Mayhem and Mandrill: an Animal Cozy Mystery (Dusty Paws Mysteries Book 6) by Verena DeLuca

Author:Verena DeLuca [DeLuca, Verena]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Aconite Cafe
Published: 2024-08-12T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Saturday, April 15th

THE SUN DIPPED low in the sky as we parked Jake's Jeep outside the Golden Lotus, a Chinese restaurant in Santa Fe that promised warm, comforting food. I watched the shifting colors of the sunset paint the horizon as we walked through the double doors, eager for a bite before heading back to Raton.

Inside, the restaurant buzzed with life. Red lanterns hung from the ceiling, casting a warm, golden glow over the wooden tables adorned with delicate white linens. I could hear the clattering of chopsticks, the sizzling of woks, and the murmur of conversations that created a welcoming harmony. The scent of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce enveloped us as we stepped further in, teasing our appetites.

We settled into a cozy corner booth with plush, velvet seating and a small vase of fresh orchids. Jake studied the menu, his brow furrowed in concentration. I loved moments like these—simple yet special—sharing a meal after a long day.

“This place looks like a hidden gem,” I said, glancing around. A mirrored wall reflected a lively scene, showcasing families and groups of friends enjoying their meals, laughter bubbling up alongside their animated conversations. The soothing backdrop of traditional Chinese music drifted through the air, further adding to the ambience.

“Definitely. We can’t get anything like this back home,” Jake replied, his voice low but warm. “Let’s get something good to eat and head back. We’ve got work to do.”

I nodded in agreement. Our minds were already half in Raton, eager to tackle the outstanding questions swirling around the investigation. After quickly deciding on Kung Pao chicken and crispy spring rolls to share, I picked up my chopsticks and absentmindedly twirled them in my fingers while Jake placed our order with the waiter.

The food arrived within minutes, fragrant and colorful, a feast for the eyes and stomach. With each bite, I savored the spices that danced across my palate, my stomach feeling lighter as the deliciousness drowned out the stress of the day.

“Can’t believe we’re finally making progress with the case,” I said, taking a sip of hot tea. “Gavin Parker seemed genuine.”

“Yeah, but I’ve still got my doubts,” Jake replied, chewing thoughtfully. “Just because he doesn’t know anything now doesn’t mean he wasn’t involved somehow.”

Just as I was about to respond, Jake’s phone rang, vibrating on the table. He glanced at the screen, and I could see his expression sharpen into focus.

“It’s Mike,” he said, answering the call.

“Hey Mike, what’s up?” Jake’s tone shifted, becoming more serious.

I could only hear Jake’s end of the conversation, so I leaned in slightly, my curiosity piqued.

“Where, right now?” Jake asked. “Got it. We’ll head back right after dinner. What did you find?”

His eyes widened as Mike described whatever crucial detail he had uncovered. Jake nodded, keeping his voice steady. I held my breath, sensing the tension building with every passing second. This was what we had been waiting for—a breakthrough.

“Seriously? The sales records from AgriMax? That’s big,” Jake said, rubbing his temple as he listened.

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