Requiem Murder [Book 2 of the Katherine Miller Mysteries] Read Online Free

new Minister of Music."
    "Maybe I do have something. I've just taken over as rental agent for the Gulliver Apartment complex. There are two units opening in the upper building, not as nice as the river apartments, though. I can put a hold on one of them, but I'll have to list it by the weekend. Can he come before then?"
    "I'll let you know which day will be convenient for him."
    "Terrific. By the way, what's he like? I missed church the Sunday he was there."
    A picture of Roger Brandon and the way the light from the stained glass windows had burnished his hair swept into my thoughts. “Tall, broad shoulders, red-gold hair, strong hands. Judith couldn't keep her eyes off him. Does that tell you anything?"
    "What about her fingers?” Tracey coughed. “Forget I said that."
    "I've yet to see Judith touch any man except Martin. She just shops."
    Tracey laughed. “I'll remember that the next time she casts her eyes on one of mine. Tell me more about Roger Brandon. He sounds...attractive."
    "He is, and smooth and charming. His voice is deep and mellow. He's the kind of man who when you're with him makes you think you're the only woman who exists. And his musical talent is beyond description."
    "I've heard that. Why is he coming to St. Stephen's? If he's that good, wouldn't he aim for a bigger church?"
    The question in her voice drew mine to the surface. Why was Roger coming to St. Stephen's? Our music program has a reputation for excellence, but most organists of his caliber head for a big city position or hit the concert circuit.
    "Let me go so I can call him."
    "Thanks for the business."
    Before calling Roger, I dialed the church. An idea had rooted in my mind but I needed Edward's support. He answered and I spoke. “Guess what happened?"
    "Katherine, you know I have no patience for guessing games."
    "Roger Brandon just called."
    He groaned. “Don't tell me he's not coming. That would be horrible news."
    "He's coming in June instead of August. His present church has decided to let him leave then."
    "Why couldn't they have fired him before Easter?"
    "They haven't fired him. They're buying out his contract."
    "They're utter fools. I wonder if we can benefit from their foolishness?"
    I leaned my head against the window frame. “We can. Perhaps he can relieve me of my duties in June and play for the summer services."
    Edward made a humming sound. “How splendid, but the Vestry will never agree to pay three salaries for June."
    "They'd only have his. The substitute wouldn't mind. She can't handle the stress and demands of the music. You can tell the Vestry I'm ready to collapse.” I chuckled. “Maybe not. Several of the members would cheer."
    "How can you say such a thing? You're quite well loved at St. Stephen's. After all, we are a community of Christians."
    "Who are people with likes and dislikes. If everyone loved me, I'd sprout wings. Don't ask the Vestry. Just inform them of the benefits."
    "I might stir them up again, but I'll try."
    "Good. I'll let Roger know."
    "Katherine!” His voice squeaked. “You can't say anything until there's a decision."
    "Would you like me to come to the meeting and hold your hand?"
    He sputtered. “D...D...Don't...don't even consider the possibility. Every time you've attended, you stir a nest of scorpions. I will deal with the matter."
    My smile broadened. It's been years since I've attended one of the sessions. The threat of my presence always stiffened his spine. “Thank you."
    After hanging up, I went to the kitchen and brewed a pot of mint tea. When would Edward realize he was dealing with people and not a community of potential saints? While the tea steeped, I called Roger and then Tracey.
    * * * *
    The next morning, a beautiful spring day, shortly before ten, Roger arrived. As his dark sedan pulled up to the curb, I rose from the garden plot where I'd been cleaning away the debris of winter. Bright tulips, daffodils and hyacinths formed borders between the beds of just sprouting