Star Tangled Murder by Nancy J. Cohen

Author:Nancy J. Cohen
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Orange Grove Press
Published: 2023-03-14T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Fourteen

Marla was taken aback by Lizzy’s sudden hostility. Was it defensiveness toward her sibling that had closed her off? The man she’d seen talking to Lizzy at the side of Baffle House must have been her brother. They had discussed something involving Simon, if she recalled.

I’ll find someone to cover for you, Lizzy had said.

Be sure to ask Simon about it when his assistant isn’t around,” the man had replied.

What was Greg doing that he needed someone to cover for him? And did Lizzy mean to ask Simon to do this job? Lizzy’s revelation had just raised a host of new questions.

“I understand Greg owns the farm adjacent to the fairground,” she said to Lizzy. “What is it that he grows there? I love to shop at farmer’s markets if he sells his products to the public.” She hoped this approach would elicit an explanation.

Lizzy’s face turned to stone. “He raises corn and other vegetables.”

Is that right? Then why are you so reluctant to talk about him?

“Is your brother acquainted with Simon?” she asked in a breezy tone. “They’re both farmers and could give each other tips on growing crops.” If Simon hadn’t been as innocent as he’d claimed in cultivating marijuana, maybe he had reverted to his former activity. In that case, he might have recruited his neighbor to help expand the business.

“Simon is playing a role. He’s only a pretend farmer.”

“Perhaps, but he did study horticulture and seems very knowledgeable. His crops are doing well, from what I’ve seen. He could operate a real farm if he were so inclined.”

Lizzy rose and adjusted her blouse. “Did you really come here to visit my shop or to interrogate me?” She had a hurt puppy dog look in her eyes. Then again, her expressions seemed to change as rapidly as the wind. Was she putting on an act?

“I told you I had more questions about Baffle House. And Susan is looking for a gift that her daughter might like.” She pointed at her friend, deflecting the topic of conversation her way.

Lizzy approached Susan and lifted an infant doll. “These adoptable babies are popular with little girls. They come with a certificate.”

Susan plastered a polite smile on her face as Lizzy described the brand. “Jess loves the American Girl line. Maybe it’s the simplicity of the earlier eras or the stories that come with them.” Susan indicated a collection of dolls wearing historical clothing.

A light bulb flared in Marla’s mind. “Hey, that gives me an idea,” she said to Lizzy. “Did you ever look inside those vintage dolls at Baffle House for the missing Confederate gold?”

“Not really. Those dolls were added later as part of the set decoration. I’ve looked everywhere and haven’t discovered any treasure. I’m not sure I believe it exists, although tourists love the story.”

“Wouldn’t it belong to the property owners if found?” Susan asked, cocking her head.

“That’s my assumption. It’s a moot point until someone finds the stash. Historical accounts do seem to corroborate the tale.”

Lizzy straightened a silicon infant that had fallen over.

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