Sledding Away with Murder (Sweetfern Harbor Mystery Book 21) Page 2

  “That’s wonderful,” Brenda said. She told them about the specialty shops downtown and other amenities the town had to offer. This couple was unlike the rest of her guests. Their manners of speech were different, and she thought that they were also more mild-mannered than most of the B&B guests.

  Several guests excused themselves. Brenda told them she would see them at dinner at seven. The Yoders were the last to leave the Gathering Room. Joanna offered to help Phyllis and Katie stack cups and plates on the cart. Phyllis waved her off and told her to enjoy herself. She and Katie could take care of it. Brenda watched as Joanna seemed reluctant to leave them to the cleanup. She joined her husband, but not before she flecked an imaginary speck of dust from the table near the doorway.

  Just before they reached the passageway, Joanna was overheard telling Ethan she couldn’t get used to not pitching in. “We’ll have to accept that we are paying for a service and become accustomed to it,” Ethan said. “We haven’t been away from our community long enough to not offer to help when we can. It’s what we’re used to doing.”

  The following conversation became muffled as they ascended the stairs. They soon reappeared wearing winter coats and gloves and headed for the front door. Allie told them to enjoy their walk.

  Phyllis spoke to Brenda. “They remind me of some Amish people I met when William and I were in southern Pennsylvania a year ago. They have the same mannerisms and generosity we saw in the people there.”

  “I wonder if they once lived in an Amish community,” Brenda said. “I’ve never met Amish people before, but from what you said, it makes sense they could have.”

  Harry Brooks was last seen walking toward the beach area. Though it was winter, visitors often liked to stroll along the oceanside. A certain peace filled their minds and encouraged clear thinking. As for Harry, his thoughts stuck with Miranda Asher. Travis Asher watched his wife’s eyes follow Harry until he reached the steps that led to the beach.

  “Is that the man you had an affair with, Miranda?” Travis failed to accept trust in his wife.

  Miranda’s eyes flashed. “That was a long time ago, Travis. You are always worried I am having an affair with someone. Why can’t you trust that I’m a nightclub singer with no intentions of cheating on you? Your jealousy gets tiring.”

  Travis ignored her outburst. “How do I know you aren’t still with him? Is that why you suggested we come for the Winter Carnival? You must have known that he would be here.”

  Miranda jerked her head from the window and grabbed her coat and scarf. Without a word to Travis, she bolted from the room.

  A half hour later, Joanna and Ethan returned from their walk. “I’m going into the Gathering Room to find a good book,” Joanna said. Ethan told her he would see her at dinnertime.

  Wanda Daniels chose an historical novel from the shelf. She knew where to sit in comfort as she read. The voice that greeted her proved irritating. Joanna Yoder attempted a conversation. Wanda muttered a short reply and focused on her book. Joanna saw the title was about the Romanovs. She knew that was the last czar of Russia and was interested in asking questions, but she got the idea Wanda didn’t want to be disturbed. Instead, she chose a light mystery. Joanna felt compelled to straighten the books on two shelves before she decided to leave Wanda alone and go to the enclosed veranda to read.

  When Mac arrived home, he had a few minutes to visit with Brenda before dinnertime.

  “How do you find our guests this time, Brenda?”

  “They all seem very pleasant.” She told him her observations of the Yoders. “I am curious where they grew up. They have mannerisms usually seen among the Amish communities.”

  Mac’s eyes questioned her. “Have you ever been around Amish people?”

  “I have not, but Phyllis has, and she described them in a way that matched the Yoders. Maybe we’ll find out during dinner tonight.”

  “I’m sure you’ll find a way of getting it out of them.” Mac chuckled.

  “Oh dear. I hope I don’t come across to guests as a nosy innkeeper. Do I?”

  “No, you don’t, Brenda. I only kid you.”

  When they walked into the dining room, their eyes landed on Harry Brooks, who appeared to be in a hurry to nab a chair. He immediately occupied the one next to Miranda. Travis glared at him briefly and then nudged his wife as if in warning. Miranda ignored her husband and focused on the tablemate across from her.

  “I heard you are a singer, Miranda,” Jillian said. “What kind of songs do you sing?”

  “I sing in an upscale nightclub in Oakland, California. It’s called The Gypsy Rose. I usually sing songs that many patrons request, so there is variety.”

  “I would love to hear you. Perhaps you’ll get a chance to entertain us before we all go our separate ways again.”

  Miranda noted sincerity in Jillian’s face, but before she could reply, Travis spoke.

  “One day she will begin a more stable career,” he said. “You don’t want to stay in that job forever, do you, Miranda?”

  For a split second, Miranda’s eyes flashed. “I love what I do. I doubt I’ll change careers any time soon.”

  “I’ve heard her sing,” Harry said. “She’s right about being where she should be. Her voice is perfect, and she is the one who brings customers in.” He meant what he said, but at the same time felt a satisfaction knowing he’d crossed Travis.

  Joanna and Ethan held their attention on the events unfolding nearby. It was obvious to them that Travis and Miranda had conflict between them regarding how the plastic surgeon felt about being married to a singer in a nightclub. Harry had his own thoughts. To him, there was no doubt that Travis had married Miranda for her beauty alone.

  Jillian brushed the exchange away and asked another question. “How did you and Travis meet?”

  “Ironically, we met one night when Travis came to the nightclub with friends.” Miranda turned to him. “I think you were celebrating with a good friend before his wedding.” She turned back to Jillian. “He enjoys places like that but doesn’t necessarily admire me for the work I do.”

  Travis tried to change the subject but failed. His wife and Jillian were bent on continuing the conversation. Harry listened, amused.

  Brenda decided to engage those closest to her and Mac at the table. She turned to Wanda.

  “I hope you get to take advantage of the shops downtown,” she said.

  “I can’t wait to visit them all,” Wanda said. Seeing Joanna perk up, she added, “I wouldn’t mind someone along with me.” Wanda felt bad about her attitude toward the soft-spoken woman earlier.

  “I’d love to join you,” Joanna said. “How long do the shops stay open in the evening, Brenda?”

  “Most will stay open until nine o’clock since so many tourists are in town for the Winter Carnival this weekend.”

  Joanna and Wanda decided to shop in a few of them after dinner. Ethan told them to enjoy themselves. He planned to walk for a while around the grounds and then go to his room for the night.

  3

  Brenda had posted a flyer that explained the next day’s activities. First on the list was the pancake breakfast at Harbor Park, followed by arts and crafts booths and a parade. Notice of the sled race was in bold characters. Nightfall dancing and later fireworks were mentioned. Joanna and Ethan stood reading it.

  “Do you remember all the sled races we used to have, Ethan?” Joanna said. Her eyes sparkled with the memories. He nodded with enthusiasm. “Let’s enter this contest,” Joanna said.

  “I’m all for it. We will show everyone how to win a sledding contest.”

  Mac listened to their enthusiasm. “Anyone can enter,” he told them. “Just sign up before nine tomorrow morning. The sleds are provided to make sure all are made equally. It ensures everyone has the same chances without enhancing their sleds.”

  Miranda removed the scarf from her neck and looked at the list. She loved sledding. “I’ve often asked Travis to learn to sled and to ice skate,
too, but he tells me those activities are only for kids.” Her wistful eyes reminded those around her of a lonely person. “It looks like two riders on each sled is required.”

  “I’ll be your sledding partner,” Harry said. He shook snow off his jacket inside the foyer. “You don’t mind, do you, Travis? Unless you want to gamble win or lose on your first sledding adventure.”

  The frown on Travis’s forehead appeared to have become entrenched since his arrival at the Sheffield Bed and Breakfast. “Go ahead. Just remember that Miranda is far from expert when it comes to navigating a sled.”

  Miranda started to remind her husband that she had been sledding since childhood, but manners overrode her impulse when she looked at the others around them. She asked Wanda if she planned to enter. “I’m sure someone around here would be happy to be your partner.”

  “There are always several in town looking for partners, too,” Mac said.

  “I have no desire to go sledding,” Wanda said. “I haven’t done that since I was a child, and, if you can believe it, I didn’t enjoy it then, either. I have always liked to ice skate, though.” She asked Mac if there was a competition for that.

  “I don’t think so, but it should be something the committee could put on next year’s list.”

  “That’s okay,” she said. “I’m more interested in the different flavors of the pancakes and the arts and crafts booths.”

  Jillian spoke to Wanda. “I’m not a big fan of sledding, either, Wanda, but maybe just for the fun of it, two fledglings like us could enter. What do you say?”

  At first, Wanda was against it. She saw the expectancy in Jillian’s eyes. Wanda’s mouth curved upward. “I’m game. Let’s do it. At least when we lose, we’ll lose together.” Everyone enjoyed the humor.

  Mac told them that Wally Doyle, the local boat builder, allowed float entries for the parade to be worked on inside his warehouse. “As soon as one float is finished, the owner has to take it outside to the large empty lot behind his business. Everyone is welcome to take a look at the finished ones before they line up.” He gave directions to Wally’s business site.

  By mid-morning, everyone had finished their breakfasts. Jillian and Wanda left for the booths, but not before inviting others to come with them. Joanna and Ethan joined them. Harry waited to see Miranda’s next move. When she stated she would go with them, he did the same. The last thing Travis Asher wanted to do was meander through crowds of people to browse booths of handmade stuff. Nor did he wish to sit in the cold air and eat pancakes.

  “I saw where they’re frying the pancakes,” Jillian said. “You can either have them outside or inside a makeshift hall. It’s all down at Harbor Park.” Travis remained uninterested.

  The sledding contestants began to pair up later in the morning. The path had been laid out, the snow had cooperated, and all who entered were told to gather together for the rules of the contest. Phyllis saw her daughter with Jonathan Wright. Molly’s cheeks glowed with the cold and excitement.

  “I hope you two win this,” Phyllis said. “You’ve had enough practice at it.”

  “We’ll be the winners,” David Williams said. The TV anchorman pulled his daughter close to him. “Do you agree, Allie?”

  “We’ll win this year,” Allie said. “Second place last year just hasn’t set well with us.”

  The jabbing back and forth continued until the committee chairwoman called for attention. Brenda watched the contestants along with Mac. Joanna and Ethan seemed nervous about something.

  “I don’t know what’s wrong with them, Mac. They told story after story this morning of how they have been in lots of sledding contests before. What do you think?”

  “Maybe it’s normal for them before a contest. They aren’t the first to be nervous before beginning something they’re out to win, especially after bragging about how good they are.” Brenda tucked her own thoughts into the back of her mind.

  Finally, everyone lined up at the start line. The Riverses and Pendletons decided to wait at the finish line to watch out for who came in first. Molly and Jonathan were neck and neck with Allie and her dad and managed to reach the finish in first place. Allie groaned and then congratulated them.

  “Dad and I will have to get our game up to par next year,” she said.

  Wanda and Jillian held second to last until their sled toppled a few yards from the finish line. Both rolled in the snow laughing.

  Joanna and Ethan were behind most of the contestants. Brenda watched their faces. They were tense. She felt their expressions had nothing to do with anything about sledding. She started toward them, but Mac interrupted her.

  “Let’s go get a good spot for the parade, Brenda. I told Bryce and Jenny we’d meet them there. My daughter isn’t always a patient woman with me when ‘being on time’ matters.”

  Brenda jabbed him. “You know Jenny is very patient. I’m surprised you didn’t assign some job for Bryce during the carnival.”

  “I did, but that’s for later tonight when the crowds grow even larger. Right now, we have things under control.” Mac was proud of his son-in-law, who had proved to be not only a good husband and father but also an excellent detective on the local police force.

  As they walked toward Wally’s empty lot to watch floats assemble, Brenda thought about the Yoders. She shook her head. “Maybe the Yoders feel a little out of place. I don’t think they’ve been out of their community for long. Perhaps they’re still adjusting.”

  “How do you know for sure they were Amish?” Mac said. “I didn’t see anything different about them, though I admit I was a little surprised to see them so far behind in the race.”

  “Exactly,” Brenda said. “Something must have had them spooked.”

  “Let’s enjoy the parade. I’m glad you put others in charge of our float this year. I think the staff did a great job of it.” Brenda agreed.

  The parade lasted longer than usual. Each year it seemed more people entered floats. They watched with Jenny and Bryce. Jenny put little Nicholas down so he could reach for the candy thrown from Jenny’s Blossoms’s float. One of her employees jumped down and handed the small boy his favorite chocolate before jumping back on. When the parade ended, Brenda suggested they go to the Morning Sun Coffee Shop for a light snack.

  “Molly will be busy there today,” Jenny said. “I’ll ask for something to take with me since I should get back to my shop. I’ll have Nicholas with me, Bryce.”

  Jenny knew that her husband could be called for an emergency with this many people in Sweetfern Harbor. Bryce kissed her. “I’ll get a take-out with you, Jenny. We’ll eat it at your shop together.” He apologized to Brenda and Mac for deserting them.

  Phyllis and William walked into the coffee shop behind Brenda and Mac. They decided to nab a table for four before all were taken. Customers who recognized Molly and Jonathan congratulated them on their win. Several offered to help serve the increasing patrons in the shop.

  Molly’s coffee shop buzzed with excitement. Everyone talked about the race and parade. Some carried shopping bags overflowing with crafts.

  “I’m glad things are going so well around town,” Mac said. “So far, nothing eventful has happened in the way of crime.”

  “Maybe that will continue,” Phyllis said. “I can’t wait for tonight when the dancing begins. Of course, I don’t want to miss the fireworks, either.”

  “I have to admit that I’ve honed my dancing skills since marrying Phyllis,” William said.

  Phyllis locked eyes with him. “You were just out of practice, William. We make a good pair when the music starts.”

  Brenda and Mac enjoyed dancing as well. Both were light on their feet and never missed an opportunity to show everyone their skills.

  The afternoon sunshine faded, and Brenda glanced at her watch. “We’d better start for home. Dinner will be served soon.”

  Chef Pierre had set the dinner hour for six-thirty to give everyone a chance to return from the Winter Carnival festiv
ities. Most guests had opted to have their meal at the B&B. Miranda walked through the foyer just as Brenda and Mac came in from the back entrance. Brenda felt relief that Harry was nowhere in sight. At least he wasn’t hanging onto Miranda. Wanda and Jillian had become friends once they both joined in the sledding event. Brenda smiled when they came inside shaking snow from their coats.

  “We’ll hurry upstairs and try to look more presentable,” Jillian said.

  “We won’t be late for dinner,” Wanda added.

  “There is plenty of time,” Brenda said. “The chef will have appetizers ready before dinner is served.”

  Once the guests had arrived, the dining room began to fill up. The Yoders and Travis were the only ones not there yet. Harry Brooks failed to grab a chair next to Miranda in time. Only once the appetizers were eaten did the Yoders arrive.

  “We’re sorry to be late,” Ethan said. “We lost track of the time.”

  “That’s no problem,” Mac said. “We would have saved something for you.”

  Joanna produced a faint smile and sat next to her husband. Brenda asked if they would like an appetizer before the main meal was served. Both thanked her and declined. The servers started serving salads for everyone. The chatter around the table centered on the fun everyone had had at the festivities. Harry’s eyes went to the dining room door off and on as if expecting someone else.

  “Did Travis decide to remain in town for dinner?” Wanda asked Miranda.

  “I don’t know where he is,” she said. “He wasn’t interested in the carnival. He might have opted to walk along the beach.”

  “I saw him talking with someone. They went into the Octopus Tavern,” Jillian said, “but that was quite a while ago.”

  “Really? Who was he with?” Miranda said.

  “I think it was a tourist. From what I could tell, they seemed to be introducing themselves. The man pointed to the tavern and Travis nodded his head yes.”

  “He’ll show up,” Miranda said. “I doubt he’ll stay long in the bar. He’s not a heavy drinker.”