Nippy air and October–I love it! I can’t believe my favorite month is almost over. Welcome to Tuesday Tales, where writers use word and picture prompts in our stories. This snippet is from a cozy mystery set in fictional Glisten, Georgia. The week’s word prompt is clean. When you finish reading, make sure to visit all the talented authors of Tuesday Tales.
I texted Robin: “Big happenings here. Phone asap.”
She called within two minutes. I quietly filled her in on the bare bones details, struggling to keep my voice even. I could picture Robin as if she were standing before me, her eyes wide, her mouth falling into an ‘o’ shape. “I could have been on scene! Why did Bill have to cultivate the bard? Who’s covering–Orrie?”
“Not sure. Roy ordered me to stay inside.”
There was a brief silence and then, “Oh, snap!” She blurted, as if things had fallen into place. “Who cares if it’s Orrie? Are you all right, Peri? You sound shaky.”
“I am,” I admitted. Visions of passing out at Roy’s feet floated behind my eyes. “But I’ll be fine.”
“None of us will be fine with a murderer running loose.”
I frowned and sat up straight. I hadn’t thought of it in those terms. “Surely the murderer had one very specific target?”
“You’re probably right, but you never know. Look at those Danton murders last year. The killer came within an inch of getting clean away with his whole evil plan.”
“You told me about that. It was a family mess, though, wasn’t it?”
“Yep. Maybe I’m off base, but it pays to be careful in today’s world. Once a person murders, what happens when someone else gets in his way? I know for sure I’m not taking the short cut trail to the park anytime soon. Neither should you. Stay out of those woods!”
Her tone almost made me chuckle. Almost. “Don’t worry. I have lost any desire for trail walking. What time will you wrap up at the college?”
“Just about–now. I’ll call Bill on the way. Have you eaten?”
“Cookies.”
“I’ll grab us some lunch on the way to Tea Thyme. Stay inside the inn.” The call ended.
My teacup was empty. I got to my feet and walked to the window to see the latest. Several officials had departed shortly after the mortuary van drove off. Still, quite a few police remained, including wiry Detective Pelier in his civilian clothes. He talked animatedly with Roy. It looked like they were having a disagreement. Suddenly he gestured emphatically toward the window where I stood.
Thanks for stopping by. I hope you enjoyed the snippet inspired by the word clean. 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
You’re giving me the chills! Yes, once you’re in for one murder what does it matter if it’s two or more? They can’t juice you but once, can they? Great scene. Can’t wait to find out who the murder is.
Right, one juice lol. Thanks for the feedback!
Great snippet!
Thanks!
Excellent scene. Made my skin crawl.
Ooh, good!
Wait, why is he gesturing at the window? Is Peri involved? I am so invested! Great job!
Glad you are invested in the story, Tricia!