Murder Fir Christmas
Page 18
“My brother told me the police talked to the tribal council,” he started. “Gerald had accumulated some serious debts and then recently paid them off. It looks like he’d borrowed that money from a loan shark, with the promise of the ruby as collateral. They’re trying to find out exactly who that was.”
They finished their lunch quickly. The hot tea removed the last of the chill from her hike. Grandma Brown Elk’s blend was delicious.
“Did Gerald implicate his mother or sister?” Matthew asked after a couple of quiet moments.
“No, quite the opposite. He kept them both in the dark. They didn't even know about his debts. And that was genuine shock when I told them about the ruby.”
Bonnie sipped her tea and gazed out the window at the melting snow on the trees. Gerald had hurt so many people. How would the Shelton family manage to move forward now, with two members of their family taken from them? The holidays would never be the same for them.
She shook off the thoughts. “Gerald confessed he paid Vince and Ray to set the fire on the island as a way to lure Harvey out, confront him about the ruby, and then cover up his murder. Ray was having second thoughts after starting the fire. And guess what size shoe Gerald wears.”
“Twelve.” He finished his tea, and she nodded. “Did they ever find the rifle that was used to kill Ray?”
“It was in Vince’s house. They don't know if he shot Ray to stop him from coming clean or just for a larger cut of the money from the stone. But Gerald said Vince tried to get even more money after the police interrogated him.” She turned to Matthew and shook her head. “So there’s another murder charge there and arson too.”
“What will happen to the ruby?”
“It will be kept as evidence through the trial. Then it will go to Jean Shelton as part of Harvey’s estate.” But trials could take a long time. Her thoughts went back to the Sheltons and the problems Harvey’s widow would have to manage now.
They turned into her driveway, and she marveled at the beauty of her home. She felt Matthew watching her for a long moment, but he didn’t anything.
“So,” she finally said, “see you at the parade?”
He grinned. “Wouldn’t miss it.”
* * * * *
Bonnie stood near the end of the parade route, about a block from her mom’s church. The church had a big picnic shelter where the live nativity would take place. Rose Tuttle was already in the shelter helping set up. Nate Oswald was there too, dropping off his chickens and a big wooly sheep. Her mom had lamented that no one in the area had a camel. Old Man Roberts had offered one of his ostriches, but the church had politely declined.
Main Street in Christmas Tree Valley was a lazy S shape, with a big church at both ends. The general store was near the middle of the mile-long stretch. There were a couple of big houses, and a number of quaint cottage homes. Everywhere you looked, pine boughs and holly branches decorated windows, doors, and mailboxes. The trees along the road were strewn with decorations and garland.
People bundled up in warm jackets and festive hats lined both sides of the street. Children jumped up and down and yelled for Santa. Families shared hot chocolate and spiced cider. Anyone who didn’t have a cup was offered one, again and again.
Bonnie sipped slowly at her own mulled apple cider with a hint of cranberry juice. She had a big Thermos full, homemade by her mom before she’d left for church. As much as she enjoyed it, she hoped Matthew would show up with more of his grandmother’s special tea.
The parade started with the far church ringing its bell, and the familiar whoop-whoop of a police car’s siren. She knew John Trump and Chief Rogers were in that first car. It would take a little while before they passed her. Two kids ran from the churchyard, each sucking on enormous candy canes, as their parents and grandfather found a place on the parade route.
Everyone in the valley must be here, she thought. Except Matthew Brown Elk. Where was he?
The flag line from the high school followed the squad car, bright green and gold Christmas flags fluttering. Of course the marching band was next, belting out mostly recognizable carols. People were still trickling in. The road was closed off, but you could still get to the church parking lots.
As the parade crawled by, the business floats and trucks were lined up next. Some of them tossed candy out to the crowd. Cell phones and cameras were lifted high by many of the revelers.
A little boy ran up next to her, pointing. It was Peter Brown Elk. “Here she is, Dad.”
She turned around and came face-to-face with Matthew.
“Merry Christmas Eve, Bonnie!” he greeted her cheerfully.
Thomas was there too, choosing his spot along the road. “Over here, Peter. You have to get ready to get some candy.”
Bonnie blushed slightly, but her cheeks were already rosy from the crisp, chilly air. “Merry Christmas Eve,” she repeated uncertainly. “I’m glad you made it.”
Matthew was still grinning. “We would’ve been here earlier, but had a last-minute customer come up for a tree, so, you know...we had to make the sale.”
“Of course.” She nodded knowingly. “You can’t let someone go without a Christmas tree.”
“Did we miss the firetrucks, Edoda?” Peter asked his father.
He took a few steps to stand next to his son. “No, Atsutsa. They are near the end, just before Santa.”
The boy jumped off the curb, smiling and laughing, to grab some of the candy being tossed out.
“Is your brother here?” Matthew asked.
“He is,” Bonnie replied. “He’s wandering around, catching up with his friends. He got in last night.”
“How long is Eric staying?”
“He’s going to be here for a couple days, through Christmas.” Their mother was thrilled they would all be together.
A group of cloggers danced down the street, warmly dressed and smiling. Kids from the gymnastics school spun cartwheels. Bonnie had never understood how those little children could do that for a whole mile without tiring out. She didn’t envy their parents when they got them home tonight. The local Rotary Club had a big banner on a pickup and handed out pamphlets. The regional hospital also had a float and gave out magnets with emergency numbers instead of candy. She was sure the kids loved that.
Matthew chatted about the people in the parade while Peter ran around, on and off the curb. Thomas excused himself to walk around the crowd.
The midpoint of the parade was the grandest float, sponsored by the Carson family and the pepper packing plant. It featured a gorgeous winter landscape with animated penguins and a decorated tree. On a throne in the center of the float was this year’s Pepper Queen with a big, sparkly tiara and a warm, fluffy jacket. She smiled and waved to everyone with grace.
Bonnie finished her cup of cider and contemplated another. She was still adjusting to the cold after her time in Alabama.
“Tea?” Matthew hefted his own Thermos, noticing her empty cup.
She smiled. “Is it your grandmother’s blend?”
“Of course it is. He never brings anything else.” Eric Tuttle walked up as Matthew started to pour some tea. “It’s good to see you, Brown Elk.”
They talked for a few minutes as the classic car club rolled past then some local politicians. Finally, the Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade came into view. Peter perked up, clapping his hands. The trucks seemed larger in the growing sunset, with their red lights blazing. Every couple of minutes, one of them would blare a siren. Kids along the route screamed and covered their ears.
Everyone waved at the firefighters as they went by. Bonnie caught eyes with Stella. She had turned down an offer to ride on the truck with the fire chief. With everything that had happened since she’d moved back to town, Bonnie just wanted to have a fun, relaxing evening with her family and her new friends. Instead, she and Stella had made plans to meet at the Nativity after the parade. She was starting to feel comfortable with her decision to be here.
The parade ended with S
anta Claus on his sleigh. Elf assistants tossed out little chocolate bars. The truck that pulled the float had a red nose on the grill and antlers sticking out the windows. Parents and kids who wanted to meet Santa would have a chance after the float parked near the Nativity.
There, next to Santa, was Rose, in a bonnet and red dress with a green plaid blanket over her lap. She looked happier than Bonnie could remember, waving and smiling to children and adults alike. Her mom blew her a kiss, and she caught it. Bonnie knew these were the moments to cherish, before her family would have to face hard days of their own. She wiped away a tear with her mittened hand and laughed as Rose leaned over to give Santa a kiss, much to the crowd’s delight.
Bonnie and Eric, along with Matthew and his family, walked toward the picnic shelter. Other people were working their way there too. Just as they reached the shelter, the church choir started singing. The moment became solemn as the actors played out the Nativity story. Rose Tuttle joined her children as they approached, still in her Mrs. Santa costume.
The wise men came down from the church to present their gifts. Kids started to crowd around Santa, so Thomas and Peter left to get in line. Stella Griffin and the other firefighters walked to the shelter. They had donned warm coats. The fire chief smiled and waved at Bonnie.
Rose greeted Stella with a hug. “I’m so glad you could visit with us tonight.” The older lady looked beside the chief. “And, Eric, you look so handsome!”
Eric Harcourt looked at his mother. “Who are you talking to?”
“Oh, Eric,” she started. “I want you to meet Eric Gamlyn.” She gestured in the ghost’s direction.
Her son shook his head. “Mother, there’s no one—”
Stella interrupted. “Maybe we should get something to drink. Your mother has some things she needs to tell you.” She whispered to the air next to her, “I know you can’t drink.”
“She’s right, Eric. We do need to talk.” Rose pulled her son by the arm.
The four pressed their way to the refreshment table near the back of the shelter, leaving Bonnie and Matthew alone. The sun finally fell beneath the horizon. She’d forgotten how quickly night came in the mountains. Thousands of Christmas lights came on, illuminating the tiny town and all the towering pine trees lining the street.
“I think we should talk too.” She studied his face. His dark eyes sparkled in the outdoor lighting. “Now that we are working together…I mean, I don’t know.”
His smile flickered. “What is it?”
“Well, when we were out in the woods…you asked me if I wanted to go out on a date.”
Matthew’s gentle smile turned into a broad grin. But he was looking beyond her, over her head. She spun around, irritable at his inattention.
There, just at the edge of the light from the shelter, Dustu and his big white stag stood beside a tall, leafless oak tree. At his feet, Oginali, the wolf puppy, jumped around, yipping with delight.
Bonnie shook her head and couldn’t help smiling too. She had to admit that little pup was something special. She felt Matthew’s warmth behind her.
“So about that date…” he whispered.
She turned again, to face him. It was her time to stare behind him, as an older Cherokee man came striding towards them. Matthew turned to see what she was looking at.
“Elder Francis,” he said reverently.
“Are you Unega Awinita?” he asked her in his thick native accent.
Bonnie wasn’t sure how to respond, but Matthew nodded vigorously. It didn’t matter, though, because Elder Francis acted as though he already knew the answer.
“Will you come to the reservation? One of our sacred eagles has been killed out of turn, without proper ceremony or honor. We need your expertise and the help of the white fawn.”
RECIPES
Traditional Stollen
German sweet bread with fruit and nuts, perfect for Christmas morning
For the dough:
1 package (1/4 oz.) active dry yeast
2 tablespoons warm water (105° F)
1 cup warm milk (105° F)
3/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 tablespoon grated lemon zest
1 tablespoon grated orange zest
1/2 teaspoon salt
5 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup raisins
1/2 cup mixed candied fruit (cherries and pineapple)
1/2 cup chopped almonds
For the glaze:
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
2 to 3 tablespoons milk
In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the milk, butter, sugar, eggs, lemon and orange zest, salt and 3 cups flour. Add the raisins, candied fruit and almonds. Add 1/2 cup remaining flour at a time, to form a soft, loose dough.
Turn dough onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Use more flour if necessary. Place in a greased bowl, turning to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 1/2 hours.
Punch dough down and divide in half; cover and let rest for 10 minutes. Roll or press each half into a 12” x 7” oval. Fold long-wise to 1” of opposite side; press edge lightly to seal. Place on greased baking sheets. Cover and let rise until nearly doubled, about 1 hour. Preheat oven to 375°f.
Bake loaves for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.
Combine confectioners' sugar and enough milk to form a thin glaze; spread over stollen.
Yield: 2 loaves, 12-14 slices per loaf
Sausage and Potato Casserole with Cheese
A light meal, great for a cold day
1 pound Italian-style sausage, cut into 1/2” slices
1 medium onion, diced into 1/2” pieces
1 green pepper, diced into 1/2” pieces
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2 inch chunks
3-4 cloves garlic, chopped coarsely
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 tablespoon dried basil
1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes
3/4 cup mozzarella cheese
Optional: 1 or 2 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed, sliced into thin rounds
In a large skillet, brown sausage slices lightly on both sides. Drain excess grease. Preheat oven to 350°f.
Add potatoes, onions, and peppers. Sautée until potatoes are fork-tender, 15-20 minutes. Add garlic about halfway through. Drain excess grease.
Transfer sautéed ingredients to a 9”x16” baking dish. Top with diced tomatoes, then basil, then mozzarella cheese. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until cheese is well-melted. Serve with your choice of bread.
Serves 4
Almond Crescent Cookies
A Christmas favorite, from the Sweet Pepper Café
1 cup butter, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons almond extract
2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup ground almond meal, or almond flour
About 1 cup powdered sugar
Preheat oven to 350°f. Spray several cookie sheets with cooking spray, or line with parchment paper.
With a mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and almond extracts, beat until incorporated.
With a wooden spoon, stir in the flour and almonds. Work mixture into a firm dough (Use your hands if necessary.) The dough will be crumbly.
Take 1 rounded tablespoon of dough, and with floured hands, roll into a log shape, thicker in the middle than the ends. Bend into a crescent shape.
Place on cookie sheets and repeat until all dough is used. Bake 12-15 minutes or until light brown.
Sift powdered sugar into a medium bowl. While the cookies are still warm, roll the crescents in the powdered sugar. Cool on racks.
Yields 30-40 cookies
About the Authors
Joyce and Jim Lavene write award-winning, best-selling myste
ry and urban fantasy fiction as themselves, J.J. Cook, and Ellie Grant. They have written and published more than 80 novels for Harlequin, Penguin, Amazon, and Simon and Schuster along with hundreds of non-fiction articles for national and regional publications. They live in rural North Carolina with their family, their rescue animals, Quincy - cat, Stan Lee – cat, and Rudi - dog.
Visit them at:
www.joyceandjimlavene.com
www.Facebook.com/JoyceandJimLavene
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorJLavene
Amazon Author Central Page: http://amazon.com/author/jlavene
Table of Contents
Murder Fir Christmas
Table of Contents
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Chapter Seventeen
Chapter Eighteen
Chapter Nineteen
Chapter Twenty
Chapter Twenty-one
Chapter Twenty-two
Chapter Twenty-three
RECIPES
Traditional Stollen
Sausage and Potato Casserole with Cheese
Almond Crescent Cookies
About the Authors