Author Anon

“Well,” says Yvonne Sparks. “Home for the holidays? Or just passing through?”

“Hello, mom,” says Gavin, giving her a kiss. “Nice to see you, too. I’m taking a little break from the roaming.”

“It’s about time you should consider doing it permanently,” says Yvonne. “Settle down and give me grandkids.”

Gavin laughs. “I’m afraid there may not be anyone to satisfy you as a daughter-in-law.”

“Oh, there must be plenty,” says Yvonne.

“Yeah. Like my friend, Belle,” says Claire.

“No one’s asking your opinion, twerp,” says Gavin, good-naturedly. “I think I’ve had my share of your friends thrust upon me.”

“Belle is different,” says Claire. “She’s very mature.”

“She’s very talented, too,” chimes in Emily.

“You too, shortcake?” asks Gavin. “That’s the problem with being around a bunch of women. All they ever talk about is getting married and having kids.”

“It’s not too bad,” says Henry, winking at his son.

“That’s enough,” says Gavin, getting up and preparing to leave the room.

“Wait!” cries Claire. “You might be interested in the fact that Belle’s family started a publishing firm. Maybe they’ll accept that book you’ve been working on.”

Gavin turns around. “That is interesting news.”

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“Did you have an interesting night at the Copperfield household, (or should I say the Albright household)?” asks David.

“Very interesting,” says Amanda. “You were right. Blanche is very domineering and she is hiding something about Lisa’s father. What and why, I can’t figure out. And she tried to give me a shove towards you. It’s probably best if you stayed away from me because I don’t want to give her the impression it’s working.”

“I think we should try to give her that impression. She would relax her vigilance if she thought things were working out the way she planned. She gives me the creeps the way she looks right through me.”

“But what is she planning and why?” asks Amanda. “It makes no sense. I think I should keep her occupied while Lucy sneaks out to meet with you. It’s obvious Lucy wants to talk to you.”

“That’s a great plan. Maybe I’ll arrange a meeting with Lucy tomorrow while you visit with Lisa. Just make sure Blanche is there.”

“By the way, I hear Rick will be returning soon,” says Amanda.

“Yes. Tracy will be going back to London after the Silverman ball.”

“Dr. Steele, may I speak with you?” asks Michael, interrupting.

David gives Amanda a slight nod and walks off.

“Yes,” says Amanda, turning to Michael.

“I know it’s really none of my business, but I thought I should warn you about David.”

“You’ve tried to once before,” says Amanda. “I assure you it’s unnecessary. I know what I’m doing.”

“I hope so.”

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“I’ve never flown before,” says Melanie.

“Are you afraid?” asks William.

“No, I think this is exciting.”

“Well, it’s going to be a long trip, but at the end of it, you can bask in the sunshine.”

“That’s worth any discomfort right now. I might not want to come back to all this snow.”

“We might not have to for a while.”

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“Mrs. Flint, I apologize for messing up so badly,” says Nicholas.

“That’s quite all right,” says Marie. “After all, you suffered for all your pain. But can’t you tell me anything about what you found out.”

“I’m afraid it’s police business now and I can’t reveal anything until they’re done.”

“But they’re putting the case on hold.”

“For now. It will reopen when the time comes. That’s why I’m here. If you’re still interested, I’d like to continue the investigation on my own.”

“I don’t mind. If you do solve it before the police do, I’ll pay you. Otherwise, it’s a matter for them.”

“That’s fine. I just needed your authorization.”

“One more thing,” says Marie. “While you’re investigating that, I was wondering if you’d look into something else for me.”

“What’s that?”

“I’d like you to find out all you can about Melanie Black.”

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Filed under: All That Glitters