Murder in the Theater (Cold Creek Book 4)

by Christa Nardi

“We haven’t done the whole family Thanksgiving thing in several years. Since the divorce, if Maddie was with Victoria for Thanksgiving, I volunteered to work so the other detectives could be with their families. If she was with me, we went to my parents. Patrick usually has several invitations and Terry works through it like any other day.”

  That made sense, though I didn’t know where it left me. I hesitated to say anything.

  “What about your family, Sher? Do you usually all get together for Thanksgiving?”

  “Not so much anymore. I think the last time we were all together was after my divorce. Once my parents moved to senior housing, it became more difficult for all three of us to go visit at the same time. And none of us live in Delaware so weather and expense figures in. The last couple of years, one of us made it up there. I haven’t talked to Kaylie or Kevin about it yet. I was waiting to see what the story was with Maddie.”

  He raked his hands through his curls again and his forehead crinkled.

  “We have some choices here and probably need to make some decisions. If you are going to Delaware, then I could work or – dare I suggest this? I could go with you? If you’re not going to Delaware, you could come up to Appomattox and I could work. I’d mostly be on call for the holiday or filling in wherever needed.”

  I breathed a silent sigh of relief, as my insecurities tend to creep in around the holidays. Truth be known, the thoughts of dealing with my mother and her constant criticism did not resonate with holiday cheer.

  “My parents, especially my mother, would be elated if you came with me to Delaware. She’d probably be more excited to meet you than to see me. And it would be much more enjoyable for me too.”

  We discussed it some more. Much as I dreaded Thanksgiving with my parents, I’d check with Kaylie and Kevin, and start the plans rolling. If Brett was coming with me, my sibs might decide it was time for all three of us to do Thanksgiving together. I hadn’t seen either of them in over a year and Kevin in almost two.

  That settled, I shared my impressions of Dr. Gorganz, Dr. Patrissi and the students. He confirmed Al’s absence was being followed up on, though he didn’t seem to think it would change anything. He nodded a lot in response to Dr. Gorganz’s comments and attitude. As expected, Dr. Patrissi’s denial of an affair sparked his interest and would require some follow up. Kim called to tell me she was going to the funeral in the morning but had convinced Marty to pass. I mentioned it to Brett and he agreed we would go as well.

  CHAPTER 11

  Brett and I drove to the Crockett Funeral Centre for the mid-morning service in Altavista. Kim came to be Marty’s eyes and ears. Sitting toward the back with Kim, it was painful to watch the woman holding her two children at the front of the hall. Someone identified her as Thompson’s wife, Honey. In her thirties, her lowered brows, frown, and sagging posture attested to the weight now on her shoulders. With her cropped golden hair to match her name and creamy complexion though, it was obvious she was not one of the women pictured on Thompson’s blog.

  The pastor lacked enthusiasm. He talked about the loss of life of one so involved in his community. I had to wonder if he even knew Thompson despite his frequent references to Thompson’s theatre interests. Printed copies of the obituary were provided and helped to identify some of the other family members. There were no comments by family or others in attendance. Sad and unusual.

  I saw Dr. Gorganz was in attendance, but there was no sign of Dr. Patrissi. I also recognized Miles, Hank, and Jasmine with some other younger people. Joe Janis was seated at the far back on the opposite side of the hall. Brett pointed out the Altavista Police Chief in the back as well. One woman with mousy brown hair looked familiar, possibly from his blog. I couldn’t be sure. Kim didn’t recognize her either. When I asked Kim if the people she’d interviewed were present, she shook her head.

  As the service wound down, I scanned the room again and shoved an elbow into Brett’s side as I spotted someone in the far corner. He – well, I assumed it was a “he” – was cloaked in the shadows. Brett followed my gaze and with a pat to my hand, he drew his eyes to the front as an indication to not keep staring over at the corner. He slid out of the pew and headed to the back.

  Kim caught my attention and shot me a questioning look. I shrugged and mouthed, “checking something out.” Not exactly etiquette for a funeral service, there was a sudden door slam and noise from the back of the hall as hymnals and metal shelves crashed down. I looked around and saw the Police Chief run out.

  The Pastor made some final comments and the family filed out, led by Thompson’s wife Honey, and their children. They were accompanied by an older man and woman, and another woman. The older couple appeared to be the grandparents from the way they hovered over the children. The other woman, about the same age as Honey, I pegged to be a friend or sibling.

  Kim and I waited until everyone had left the chapel and followed. Those in attendance mumbled about how sad it was for Honey, the children, and so on. Dr. Gorganz nodded when he saw us, but made no attempt to make his way over to us. People dawdled on the driveway as the hearse left for the cemetery and burial. Only a few cars joined the funeral procession.

  “Sher, Kim!” shouted Brett. In response, I turned toward the side of the building and watched as Brett walked over, the Police Chief at his side. The Police Chief nodded to Brett and veered off to where his car was parked and joined the procession.

  “What happened?” I asked.

  Almost at the same time, Kim asked, “Did you catch him?”

  Brett shook his head and explained, “He spotted me, knocked some of the chairs and shelving over, and took off out the side door. He disappeared by the time we made it around the corner.”

  “Any idea who it might be?” I asked.

  “No idea, but not wanting to be seen and running like that certainly looks suspicious,” he answered, again shaking his head.

  With only a few people left at the church, Brett and I walked Kim to her car only to discover someone keyed her car. Her Audi now had stripes and swirls along the driver side. She, of course, was hysterical.

  Brett notified the Altavista police. Very thankful I wasn’t making the call this time, I prompted Kim to call her insurance agent and start the process. Kim called Marty and filled him in as we waited. The police arrived to take the report on Kim’s car and we left. Kim’s plans now included a visit to the insurance agency and the body shop.

  This was Brett’s weekend with Madison so he dropped me off in Cold Creek. With the arraignment done, his role in the murder investigation was minimal and he wasn’t sure where he’d be assigned next week. Before he left, though, he suggested I invite Kim and Marty over for dinner Sunday night. I wasn’t sure of Brett’s motive or what Marty’s reaction would be, but I assured Brett I’d do my best. As he drove off for Richmond, I went to work.

  I was entering my office, coffee in hand, when Grant marched toward me.

  “Sheridan, President Cramer and the Chancellor have already called twice wanting to know what you are going to do to keep the lid on this!” Grant’s blood pressure had soared, his face red. He never dealt well with crises and even less so when high-level administration was involved. “They want to meet with you…”

  “Whoa! Meet with me?”

  “Yes. Colbert and Cramer are in my office. Put your stuff down. Let’s go.”

  I blinked and watched him as he walked away. He turned around and glared at me until I followed.

  As we entered his office, Grant stated, “Chancellor Colbert, President Cramer. I think you both know Dr. Hendley. She’s the one in charge of crisis response here.”

  Both men nodded. Colbert leaned forward.

  “Dr. Hendley, did you go to the funeral this morning? What is the status? Should we be concerned? What do we need to do for damage control?”

  “Uh, we have sent out flyers related to safety practices – traveling in pairs, being aware of your environment. There really isn’t a threat here. The murder w
as in Altavista not here.”

  Colbert shook his head and I wondered what he’d expected me to say or do.

  “Dr. Hendley. We’re not concerned with student safety.” He waved his hand to Cramer to include him in the “we” as he spoke.

  “We are concerned with the reputation of the College. I remember you explained you work closely with the police department. Is Isaac guilty? We can expel him now and separate ourselves from the potential fallout if that’s the case.”

  My mouth dropped and I closed it. Then I opened it and closed it again. I was speechless.

  “Chancellor, this case isn’t in this jurisdiction. I have a relationship with the Cold Creek Police. I have no connection to the Altavista police.”

  With a smug look, Colbert responded, “But you do have a relationship with the State Police Detective on the case, don’t you? Weren’t you with him at the funeral this morning?”

  I wondered how he knew where I’d been and with whom. “That’s not relevant, sir. I don’t know any more about the case than what’s already public knowledge.”

  I knew I should shut my mouth but I couldn’t help myself.

  “As for expelling Isaac? I’d think you would be concerned about acting too quickly in the event he is innocent. That is the basic tenet of our legal system – innocent until proven guilty. A law suit for expelling him wrongfully would be damaging as well.”

  Grant’s face took on a darker shade of red and Colbert’s eyes opened wide, his jaw clenched. Cramer watched the interaction and his lips twitched as if suppressing a smile. No one said a word. After a minute or two of uncomfortable silence, I stood up.

  “If there’s nothing else, I’ll be on my way. I have a class to teach.”

  All three men nodded, Colbert the last to do so. A raise was not likely in my future.

  Once in my office, I tried to get back in the groove of my daily routine, but I was fuming. I took a few deep breaths and tried to think of something positive. Less agitated, the routine tasks awaited and served as a distraction. I turned on the computer, went through email, got ready for my afternoon class, and then got ready for Monday.

  I was so wrapped up in work, I didn’t realize how much time had gone by. A quick look at the clock, and I jumped out of my seat. I barely had time for a much-needed cup of coffee before my class.

  By the time I got back to my office I had an email from Kim with times and names for Monday. I printed it and took it with me. My weekend would include some online information gathering as well as Thanksgiving planning.

  As I was about to leave, Max appeared at my door. His eyebrows were knitted together and his grimace reflected concern.

  “Sheridan, what happened with you and Grant and the bigwigs? I heard you almost got fired, were insubordinate, and insulted the new Chancellor. Are you trying to leave Cold Creek too?”

  “No Max. I plan on staying right here, for a while any way. The Chancellor probably wasn’t happy with my lack of information about the murder case. And you know Grant wanted to look good for him and Cramer. No big deal. They’ll get over it, I’m sure.”

  “I don’t know Sheridan. I heard Grant complain to Terra. He called you uncooperative and disrespectful. You go check with them.”

  He shook his head and walked away. I considered his suggestion and decided against it – I wasn’t taking a chance on running into Grant again if he was still around. Nothing I could do about it now. If we could come up with enough evidence to exonerate Isaac, the problem would be solved.

  CHAPTER 12

  The weekend without Brett translated to housework and much needed alone time albeit with a touch of loneliness. I finished one mystery novel and started another. Brett called and we discussed Thanksgiving again, a reminder I needed to call my sibs and parents and finalize a plan. Thanksgiving was only a couple of weeks away. If we were going to Delaware, we’d need hotel reservations. He also asked if I had set up dinner for Sunday.

  Caught in my procrastination, I made excuses and got to it. I took a deep breath and called Kim. We chatted about work and other stuff for a few minutes. When she asked about my weekend plans, she gave me an opening.

  “I don’t have any plans. Actually, Brett suggested the four of us get together for dinner and compare notes Sunday night. He’ll come here after he drops Madison off in Richmond. He’s not sure where his cases will take him next week.”

  “Um, Sher, I don’t know about getting together. What’s the purpose?”

  I sensed her hesitation and could hear her breathing. “He didn’t say. He asked me to arrange dinner and then reminded me when he called.”

  “I can check with Marty, but he’s still mad at Brett. He knows on one level it isn’t Brett’s fault Isaac was arrested. He understands that in his head. Emotionally, he is one big mess. His sister blames him. He feels guilty and in turn blames everyone else, including Brett.”

  She paused and then continued, “He’s angry at everyone involved, even me and you when anything we uncover looks bad for Isaac. I heard him yelling at Mendelson about the way the arraignment went. I don’t have to tell you his sister was beside herself when they didn’t grant bail.”

  “I understand and I’m sorry you have to bear the brunt of his anger. I know you’re used to that in therapy, but this is Marty. Maybe if the four of us put our heads together, something will pop out to help clear Isaac.”

  “Thanks, Sher. Any clue why Brett wants this meeting? Maybe if I can put a positive spin on it Marty won’t be as volatile.”

  “He didn’t say. He isn’t actively involved any more and likely won’t even be involved in the trial unless there’s something he saw or heard that’s questioned. Nonetheless, we both know he isn’t one who identifies a suspect and looks no further. He may have some ideas that need to be considered if we want to at least establish reasonable doubt.”

  Kim sighed and her tone was subdued when she responded. “I’ll talk to him about it and let you know. If I can convince him Brett isn’t taking sides here, maybe he’ll agree. I don’t know though.”

  There wasn’t much else to talk about. I didn’t know what Brett had in mind, but I trusted him and knew he respected and liked Marty. Maybe at least Kim could come and relay the information or ideas back to Marty.

  Next were the calls to family to settle Thanksgiving plans. I called Kaylie first and asked about her plans. After a few exchanges, I volleyed the idea of Brett and me at our parents for Thanksgiving.

  “That serious, huh? You sure you want to subject him to mom?”

  “Might as well get it over with. What were you planning?”

  “Nothing. I’m not seeing anyone right now, and you’ve motivated me to make the trip.”

  “Great! We won’t be staying long though.”

  Kaylie laughed. Usually she vented about her high-powered job in public relations or the latest boyfriend. “Neither will I. It will be hard enough to take a few days off. Work has been crazy, but I wouldn’t miss this for anything. And it’s not too bad of a drive though I may take the train. Have you called Kevin yet? Does Mom know?”

  “Not yet. You were the first call. Now Kevin. So don’t go calling Mom and telling her.”

  We chatted a few more minutes and then I called my brother.

  “Hi, Kevin. How are you?”

  “Good. Sorry I haven’t been in touch. I’ve been busy with work.” Kevin worked in technology in DC and like Kaylie was often too busy for much of anything, including family. It was no surprise when he’d divorced. Not many women could tolerate the lack of attention.

  “What are you doing for Thanksgiving?”

  “I haven’t decided. Is it my turn to go eat with Mom and Dad?” he asked with obvious reservation.

  “Do you remember I mentioned a detective I was seeing the last time we talked? Well, Brett and I are planning to go up there for Thanksgiving.”

  “Is Kaylie going too?”

  His voice picked up and I imagined he’d sat up, more alert.r />
  “Yes. I called her right before you.”

  “Safety in numbers I guess. I’ll be there, just for Thanksgiving day. I can probably sell that to Meredith.”

  “That’s our plan as well. So you’re still with Meredith?”

  We chatted for a few minutes and then it was time to call my mother. For the last few months, the calls every Sunday evening had been hit and miss. Mostly avoidance on my part.

  “Hi, mom. How are you?”

  “It’s been more than a week you know and it’s not Sunday. I’m okay. Your father’s okay, too, not that you asked.”

  “Great, glad to hear it. Do you have any special plans for Thanksgiving?”

  “Sad, the holidays. Families don’t live in the same towns any more or get together for the holidays.”

  She exhaled and continued, “The senior center is having a Thanksgiving dinner for all of us. Well, those of us who don’t have family here and would be alone.”

  She sighed again and I could visualize the violins playing.

  “Would it be okay if Brett and I came in for Thanksgiving?”

  There was a pregnant pause before she responded. “Sheridan, that would be wonderful. Like old times. But where will you stay?”

  “At a hotel, mom. Kaylie and Kevin are coming too. Can we plan a dinner for the six of us?”

  “Of course, of course. Wait until I tell your father. We only have the small kitchen, it’ll be crowded. Maybe we could do buffet style and not worry about sitting at a table. The holidays are so sad with you kids all so far away.”

  “Okay, then it’s settled. You figure out the menu and tell each of us what we need to bring. And we probably could get one of those portable tables and folding chairs.”

  She became more animated as she talked about the menu and the arrangements to be made. She sounded more upbeat and positive than her usual self. I let her ramble for a while and then pleaded work to be done. I disconnected and slumped into the chair, exhausted. Charlie curled up with me, her head in my lap and I smiled.