Excerpt of Murder Pays a Call by Nancy J. Cohen

“There’s something else we need to talk about while I’ve got you,” Fiona said, lowering her voice. “But it’s not a discussion we can have on the phone.”

Fiona sounded so serious that a moment of panic engulfed her. “What is it? You’re not ill, are you?” She’d lost her mother three years ago. She couldn’t bear the thought of losing Fiona, too. Then she’d truly feel alone.

“No, I’m fine,” Fiona reassured her. “It’s just that … I fear I’ve made a terrible mistake. I need to tell you about it in person. You’re the only one I can trust.”

“Now I’m concerned. What kind of mistake?” Had Fiona offended someone in her social circle? Made a rude comment to the wrong person? That would be unlike her.

“We’ll discuss it tomorrow. Maybe I’m imagining things.” Yet her fearful tone told Keri that whatever she felt might have merit.

“O-kay. Should I come earlier?”

“No, no. I know you have a gazillion things to do this time of year. I wish I could still drive, but I can’t seem to find my way these days. I’m lucky to have you to help me.”

Keri’s heartstrings thrummed. If it were up to her, she wouldn’t even charge Fiona, but then Purdy would berate her for being too soft. “We’re lucky to have each other. Is there anything else I can get for you tomorrow, like your favorite chocolate croissant?”

Fiona laughed, but her voice lacked true mirth. “No, thanks. I have some apple strudel that we can eat with our tea. I’ll look forward to seeing you at ten o’clock.”

Keri rang off, curious as to what was on Fiona’s mind. She’d find out soon enough.