The Devil You Know (Sarah Woods Mystery Book 15) Read Free Page A

finalize the arrangements for the memorial. I'm having a special urn made for her ashes and it's being delivered today.”
     
     
    ***
    On the ride home, Carter seemed rather quiet. I got the impression that, like me, he didn’t know what to make of the situation.
    “Do you think George is overreacting about Josephine’s death?”
    He shrugged. “I guess he has a right to feel paranoid. Oh the joys of being a millionaire. There’s a lot to be said for living a simple life.”
    I raised an eyebrow. “Simple, as in broke?”
    “You know what I mean.”
    Carter pulled into a Wendy’s drive-thru and ordered two chicken sandwiches. “So, how do you feel about the acting job? You sure you’re up for it?”
    “I’ve already committed myself. No backing out now.”
    “Think of it this way; at least you’ll be living in the lap of luxury for the whole weekend. Meanwhile, I’ll be staying in the carriage house all by myself.”
    I squeezed his knee. “At least you don’t have to deal with the family. I have a feeling they won’t take kindly to me poking my nose into their business.”
    Carter and I had scarfed down our lunch by the time we got back to my apartment. My neighbor Jackie was waiting by my door with a stack of folded up boxes. Her wild curly black hair was tied back into a pink bandana.
    “Hey, you’re back,” she said. “I was just going to leave these here for you. Although I don’t know why I agreed to help you move. I’m still pissed you’re leaving me.”
    Carter gave Jackie a quick hug. “You know you and Chester are invited to the house whenever you want. I only live a few miles away.”
    Jackie sighed. “I appreciate that, but it won’t be the same.”
    Carter gave her an apologetic pat on the shoulder and disappeared inside my apartment. When Jackie turned to me, a sad smile tore at my heartstrings.
    “You know I adore Carter, but do you really have to move in with him?”
    “It makes sense, Jackie. The rent keeps going up and, besides, Carter is really excited about it. I’ll save more money so you and I can keep drinking the good wine we’ve become accustomed to.”
    She chuckled, but I could tell this was no laughing matter. “Do you realize it’s been almost two years since you moved in? I thought you said you’d never rely on a man again, after your divorce.”
    “Carter is different. He’s not trying to control me. He just wants us to be together.”
    “Which is sweet, but...” Tears formed in her eyes. “I’m being selfish, I know. I’m happy for you or, at least, I’m trying to be.”
    “Carter meant what he said. You and Chester are welcome anytime.”
    Chester is Jackie’s dog, and the only steady relationship in her life. Even though Jackie dates all the time, she isn’t able to hold on to a guy to save her life. She’s an acquired taste, not for everyone. She and I became fast friends when I discovered we were kindred spirits. She loves wine just as much as I do - if not more and she embraces my dirty sense of humor.
    Jackie dropped the boxes and wrapped her arms around me. The bear hug that ensued nearly squeezed the breath out of me. “If you need help packing, just let me know, okay?”
    “Thanks. I might take you up on that.”
     
    Back inside my apartment, I stacked the boxes in the corner and looked around with a lump in my throat. Was I making the right decision to leave? Of course I was. A little anxiety is normal but, sometimes, you just have to take a leap of faith. I was ready to start a new chapter in my life so why not go for it?
    “Jackie hates me, doesn’t she?” Carter sat at my kitchen table, hunched over his laptop. The look of concern on his face made me smile. The fact that he cared about the feelings of my close friend warmed my heart.
    “No. She doesn’t hate you. I just think she’s lonely.” I leaned over and kissed his neck. “Someday Jackie will find a guy that appreciates her zany personality. He’s got to be out there