Page 130 of Murder on Charity Lane

“And you saved my life.”

“Nah, I just…”

“Bust from your cottage wielding a bottle of wine like a barbarian queen wields a battle-axe.”

I felt myself flush with pride. “Yeah, just that.”

“And now his family is making noise. And given Detective Enible’s reappearance, we have to make extra sure we don’t talk about the previous murders. You in particular.”

My cheeks flushed with offense. “Why me in particular? You don’t trust me?”

“You’re far too honest.”

“No, I’m not.”

“Also, too kind.”

“I’m a barbarian queen! I wasn’t too kind when I kicked my stalker in the balls.”

“Well, he deserved it, but I’m not sure Detective Enible does. So if he approaches you, just stay silent.” Lily-Ann leaned forward. “Oh, and when you meet Jane, ask her about that award she wanted. The Millerbrandt, I believe it’s called.”

I blinked at her in confusion. “Am I meeting her?”

“Yes. Anthony insists that disrespect is a major motivation for murder.”

“Yeah, but that’s men.”

“Well, find out what you can. You can ask her during your informational interview.”

“My what, now? What did you do, Lily-Ann?”

“I arranged a meeting for you to pick Jane’s brain. I spoke to her assistant, and pretended I was you.”

“Lily-Ann.”

“‘Hello, this is Sophie Gilman!’” she said in a high-pitched voice and flashed a smile that was, for her, positively impish.

I immediately forgave her. “That’s a terrible impression of me.”

“In any case, flatter her, then remind her you were at the DeYoungs’ and appeal to her ego by saying she must have some insight into the guests.”

“You’ve thought this through.”

“I have a list.”

“Of course you do. What’s everyone else doing?”

“Hamilton is trying to get more police reports. Apparently the ‘raid’ is over in his game, so his leverage is weaker.”

“That’s such a weird reason for a cop to share information,” I said. “To beat a video game.”

“Yes, well, as you said … men.” Lily-Ann glanced at her phone. “Hm. Mrs. B wants an address.”

“Whose?”

“She hasn’t gotten there yet. Still typing.” She looked back to me. “I asked friends of my family for information on the Hope Ranch guests and learned that Helene and George Kagant are lovely and Sunny Wheeler is a kick. That’s what they called him. A kick. They say Frank DeYoung was sweet, and Karina is a good hostess.”

“So they hated Karina.”