Elaine Flinn - Molly Doyle 02 - Tagged for Murder by Elaine Flinn

Author:Elaine Flinn [Flinn, Elaine]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Mystery: Cozy - Antiques Dealer - California
ISBN: 0060545801
Publisher: Avon
Published: 2004-09-22T05:00:00+00:00

The first thing Daria said to Molly when she arrived through the back entrance to the restaurant was, “The silver is great. How much do I owe you?”

“Not a thing. It’s a credit for my tab.”

Daria laughed. “You don’t have a tab here.”

“I know. That’s the problem. Seriously, it wasn’t that much, and it’s not open for discussion.”

“Okay, but just this once.”

“What’s this all about? I mean tonight?” Molly hoped Randall had told Daria something. She didn’t want to be blindsighted. Especially if it concerned her sister.

Moving out of the way of waiters bustling in and out of the kitchen, Daria said, “All I know is Randall said to be available. They’re already here.”

When they walked into Daria’s private room, Lucero nodded to Molly, then said, “This is not going to be one of our friendly get-togethers. This is an informal conference, and will involve some serious issues.”

It was very clear Lucero was speaking as the district attorney, not the man they knew as their friend. Not sure how much Randall might have told him, Molly folded her hands in her lap and tried to present a picture of innocence and calm.

“In other words, it’s a one-off,” Randall said.

Molly was surprised to hear the snap in Daria’s voice when she said, “Is that so? Well, let the record show dinner will be served first, and I expect the utmost courtesy from you both until then.” With that, she rose and left the room. Molly was speechless, and it was apparent she wasn’t alone.

“What the hell was that all about?” Lucero asked.

“You were a little terse there, buddy,” Randall replied.

Molly tried to remain silent, but her good sense vanished. “Your tone of voice was a bit much when you’re accepting hospitality.”

“She’s mad at me now,” Lucero said.

“Brilliant observation, counselor,” Randall retorted.

Daria returned then, with Manuel wheeling in a cart loaded with a large platter of roast duck and steaming vegetables. As Daria began serving, she said, “No antipasto, no garlic bread, no soup or salad. Eat the entrée then say what you have to. I’ve got a full house out there.”

“Shit, Daria!” Lucero said, “Let’s not get carried away. I only meant—”

“Save it,” Daria said.

When Manuel was about to leave, Daria said, “Two bottles of our best red, and put it on Mr. Lucero’s account.”

Dinner progressed in silence. Even Molly didn’t dare look at Daria. When the table was cleared and coffee served, Daria said, “Speak your piece, and make it quick. I want to get to bed at a reasonable hour for once.”

When Lucero cleared his throat, Daria said, “Hold that thought,” and turned to Molly. “Oliver Townsend wants to start a tab. He used you as a reference.”

“You’re kidding, I hope. I caught him snooping on my computer, called him out on it, and now he has the nerve to use me for a reference?”

Daria laughed, then looked at Lucero. “Nerve? I could name a few.”

“Bitsy told me he’s tapped out,” Molly said. “She’s fronting him for his new shop.

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