Night of the Dark Horse (An Allegra Fairweather Mystery) Read Online Free Page A

disappointed.
    I went on quickly. “Your garden is really pretty. Mind if I take a look around?” I’d never get away with that request in the city, but out here it was no surprise that Deirdre offered to give me a guided tour. I told her I’d prefer to wander around alone, if that was okay by her.
    She quirked an eyebrow. “If you’re lookin’ for the fairy, he’s at the bottom of the garden behind the wishin’ well.” She winked. “Don’t tell anyone. He’s my little secret. I’m only sharin’ with you because you’re a paranormal investigator.”
    The fairy was asleep, mouth open and snoring softly. I gave his little shoulder a prod. “Wake up.”
    He groaned and opened one dazzling blue eye. Smoothing down his long white beard, he got to his feet. He was less than a foot tall. Certain types of fairies—the delicate ethereal purebloods, not the crude-fairies, like leprechauns—shrink and age when they’re in our world. It was way past time for this little guy to return to Fairyland and put on some height and youth.
    I bowed, showing proper respect, which is really important when you want a favor from a fairy. After introducing myself, I said in my best and most formal Fae, “May I make an appointment with Dexterous Dermot?”
    “Of course, dear one. Give me a moment.” He closed his eyes and began to hum. I knew better than to interrupt, but I couldn’t help tapping my foot as I waited for him to respond. His eyes suddenly popped open. “Many apologies, but Dermot cannot see you today. The Fae Olympics have recently concluded and he’s very much in demand. His first available appointments are in two days, but they will fill fast.”
    “I will take the earliest,” I said.
    He closed his eyes and hummed again. Just for a few seconds. “It is arranged. Do not be late.”
    After putting the time and date into my phone, I thanked him and bowed again.
    “My pleasure.” He closed his eyes and leaned back against the wishing well.
    “Excuse me.” I poked his shoulder again. “I do not like to be rude, but you might want to consider a trip back to Fairyland before you get any older.”
    He looked alarmed. “Am I aging?”
    “Yes, indeed.” He could support a plastic surgeon’s family for decades.
    The fairy struggled to his feet. “I must go. Thank you for the advice, dear one.”
    I made my way back to the front garden. After calling goodbye to Deirdre, I set out again to interview the people who had ridden the pooka. I had only gone a few paces when I heard footsteps behind me.

Chapter Two
    Casper moved toward me, leaning heavily on his cane. His golden hair seemed tarnished, his cheeks sunken.
    “You should be resting on Cloud 9,” I said, when he finally drew level with me.
    “I wanted to be close to you—in case of danger.”
    “Am I in danger?” I looked up and down the peaceful village street—two old ladies strolled arm in arm, a man walked his little poodle. Any more boring and we’d all nod off.
    “The thing is...” Casper studied his feet, which were still clad in the flip-flops he’d worn in Spain, “...I’m not as fast as I used to be. If you got in danger five minutes from now, it would take me twice that long to reach you. It’s best if I hang around for now.”
    “You’ll heal quicker on Cloud 9.” Not that I didn’t want him to hang around, but if a temporary separation would ensure his recovery, I could live with that.
    He didn’t answer. His attention returned to his feet. Honestly , those flip - flops must be the most interesting pair in the world .
    When the silence became uncomfortable, I filled it with, “Okay, I’m on my way to do some interviews. You can tag along, but don’t interrupt. Just keep quiet and look pretty.”
    “Pretty?” Faint color stained his cheeks.
    I winked at him. “You’re even prettier when you blush.” I’d have liked to tease him some more, but there was a case to be solved. I set off down the street, slowing my pace