Lois Meade 14 - Suspicion at Seven Read Free Page B

her.
    Aurora had sadly given up the possibility of it happening by chance, and had secretly investigated the possibilities of success.
    Although she did not want to blame Donald, she was pretty sure the fault was with him.
    Now it was too late, and in any case, she had a business that required all her time, and as Donald was away frequently at his jewellery parties, she accepted that her life was full enough, and having Milly was a bonus.
    She was expecting Lois Meade for supper, and Lois was sure to be full of news of her children and grandchildren, just as it should be. She thanked God, not for the first time, that she had her wonderful daughter, Milly, and had been delighted to hear from her that she hoped to be with them tomorrow for a lightning visit.
    *   *   *
    “Hi, Lois, come on in. Supper won’t be long, and Donald has made some Pimms for us. It is really summery today, isn’t it? I must say you are looking very smart this evening. Don’t know how you do it . . .”
    “What with running a business, having children and grandchildren and keeping Gran happy? Are you thinking on those lines? Then you’re absolutely right, and it is really nice of you to say so.” Lois kissed Aurora on her cheek, and accepted a glass from Donald with a cool nod.
    “Shall we have supper first, and then Donald can show you his latest collection? I must say I am tempted myself!”
    What a pleasant couple, Lois thought to herself. Maybe I’m wrong about Donald. They seem so well adjusted to each other. None of the arguments that were a daily occurrence at Meade House. She watched as Aurora laid the table for supper, and Donald drew the cork from a bottle of red wine. She thought of Derek, who would be happy with a ham sandwich and a can of light ale.
    But then she remembered how much her family actually enjoyed a good argument, a fierce battle of words without giving any quarter.
    Perhaps Aurora, who was lively minded and good company, did not find Donald boring, with nothing to talk about but brooches, bracelets and necklaces. Baubles, bangles and beads!
    They all helped with clearing the table, and then he produced his collection. Everything sparkled and shone. Lois had to admit that some of it was really attractive, and she picked up a delicate silver necklace with a single pearl drop.
    “You could try it on, if you like,” said Donald, and he walked round to fix the clasp at the back of her neck. The pearl nestled between her breasts, and she decided it would be foolish not to buy such a pretty thing. If Josie didn’t like it, she would have it herself.
    “How much does it cost?” she asked.
    “Trade price to you, Lois. We never know when we might have to call on your New Brooms services to us at a revised special rate! We sole traders must stick together.”
    “That’s the last one of those necklaces,” said Aurora.
    “Shouldn’t you keep it for the collection? I am sure there’s one with a blue stone set in faux diamonds that would suit Josie’s colouring,” Lois said.
    “No problem. I can easily order another pearl one,” said Donald. “It looks so good on you, Lois. Simple and elegant. You must have this one, dear.” He found a box, and the necklace was safe in Lois’s handbag. “Now, how about a pair of matching earrings?”
    Lois laughed. “Sorry, no more pocket money this week. I think earrings would be overdoing it, anyway. Thanks, Donald. I shall enjoy this, either on Josie or myself!”
    “Shall we have coffee now?” said Aurora, disappearing into the kitchen.
    As soon as she had gone, Donald drew up a chair next to Lois’s and spoke in a whisper. “She’s very upset by the murder in the hotel. The woman had some of my stuff in her bag. Not a direct seller, thank God. No, Aurora’s not quite herself. I expect you’ve noticed? We’re so glad Milly’s coming tomorrow. It’ll take her mind off it.”
    “Well, natural enough, I should have thought,” said Lois. “You being taken in