Bad Apples by JJ Marsh

Author:JJ Marsh [Marsh, JJ]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Fiction
Publisher: Prewett Bielmann Ltd.
Published: 2018-05-17T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 18

As the Fiat 500 pulled up outside the villa, slightly later than expected due to Beatrice’s inexact navigation, Tanya careened across the drive, arms spread wide with a grin to match. Ana leapt out of the driver’s seat and rushed into her embrace. The gasps and laughs echoed across the courtyard and Beatrice found herself beaming as she heaved the bags from the boot.

“Talk about a rabbit out of a hat!” Tanya said, her arm around Ana’s shoulders. “What is it, twenty years? I’d never have thought of finding you. Yet again, DCI Stubbs, you’re full of surprises.”

“Frankly, both of you need a kick up the rear,” said Beatrice. “When you find a friend, someone you connect with, regardless of what personal dramas you have in your lives, keep in touch. There. That’s your lecture for today and I’m ready for an aperitif.”

The welcoming committee had prepared canapés and chilled white port by the poolside. Beatrice stood back to allow the party to reunite. While Ana had first met Tanya as an exchange student under the charge of herself and Matthew, her familiarity with Adrian was relatively new. Yet for all the effusive hugs and squeals, it looked to Beatrice as if they’d known each other for ever.

“You look fabulous!”

“So do you! Look at the colour of you!”

“I take tanning seriously. I’m so happy you’re here!”

“Me too! Where’s this gorgeous man of yours?”

“Will, come meet Ana.”

While introductions were made, Beatrice sat down with a thump on a sun bed. Matthew joined her and placing his hand on her back, asked in a low voice, “How was today?”

“Useful. I’d go so far as to say we have a lead or two. Yours?”

“Very relaxing. We explored the valley and found hundreds of lizards. Luke will show you photos of every last one. However, storm clouds have gathered over the sisters. Couple of tiffs and a bit of tension. Hopefully, the lovely Ana will defuse all that. It really is a pleasure to see her again.”

“Nice for Tanya too, having a friend her own age. So, what’s for dinner? I’m ravishing.”

A small voice came from behind her. “So am I.”

Beatrice half turned and saw Luke’s steady blue eyes flick between her and Matthew. She got to her feet. “In that case, let us demand to be fed. After all, we’ve both had a hard day.”

“Have you been swimming too?” Luke asked, slipping his hand into hers.

“Yes, but not in the water. Did you go back to the beach?” she asked, as they made their way indoors.

“No. Grandad, me and Mum stayed here all day. Will and Adrian went to Porto and brought me a hammer. I’ll show you.” He rushed back outside and returned with a large squeaky plastic hammer which he bounced lightly off Beatrice’s head.

“The perfect present! Mind you don’t mess up my hair. What about Marianne and Leon? What did they do today?”

The smile left Luke’s face and he shrugged. “Dunno. Are you staying here now? With that lady?”

“For tonight, but we have to get back to work tomorrow.

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