eddy grinned.

  “I’ve got to get going. But I’ll be there for the art auction, Samantha.”

  “Actually, I hoped that you’d do a little more than that for me. I know you’re busy, but if you have any spare time, do you think you could help me value some of the artwork? Just so we know which ones would be worth more than others. I know you have experience with art.”

  “Yes, I do.” Jo noticed Eddy’s cheeks flush. “Saturday afternoon, how does that sound?”

  “Perfect. Thanks so much, Jo. I want this to be as professional as it can be.”

  “No problem.” As Jo left the picnic table she knew that her friends were just a phone call away. But traveling back into her old life put them at a further distance. It would have been wise to have a second person on the stakeout with her, but she didn�
�t want to risk anyone finding out who had asked her for help.

  Chapter 4

  Jo spent the rest of the afternoon preparing for the stakeout with plenty of good CDs, a stockpile of non-perishable snacks, and freshly polished miniature binoculars. Once she was equipped she headed off to take position.

  The parking lot that was adjacent to the gallery’s parking lot was large enough to tuck her car off to the side without drawing attention. Once she settled in she noticed that there was very little traffic. The gallery wasn’t open that day, which made her think it would be the perfect night for the thief to strike. There would be little risk of getting caught. She bobbed her head to the music that filled the car and mulled over the possibility that David was involved in stealing the paintings. She wondered how Bruce would react when she gave him proof. The idea that he would turn David into the police was unlikely. He would handle it himself, and how he would handle it concerned her.

  If she gave Bruce proof that David stole the paintings would David lose his life over it? Bruce never struck her as a violent man when they worked together, but time could change people. He had a lot to lose, and if he thought David was going to take it from him, he might just become someone she didn’t expect him to be. As she considered this she noticed a group of people that walked towards the gallery. They laughed and shoved one another as they approached the building. Her interest heightened when she assessed that they were all quite young, perhaps in their teens. In her experience teens and their invincible mentality meant trouble was sure to follow.

  As Jo suspected, one of the boys reached into his backpack and pulled out a few cans of spray paint. He tossed one to another boy, then pointed out the large glass window. None of them noticed her car tucked in the shadows of a large tree. If she scared them off she’d give away her position, and might possibly blow the stakeout. If she didn’t, then Bruce might have quite a hefty bill if he had to replace the window. As the boy with the backpack neared the window, he must have touched the glass, because lights began to flash and an alarm blared so loud that Jo winced. The teens scattered in different directions. The alarm blared for a few more minutes, then shut off. She scrunched down in the car as she waited for a response to the alarm. Within five minutes a car rolled up to the front of the gallery. Bruce jumped out and slammed his car door shut then walked up to the front. She watched him for a moment, then fired off a text.