Dead Women Tell No Lies

by Nora LeDuc

  Rose twisted her hands together. “You meant well. Don’t worry. I enjoyed seeing your home, and your gift, the dress, was generous. What matters is Shauna’s okay.”

  “I added to your troubles.” Tia bent and opened her purse to tug out a tissue.

  “You didn’t.” Rose shook her head. “Besides, you couldn’t control the events of the night.”

  “No need to be polite.” She waved the hand clutching the hankie. “I want to make it up to you. Remember, my husband plans to run for mayor?”

  “Of course I do.”

  “Well, we’re having a small dinner at the Audi with a group of Dean’s closest supporters tomorrow night. It would mean a lot to me and my husband if you came and enjoyed yourself for a few hours.”

  The idea of going out to celebrate with strangers didn’t sound enjoyable or appealing. “Has Dean announced his candidacy yet?”

  “After the attack, we thought we should hold off, but now, we’re going ahead with Buddy and Shauna’s blessings.”

  “Tia, I’m not really up for a party. I’m flattered you wanted to include me.”

  “I promise the evening will be low key.”

  “Where do you hold a dinner at the Audi?”

  “A small banquet hall was added off the side a few years ago. In fact, Dean and I led the fundraiser to build the addition. The room’s the perfect place to give an intimate dinner, and you must come. Believe me, sitting at home doesn’t help. I learned the truth when I stayed holed up in my house after my divorce. I felt like a failure and didn’t want to see people. I was foolish. I know that now. And where else can you get a free meal?”

  “Food is always enticing—”

  “You can leave after the dessert.”

  At least she could slip away with a clear conscience. “I suppose I could attend for a couple of hours if you don’t mind that I leave early.”

  “Perfect.” Tia stood and tugged on the leather glove. “Cocktails will be at seven. The community party will be held later when Dean makes his public announcement.” She opened her purse, dropped in her tissue and snapped it closed. “Shauna will appreciate your support, too. Tomorrow night will be her first outing since the attack at the parking garage. You can inspire her.”

  “Me?” Rose laughed and then sobered when she saw Tia’s serious face. “I’m not the inspirational type.”

  “If you attend the event after all your hardships, you’ll be a role model.”

  “Shauna and I only met for a few minutes, Tia. I don’t think she’s aware of my activities.”

  “She knows what you’re going through because of your sister. You will give her courage. Don’t forget your presence will mean a lot to me and Dean. As I told you, we’re happy to provide one evening where you forget all your problems.” She drew out the black gloves. “Of course, Luke will be there.”

  “Lennox?” Tia was matchmaking. “I doubt he has a spare minute since he’s investigating the deaths of two women.”

  “Nonsense, he has to eat. He can leave after the meal with you.” She faced Rose in the doorway and hugged her. “He’ll love you in your new dress.”

  The woman’s perfume reminded Rose of a strong ocean breeze. No flowery scent for her. Tia released Rose with a smile.

  “I’d appreciate it if you didn’t suggest to Luke that he bring me to your dinner. I don’t want him to feel obligated.” A small panic rose in her throat. He might think she’d instigated the setup.

  “He won’t. I’ve seen him with you.” Her voice held the hint of amusement. “You didn’t believe his story about helping in the kitchen at my dinner party, did you? He came in because he couldn’t stay away from you.”

  Rose struggled not to choke over the truth. He was worried he’d miss stopping her inquisition about Buddy was more likely.

  Tia turned to leave and then pivoted back. “I almost forgot. Give me your phone number in case any last minute details come up. It will save me from lifting the apartment keys for a chat.” She winked and jingled the keys in her pocket.

  Rose recited her number while Tia pushed the digits into her cell.

  “I really doubt Lennox will take time off even for a meal. He’s working day and night on the homicides.”

  “Don’t worry. If he can’t attend, Buddy and Shauna will escort you. I won’t expect you to drive yourself. No woman should be out alone in this city, I’m sad to say.”

  “I don’t want to be a third wheel.”

  “Nonsense, you’re a friend. Friends watch out for each other.” The older woman turned and walked through the open door. “Don’t forget to wear the dress,” she tossed over her shoulder.

  “I’ll go downstairs with you.” Rose grabbed her keys from the table and escorted Tia to the main entry where the woman hugged her goodbye again. “Luke or I will let you know who to expect as an escort for tomorrow night. Take care.”

  Rose ran up the stairs to her apartment. Tia’s matchmaking was obvious. What was Lennox doing today? After following her from Brattleboro yesterday, he’d left without mentioning seeing her again. His silence left her wary, and she found herself analyzing their night together. She needed to accept the fact they’d enjoyed each other, but he had a job to do. She wasn’t a clingy why-aren’t-you-by-my-side type.

  Rose spent the day making calls to thank her customers who’d sent her cards and kept the words of the menacing greeting tucked in the back of her mind. Finished with that task, she phoned the store where Dahlia bought her lingerie. There wasn’t time when she and Lennox had stopped to arrange everything. Speaking to the right retail clerk wasn’t easy. Returns of personal belongings were a big no-no in the world of merchandise. Rose worked her way up the management chain until she had an agreement for the store to accept Dahlia’s unopened purchases.

  Next on her list was setting up the meeting with A.J, but she couldn’t move forward without Lennox. She should call him. This was legitimate police business and not an excuse, she told herself. She hit his name on the speed dial. His voicemail answered. She left a brief message to call her and clicked off. Now what? Her attention wandered to the bureau where a few of Dahlia’s belongings were stored. It was time to brave it and go through the drawers.

  The phone rang. She recognized the number and grabbed it. Lennox. Stay calm and friendly. “How’s everything going with the true blues and the men in black?”

  “I’m following a couple of leads. I heard you had a visitor and an invitation.”

  Tia’s scheme was in motion already. “If you’re too busy, don’t feel obligated to pick me up. I’m afraid Tia was matchmaking. She told me she’s a romantic at heart and the story about meeting Dean on a ski lift and falling in love instantly.” Okay, she was running off at the mouth. Be cool.

  “I’m afraid I am too busy, Rose.”

  The weight of disappointment pressed on her shoulders, and she sank into a chair. “Of course, solving homicides takes precedence. Did you find out anything about A.J.?”

  “Not yet, I’m on it.”

  “But we have to plan so I know what to tell him. Be reasonable, Lennox. I can help.”

  “I’m on his trail. You stay out of it. Tia will arrange a safe ride for you to the party. Promise me you won’t go unescorted.”

  “I’m crossing my heart.”

  “I’ll see you as soon as possible. The cases take up all my hours.”

  “I understand. I can help with A.J. He trusts me.”

  “When I have more information about him, we’ll talk. I gotta go, Rose. Trust me.

  “I do.”

  “Good bye.” The click announced he’d hung up.

  She sat tapping her foot. Well, that was not encouraging. She wished he’d at least given her a hint what was happening. She set to work cleaning the middle bureau drawer. Soon she found herself lost in memories of her sister, only interrupted by doubts about Lennox and herself.

  Frank surprised her at supper time with an order of fast food and news that Lennox was wo
rking nonstop. She spent the rest of the evening with the older man, losing two games of poker and listening to stories of the good ole days: the barbecues with the guys from the station, their card games and John Lennox spending hours on a case just deciding where to go next.

  “He was great at looking at all angles of an investigation when you thought you’d hit them all. He was like a bulldog refusing to let go. That’s why he spent time going back over cold cases like the North Conway one. He couldn’t let go.”

  Finally around eleven, Frank left. Rose settled down for the night on the sleeper and resisted the temptation to call Lennox. She didn’t need another lecture on staying safe, and he didn’t need her as a distraction, especially at this hour.

  The sizzling memory of their hot, sticky bodies in the darkness hurtled into her thoughts. She imagined the feel of his lips tingling against her skin. His whiskers brushed against her chin as his palms caressed each inch of her skin and traveled lower and lower.

  She bolted up and took a deep breath before punching her pillow. Concentrate on other things, or it was going to be a long night.

  The next day, she returned to the computer search about Buddy Drown without results, and she managed to hold off until suppertime to speak to Lennox. He answered on the second ring. His clipped, tense voice warned her he couldn’t talk.

  This was a disaster. After reassuring him she was fine, she quickly hung up. She tossed the cell in her purse and then headed for the shower to get ready for Dean’s big party. She stuck her head under the showerhead’s spray, wishing she could rinse away her feelings for Luke Lennox.

  She’d made big mistakes with him. Number one at the top of the list was the belief she could handle sleeping with him and then trot off into the sunset. Face the truth.

  He was a detective who breathed and lived his job and she was his job for the moment. He had an ex wife to show for his lifestyle. When Dahlia’s killer was found, he’d concentrate on the next investigation. She’d go home and run the Blues Sisters, and forget Luke Lennox. What did she think would happen to them? They’d marry and give birth to little detectives? Besides, Lennox was probably used to tough, bold police women who kicked in the doors of criminals and entered with guns drawn, ready to fire.

  Don’t count on a man and you won’t be disappointed, Gram often told her.

  “Sorry, Gram, I should have listened.”

  After the shower, she wriggled her damp body into the dress from Tia. She brushed her hair, wove the strands together and pinned the piece to her head.

  Rose’s phone rang. “Hi, gorgeous, are you ready for your date to drive you to the big party?”

  “Buddy? Is Shauna with you?”

  “Sure, she’s sitting right here. Did you think I was hitting on you? Shauna, talk to Rose. The woman has no sense of humor.”

  “Hi, Rose, this is Shauna. We’ll be at your place in a few minutes. “

  “I can drive myself. The Audi’s only a few blocks away.”

  “It’s too dangerous. Please, come with Bud and me. Tia told us you might want to go home after the dinner. That’s not a problem.”

  Shauna’s worried voice yanked on Rose’s sympathy and touched on her common sense. “Okay, your virtual arm twisting worked. Come pick me up.”

  “Good, we’ll be at your place in about ten minutes. That way we’ll be a stylish fifteen minutes late when we arrive.”

  Ledgeview had style? She learned something every minute. “Don’t worry. I’ll be ready.” Rose skimmed a hand over her upswept hair and down the slinky fabric of her skirt that clung to her hips.

  “Excellent,” Shauna said. “From my past experiences with Drown productions, everyone will be in Oscar style outfits.”

  At least she wasn’t nominated and expected to give a speech. Rose hung up. She paced and watched the minutes click by. She looked in the mirror and checked her makeup and finally the safety on her gun. She was past ready, she thought, and shoved the weapon into her purse. Throwing on her jacket, she headed down the stairs.

  Buddy pulled up to the curb as she locked up and ran to the SUV. He stepped out of the vehicle. “You don’t have to run. I won’t take off.”

  “It’s a habit.” She climbed into the rear seat, and he slammed her door and jumped inside the front.

  “Hello, Rose.” Shauna shifted around to smile at her. Her makeup hid a pale face and sadness lingered in lines around her mouth. “Thanks for coming with us. When Buddy leaves to talk to his father’s friends, you and I can dis’.”

  Buddy stared at Rose in the rearview mirror. “My narration of all the sport replays bore her. She’s thrilled you agreed to come with us tonight.” He steered the SUV into the street traffic.

  “Tia’s told us a lot about your problems and the strength you’ve shown,” Shauna said. “I admire you.”

  “I haven’t done anything.”

  “I get to escort two beautiful women to my father’s celebration.” Buddy let out a whistle.

  Shauna leaned over and kissed him on the cheek. “You’re a lucky man.”

  “Ready for all the excitement tonight, Rose?” He glanced at her in his mirror.

  “I can’t wait.” Why had she agreed to the dinner? Oh, yeah, Tia had begged her to go and show support for Dean. Though with all his connections, her absence wouldn’t make a dent in the guest list.

  “The cops promised extra protection around the area where people park and walk into the dinner,” Buddy announced.

  “The security is comforting and scary.” Shauna clutched at the collar of her black coat with a manicured hand.

  “You’re safe with me, babe.” Buddy winked.

  “Don’t talk about my attack when we’re at the party.”

  Rose’s interest picked up. What was with Shauna’s harsh tone?

  “Don’t worry, honey. No one will bug you. Everyone will be talking about my father, not you.”

  Shauna sat staring ahead. A tense silence fell over the car. Buddy turned right toward the Audi. Two uniformed police officers directed the traffic, but Rose saw no signs of Lennox.

  “I never expected this many people,” she said as they drew to a halt in a long line of vehicles waiting to enter the parking lot. “Tia told me the dinner was for close friends. Who are all these people?”

  “These are my father’s close friends.”

  A young man dressed in a valet uniform approached them and offered to park the SUV. Buddy threw the vehicle into gear. “It’s show time, ladies.”

  “I hope your father hired our wedding band to play tonight,” Shauna said. “I love listening to them. Rose, wait for us.”

  Rose threw her door open before Buddy or Shauna popped their locks up. She paused in the chilly night and gazed ahead to the Audi while her escorts climbed out. A warm glow lit the windowed atrium and lured her forward. Guests were entering or lingering near the main entrance to chat.

  “Hey, Bud Drown.” A couple joined Buddy and Shauna and cut them off from her view.

  “I’ll wait in the lobby,” Rose tossed over her shoulder.

  Before they could answer, she trotted off across the lot. Her foot touched the sidewalk as someone grabbed her arm.

  She whirled around to a man dressed in a dark windbreaker jacket with a black scarf wrapped around the bottom of his face. His dark brown eyes stared down at her.

  “A.J.? What are you doing here?”

  “Walk with me away from the crowd.”

  Her stomach jittered. She hung back.

  “I’m sorry if I scared you,” his voice softened. “Give me a couple of minutes. Okay, Rose? I drove a ways to talk to you.”

  “I only have a minute.”

  “That’s all I want.” He released her and shoved his hands into his pockets. “This way.” He inclined his head toward the rear of the building.

  Rose debated. Near the parking lot, Buddy and Shauna were busy talking and oblivious to her. Ahead shadows surrounded the backside of the Audi. Coldness trickled throu
gh her. “Let’s talk now. How…did you know I’d be here, A.J.?”

  “I’ll explain.” He gripped her arm and guided her away from the guests. “I followed you when you left your place. I don’t want to say more until we’re away from the crowd.”

  Uneasiness slid down her back. “About what?” Her mouth went dry with dread.

  His fingers dug into her arm, steering her forward. “Keep walking. We’re too obvious standing in the middle of the sidewalk, and I don’t need an audience.”

  “Let’s head to the lobby.” No one noticed them as they passed. She’d be all alone with him in a few seconds. What did he have planned? She pulled in a breath and released it shakily. “I think we’ve gone far enough.”

  “There’re too many people everywhere.” He was nearly running now, his iron hold forced her to keep up with him.

  “A.J., what’s going on? What’s with all the secrets? I’m not going anywhere until you answer me.” She yanked her arm away. “You’re acting like a fugitive.”

  He stopped outside the reach of the lights and stepped onto the frozen grass. Laughter and voices floated across the night air. “I need to talk to someone, and you’re the only one who’ll listen.” He threw a hand toward the shadows. “I don’t know where else to go.”

  Were those real tears in his eyes? Rose shoved her hand into her purse and gripped her thirty-eight. “Talk to me, A.J. Why are we skulking around in the dark?”

  “The police were at my job and my apartment. They spoke to the receptionist and my landlady. Both women now think I’m the new Jack the Ripper and Dahlia’s killer. When I tried to enter my place, the landlady called the cops. I left fast. I don’t know if they followed or contacted the New Hampshire authorities to be on the lookout for me.” He ran a hand over his face. “Everything’s all mixed up. I’ve been living in my car, driving around, trying to figure it out.”

  “Why didn’t you tell me Cassie and Dahlia visited you in Rhode Island?” she demanded.

  His mouth fell open. “You knew?”

  A cold, sick dread settled over her.

  He kicked the ground. “Right after I moved, Dahlia started calling every garage in Rhode Island until she found me.”