Away in a Murder Read Online Free Page A

of three floors and each bedroom had its own ensuite. In the center of the front driveway there was a huge fountain with winged horses in the water and carved figures surrounding the water spout. It was atrocious for a home. For a hotel it wasn’t so bad. It used to be referred to as the Neuspech House, the last name of the former owners. (And the same name of the town in which we lived.) I had renamed it Summer House. First, for my last name. (My way of leaving a legacy?) Second, because it was a place where you could always find the happiness of summer.
    After climbing the steps and entering the hotel’s lobby Frankie and I were greeted by William. He was on duty as a page, or bellhop this evening. I walked over to him and shook his hand. It wouldn’t do for the owner to be seen hugging one of the employees. And I knew my presence was known because everyone had stiffened up and some of the staff were even trying to look busy where they hadn’t bothered before. I laughed. I wasn’t that kind of owner. As long as the job was getting done, a few moments of down time were fine. I did it myself.
    “You look great,” I said to William. He really did. His uniform was ironed, creased, and wrinkle free. Unfortunately not all of the hotel's pages I’ve seen so far looked as good.
    “Thank you, Misty. I feel great. This sure beats bussin’ tables. At least I think it does. I’ll tell you when we get really busy. With only one floor open, we ain’t that busy right now,” William said. “By the way some TV reporter just checked in. Nasty piece of work. He’s been rude to everyone since he got here. Didn’t even give me no tip for carrying his bags, just looked at me and closed the door. Why’s he here anyway?”
    “He’s interviewing Mom tomorrow,” Frankie said.
    “Oh. Now you best be careful, Misty. That man’s a sly one. I don’t like his show none, but I’ve seen parts of it when other people was watchin’ it. Can’t believe people like that sort of thing. Makes my skin crawl just lookin’ at that man.”
    The bell rang at the front desk. This meant they needed William.
    “Gotta go. I’ll say a prayer for you tonight, Misty. And for that man cause Lord knows he ain’t heaven bound the way he’s goin’. Enjoy your dinner; Miss Minerva’s waitin’ for you.” With that he left and went to see what the front desk needed.
    I had to laugh as William walked away. He was always so happy. In that respect alone he was a role model for others. Not to mention that he was hard working and dedicated to his job. When he was bussing tables at the buffet he would clear and wipe down other people’s tables. I really admired him.
    Frankie and I turned and walked over to the podium of the restaurant’s hostess. She looked up and smiled at us.
    “Good evening, Shirley,” Frankie smiled at her.
    I thought I saw her blush. Frankie had that effect on women. He was good looking, but mostly he had a way of charming people. Worked on almost everyone, especially the women. And yet he had never been on a single date as far as I knew. I never understood that.
    “Hello, Mrs. Summer, Mr. Summer. Minerva’s expecting you. Follow me, please,” Shirley said.
    We followed her over to a table in the corner. I loved they way Minerva chose to decorate the restaurant. There were images of sea life and water everywhere, especially her beloved manatees. The theme was reflected in the décor, the walls, the menus, and even the furniture. It wasn’t tacky and it didn’t make you feel like you were in an aquarium. It was just elegant. It was calm and peaceful. Just the thing to help families relax after a busy day at the park. Not to mention the park’s CEO and CFO.
    After we were seated Shirley handed our menus to us, took our drink orders and headed for the kitchen. A moment later, Minerva came out and walked over to our table. She greeted us with a hug then pulled out a chair and sat down.
    “Hi, guys,” Minerva said. “Sorry I