Garden of Death Read Free

somnifera
    Medicinal uses: Ashwagandha, a woody shrub from the nightshade family, builds chi, or good energy, making the body more stress resistant. In Sanskrit, the name ashwagandha means “smell of a horse,” but it has the strength of one, too. That’s why it’s good to use if you are recovering from an illness. This herb boosts immunity, nourishes and calms the mind, promotes sleep, and improves brain function in the elderly. Use for anxiety, exhaustion, memory loss, mental fatigue, neuroses, overwork, and stress.
    Okay, we were a little late. When we arrived at the Maritime Museum, the parking lot was full and the place packed. The Land and Sea Ball was the place to be on the East End tonight for friends of the museum and their guests.
    The museum was a nineteenth-century brick building nestled at the end of the Railroad Dock, right next to the slips for the Shelter Island ferry. While the inside was impressive, filled with maritime memorabilia and photos, it wasn’t all that spacious. So to handle the overflow, the organizers had added an outdoor area for the jazz band and dance floor and a second bar. Surrounded by greenery and twinkling white lights, the “deck” looked out on Shelter Island across the bay.
    The local paper, the Suffolk Times, had written up the menu for the Land and Sea Ball that morning. The “sea” portion of the feast would be seafood dishes from local restaurants and a clam and oyster bar. The “land” would be represented by favorite dishes from local eateries. Local wines would be served from Lieb Cellars and beer from the Greenport Harbor Brewing Company. Nature’s Way had contributed three organic desserts: berry parfaits with whipped cashew cream, gluten-free almond cookies, and plum-raspberry-peach crisp with vanilla ice cream and a dash of cinnamon.
    â€œThis place looks really beautiful,” I said, taking Jackson’s hand. “I’m glad we came.”
    â€œMe, too. Would you like a drink?” Jackson had been sober for ten years, but he didn’t mind if I had oneor two.
    â€œA white wine spritzer sounds great.”
    He kissed me on the cheek. “Be right back.”
    When he headed to the bar, I took a look around the outdoor area and spotted Merrily and Nate on the dance floor. Her dress was typical Merrily, crafty and funky, made out of black denim with metal stars embossed all over it. Nate wore a black vest, black tie, and black jeans. They looked good together.
    Merrily spotted me and said, “Just taking a break.”
    â€œNo problem. Have fun!”
    I glanced at the serving area, where Wallace was busily getting ready for the dessert course. With his silver ponytail and small Ben Franklin specs, he almost looked as if he were in historical costume. The green suede Birkenstocks, though, which you could see beneath the white tablecloth, gave him away.
    I took Jackson’s arm and led him over to Wallace. “How is everything going?” I asked.
    Wallace pulled out parfait glasses and lined them up. “We’re doing okay. I think everyone is going to love what Merrily prepared.”
    â€œI really appreciate you helping out here,” I said. “Don’t forget to note the extra time on your sheet.”
    â€œI will, no worries.”
    Mayor Hobson went to the bandstand and took the microphone. “Thanks, everyone, for turning out tonight. This event kicks off our week of festivities that will delight locals and visitors alike. Tomorrow, as youknow, we start the Maritime Festival with the opening day parade and the traditional blessing of the oyster fleet at the Railroad Dock.”
    I felt an arm slip around my waist and turned to find Simon Lewis smiling at me. Simon was a TV producer and writer, not to mention my ex-boyfriend. He had followed me from L.A. to Greenport a year ago, failed to win me back, but fell in love with and purchased a second home here.
    Last September I