Welcome to Tuesday Tales, powered by a small group of authors, where word prompts inspire passages in the books we’re writing. Today’s word is quick. This snippet is from a cozy mystery set in fictional Glisten, Georgia. When you finish reading, make sure to visit all the talented authors of Tuesday Tales.
I knew I had to call Dovie today with the news of Luella’s arrest. Picking up my phone to do so, I put it down again. I hadn’t heard from the authorities about searching Luella’s room and didn’t want to be in the middle of that while on the phone with Dovie. The news would send her into a tailspin, despite my best efforts to reassure her with the news of Clancy Shoemaker’s commitment to the case and demonstrated ability in the courtroom. I’d put off the chore until later. On a positive note, there was a text from Robin saying she was bringing breakfast about nine o’clock and to get the coffee ready quick.
After showering and dressing, I went downstairs, passing Luella’s closed door with tight lips. I hurried into the kitchen, sorely missing the robust delight of coffee brewing, cinnamon and vanilla wafting in aromatic heat waves from cookies in the oven, and a sore-headed Luella in all her baking majesty. Face it, the place wasn’t the same without her, even though she’d been a glum bunny for at least a week. And, dang it, she didn’t kill Vee. I headed for the coffee machine.
I perked up at the resulting dark roast aroma, soon combined with the cinnamon rolls, tater tots, and crispy bacon brought by Robin.
After a few minutes of silent eating, my friend mumbled around a queen-sized bite of warm, iced roll. “Word is the DA is sure he’s found the killer.”
I had already scarfed down one roll and had begun on my serving of tater tots. A second cinnamon confection would provide a satisfactory accompaniment. Swallowing a bite, I said airily, “I don’t believe Luella did it.”
“I understand the powers that be think Luella was out to protect Jack from a threat, real or imagined, or something that Vee had on him.” A piece of bacon bobbed up and down as she pointed it at me. “You’re quick to support her, Peri. Playing devil’s advocate here, there’s still the fact that she lied by omission, not only to you but also to her lawyer.”
I grimaced. “I don’t know why she kept it to herself about the argument outside and grabbing Vee’s arm. She was probably terrified of being wrongly accused.” I kept my gaze steady as I met Robin’s eyes. “She did finally tell Clancy Shoemaker the truth.”
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Cheers & Happy Reading!
Flossie Benton Rogers, Conjuring the Magic with Spirited Stories
All rights reserved, copyright @ 2024 Flossie Benton Rogers
It’s kind of sad that her friend is unwilling to give Luella the benefit of the doubt. Poor woman is getting railroaded. Great scene.
Yes, it seems Luella has numerous naysayers.
A well – written, visual scene.
Thank you, Loretta.
Love “glum bunny”- I called my kids “grumble bunny” when they were moody. LOL! And man, I should not have read this when I am hungry. I want this breakfast. STAT! Jillian
Love grumble bunny!
thanks!
Love this excerpt!
Thank you!
I can’t wait to read more and see where this is going.
You’re so good at bringing these people to life.
Thank you, Trisha.
Good for Peri. She knows Luella didn’t do it. But doesn’t she have a feeling about who did? I bet she does. Wish I could talk to her and ask her. That’s how real she is to me and this story is. Can’t wait to find out who the real culprit is!
Love the description of their breakfast and the banter about Luella. I hope the truth is found. Great job!