Tasty Edibles, Nasty Rumblings (An Ivy Creek Cozy Mystery Book 13) by Ruth Baker

Author:Ruth Baker [Baker, Ruth]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: CleanTales Publishing
Published: 2023-08-12T16:00:00+00:00

16

Everyone was gathered in the great room, awaiting an announcement from Chief Stanley, including the elusive Franklin. As the competing teams spoke in low tones amongst themselves, shuffling uneasily, Lucy watched Franklin from the corner of her eye. As always, the man’s face hid his emotions.

A moment later, Chief Stanley appeared. He strode through the room until he reached the fireplace, then turned to address them, his hands clasped behind his back.

The room quieted.

Chief Stanley cleared his throat. “As you may be aware, my search of the premises has been largely unproductive. But the discovery of something that is not present is just as worrisome.”

His stern gaze washed over all of them. “Marilyn Saxon reportedly had a journal in her possession at all times. Several of you have told me she was writing her observations and impressions of the contestants and the competition itself, to later be published.”

His lips thinned. “It’s very noteworthy that her journal seems to have disappeared.”

His eyes narrowed as he shifted his gaze to each contestant in turn. “If there is anyone who has seen this journal, whether it be in another person’s possession, or just tucked away somewhere, it’s imperative to this investigation that you come forward. You can seek me out in confidence if you so choose.”

The room grew so silent you could hear a pin drop.

After a moment, Chief Stanley grimaced, and gave a curt nod to the lot of them, before turning on his heel and leaving the room.

A moment later, Franklin approached Thaddeus, who bent his head, listening, before nodding in response. Lucy watched speculatively as Franklin departed the room a moment later.

A few whispers were heard between Janine and Jerry, and suddenly, Janine raised her voice to address them all.

“I just wanted to let you all know… the network has approved my suggestion to go ahead with the competition… if you all are willing.” Her voice was hesitant as she looked around at the faces turned her way.

“If any of you decide not to participate, I will understand. Please note, we will need at least one member from each of the three teams to be able to continue, or we’ll have to cancel the contest.”

Hannah and Lucy exchanged glances, knowing each other’s thoughts on the matter.

“Sweet Delights Bakery is willing to continue,” Lucy announced.

Her words were quickly followed by Yvonne. “Of course, Decadent Designs will continue!” She frowned at Gilda, who seemed to pale at the notion. “Gilda?”

Gilda nodded weakly but remained silent.

All eyes turned to Sheree and Tabby, who were having a hasty whispered conversation.

Finally, Sheree announced, “We’re game.”

Tabby nodded her agreement. “We’re stuck here, anyway. We might as well go on with it.”

Janine’s face broke into a smile. “Great! You all have worked so hard already… I’d hate to have to cancel and have that prize money go to waste.”

She looked back at Jerry, who nodded approvingly, before she turned back to the women. “We shall start the third leg of the competition promptly at ten o’clock tomorrow morning, then.

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