The Inheritance Page 11

  She looked away. “Of course, that’s where I’m looking. There are several good possibilities. I just have to push for interviews.”

  He took her hand and held it in his firm grasp. “From what you’ve told me, these companies treat employees rotten. There’s no loyalty. They use you, chew you up, then spit you out when it suits them.”

  “The corporate world is ruthless, but the companies do pay well.”

  Rob shook his head. “There ought to be a better way to operate.”

  “Everybody looks to their bottom line. It’s nothing personal. Just business.”

  Rob shrugged. “It’s personal when you’re the one getting fired.”

  Maryann withdrew her hand from his. “It’s called downsizing or reorganizing.”

  “I know a euphemism when I hear one.”

  She raised an eyebrow.

  He gave her a knowing look. “You didn’t think I knew what a word like euphemism meant, did you?”

  “We hardly know each other.” She squirmed in her chair.

  “Maryann, I’m not educated the way you are. I attended vo-tech in high school and then got just two years of community college at night after leaving the service, but I’m not ignorant.”

  “I never meant to imply that.”

  He smiled at her, a warm, vibrant smile that heated her blood all over again.

  “You haven’t told me how you hurt your leg.”

  “Don’t think I will. I don’t dwell on negative things.”

  “You said your brother also served. Was he injured too?”

  “Not physically. Let’s just say that like me, he decided a lifetime military career wasn’t what he wanted after all.” Rob took a long swallow of water. She saw the strong muscles in his throat move.

  “Do you live with your family?”

  “No, I rent a small place. I bought some land a ways out of town and I’m working on building my own house.”

  She smiled. “That must be a good feeling.”

  “It is.” He took another gulp of water and then sucked on an ice cube. “Someday I’d like to have a real home, a wife and children. Maybe a few pets.”

  “Sounds nice.”

  “Just need to find the right woman.” He threw her a meaningful look.

  She stared down at her hands holding the glass and then traced a pattern in the condensation. She didn’t know how to respond.

  Jen spared her by arriving back at the house. She and Aaron walked into the kitchen each carrying packages.

  “I thought I heard voices out here.”

  “Are there more packages?” Rob got to his feet and took the grocery bags Jen and Aaron held.

  “Several more in the trunk of the car.”

  “Be right back with them.” Rob left with Aaron trailing behind him.

  “I’ll help too.” He smiled at the boy’s eagerness.

  “So you and Rob looked pretty cozy just now. I’m sorry if I interrupted anything.” Jen gave her a knowing look.

  Maryann felt herself blush. “It wasn’t like that. Okay, maybe it was,” she conceded.

  “It’s plain to see that Rob is enamored of you.”

  “Let’s not talk about this right now. He’ll be back in a few moments.”

  Jen viewed her with an intent look. “Sure, another time.”

  Maryann didn’t respond, just offering a quick nod. She made her escape hurrying back upstairs to the safety of her computer screen. She didn’t like the confused way Rob caused her to feel. She avoided strong emotions. Time to find herself another job, and soon.

  Chapter Thirty-One

  Jen brought Aaron over to the Higgins’ house in the afternoon. She’d purchased cookies from the bakery that morning and offered them to Maggie when she greeted them at the door.

  “How nice of you, but you shouldn’t have bothered.” Maggie took the cookies, then led Jen and Aaron to the family room adjoining the kitchen.

  Although the house had been designed in Victorian style, the Higgins family had modernized it. The place radiated a homey quality rather than the stiff formality of her grandmother’s house. Jen decided to borrow some of Maggie’s decorating ideas.

  “Where’s Bobby?” Her son’s transparent eagerness to see his friend nearly caused Jen to laugh.

  “He’s out back playing with Rufus.”

  “Mom, Rufus is such a great dog. I wish we had a dog like him.”

  “Why don’t you just go out the back way,” Maggie suggested.

  Aaron was gone in a flash.

  “Sit down,” Maggie said. “Want something to drink?”

  “No, I’m fine. We just had lunch before coming over.”

  The family room had thick dark orange carpeting that looked well with the Early American furnishings. Maggie seated herself on a rocking chair.

  “I hope we’re not taking advantage of you. Aaron loves coming here but I don’t want you to feel put upon.”

  Maggie played with her dangling silver earrings. “Absolutely not. Bobby and Pam both get along well with Aaron. He’s easy to have around. Unlike Bobby, Pam’s a quiet kid. Aaron draws her into their games.” Maggie tossed her head of dark brown curls. “Pam’s introverted while Bobby’s an extrovert. They don’t always get on well. But Aaron’s good with both of them.”

  “I think it’s because he’s an only child. He’s used to spending most of his time with adults, like I did when I was that age. But Aaron really loves being with other children. So this is great for him too.”

  Jen wondered if she should confide in Maggie about the problems she was having. But the topic seemed too unpleasant to dwell on. So they talked about the school system, exchanged recipes, and altogether passed an enjoyable afternoon discussing inconsequential matters. Maggie showed an interest in hearing about New York City. Jen obliged her by describing the tourist attractions and the fashion scene.

  “Are you interested in getting a pet for Aaron?”

  Jen was thoughtful. “I’m not certain. I’ve never had one.”

  “And we’ve always had so many,” Maggie said.

  “I guess Eric tries to find homes for a great many animals.”

  “He does. So many are abused or abandoned. Your grandmother was very generous in supporting our efforts.”

  Jen wasn’t certain how to respond to that. She sensed she and Maggie could become good friends, and yet because of all the things that had happened to her, Jen was feeling suspicious and uncertain.

  By the time she took Aaron home, her son was still in good spirits.

  “Don’t forget to bring your friend next time you come,” Maggie said. “She’s welcome too.”

  “Thank you. Maryann’s been working all day at her computer.”

  After they got settled in the car, Aaron turned to her. “Mom, you’re humming.”

  “Was I?” She hadn’t noticed.

  “You never hum anymore.”

  “Seeing you enjoy playing with your friends put me in a good mood.” She gave Aaron a quick hug.

  Jen looked for Maryann when they got back to the house. She found her friend upstairs in her room gazing off in space.

  “I know you’ll find another position soon.”

  Her friend’s smile did not reach her deep green eyes. “I hope you’re right.”

  “Of course, I am.” Jen marched across the room and gave Maryann a hug just as she had earlier with Aaron.

  “There’s more. When Rob worked here this morning, we talked a little. I think he’s interested in having a real relationship.”

  “And that upsets you?”

  “It does. Common sense dictates any involvement with him would be stupid.”

  “Then again, feelings aren’t necessarily sensible. I think it was Albert Einstein who said that common sense isn’t common.”

  “I suppose.”

  “Would you help me fix dinner?”

  That got her friend moving. Jen had discovered long ago that doing basic domestic things like cooking and clea
ning took a person’s mind off problems.

  The doorbell rang just as Jen was about to place the chicken breasts into the oven to bake. Jen washed her hands and hurried to the door as Maryann pricked the red bliss potatoes and yams, turned them over, and placed them back in the oven.

  Grant Coleman stood there, hands fisted in his pants pockets. “Sorry to bother you this late but I wanted to check on the surveillance cameras, make sure they’re working properly.”

  He went about his task and Jen hurried back to the kitchen. “Grant Coleman’s here to make certain those cameras are working.”

  “Do you want to ask him to stay for dinner?”

  “I’ll ask. But I doubt that he would be willing. Still we can just throw a couple of more chicken breasts on the pan. Worst that happens is we make chicken salad tomorrow.”

  “Would you care to stay for dinner? We’ve got plenty.”

  “That’s a generous offer. But I generally eat supper over at the diner.”

  “I can offer you a healthier meal.”

  “All right,” he said. He was rewarded by a big, bright smile that turned her face into a radiant sun.

  “We really need to talk about a few things.”

  “After dinner? All right?”

  He gave an abrupt nod. No sense ruining her supper.

  Chapter Thirty-Two

  “Good food,” Grant Coleman said looking to Jen. His eyes lingered on her face.

  “I hope you left room for dessert.”

  Grant let out a groan. “I have to let out my belt as it is.”

  Aaron jumped up. “You’re gonna like the dessert though. It’s the best part of the meal. I wouldn’t eat all those vegetables if it wasn’t for the dessert.”

  “Oh, really?” Jen placed her hands on her hips and gave her son a hard look.

  Aaron lowered his eyes. “Well, I might eat some of them anyway. They don’t taste so bad.”

  Jen had served a tossed salad with olives, chick peas, baby carrots, and small tomatoes besides cooked summer squash and broccoli. The chicken breasts, tender and juicy, had been baked just right with a hint of red wine for flavor. Grant had eaten with a hearty appetite.

  “Okay, what’s for dessert?”

  “We do a special fresh fruit cocktail with a large dollop of vanilla fudge frozen yogurt.”

  He frowned at her. “Frozen yogurt?”

  “It tastes just as good as ice cream,” Aaron said. “Honor bright. Mom makes it special.”

  “Let’s let Chief Coleman be the judge,” she said to her son. Turning to Grant, she spoke again. “You decide. If you don’t like it, I promise not to be offended, but I can’t vouch for Maryann.”

  “Attacking a police officer is a capital offense.” He offered a teasing smile.

  Jen served the dessert and Grant admitted to enjoying it. “Rob’s going to be awfully jealous if and when he finds out how well I’ve been treated here.”

  She looked over at Maryann. “We’ll have to make it up to him. You’ve both been wonderful. Your mother and sisters are great too.”

  “Nice of you to say. I know you didn’t always feel that way.”

  She turned her head sideways, not certain what to make of that remark. She wanted to question him about it when the phone rang and distracted her.

  Aaron sprang to his feet. “I’ll get it.”

  A moment later, Aaron shouted for her to pick up the phone. It turned out to be someone soliciting donations for a local charity. When she got off the phone, Jen told the others about the call.

  “That brings up another reason I wanted to talk to you this evening,” Grant said.

  She and Maryann exchanged looks.

  “Say Aaron, don’t you have a video game you want to play with me?”

  “Sure, but don’t you got to clean up first?” Maryann said.

  “Since your mom has company, we’ll tackle it later. Bet I can beat you.”

  “Bet you can’t.” They raced each other upstairs, laughing all the way.

  “She’s good with him.”

  “Maryann likes children.”

  “I wouldn’t expect that from a career woman.”

  “Most people are complex, not all one thing or another.”

  “You got me there.”

  They walked into the living room. He seated himself on a chair and she took one of the sofas.

  “So what did you want to talk about?” Jen folded her hands together not certain what to expect.

  “A couple of things, or should I say people.” Grant leaned forward. “That friend of your mother’s has a rap sheet.”

  Jen sat up straighter. “What does that mean exactly?”

  “He’s done some time. Not for violent crimes—that we know about. But Franklin Kraulley is a big question mark just the same.”

  Jen’s eyes met his. “Do you think my mother’s involved?”

  “If Kraulley’s responsible.”

  Jen licked dry lips. “My mother threatened to sue over the estate. She said she’d question my grandmother’s mental competence at the time the new will was drawn up. I guess her case would be that much stronger if I moved out of the house and left town.”

  “Makes sense. I’ll bring him in for questioning.”

  “I guess so. It’s just so awful.”

  He got up and moved close then pulled Jen to her feet. “What would really be awful is if this person went further.”

  “You mean tried to kill me?”

  “I’m sorry, but yes, that is what I mean.”

  “I’ll never understand how people can deliberately harm others.” She hugged her body feeling suddenly cold in spite of the warmth of the room.

  “Some of them are sick.”

  “I’d say anyone who can plan to kill other people has to be mentally deranged.”

  “The main reasons or motives for murder are profit, revenge and jealousy. There are some people that would profit from your death. I plan to make certain that doesn’t happen.”

  “Thank you. That’s very reassuring. Since I don’t plan on leaving town, I especially appreciate your help.” She hesitated but then decided to offer her hand.

  He took her hand and shook it, but then held it a few seconds longer before releasing her fingers. “That’s just part of my job.”

  The living room was growing darker, shadows forming. She turned on one of the antique lamps which gave the room a soft glow.

  “My mother and her boyfriend aren’t the only possibilities, are they? Didn’t you mention you were checking out the charities that inherit if I don’t remain here?”

  “I did.” He met her gaze. “This Forrest Foundation is puzzling. All the other charities seem to check out. But I’m not so certain about that one. I’m going to talk with Forrest. I’ll have to handle him with care. He’s ingratiated himself with some of the people in local politics like the mayor.”

  “And that makes a difference?”

  He stared at her as if she were naïve. “Mrs. Stoddard…”

  “Jen please.”

  He gave her a nod. “Jen, the police chief is appointed by the mayor. I believe I’ve served Bloomingvale well and that my record of service speaks for itself. However, I don’t want this Forrest character running to the mayor crying harassment. So I’ll take it slow and keep investigating.”

  “What if he contacts me again?”

  “I don’t think he will, not directly anyway.”

  She emitted a soft sound of pain.

  “I’m just afraid of what will happen next. Maybe I am being foolish. Maybe I should give up and go back to New York. I want to stay here, to provide for my son’s future, but at what cost?”

  “You made a good decision. Stick with it. Don’t change your mind now. I’m not going to let anything happen to you.”

  For a moment, he embraced her. Then as if he’d realized what he’d done, Grant pulled away. “It’s going to be all right.”

  “I hope so.”

  “Better g
et going.”

  She walked him to the front door.

  “Don’t forget to lock up.”

  “Hey, I’m a New Yorker.” She smiled at him.

  His eyes lingered on hers. But then he turned away. She felt a sense of loss.

  After Grant left, she walked around the house silent as a ghost. Should she just go back to New York? He’d promised to protect her but he couldn’t be around all the time. And she couldn’t afford a professional bodyguard, not that she would want one even if she could. She valued her privacy. Still, her grandmother wanted her to have this house and her estate. Grandmother trusted her to take care of what she left behind, and she’d felt Jen would have a better life here. To leave now would be to betray that trust. No, she would stay. She wouldn’t run away cowering in fear from some shadowy malevolent antagonist.

  Jen walked through the dining room and put on the light switch. Overhead the antique silver and crystal chandelier shone brightly. What could it tell her about the elegant dinners once served here? She ran her hands along the mahogany table that showed nary a scratch. Clearly it had been lovingly polished over the years. They had never eaten in this room. She vowed someday they would, on a day of celebration, a special occasion. Would there ever be such a day?

  Chapter Thirty-Three

  Rob observed that the grass looked dried out. It hadn’t rained in several weeks. Farmers needed the rain for their crops. This was an area that grew corn, wheat, oats and soy. Farmers had come to town complaining about the lack of rain. The thought of losing their farms because of drought always sent fear into their hearts.

  Rob thought about his father who had grown up on a farm with his family. After Rob’s grandfather died, they’d lost the farm. His dad had been forced to drop out of school needing to help support the family. He’d gone to work in a factory. Eventually, he had gotten married and had children of his own. But the factory had shut down. His father explained how they’d found it was cheaper to relocate the factory where labor was cheaper and no unions existed.

  Rob knew his father always wanted to go back to farming. He’d dreamed of owning his own land. But that never happened. He hired out to one place and then another. They’d finally come to town and he’d worked as a handyman. It hadn’t been a good life and Dad took to drinking to forget his disappointments. His mother had been the backbone of the family. When his father floundered, she’d taken on the burden of responsibility for supporting their family.