Tuesday Tales 2023-2-28 Bud

It’s time for Tuesday Tales, February 28, 2023, where authors make use of word and picture prompts in their works in progress. I am working on a cozy mystery. Today’s word is bud. When you finish reading my snippet, make sure to visit all the talented authors of Tuesday Tales.

The journals came in different colors and sizes. They looked cool and vintage with thick, yellowing paper tattered around the edges. I could see them being a clever promo giveaway for Spooky Trekking, if the business continued to bud. I peered through the glass at the price. Whew! They would have to be a VIP gift for a dedicated customer—say someone who indulged in five or more treks–something like that.

I realized my brain was heading in fifty million directions as usual. Focus, I told myself. What was important was to get Luella out of trouble. According to the Sheriff’s point of view, she was the most likely suspect. In fact, the only suspect at this point. She had the means, motive, and opportunity for the murder. It seemed to me that almost everyone at the open house had the means and opportunity. Motive? Not so much, but surely there were others with grudges or venomous feelings against Kitty. I had to find out who they were before a case was locked in against Luella.

Also, I had to learn more about Rose and why she was appearing to me. Did she have knowledge of the murderer?

I pulled myself away from the cute journals and headed toward the back counter. There was still no sign of Dulcy, her part time assistant, or anyone for that matter. It occurred to me that I was the only customer in the shop. I glanced at my watch. Twelve-thirty. The thronging people I had seen on my way here were probably at one of the cafes on the Square by now, having lunch. Maybe Dulcy was in the back having hers. I sang out her name but got no answer. I hesitated and then edged around the counter to poke my head through the hallway entrance to the back rooms. I called her name again.

A shuffling noise sounded, and Dulcy appeared from an inner room down the hall, a surprised look on her face. She offered a wan smile and removed earbuds, hanging them around her neck, as she came toward me.

I backed away to let her through and returned to the customer’s side of the counter.

“My goodness, Peri! How nice of you to stop in. I’m afraid I didn’t expect anyone at noon.”

I hope you enjoyed the snippet inspired by the word bud. 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