Death a Sketch by Cheryl Hollon

Author:Cheryl Hollon [Hollon, Cheryl]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Kensington Books
Published: 2022-06-23T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 17

Saturday Evening, Farmhouse

Beyond all expectations, the venison stew was wonderful. The sisters took little bowls of both versions. They walked over to stand on the front porch while they deliberated. It was taking a long time. Finally, Miranda approached them.

“What’s the verdict?”

Iris turned her eyes to the ceiling. “The problem is that they’re both delicious.”

“Delicious, yes,” said Lily, “but in different ways. One is perfectly seasoned to bring out the gamy flavors. The other is very tender, with a creamy sauce.”

“What do you think?” asked Iris.

“Oh no, you don’t.” Miranda grinned. “You won’t get out of this that easily. This is your event. I agree with you. I thought they were both remarkable. We really should have figured out that as sportswear employees, they would be experts in all things outdoors, but I didn’t think they would be such great cooks over an open fire.” She folded her arms. “Well, almost all of them. Eileen seems like a fish out of water.”

Iris and Lily folded their arms and stared at Miranda.

After a few moments, they burst into giggles. “We’ve chosen our winner,” said Lily.

“We were just pulling your chain.” Iris pointed to the Firehawks. “They’re the winners. Not by a lot, but their venison stew was definitely more tender, with a richer, meatier flavor.”

Miranda palmed her face and sighed. “Don’t do that. I’m having a tough time with this workshop as it is.”

“Well, it was fun to catch you out.” Lily smirked. “We’ll get the cornbread and collard greens and join you and Rowena at their tables.”

“Great, I’ll mix up the moonshine cocktail and be right behind you.” Miranda fed Sandy, then whipped up a cocktail with a sprig of mint as a garnish.

After all the food and drinks were on the table, Miranda tapped her mason jar with a spoon. “Our judges have spoken, and the winner of the venison stew competition is . . .” She paused for dramatic effect. “Team Firehawks.”

That was followed by hoots and jeers.

“Team Sweatsocks is still ahead, but these events are by no means easy for anyone.” She raised her cocktail. “Congratulations on a very challenging first day. Enjoy your stew, and I encourage each of you to try a sample of the other team’s stew. You’ll understand why Iris and Lily had such a difficult time choosing a winner. Cheers!”

Everyone seemed to enjoy the meal and the fact that there were no more events for the day. Both teams helped the sisters clean up the kitchen and store everything in the cupboards. They also cleaned up the side yard and put out the fires.

Rowena walked among everyone, taking notes. When everything was finally finished, she told Miranda that she would be upstairs typing up her assessment of today’s activities.

Miranda drove the competitors up to the lodge. When she returned to the farmhouse, Austin was lounging on the porch swing with Sandy on his chest.

“You two look comfy.”

Austin smiled. “Lily and Iris handed him over to me when they left. They think he’s been upset by all the comings and goings here today.

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