Maui Murders

by Kathy Callahan

  “I can’t wait for Layla to see this wall. She will be thrilled. Be sure and send me a bill for all your work. Come to think of it, I need one from Herb too,” said Fiona.

  “I’m going to be working on those tomorrow. Herb is no good at paperwork, so we’ll sit down at my computer, and I’ll do the billing for both of us. I should have it in the mail by Wednesday.”

  “Thank you, Wade. You both have done outstanding work.”

  Fiona gave Ned a tour of Layla’s house. He was stunned how the wood restoration and bathrooms had turned out. “Fiona, you put together an outstanding team of craftspeople and turned his place into a beautiful home. I bet Layla will want to live here full time. It will be hard to leave all this once the furniture has arrived and is placed.”

  “I believe they will spend more and more time here. With computers being what they are and Dewey’s skills, I bet he finds he can be gone from the office more than he realized. They both love Paia and all of us. Hopefully, Salt Lake City will be their second home.”

  “I hope you’re right, honey. I like having them around, and I know George, Annie, and Mr. Soo feel the same way.”

  CHAPTER 75

  “George, I have eight boxes for you to load that go to the Goodwill. Then we can tackle the library,” Rebecca said.

  “I’ll get these loaded now.” Under his breath, George said, “While I still have the strength.”

  When the boxes were loaded, George joined Annie and Rebecca in the library. “Are we going to pack all these books?” George scanned the library, containing three walls of floor to ceiling books.

  “Goodness, no. I’m only taking a few with me, and I’ve selected what I want and packed them. They are stored in the garage, along with everything else I’m taking. I just want you to go through the shelves and see if my husband stashed anything there. He was a good one at putting things down somewhere, then forgetting about it. If either of you see any books you would like, please take them. All the rest of these, I’ll leave for the new owner. There are a lot of technical books on architecture, animal husbandry, management techniques, and historical biographies. I kept my books on the lower shelves so I wouldn’t have to get on the ladder to get at them.”

  Rebecca pointed out where George should start, and he rolled the library ladder over to the first wall of shelves and began to search between the books while Annie and Rebecca worked on another section checking the lower shelves.

  “Oh my gosh!” exclaimed Annie “I’ve found a pair of glasses.”

  “I knew it. He said he lost them in the kitchen and I must have thrown them out, but I knew he left them in the library,” said Rebecca, laughing. “Thank you, dear, I’m so glad that mystery is solved.”

  They kept searching shelves, with George and Annie checking titles, making sure not to miss any they wanted. Annie and Rebecca finished their three bottom shelves and moved to the other side where George was working. They started work on the bottom three shelves where he had cleared the top. No more hidden items were found.

  George finished one wall and moved onto the next. “Rebecca, did you say we could have any books we were interested in reading?”

  “Yes, of course, help yourself.”

  “I’ve found a large book on Italian architecture, with emphasis on the older classical buildings. The pictures are terrific and is quite detailed on the building of these structures.”

  “George, I know my husband would be honored that an engineer would find pleasure in reading his books. Please take all you want.”

  George found five books he asked Annie to box up for him, then continued working through his second wall of shelves.

  After lunch, they returned to the library. George found a book about Faberge eggs made for Nicholas and Alexandria of Russia that Annie was thrilled to have. Once all the shelves were checked, Annie and George went to make their drop-off at the Goodwill store. “I hope they don’t turn us away. I fear we’re overwhelming them with Rebecca’s generosity.”

  “I’m sure they are grateful for everything we deliver. It will keep the volunteers busy. I’m glad we’re finished at Rebecca’s for the week. I’ve got to get back to my seniors. I’ll phone when we get home and see if it’s convenient I come by tomorrow. I love those dear folks, and I miss not seeing them weekly.”

  “I know you do, honey, and I’m sure they miss you too. Let’s pick up something for dinner. I’m hungry and you must be too.”

  “That, my love, is an excellent idea. How about Chinese?”

  “Perfect, order my usual and a side of egg rolls.”

  Annie pulled out her cell phone and placed the order. They dropped the boxes off at the Goodwill store and were greeted with forced smiles. After picking up their food order, they went home to enjoy dinner and browse through their newly acquired books.

  * * *

  Ned brought Fiona a cup of coffee as she sat at her dressing table, brushing through her hair. “Thank you, darling. I needed this.”

  “What would you like for breakfast? How about some oatmeal?”

  “Are you crazy? I can’t eat anything heavy. I’ll want to curl up and go back to bed. Besides, if I wanted something that heavy, I would call Marty and tell him I’m coming over for breakfast,” Fiona said.

  “You need to eat something substantial, for energy to cope.”

  Fiona got up and put her arms around Ned’s neck, pulling him to her. “You were wonderful last night, Mr. Keller.”

  “You were pretty wonderful yourself, Mrs. Keller.”

  “It’s not as frequent as when we were younger, but I do believe it’s gotten better. Although I can’t figure out why, I always thought we were perfect together,” Fiona said, smiling up to Ned.

  “I think it’s gotten better because we appreciate the intimacy of our lovemaking more. We’re slower, gentler, and enjoy the pleasure we give to each other. Life’s pleasures mean more as we age.”

  “How right you are, my darling. I married such a smart, sexy man. I’m a very lucky woman.”

  “How about french toast for breakfast, your favorite?”

  “Perfect! Let me know when breakfast is ready.”

  After breakfast, Fiona dressed, grabbed her Hermes purse, and went to the kitchen for Ned’s approval.

  “Lovely as always. While you were dressing, George brought Pearl around. He dusted her off, and she’s all ready to go.”

  “Bless that man. What good neighbors we’ve found in George and Annie. I believe we will enjoy many years of their company.”

  “I agree. Now get your cute little ass in the car and down to the airport. You don’t want to keep our potential buyer waiting.”

  “No, I certainly don’t. Wish me luck.”

  Ned kissed Fiona on the forehead and saw her to the Escalade.

  When the producer’s wife’s plane arrived, Fiona drove up as far as she could, got out, and walked to greet her. Fiona was pleased to see a woman in her midfifties coming down the stairs dressed in designer jeans, expensive leather loafers, white blouse, carrying a huge Hermes tote and wearing a lot of gold jewelry.

  They exchanged greetings, and Fiona escorted her to the Escalade. Fiona gave her a running commentary of the area, much like George had provided to her husband. Fiona maneuvered well over the road to Rebecca’s and pulled under the porte cochere to find Rebecca outside ready to welcome them inside. After introductions, they walked into the foyer.

  “My god!” exclaimed the producer’s wife. “No wonder those two refused to tell me anything about this home, and it’s truly something you have to see to believe.”

  From experience, Fiona and Rebecca knew not to say anything but to let the producer’s wife explore, asking questions she may have.

  She was very businesslike in her questioning, yet Fiona sensed an undertone of excitement. They took her on a tour of the home and the ou
tside area.

  Rebecca answered all questions with honesty and clarity and related her tale of years working on the big island cattle ranch. Finally, much to Fiona’s relief, a phone call was placed to the pilots, and the producer’s wife said she had to get back to the airport.

  Returning to the airport, Fiona asked her what she thought of the estate and was thrilled to hear she would be negotiating the price with Mr. Tomoko tomorrow or the next day. She could not let this wonderful property fall to someone who might not appreciate it as much as her family would.

  Fiona stood on the tarmac, waving as the plane departed. Once out of sight, she hurried into the car and phoned Ned.

  “It’s a done deal!”

  “Honey, that’s great news. Are you sure?”

  “Yes, she said she would phone Mr. Tomoko in the next couple of days. As soon as I get home, I’ll call Rebecca and tell her the good news. I’ve got to get going. I’m stopping to fill up Pearl, then I’m heading home. Have a drink ready for me. It’s been a stressful day.”

  “You’ve got it, sugar.”

  Fiona pulled into George’s driveway, honked the horn, and waited for him to come out and retrieve the keys. “I would have brought the keys up myself, but frankly, I’m drained. It was a trying experience but successful. She will be discussing the price with Mr. Tomoko in the next couple of days. And this sale is just as much your success as anyone’s, George.”

  “Thank you, Fiona. I’m happy for everyone concerned. Does Rebecca know the good news yet?”

  “No, I’m going to call her once I have a drink and ease down a little. Thank you again for Pearl. She did great, and I’ve filled her up for you,” Fiona said, handing the keys to George.

  Ned greeted Fiona with a martini; she took it and went to the bedroom to change. In shorts and a halter top, she found Ned in the kitchen and asked for a refill. He obliged, saying, “I think I should phone Rebecca, you look pooped. Besides, you downed that drink pretty quick.”

  “Fine with me, I’ve had enough of the real estate business for today. I’m going to go sit on the lanai.”

  Ned joined Fiona and phoned Rebecca putting the call on speaker so they both could her Rebecca’s side of the conversation. She was thrilled and asked Ned a number of questions. He told her to hang in there, and as soon as negations got underway, he would keep her updated on what was happening. After he hung up, they stayed on the lanai, enjoying the peace of the sunset.

  CHAPTER 76

  Ned and Fiona were on their way to the pier to be there when the shipment arrived. Fiona knew Marvin Schwartz would handle everything properly but felt it added to her creditability to show up whenever there was a large shipment coming in from either the mainland or Oahu.

  “Ned, thank you for driving today. I’m enjoying being your passenger, just sitting here relaxing.”

  “After your great job yesterday, it’s the least I could do.” Ned touched his earphone and received a call from Mr. Tomoko. “She offered fifteen to start. That’s amazing. I thought she would start around twelve.”

  Fiona picked up enough of the conversation to realize that Mr. Tomoko counter-offered at twenty and that Ned was standing firm at eighteen. Fiona had no doubt that figure would be reached in a couple of days. After Ned ended his conversation, Fiona said, “Do you want me to call Rebecca and tell her the latest?”

  “Would you, darling? I really do not like driving and talking on the phone. I’m sure you were as delighted as I was that the producer’s wife started off at fifteen million.”

  “Absolutely. That’s a sure indicator how much pressure she must be getting from her husband and son to acquire that property. Besides, she liked it too.”

  Fiona phoned Rebecca and updated her on the call from Mr. Tomoko. She was semistunned at the amount of money being bantered around, still unreconciled to receiving such a large amount for her property.

  “The brothers phoned this morning before we left. They are all set for pickup and delivery tomorrow. I told them I thought Rebecca’s property would be sold soon, and they would be picking up there and delivering to both Layla’s and Wade’s in the next week or two. I wanted to prepare them in advance.”

  “That’s smart. Those boys do not do well with last-minute requests,” Ned said.

  “Did you think that was a strange call we got last night from Layla?” Fiona asked Ned.

  “No, why did you think it was strange?”

  “Well, both she and Dewey wanted to come before Wednesday, but there were no rooms available at Mother’s. The soonest they could get a room was next Wednesday, and that was at the Paia Inn. Why couldn’t they have stayed with Mr. Soo? He would have enjoyed their company, and it’s not like he doesn’t understand they are young lovers and getting married soon.”

  “I’m sure it’s out of respect for Mr. Soo. Both Layla and Dewey really care deeply for him, and they would have been uncomfortable sharing a room in his home, unless they were married.”

  “Perhaps you’re right. It seems a little old-fashioned to me though.”

  “It might be, but remember, Mr. Soo is old-fashioned.”

  When they reached Marvin Schwartz’s warehouse on the docks, things were being transferred as they arrived, and all was going smoothly. They stayed until everything was secured.

  After lunch on the way back to Paia, Fiona received a call from Marty, letting her know he dropped off the end table and the glass people would deliver it to Layla’s next Wednesday morning. Fiona thanked Marty and told him once the craziness from Layla’s and the Visitors Center was over, she and Ned would have him over for one of her Italian dinners. Marty was thrilled.

  Fiona turned to Ned, saying, “I’m sure tomorrow will go well, but I want to be there for the entire move, just to make sure everything is placed correctly. I’ve decided Saturday I’m going to target practice. That will relax me, and by then, I’ll need to relax. I want to get ready for Sunday and my crafters’ meeting. I’m not taking any more excuses from those people. If they aren’t ready to post their own schedule, I’ll post it for them or they’re out. I’m not wasting any more of my time or of those that have made a sincere effort to cooperate.”

  “Honey, I have total faith that by the time you come home after your meeting, everyone will be scheduled and happy about their time slot. I’m anxious to meet with Donnie and the contractor at the Visitors Center tomorrow. Things are coming together nicely. Looks like the center and Layla’s will both be ready about the same time, then we both can breathe a sigh of relief.”

  “Amen to that, and I refuse to take on any new projects for the remainder of the year!”

  A little before ten Friday morning, Ned drove Fiona over to Layla’s and helped her tote a cooler full of water and a bag of salty snacks inside. She wanted to keep the brothers watered and their salt level up. Fiona opened all the sliders, and Ned brought in the snacks.

  The brother’s large truck arrived from the warehouse fifteen minutes later. Fiona greeted them and asked if she could help. They said they were good until they started carrying things inside, then she could verify placement. They unloaded the items, carrying them up the back stairs to the rear lanai.

  Two brothers donned CSI booties, as they called them, so they wouldn’t scuff the newly refurbished floors. The largest brother stayed outside and got items through the back lanai screen door to the other brothers who placed them. It was a slow process, but the outcome was perfect and always pleased the customer. Fiona followed all items through the home, making sure of placement and angle. She made the brothers stop several times for water and chips. The brothers worked in such perfect coordination that things finished up a little before two that afternoon.

  Fiona was closing up when Annie called from the back lanai.

  “OK if I come in and see how things look?”

  “Sure.”

  Fiona let Annie ins
ide.

  “My curiosity got the best of me.”

  Annie began walking through the kitchen, now full of new appliances, and into the still empty dining room. When she got to the living room, she stopped. “Holy cow, this is right out of a decorating magazine. It looks so chic and yet so livable. Believe me, Fiona, if we could afford it, I would have you redecorate our living room.”

  “Thank you, Annie. I would be happy to help you redecorate at no charge. We would have a ball shopping for everything.”

  “If I ever thought I could get George out of his big lounge chair, I would consider redecorating. It’s the only chair that ever fits his height and he is so comfortable reading or watching television, I couldn’t replace it. I’m anxious to see the rest of the furniture.”

  Fiona showed Annie throughout the house and enjoyed her many compliments. As they were closing up, Annie mentioned an idea she had regarding a housewarming gift for Layla.

  “I thought, with her and Dewey going back and forth, a plant would be short-lived. I came up with the idea of filling a laundry basket full of things like salt, pepper, a few other spices, measuring spoons and cups, kitchen items. Then I thought maybe you would like to do one on paper items like paper towels, waxed paper, toilet paper, tissues, etc. What do you think? If we each spent about a hundred dollars, we could make a large dent in the things she will need, things she wouldn’t have any idea she even needed.”

  “That’s a splendid idea! I’m in. I’ll let you know when she moves in officially, and we can get things before that. By the way, I’m going shooting tomorrow to ease tension. I would be glad to have you and George join me. If you folks don’t know how to shoot, I’m quite capable of giving lessons.”

  Annie looked wide-eyed at Fiona. “Thank you, that’s a very generous offer, but George and I are both gun-shy. Neither of us have any problem with someone keeping a gun for their protection or that of their families, but it’s just not for us. I hope you understand.”