Snuggle up for Tuesday Tales, January 10, 2023! This is where authors write excerpts incorporating word and picture prompts. I am working on a cozy mystery. The word prompt is pot. When you finish reading my snippet, make sure to visit all the talented authors of Tuesday Tales.
“The Sheriff wants to ask you a few questions.” Lillian ushered us toward a small seating area near a corner window. From the edge of my vision I noticed that a few Goldies had begun to flock in and were inspecting the Christmas boxes stacked in the opposite corner.
“What about our helping with unpacking the boxes and the tree trimming?” I whispered to Lillian.
“I appreciate it, Peri. There’s so much to do and little time, seeing as how the committee is suddenly acting all willy-nilly. The Sheriff says he won’t keep you long.” She showered me with a twinkling little smile and hurried off toward the Goldies.
Robin and I sat side by side opposite the Sheriff. Our chairs were upholstered in dark blue fabric covered with tiny pale blue and yellow flowers, obviously aiming for chintz. The Sheriff took up two-thirds of a two-seater bench made of varnished wood slats. My gaze flicked to a drooping azalea outside the window. Its washing tub pot was cracked on one side, and the plant was doing its darnedest to escape. It looked as nervous as I felt. Obviously, Sheriff Ford wanted to inquire about the murder, and reliving that event was not the way I had envisioned spending the afternoon.
Robin had on her ‘I want out of here’ face and was chewing the burgundy color off her bottom lip. I wondered if she was having second thoughts about The Real Glisten or if the Sheriff would even ask about it. I sincerely hoped not, afraid she would freak out.
“This is an informal follow up to the statements you gave Deputy Deason,” the Sheriff began in gravelly, measured tones. “I had planned to stop by Montrose House—your house,” he amended, training his chilly gray eyes fully on me. “But since you’re both here, this’ll make it quick and easy.”
I brushed a tendril of obstinate hair from my eye. Reliving the afternoon Kitty was killed was something I had done every day since the murder, but that was in my head and, at the most, with Robin. Having to talk to the Sheriff about it was, well, murder. And poor Robin. Her olive skin had paled, and she was twisting her fingers together.
The Sheriff took in her state.” No need to be nervous, Miss Gilmore.”
I hope you enjoyed the snippet incorporating the word pot. Thanks for stopping by. If you haven’t done so already, check out the other excerpts at Tuesday Tales.
Cheers & Happy Reading!
Flossie Benton Rogers, Conjuring the Magic with Spirited Stories
All rights reserved, copyright @ 2023 Flossie Benton Rogers
A fantastic excerpt, Flossie. I’m awed by you make writing is so many different genres seem so effortless!
I really appreciate that compliment, Mae. Thank you! I never thought I would like writing in first person, but it turns out to be fun.
Excellent scene. Love the line and use of the prompt, “Its washing tub pot was cracked on one side, and the plant was doing its darnedest to escape. It looked as nervous as I felt.” Great image. Well done.
I’m so glad you liked the washing tub pot image. I had the darnedest time spelling darnedest. Thanks, Susanne!
Tell me more! I’m intrigued. Love the new graphic.
Didn’t Jean Joachim, Tuesday Tales originator, do a great job with that graphic? It’s outstanding!
As usual, your imagery is stunning. I can see the wilting flower and that cracked pot as clear as day. And chewing the color off her lip. I’m wondering why Robin is so nervous, too. The sheriff taking up two-thirds of the seat paints a great picture of a big man, cool as a cucumber, looking to trip people up if they try to lie. He made me nervous, too. Am loving this story!
I know what you mean– in the presence of such a figure we would all be somewhat nervous. I’m so glad you like the cracked pot and her chewing off her lipstick. Thank you!
Such a wonderful excerpt!
Much appreciated!
Another wonderful snippet! I really liked how you incorporated the word prompt. With your descriptive writing, I could see the whole scene.
I’m glad you liked the description, Trisha. Thanks so much!
I can feel the tension that they are feeling. I feel like I’m under interrogation too. Great job!