Picture Me Naked (Stoddard Art School Series) (33 page)

“You have five new messages.”

BEEEEP

“Mr. Jones, this is Sergeant Wilson. We have Mr. Edward Zeigler in custody. There is no question he is the man responsible for cutting your brake line. When we questioned him, he crumbled like week-old bread. He confessed to following you for the last five days, tampering with your vehicle as well as the vehicle of a Ms. Lambert. He keeps mentioning someone named George. We need you to you come down to the station and sign a statement. Ms. Lambert should sign one as well. The DA is pushing for attempted murder, and the way this Zeigler guy is spillng his guts, he won’t be bothering you or Ms. Lambert for a very long time. I gotta say, you are one damn lucky man. We don’t usually see a crash scene like yours without dragging out a body bag. Yep, you are damn lucky.”

BEEEEP

“Zee. It’s me. Are you okay? Ted and I were heading over to the hospital, but they said Jagger had been released. I hope you two are together. I really don’t want to trudge up all those stairs and find you on the living room floor again, but if I don’t hear from you by tomorrow, that’s what I’m doing. By the way, what the hell happened with you and Bruce? When you took off he looked like he was going to shut down the place. Next thing I know, he and Madeline had their heads together, then some guy in Armani showed up and Daniel lit up like a disco ball. Needless to say, your show was a hit. Now you’re going to be famous, and I’ll have to hate you. Oh, and who the hell was that short guy with your mother? Call me.”

BEEEEP

“Zee, my dear, this is Daniel Bruce. I’ve given a great deal of thought to our unfortunate conversation. Madeline explained everything to me. Why didn’t you tell me this
friend
of yours was your lover? I’m not made of stone, you know. Your contract with me still stands. You’re a sensation. I can hear the buzz about you over martinis as we speak. In fact, one of our guests owns a small gallery just outside London. He screams money. He was very impressed and bought three pieces. It wouldn’t surprise me if he doesn’t want some of your work over in London. We’ll talk soon.”

BEEEEP

“Zee? This is Madeline. I just checked with the hospital, and they told me Jagger was released. I’m so relieved. Listen, I’m sorry I’ve been in such a state over the school. I put you in a horrible position, and I feel just terrible. I hope you’ll accept my apology. If it will make you feel any better, I’m sitting here looking at the three prettiest checks I’ve ever seen, thanks to you. The alums loved you. Loved your work. You saved us, Zee. I’m so grateful. Anyway, I really called to apologize and check on Jagger. Tell him he still has a job at Stoddard if he wants it, and I intend on paying him what he’s owed whether he likes it or not. You two really didn’t think you were fooling anyone, did you? So, will I see you both in class on Monday?”

BEEEEP

“Z. Z. Don’t you know it’s rude to leave your own party? Where are you? I just saw on the news that Ed Zeigler was arrested for attempted murder! Gerald is out sage-smudging my car right now to get rid of the negative energy. Good Lord, Zee, what could have possessed you to get involved with a man like that? Well, Gerald and I had a wonderful time last night. It was the oddest thing, though. I kept smelling Chanel No. 5. Truly bizarre. You really are an amazing artist, Zee. I know I don’t say it enough, but I
am
so proud of you.”

BEEEEP

“
End of messages
.”

Jagger intently followed Zee’s number one rule concerning naked men in her kitchen as the sunshine of a new day shone through the window and bathed their bodies.

Zee was sure they would have to listen to those messages again…later.

A word about the author...

Lisa is an artist/writer who lives in her dream house nestled among the lakes in New England. She is married to her best friend and is thankful to him for putting up with all her craziness and for giving her the chance to be who she's called to be.

She loves getting lost in a good book, finding the perfect pair of fabulous shoes, and hearing the laughter of her sons. Her faith in love and grace has carried her through many things. Her deep spirituality shines through in her work, and she believes in ghosts, silver linings, and happily ever afters.

Lisa would love to hear from her readers. You can reach her at

www.lisaolech.com

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