The Case of the Disappearing Diner: A Cozy Mystery Whodunit (The Closed Case Club Book 2) by JC Savoy

Author:JC Savoy [Savoy, JC]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Escape With Love Publishing
Published: 2024-08-05T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 12

Iheld my breath, hoping the men at the gala wouldn’t press me further on what I knew. Drew extended his hand as a charming smile played across his lips. "Care for a dance, Molly?"

He must have sensed I needed saving—and he’d be right. Dancing with Drew was a lot better than engaging with any of those developers. "I'd be delighted."

As we stepped onto the dance floor, the orchestra struck up a waltz. Drew's hand settled on my waist, and I placed mine on his shoulder. We began to move in time with the music, gliding across the polished floor.

"You're quite an enigma, Molly Ray,” Drew said, his eyes searching mine. "I must admit, your insight into this little town intrigues me."

I kept my expression neutral. "Is that so? Tell me, what are your interests in Mapleview?"

Drew chuckled, spinning me gently. "Oh, you know. Small towns like this have so much... potential. It's a shame to see it go to waste."

"Waste?" I raised an eyebrow. "I wouldn't say Mapleview is going to waste at all."

As we danced, I caught pieces of conversation from nearby couples. Two men in expensive suits were speaking in hushed tones.

"...diner's been relocated. Now we need to clean up the loose ends," one of them said.

My heart skipped a beat. I stumbled slightly, and Drew steadied me.

"Are you all right?" Concern was etched on his face.

I forced a smile. "Just a bit dizzy. Must be all the spinning."

Drew led me off the dance floor and excused himself to get me a glass of water. I took that chance to whisper into my hidden microphone. "Jasper, they're talking about cleaning up loose ends. This is bigger than we thought. I'm going to need an exit strategy soon."

Drew's hand tightened on mine. "Did you say something, Molly?"

Whoops. I shook my head. "Just thinking out loud. This gala is quite overwhelming, isn't it?"

Another man approached and studied me. He looked vaguely familiar, but I couldn't identify him. Ever since I returned last year, I spent most of my days at the café. I probably should have socialized more to learn who the movers and shakers were.

The man's gaze unsettled me so I pulled my phone from my purse. "Excuse me, Drew. I'm so sorry, I need to take this. It's my mom."

I sensed he didn't believe me, but it was the best excuse I could come up with.

As I made my way through the crowded ballroom, my heart pounded against my ribs. I whispered into my hidden mic, "Jasper, we've got a problem. Blueberry pie. I think they're onto me."

His voice crackled in my ear. "Head to the emergency exit. Now."

I weaved through the sea of glittering gowns and tuxedos, my eyes darting from face to face. Each glance in my direction sent a jolt of panic through me.

A hand grabbed my elbow, and I spun around, ready to bolt. It was a waiter I’d seen earlier.

"This way," he murmured, guiding me toward a hidden service corridor.

I had to decide.

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