Deadly Secrets from Pond Island: A Vanessa Hutchins Mystery by Olivia Raymond

Author:Olivia Raymond [Raymond, Olivia]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Long House Press
Published: 2023-08-22T16:00:00+00:00

24

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Over the next two weeks, Vanessa scheduled more workers based on Annie’s recommendations. She thought it wise to build a friendly distance between her and Annie for the time being, but she wasn’t going to apply that same wisdom when it came to reliable labor. Everyone she hired so far had worked out well. Not surprising, of course. Annie didn’t strike her as someone who would put up with slackers.

The owner of the gorgeous antique clawfoot tub she found online had replied to her earlier email and agreed to her offered price. Vanessa was thrilled to replace the mauve-colored tub which she dreaded using. She loved the old, white porcelain tub, especially with its sleek curves in the middle, fitting to the female form. She decided she’d call Virgil to ask if he would help her pick it up. While she wanted to give Larry’s case files a break, she thought this might present a good opportunity to learn more about the Dilkses.

At first, Virgil was hesitant to help. He relented after she offered to pay him an amount too tempting to refuse. Plus, she’d “throw in a tank of gas.”

He pushed back when she said she would go with him. He said he would pick it up with Sam and bring it over. He made a flimsy argument that only two people could fit in his truck. Vanessa knew this was an excuse. Sam rode in the back of his truck all the time. His remarks and tone of voice made it clear he didn’t want to spend any time with her.

His attitude strengthened her resolve. She insisted right back, stating she needed to personally inspect the tub to make sure it was in good shape. Thankfully, Virgil relented again. They made plans to pick up the tub the next day.

With the tub issue taken care of, Vanessa moved on to picking out kitchen appliances, tile, and plumbing fixtures. She browsed the online inventories offered by a nearby big-box home improvement store. She found a great deal on a kitchen bundle, including a stainless-steel refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, vent, and washer and dryer combo. She declined the microwave, as she didn’t like microwaved food. She’d always thought food tasted better warmed up on the stove or in the oven, not zapped by microwaves. The appliances wouldn’t arrive for several weeks, but the sales price made it worth the wait.

After perusing pages upon pages of tile designs, she settled on a classic white shape that wouldn’t lose favor with time. She avoided the latest trend, knowing it may well fall out of fashion sooner rather than later. Like mauve tubs and avocado-green appliances.

With the tub and tile selected, she took Walt outside again before browsing bathroom vanities. He sniffed around a bit, hiked his leg, then headed back toward the house.

“Ready to head back in so soon?” Vanessa thought the heat must be too much for him. She patted his soft head as she opened the door for him. Walt followed her back to her office.

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