Meow for the Money (A Klepto Cat Mystery Book 14) (10 page)

“What’s all that stuff have to do with me?” Petra asked.

“Or me?” Jody practically shouted.

June cleared her throat and spoke more quietly. “I’m going to have to ask you both to stay away from here for a while. If you want to talk, call me. But please do not come here to the estate until we’ve cleared up these matters.”

Petra looked at Savannah and demanded, “Her, too?”

June stiffened. “Savannah is staying.”

“She’s not even family,” he spat. “What’s wrong with you? Have you lost your mind?”

“Yeah,” Jody said, “you’re trusting someone from outside the family? I think something’s wrong with you. Petra, can we have her committed or get power of attorney or something?”

“Maybe so,” he said. “With that snake, Goss, out of the way…”

Before Petra could complete his sentence, Craig stepped into the room. “Everything okay, Mrs. Balcomb?” he asked, maybe too cheerfully.

“Yes, Detective,” she said confidently. “I have explained the new rules to my niece and my stepson and they were just leaving.” She looked at one and then the other and spoke clearly. “They know they can reach me by phone and that this decision has nothing to do with how I feel about them. They are still family. But in light of what’s been happening here, they also understand that they must follow the same rules as staff and take a little vacation away from the estate, just while we try to make sense of it all.”

Petra glanced at Craig, then turned toward the door. In the meantime, Jody picked up her toddler, when June added, “Before you two leave, I’d like to give you something in case you want to take a little trip someplace.”

They both spun around and looked at her. Jody smiled weakly. “Oh thanks, Aunt J,” she said, grabbing the envelope out of June’s hand and promptly tearing into it. Once she saw the figure written on the check, she said, “Nice,” as she rushed into the hallway with her son.

Petra stood staring down at the envelope June still held in her hand. “Is this what is due me, or simply another meaningless stipend to make me behave the way you want me to?” he asked. He started to leave, then turned back, snatched the envelope from his stepmother, and marched out the door.

Craig followed Petra and Jody out and watched them each drive away.

“Thanks Detective,” June said when he returned. “They’re certainly ungrateful children.”

“Yeah, undeserving, for sure,” he said. “Mrs. Balcomb, I hope you don’t mind, I’ve put a tail on both of them.”

“You have?” she asked, obviously surprised. “Well, I guess you know what you’re doing, Detective. It’s your investigation.” She let out a sigh. “I’d sure like to see them cleared. I hope you discover that they’re just spoiled brats and not criminals.”

Craig grimaced and shook his head before turning to leave the room.

June called after him, “Do keep me informed, will you Detective?”

“Sure will,” he promised.

****

“How did it go at the estate today?” Michael asked as he and Savannah prepared for bed that night. “It should be quieter around the place now, right?”

She nodded. “Should be.”

He watched her for a moment before saying, “Savannah, I’m sure glad you and Craig got her to remove everyone from the premises. I was worried about you being there so much with all that’s been going on.”

“Yeah, I was a little worried myself. I mean, even Rags could have been in danger.” She let out a sigh. “If June hadn’t agreed to this, I might have suggested she move in with us for a while or…”

“With all those cats? Come on, Savannah.”

“Well, it didn’t come to that. I think we’re all safe now.”

“So who’s over there since June cleaned house?”

“Iris, Colbi, Edie, and Dora. Max is preparing meals part-time and driving.” Savannah chuckled. “He says he’s driving Miss Daisy. Auntie said he even plans to wear a chauffer’s cap.”

“Funny,” Michael said. “How’s Rick, my part-time assistant, working out?”

“I haven’t met him yet, but I hear he’s going to come for a few hours every day to groom the cats and administer any medication, right? And Colbi will work with him.”

“Yes, Rick has finished veterinary school, so he’s qualified to take care of what ails June’s cats.”

“He’s the only one getting paid, I think,” Savannah said. “The others wanted to donate their time since they also get to help with the cats. Colbi’s in charge of preparing their meals. I think Dora and Edie take over at noon on the days when Colbi works. They also help Iris with meals for June and the staff. I visited their quarters before I left today and it’s kind of like a college dorm. I think they’re having fun.”

“So did they change the locks?”

“Oh yes, all the locks were changed. Do you know how many doors there are in that home? Not counting the garages and storage sheds, there are eight.”

Michael was quiet for a moment before asking, “Did you check your messages on the landline?”

Savannah shook her head. “Why? Have we been getting messages?”

“Well, your lover boy called a few more times.”

“What?”

“You know, that guy who called me a weasel.”

“Oh no!”

“Savannah, I’m a little concerned that he might be dangerous.”

“Really? What did he say?”

“He’s starting to sound a little creepy. Since he’s doing this anonymously, I have to think he has an ulterior motive that isn’t all that…pure.”

She stared at him for a moment before asking, “Has he made any threats?”

“No, but he did say he can’t wait to see you at your exhibition.”

“Am I doing an exhibition?”

He nodded. “Mr. Shively called the landline today, too. He said they’re having a showing of the winning photos and he wants all of those who placed in the contest to make an appearance.”

“When?”

“Tomorrow night.”

She went limp. “Oh, I don’t know if I can bear another commitment. I’m so tired.”

“Well, let’s get some sleep; you’ll feel better in the morning.” Then he added, “Savannah, I want you to ask Craig to be there, will you? I’m concerned about what this man might do.” When Michael saw Savannah’s eyes fill with tears, he pulled her to him and held her until she fell asleep.

****

“Feeling better?” Michael asked Savannah as they sat at the breakfast table with their daughter the next morning.

She nodded. “Yes, I hope to take it a little easy today. I am kind of excited about doing my first photo show this evening.”

“It’ll be fun. Would you like to go out to dinner before the event?”

“Yes, that would be nice. I’ll be at June’s this morning to make sure everything’s okay. Then I want to come home and nap with Lily. I feel like I need to catch up on lost sleep.”

He stood and picked up his jacket. “Sounds like a good idea. I’ll see you sometime this afternoon, then.”

“Yes, you will,” she said kissing him. She then coached Lily, “Tell Da-Da ’bye-bye.”

“’Bye,” Lily said, waving one little hand in the air.

“’Bye-bye, punkin’,” he said, blowing raspberries on the baby’s neck.

Before Savannah could lift Lily out of her chair and get her ready for her bath, Michael returned. “Hi, hon,” she said. “Forget something?” When he didn’t respond, she looked at him, asking, “What’s wrong?”

“Come look for yourself.”

Picking up the baby, she followed Michael and gasped when she stepped out onto the wraparound porch. “Flowers,” she said glancing out over their small lawn and into the large circular driveway. She creased her brow. “Where did they come from? There must be a dozen bouquets.” She smiled. “Michael, did you do this in celebration of my exhibit tonight? How thoughtful.”

“No. I didn’t do this. They’re from your secret admirer,” he said, handing her a note. “I found this on the windshield.”

Cautiously taking the slip of paper, she read:

roses are red, vilets are blu,
all the flours together
not as pretty as u.

“What?” she nearly shouted. She glanced around the yard again. “That’s weird. Who is doing this?” She put one hand on Michael’s arm. “I wonder if it has anything to do with what’s going on at June’s estate.” She lowered her voice. “I met her stepson yesterday and he seems to consider himself some suave Casanova.”

“Oh really? Do you think he’s the one who’s been calling you?”

She grimaced. “Probably not—like I said, I just met him yesterday—only…”

“Only what?”

“I don’t know. Maybe he’s been lurking around watching June and me without us knowing it. It just creeps me out. I’d rather someone approach me with their come-on routine than do it anonymously.”

“Come-on routine?” Michael said, chuckling.

Savannah thought for a moment, then said, “Michael, I have an idea. How would you like to move in over at June’s estate for a day or two until we figure out what’s going on here? We can come back and forth and feed the animals. Or maybe my aunt will do it.”

Michael let out a sigh. “Probably a good idea. Is it okay with June?”

“I’ll check with her.”

“Okay, gotta go.” He kissed her, then Lily, saying, “Lock the door. Check the other doors, too. I’ll take care of the flowers. See you at June’s later, unless I hear something different from you, okay?”

As Savannah stepped back into the house, her phone chimed. “Excuse me, sweetie,” she said to the baby, pulling her cell out of her pocket. “Hi Craig.”

“Hi. What do you know about the niece and the stepson?”

“Huh? Oh you mean June’s? Not much, except they seem to be gold diggers.”

“Are you going to June’s today?”

“Yeah. In fact, if it’s okay with her, I think we’ll stay over tonight.”

“Why?” he asked. “Isn’t she wearing you out enough without living there twenty-four-seven?”

Savannah chuckled. “Yeah, it’s an exhausting lifestyle she leads, that’s for sure. But no, I’m kind of hiding out.”

“
You’re
hiding out? Why? Who from?”

“Well, someone’s expressing a little too much interest in me, and Michael and I decided it might be a good idea to join the others at the estate until he gives up on me.”

“Someone’s after you? What’s the deal?” Craig asked, obviously concerned.

“Yeah, I guess so, but not for my money,” she said laughing.

“Oh.”

“Oh, what?”

“Well, I’m guessing this someone is…shall we say…attracted to you.”

She grimaced. “Craig, he left a bunch of flowers all over the front yard this morning.”

“Does he know you’re married?”

“Yes.” She giggled. “He says Michael’s a weasel.”

Craig chuckled, then asked more soberly, “Are you afraid of him?”

“I haven’t decided what to feel. I sure don’t like having someone invading my privacy and sneaking around my home, I can tell you that!”

“Well, good.”

“Good?”

“Yes, good that you’re going to stay at June’s for a few days.” He was quiet for a moment, then asked, “Didn’t I see that the photography show is tonight? You’re involved in that, aren’t you? Iris said you won a prize.”

“Yes. Second place,” she said, proudly.

“And you’ll be there tonight, will you?”

“Yes, we’re planning to attend. I want to support the other photographers and I’d love to hear what people have to say about my work.” She narrowed her eyes. “Why?”

“I’m just wondering if this…admirer…is one of your photographer friends.”

“Michael and I thought maybe it’s someone who saw a picture of me—they’ve posted pictures of all the photographers.” She thought for a moment before adding, “But he indicated he has seen me in person, too.”

Craig was silent again. “What time is it tonight?”

“Seven. Want to go?”

“Sure do.”

“We’re going to dinner first. I’ll ask Colbi if she’ll stay with Lily. Can you and Iris join us? We haven’t done a double date in a while.”

“Sounds fun. Let me make sure everything’s quiet at the estate and that Iris can get away from the kitchen.”

“Super. Hey, did you say there was a tail on Jody and Petra?”

“Yes.”

“What did you find out?”

He paused. “I’m coming by the estate around noon to talk to Mrs. Balcomb. Both she and Iris are expecting me.”

“Both June and Iris?”

“Yes, Iris is going to make me a sandwich. It’ll be lunchtime, you know.” He cleared his throat. “And I have something rather shocking to tell Mrs. Balcomb. I thought you might want to be there.”

Detective Craig Sledge ate his chicken-salad sandwich in the kitchen with Iris before walking down the hall to the cat room, where Savannah and June had just finished their lunch.

“Your wife is an excellent cook,” June said when he sat down in a chair across from her.

“Yes, she is,” he agreed.

Her eyes twinkled when she said, “I just might entice her to stay on here once all this is over. Do you think she would consent?”

“Oh, I don’t know. You’d have to talk to her about that.” He laughed when he saw Lily pushing her doll buggy around the room. “Uh-oh, don’t run over the cat,” he cautioned.

Rags, who had been lounging with the other cats, suddenly stepped up to the toddler and rubbed against her, almost knocking her over. Lily laughed when Rags’s tail tickled her face. “Ki-ki,” she said, giggling. “Ki-ki, meow.”

He chuckled at the toddler, then asked Savannah, “You’re staying here, huh?”

June quickly responded, “Yes, she and Dr. Mike and their little ones are my most honored guests.”

“Little ones?” he asked, emphasizing the fact that it was plural.

“Lily and Ragsdale, of course.”

Savannah smiled at June, then addressed Craig. “So, what did you find out about Jody and Petra?”

“First, let me ask you, Mrs. Balcomb, what can you tell me about your niece and your assistant—Megan Vale?” When June hesitated, he asked, “What’s their marital status? Who do they live with…hang out with?”

June studied Craig for a moment. “Well, Jody lives across the river with her husband and child. Ernesto is some sort of director at an investment company. Jody inherited a fortune when her father—my younger brother—passed away ten years ago, and she’s spent most of it on luxury vacations, jewelry, and cars.” She thought for a moment before saying, “You wouldn’t know it to look at her, but she’s one sophisticated gal—she’s accustomed to rubbing elbows with the elite. Her father taught her well. She seems to prefer dressing down, though. She wears those torn jeans and off-shoulder tops most of the time. People meeting her casually would never guess she lives in a multi-million-dollar home with staff.”

“She’s married?” he asked.

“Yes, but I’m not sure how happily. She complains about Ernesto being away from home so much. He travels, you see, wining and dining clients.”

He peered at June for a moment, then asked, “And what about Miss Vale? What’s her situation?”

“Megan comes from sturdy stock.”

Grinning, Craig asked, “What does that mean?”

“Well, there’s no money there, but they’ve worked hard for what they have. They’re not educated people. I believe her parents still reside in a modest home in a housing tract somewhere across town. She’s single—never married. As far as I know, she isn’t dating anyone, although she’s told me about a couple of men in her life over the years. She seems to be picky and never stays with anyone for long.”

“Where does she live?”

“Well, here, of course. I suppose she’s staying in a hotel for the next few weeks—hopefully, someplace exotic where she can get out and meet people. She leads a rather dull life.” She thought for a moment. “But I know she has dreams. She talks to me sometimes about breaking out on her own—away from her parents and this place.” June smiled. “She’d like to start her own bakery. She’s a wonderful baker—loves playing in my kitchen. Gwendolyn and Bev aren’t much for baking. They excel when it comes to preparing gourmet meals, but Megan makes sure my sweet tooth is satisfied. She also bakes a lot of the bread for us here. I’ve offered to finance a bakery business for her, but she never liked the terms. She seems to look at me as a mother figure, if you know what I mean. She wants things handed to her without strings—or interest.” She leaned toward Craig. “I believe her way of thinking sabotages her dreams. She could be the owner of her own bakery by now, but she just doesn’t want it badly enough. Why is this important, Detective?”

“Well,” he said, grimacing. “I can tell you that none of those three used the money you gave them to take a vacation. After leaving here, your niece and your stepson met and drove over to Haley for the day. From the reports I got, they behaved like a married couple—or maybe a dating couple.”

“What?” June said, leaning forward and running her hand along Tabitha’s fur as the cat walked past. “Where was that Brazilian husband of hers?”

Craig shrugged. “I don’t know. All I can tell you is those two were together, walking hand in hand, playing on the swings with the little boy, sharing an ice cream cone.”

“Well that’s peculiar, isn’t it? I mean, I didn’t think they even liked one another. They hardly speak when they’re here at the same time.”

Craig cleared his throat and looked at June. “Later, your stepson entertained Megan Vale.”

“What?” she shrieked. “No. You must be mistaken. They dislike each other even more than he and Jody do.”

“I don’t think so. She showed up at his place late last evening all dolled up, and didn’t leave there until late this morning.”

“All dolled up?” June said. “I’ve never seen Megan all dolled up. Do you mean in an evening gown?”

“Yeah, sorta, I guess. Here,” he said, tapping on his phone screen. “This is Miss Vale, isn’t it—wearing a rather provocative dress? And is that Petra Salvo’s mansion in the background?”

“Well, I’ll be a monkey’s uncle. What is this all about?” she said, looking as if the wind had been knocked out of her. “I don’t understand it. I had no idea he was fraternizing with my niece and my assistant.” She shook her head. “What is he thinking? Both of them?” She scowled and said through her teeth, “Wait ‘til I get my hands on him.”

“Not kosher, huh, Mrs. Balcomb?” Craig asked.

“No. Not at all.”

“But they are all adults,” he said.

“Adults who are conniving to get my money. Now that I know they’re teaming up—even to the point of being romantic—no, that’s certainly not kosher.” She shook her head slowly, then said to Craig, “Thank you, Detective for bringing me this…most disturbing news.”

“There’s more,” Craig said, clearing his throat again.

“My God, what else could there be? Is he dating Martha and Addie, too?”

Craig chuckled. “I don’t know about that, but did you know that Megan Vale and your niece are friends?”

“Yes, they’re always jabbering over coffee and Megan’s baked goods.” She looked serious for a moment. “Do you think they know?”

“Who knows what?” Craig asked.

“Do you think Megan and Jody know that the other one is…you know…consorting with Petra?”

Craig shook his head. “If they do, then things get even more convoluted.”

“How is that possible?” Savannah asked as she sat on the floor playing with Lily.

He glanced at June. “I don’t think Mrs. Balcomb wants all three of them ganging up on her.”

June smirked. “Those vultures don’t frighten me.”

“You should be frightened,” Craig said. “Just look at what they’ve done and attempted to do already, presumably all in the name of money. Your money!”

“But do we know it was them or even one of them? What do we actually know? Isn’t that why we dismissed my entire staff, because we don’t know for sure who’s causing the trouble?”

Craig nodded. “What I’m looking at here, Mrs. Balcomb, is probability and opportunity. Who would stand to gain the most if, for example, the cats were out of the picture and you were drugged to the point of being convinced to change your will?”

“Oh,” June said, her eyes darting in contemplation. “Detective, that could be anyone. Anyone could break in here, drug me, and force me to sign my name. Why, it could even be a stranger off the street.”

“I suppose so,” Craig said, sounding a little frustrated. “But, if you don’t mind, I think we’ll focus on the people closest to you for now, instead of pulling strangers off the street to interrogate.”

“Touché,” June said, grinning sheepishly at the detective. “Obviously, you know your job and I vow to let you do it…” she lowered her voice to a near whisper, “…even if your findings break my heart.”

“I think you should be prepared for anything,” Craig said, quietly. He hesitated before adding, “I have a hunch your stepson thinks he’s playing the women, but it could be the other way around.”

“Really?” June said. She sat back and thought for a moment, then she began to laugh. “Well, I’ll be. Now isn’t that humorous? The player being played by the victims.” Her laughter became contagious and Savannah and Craig joined in. “That’s classic, it really is. I suppose they each think the others might fall into some of my money, so they’re all three playing their cards close in hopes of having the winning hand. That’s rather amusing, actually.” When the laughing ceased, June looked down at the cat in her lap and said, “Well, Tondra Sue, what do you think I should do?” She petted the cat’s rich coat for a few moments, then looked up. “Detective, does your intuition tell you whether my cats are still in danger? Do you think anyone has reason to come after my babies?”

As Craig contemplated the question, Savannah asked, “June, have you told anyone that you’ve changed your will?”

She looked at Savannah inquisitively. “I don’t think so. We meant to tell those who will benefit most, but I don’t think we ever got around to it.” She faced Craig. “I guess I’ve been keeping it to myself to avoid being besieged by those three…or anyone else.”

“So they still think the control of the estate goes to whoever you choose to care for the cats?”

“Yes, I guess they do.”

“And you’ve changed your mind about that?” Craig asked.

“I made a minor change, yes. My desire is for the estate to finance the proper care of my cats for as long as they live. The remainder will be earmarked for organizations and shelters that cater to forgotten and suffering cats. Sterling and I worked hard to clarify my wishes so there are no questions or loopholes. I just hope Sterling will survive to see that they’re followed.”

Craig stood, took a deep breath and let it out. “Well, I’d better make sure the cat pen and this room are well secured. Excuse me, will you?”

When he returned, Savannah asked, “So, you think that even after those three know about the changes, the cats are still in danger? Aren’t they smart enough to understand that the bulk of June’s estate is going to the care of cats—if not these cats, then other cats? Why would they still focus on harming June’s cats? I don’t get it.”

He stared at her for a moment. “No, I don’t think they understand that. They are—or at least one of them is—blinded to the fact that they aren’t getting what they believe they’re due.” He rubbed his chin in contemplation. “Maybe they believe that if the cats are gone, June will change her mind and her will to their benefit…give up on the idea of leaving it all to cats. They’ll take advantage of how distraught she is about losing the cats, catch her at a weak moment, and worm their way into the will.” He looked from Savannah to June. “Believe me, ladies, I’ve seen some ugly, manipulative behavior perpetrated on stronger women than June.”

Craig glanced around the room at a couple of cats in hammocks, one playing with a toy, one sound asleep on his back inside a tunnel, and the Persian now lying next to June in her chair. “What’s wrong with Rags? He seems kinda worried about something. The others are calm, but he’s not.”

“Probably Tabitha,” Savannah said.

“Huh?”

“He’s probably worried about Tabitha.” Savannah grinned. “He does have a sensitive side, you know.”

Craig stared at the cat for a moment and said, “I guess you’re right. Everything seems okay. I have a few things to take care of this afternoon. I’ll see you all this evening.” He looked at June. “What’s my wife fixing you for dinner?”

“I heard it’s stew and biscuits.”

“Mmm, my favorite,” he said. He turned to Savannah. “Where are
we
going for dinner?”

“I don’t know. Haven’t thought about it. Any suggestions?”

Craig rubbed his chin. “We could just stay here and have some of Iris’s stew and biscuits.”

“As wonderful as that sounds, I was really looking forward to an evening out with adults,” she said in a rather whiney tone. “And I’m pretty sure Iris is ready to have someone else cook for her,” she added, smiling coyly.

****

Late that afternoon, Savannah returned to the cat room with Lily to find Craig and June chatting.

“Hi, Savannah. What time are we leaving?” he asked.

She looked at her watch. “Oh about twenty minutes.”

“Where were you this afternoon?” June asked, smiling. “Did you go on a little outing?”

“I took Lily for a jog—felt like I needed to work out a little. Then we had a nap. I wanted to check on you before I jump into the shower and get ready for my big photo debut.”

“Wish I could be there to cheer you on,” June said.

“I’ll take pictures,” Savannah promised.

Craig stood. “Well, I’d better get ready for our date. Everything appears to be secure.” He turned to June. “I’ll be back by nine, don’t you think, Savannah?”

She nodded. “Oh, I need to find Colbi. She’s going to take care of Lily this evening. She’s already fed the kitties, hasn’t she?”

June nodded. “Yup, like clockwork. They seem to like her.”

“Yeah, she brings food,” Craig quipped. “And here comes
your
dinner,” he said when he saw Iris appear in the hallway with a tray. He moved aside allowing her to enter.

While arranging June’s meal on a sturdy tray in front of her, Iris said, “Edie and Dora are taking over from here. They’ll come get your tray and bring your evening tea. Let them know when you’re ready to go to your room and one of them will walk with you, okay, Ms. June?”

The woman nodded. “Thank you. This looks delicious.” She peered suspiciously at Iris. “Are you conspiring to put some weight on me?”

“Yes, that can be a hazard of eating Iris’s cooking,” Craig said chuckling and patting his stomach as he left the room.

****

“Your pictures look so professional up on the wall like that,” Iris said. Her face lit up. “Look at this one, Craig. Isn’t that adorable of our little Lily?”

Craig stepped closer and examined the photos. “They’re very nice, Savannah.” He squeezed her to him by her shoulders. “Good job, there.”