Felled in Little Leaf Creek (A Little Leaf Creek Cozy Mystery Book 17) by Cindy Bell

Author:Cindy Bell [Bell, Cindy]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2022-12-05T16:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 15

With Cassie at work for the rest of the morning, Tessa had spent a little time making calls to see if she could find any leads as to who Nina’s father was, and why Sally might be lying. However, each call had led to yet another dead end. She turned her attention to making cookies instead.

As Tessa began to relax, and her thoughts cleared, she ran through the suspects in her mind. Kevin was furious over his lost paycheck and all the damage that would do to his family.

A swift knock on the door drew her from her thoughts. She recognized the sound of his knock.

“Go away, Mark!”

“Tessa, I’m not leaving until you open the door.” Mark’s booming voice held a hint of amusement and a large amount of determination.

“I’m working, Mark.” Tessa finished mixing the frosting and set the mixer down on the counter. She wiped her hand on a towel, then turned toward the front door. “I don’t have time to talk right now.”

“You offered to let me help, remember?” Mark called through the door.

“All right, fine. Come inside, it’s not like it’s locked.” Tessa picked up the bowl of frosting and carried it over to the waiting tray of cookies.

“It smells delicious in here.” Mark stepped into the kitchen. “Did you make more cookies?”

“Can never have enough for the little ones.” Tessa glanced up at him. “What are you wearing?” She looked over his bright red suit with large, golden buttons.

“It’s part of my Santa Claus costume. I’m going to the children’s charity to hand out gifts today, then I’m wearing it for the Christmas parade tomorrow. I’m part of the parade.” Mark grinned. “Do you like it?” He did a slow spin in front of her. “It’s a little snug, I know. I guess I put on a few pounds this year.”

“It’s fine. I’m sure the kids will love it.”

“Thanks.” Mark attempted to stick a fingertip into the bowl of frosting.

“No, you don’t.” Tessa pulled the bowl away. “You’ll get your germs in it.”

“My germs?” Mark laughed as he leaned against the counter beside her.

“Things have to stay sanitary in my kitchen.” Tessa clucked her tongue as she began spreading some frosting over a large sleigh-shaped cookie.

“You mean when the goats aren’t in it?” Mark pointed down to the cuff of one of his pant legs. “Gerry took a bite out of me.”

“Oh, they’re both so riled up.” Tessa eyed the bottom of his pants. “I’m sure we can find someone to fix it. I’ll pay for it, of course.”

“It’s fine. It’s not that bad.” Mark turned on the sink faucet and began washing his hands. “I’m here to work, remember?”

“Well, while you work, maybe you can help me figure something out.” Tessa handed him a small spatula and directed him toward a tray of Christmas tree-shaped cookies.

“Sure. I’ve been wanting to talk about this, too. You see, you’re so good at being alone, the thought of taking a chance on inviting someone into your life, it scares you.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.