Sarah Woods Mystery Series (1-6) Boxed Set

by Jennifer L. Jennings

  “Please come in. Would you like something to drink?”

  I kindly declined, and Max got right to work, inspecting the kitchen for strategic hiding spots that would provide ideal camera angles.

  Emily took a seat at the table to watch. I couldn’t blame her for wanting to keep her eye on him; most women did.

  “So,” she said, finally peeling her gaze away from Max. A worried look clouded her features. “How does this work once the equipment is in place?”

  “The live feed from the cameras will automatically be recorded by a program we can access at any point via laptop.”

  “So, Paul won’t be able to see the cameras, right?”

  “Correct,” I reminded her. “That’s the point.”

  “Will you be able to hear conversations?”

  “No. These particular cameras aren’t equipped with microphones.”

  Emily nodded. “So, what happens next?”

  “Just go about your normal routine. Just pretend everything is fine.”

  The expression on her face suggested she was uncomfortable with the whole thing. “So, what should I do in the meantime?” she asked.

  “We’ll keep a close eye on the surveillance tonight when Paul gets home from work. If we believe he has doctored your beverage, we will call you first, then contact the police and submit the tapes as evidence. It might be a good idea to keep the tea just in case the lab wants to test it.”

  Emily nodded slowly as she placed both palms on her knees for support.

  “Can I get something for you?” I asked.

  She raised her left hand to object. “I’m fine. I just get dizzy sometimes.”

  “Have you talked to your parents recently? Maybe you should call them. You need emotional support right now.”

  She shook her head. “Honestly, talking to them makes me even more depressed. My dad is grouchy. And my mom is a worry-wart.”

  “You know, it might be a good idea to confide in Linda. She’s trained to help people going through trauma.”

  “She’s so busy with her other patients. I hate feeling like a burden.”

  “But she’s one of your best friends.”

  “She’s also Paul’s friend. You haven’t mentioned anything to her, have you?”

  “I promised I wouldn’t.”

  She seemed relieved as she exhaled a long breath. “Did she ever tell you about our wedding in Hawaii. How my brother showed up?”

  “She just said that he made an ass of himself. Something to do with the wedding cake.”

  A spark of anger lit up her eyes. “Do you have siblings, Sarah?”

  “No.”

  “Well, lucky you.”

  “Would you like to talk about it?”

  She glanced over at Max, who was just out of earshot. “Benjamin and I barely tolerated each other growing up. He was the young prince, and our parents kissed his ass. No wonder he became such a drama queen.”

  “Drama queen?”

  “Oh, did I forget to mention he’s gay and proud?”

  The blunt comment left me speechless.

  “He knew he was gay at an early age,” she continued. “And that was fine, but he had no shame. For instance, when he was ten, my parents had a group of friends over to the house for a party. Benjamin decided it would be an excellent time to come out of the closet and tell everyone he was gay. It was so embarrassing. No one knew what to say.”

  “Awkward.”

  “That’s what I mean. He’s gay. So what. Why does he have to be so open about it? But that’s Benjamin. He always has to push the envelope with everything. When he was fourteen, he tried to show me the proper way to give a blowjob using a banana as a phallus. What kind of person does that?”

  “It’s over the top.”

  “But even so, everyone loved Benjamin despite his crass nature. I could never stand him. He’s like Richard Simmons on speed.”

  “So what precipitated the blow-out at the wedding?”

  She rolled her eyes. “It’s a long story. I’d rather not get into it if you don’t mind.”

  “No problem.”

  Emily turned her head to watch Max install the cameras. “Do you believe in soul mates, Sarah?”

  “I don’t know. Sometimes yes, and sometimes I think love is random.”

  “What does it mean if you can’t trust your husband?”

  “Well, that’s why I got divorced.”

  She turned back to face me, expressionless. “I’m sorry to hear that.”

  “It’s okay. I found the man I was supposed to be with.”

  “So, then you do believe in soul mates.”

  I smiled at her. “I believe in timing.”

  She nodded as if she understood implicitly. “You’re very pragmatic, aren’t you? I wish I could be more that way. Problem is, I’ve put all my eggs in Paul’s basket. What would I do without him. Especially in my condition.”

  “You have other people in your life to turn to. No matter what we find on the surveillance footage tonight, you won’t end up alone. Have you thought about what you’ll do if Paul is arrested?”

  “Well, if we lose the house, I’ll probably have to go stay with my parents.”

  “Where do they live?”

  “Florida. They’re both retired, but my dad has emphysema, so they don’t get out much.”

  A few minutes later, Max joined us at the table. “It’s all set, ladies. The cameras are in place.”

  Emily looked around the kitchen. “Nicely done, I can’t even see where they are.”

  “Good, then I’ve done my job,” Max said, smiling. “I’ll just need a few more minutes to confirm the transmitters are working. Other than that, I’ll have to come back in a few days to replace the batteries, or remove the devices, depending on the outcome.” He turned away to type something on his tablet computer.

  “Well then.” Emily placed both palms on the armrest and pushed herself up shakily. “I should go lie down. I’m feeling very tired today.”

  “Keep your cell phone handy tonight,” I said. “Just in case.”

  “Thank you both for everything. I need to write you a check, dear. I know you’ve been working so hard to help me with this. I feel awful that I haven’t given you any compensation yet.”

  “Don’t worry about that right now. We’ll discuss it later. You need to rest.”

  “Thank you. I want you to know how much I appreciate everything your doing.”

  “I’m glad I can help.”

  Max gathered his equipment and headed to the door. I gave him the head nod, the one that implied, ‘give us a few minutes alone.’ Max got the hint, gave a quick wave good-bye to Emily, and left.

  Emily turned to me. “He seems like a nice man.”

  “Yes, he is.” I placed my hand on her shoulder. “Can I ask you a question? It might be none of my business, but it’s something I feel I should bring up.”

  “What is it?”

  “Well, I couldn’t help but notice the guy working on your yard. He was here a few days ago, and again today.”

  “Oh, that’s Hector. Why do you ask?”

  “I’m curious because you said you were having a hard time paying the bills. Usually, landscaping is one of the first luxuries to go.”

  “Hector and my husband have a barter agreement between them. Paul does his taxes, and he maintains our yard. It seems to work out for everyone.”

  “So, are they friends?”

  “Well, I wouldn’t call them friends, necessarily.”

  “Has Hector ever been invited into the house before?”

  “Is there a particular reason you’re asking?”

  “Just curious.”

  Emily shrugged as if she couldn’t see the point. “Well, sometimes he needs to use the bathroom, or get a glass of water. I don’t see any harm in that, do you?”

  “Not at all. He’s very lucky to have such nice clients to work for,” I said, turning to leave. “Anyway, I’ll let you get some rest now.
I’ll be in touch.”

  Chapter 13

  Max was quiet on the ride home. I knew there was something on his mind.

  “What’s your impression of Emily and this whole situation?” I asked, giving him an opportunity to air his concerns.

  “I don’t know. It’s a messed up situation. It doesn’t seem fair that a woman in her condition should have to worry about her husband causing her more harm.”

  “Yeah, it definitely makes me sad.”

  “By the way, have you discussed getting paid with Emily?”

  “Not yet. I haven’t dared to bring it up. She seems worried about money. The company she worked for didn’t give her much when she left. Her hospital bills have wiped out most of her investments. Paul’s income isn’t cutting it. They might lose their house.”

  Max gave me that look. “You have a big heart, Sarah. I love that about you, but how do you expect to pay your own bills?”

  “I know. Carter warned me about that, too. But this is different. I want to help her either way. And I’ll pay you for your time if that’s what you’re getting at.”

  Max twisted his mouth in offense. “You’re my girlfriend. Emily is basically a stranger to you.”

  “I know, but I’m worried about her safety. And there’s something else.”

  “What?”

  “Maybe it’s nothing, but I asked Emily about that landscaper. His name is Hector. She told me they have a barter arrangement.”

  “Yeah, so?”

  “Well, I have an accountant. Costs me a hundred bucks to get my taxes done.”

  “Okay, so what’s your theory?”

  “I don’t have one. Not yet, anyway.”

  * * *

  During dinner, Max set his laptop on the kitchen table so we could keep an eye on Emily’s kitchen.

  Paul came home from the gym at 6:45 p.m., still wearing his workout attire. He paused in the kitchen, downed a glass of water, then left the room. I assumed he was going to check in with Emily or take a shower.

  “It’s like watching a silent horror film. The suspense is killing me,” I said. Probably a poor choice of words considering what was at stake.

  Max topped off my glass of wine. “Try to relax. We could be here for hours. What time does he usually make her tea?”

  “She wasn’t specific.”

  He pushed my plate a few inches closer to me. “You should eat something.”

  “I’m too nervous.”

  Twenty minutes later, Paul returned to the kitchen wearing a long robe. He turned on the stove, filled the kettle with water, placed it on the burner, and then pulled a cup and saucer from the cabinet. He took a tea bag from the box, and placed it in the cup, then made a sandwich.

  I held my breath as we watched the moment unfold. Max and I must have looked like two kids engrossed in a video, our eyes wide, anticipating what would come next.

  The next minute seemed to drag on for hours.

  Paul placed his dirty plate in the dishwasher and returned to the stove. He poured the water into the mug and stirred.

  We had a clear shot of him from two different angles, one of his right side, and one facing him straight on. The look on his face was placid as he continued to stir the tea. A few seconds later, he set the spoon in the sink, cradled the mug in both hands, and walked off.

  I let out a breath. “I didn’t see him put anything into the tea, did you?”

  “No.”

  I turned to face Max. “So, what do you think?”

  He leaned back in the chair. “Maybe he puts the stuff in her morning tea. Speaking of morning, I’d better hit the sack. I’ve got a meeting first thing. Are you getting tired?”

  “Not really.”

  “Yeah, me neither, but let’s hit the sack anyway.” Max smiled and took my hand.

  How could I object to an offer like that.

  Chapter 14

  After monitoring the morning surveillance, there was still no sign Paul had tampered with Emily’s food or drinks. And Martha, the tracking device system on his car, proved he hadn’t gone anywhere other than work, the gym, and a grocery store.

  It appeared as though he was nothing more than a devoted husband.

  At ten o’clock, I was about to go for a quick run when my cell rang.

  It was Linda.

  “Sarah, I have the best news,” she said. “I think I found him.”

  “Found who?”

  “Who do you think? Emily’s brother.”

  I shut my eyes and tried to sound enthused. “Wow. How did you manage that?”

  “I can’t believe how many Internet sites cater to people looking for long lost relatives. Anyway, there’s a Benjamin Andrew Bradshaw that works at a restaurant in Cambridge.”

  “Where?”

  “A place called Francine’s. I checked out the website. Looks like a nice French restaurant.”

  “Did you call the place?”

  “Yes. He’s a waiter, and the hostess said he’s working tonight. I made reservations and requested him.”

  “Tonight?”

  “Sooner the better, right?”

  If I didn’t go along with it, Linda would certainly know something was wrong. I had to pretend I was delighted at the opportunity. “Wow, Linda. You’re good. And apparently a better sleuth than me.”

  “Nonsense. I just got lucky.”

  “It might not be Emily’s brother, though.”

  “It’s worth investigating,” she said.

  “Even if it is him, we have to assume he won’t want to talk to Emily.”

  “His sister is dying,” she said. “He’d have to be a cold-hearted son of a bitch to snub her now. Whatever happened in the past, it’s over. He can put aside his pride and do the right thing.”

  “Let’s hope so.” I didn’t mention the fact that Emily was the one who held the grudge and declared never to speak to her brother again.

  “Our reservation is for six-thirty. I’ll pick you up at five?”

  “Okay, I guess I’ll have to find something to wear.”

  * * *

  “You look scrumptious in that dress,” Max said as he watched me apply my make-up. It was five minutes till five, and I was running behind schedule.

  “I’d rather not be going at all,” I said, rummaging through the make-up bag for the right color lipstick. “This could be a highly awkward situation. I spent all afternoon trying to think of an excuse to back out.”

  Max came up behind me and kissed my neck. His soft lips made my skin tingle. “You could have told Linda to stay out of it.”

  “What could I say? She’s Emily’s best friend. Of course she wants to help. She thinks Benjamin is Emily’s only chance of survival.”

  “What will you say if it’s him?”

  “I’ll tell him his sister is dying and she needs him.”

  “Don’t you think he already knows about her condition? He must have heard it from their parents at some point.”

  “This whole thing is going to blow up in my face, isn’t it?”

  Max spun me around and caressed my neck. “Think of it this way. If you get a chance to meet him, maybe he’ll tell you the real reason he pissed all over the wedding cake. I’m sure that will make for some entertaining conversation.”

  “I love how you always see the glass half-full, but I really should stay here and watch the surveillance. Paul is the one I need to be focused on, not the brother.”

  “I’ll keep an eye on Paul.”

  I hugged his chest. “Did I ever tell you you’re the best thing that’s happened to me in a long time?”

  He smiled and kissed the top of my head. “Maybe a few times, but it never gets old.”

  Chapter 15

  Francine’s was like walking into a Parisian bistro.

  Linda took it all in with wide eyes. “Fancy-shmancy,” she said softly, nudging my arm.

  A female hostess smiled at us from behind her podium, her blonde bangs almost covering her eyes. “Welcome,” sh
e said. “Name on the reservation?”

  “Barrett.”

  “Right this way,” she said, leading us to a table for two near the back.

  She handed us menus. “Benjamin will be with you in a moment.”

  Miss Bangs drifted back toward her post as Linda leaned in. “This is so exciting.”

  A few moments later a handsome thirty-something African-American set a basket of bread on our table. “Good evening, ladies. I’m Benjamin, your waiter for this evening. Can I start you off with something from the bar?”

  Linda looked at me, her eyes bulging. She looked back at our waiter and smiled. “Oh, you’re Benjamin?”

  He nodded. “Is … there a problem?”

  “No. Of course not. Everything is perfect. Sarah, what do you think? Should we order some wine?”

  “Yes, is there a house wine you might suggest?” I asked Benjamin.

  He suggested a French wine that neither of us had heard of. We ordered two glasses and he headed toward the bar.

  “Okay,” Linda said, shoulders slumped. “Unless one of Emily’s parents is black, that is definitely not her brother.”

  “Well, since we’re here, we might as well enjoy ourselves,” I said.

  “I feel so guilty. Emily is sick and here we are dining like movie stars. It’s not fair.”

  “We’re here because we want to help her. Let’s not lose sight of that fact.”

  Her features softened. “You’re right.”

  Benjamin returned with our wine, took our dinner order, and said he’d return with our salads.

  I got right to work with the bread. “By the way, did Emily ever tell you her brother was gay?”

  “She didn’t have to. It was obvious at the wedding. Benjamin was very theatrical. Why is that important?”

  “It’s not, I guess. Speaking of the wedding, how did Emily and Paul meet?”

  Linda tried the wine, made a sour face, and set it down. “The story is very entertaining from Emily’s point of view. She belonged to an Internet dating site, and was supposed to meet a guy for lunch. She had only seen the guy’s photo on the website. So she walked into the restaurant and saw this guy sitting alone. He sort of resembled the picture. She walked up and introduced herself. Wrong guy. She apologized, waited another ten minutes, but her date never showed. She was about to leave the restaurant when the single guy she thought was her date approached her. They ended up having a conversation, and next thing she knew, she got a date for dinner that night.”