The Perfect Spouse Page 9

  Jason was even surprised when he sat back with a deep breath and realized that he had truly cleaned his plate. Now the waist of his pants felt too tight. The men applauded and slapped him on the back. He grinned and enjoyed the friendship.

  “Who’s going to roll me over to my office? I don’t think I can walk on my own.” He looked around as if he were pleading for help.

  “There’s no hurry. Sit a while and you’ll be able to go where you wish,” Marjorie told him.

  Attorney Maurice Winston slid in the booth opposite Jason. “Good morning, Jason. I’ve been going out of town for my CPA service and I’ve been satisfied, but I’m wondering if you’ll find time to meet with me and discuss my financial situation. I never seem to have my tax forms ready on time and always have to apply for an extension. It’s costing me money that I can’t afford.”

  “Sure. I’ll be glad to help, if I can. Why don’t you call my office and ask Grace to set up an appointment for you.”

  Maurice stood up, shook hands with Jason and walked jauntily out. Jason paid for his monstrous breakfast and left a five dollar tip. He ambled out and diagonally across the street to his office.

  After being out in the cold wind, the heat hit him like a slap in the face when he stepped inside. He hurriedly took his outer clothing off and turned to talk to Grace. She followed him back to his office.

  “Grace, do you know Attorney Winston, Maurice Winston?”

  “I sure do. I’ve known him practically all his life.”

  “Good. What do you think of him?”

  “In what way?”

  “He asked me this morning if I would help him with his financial reports and his tax statements. I told him to call you and arrange for an appointment. I’ll probably need about an hour with him.”

  “Fine. He’s a good man; hard working, and, as far as I know, honest. His wife died last year after a severe asthma attack. He has two young children that her parents are helping him raise. His own parents died in Ecuador where they were missionaries. They were killed in a battle between tribes.”

  “Do what you can for him. I’ll at least hear him out. Thank you, Grace.”

  She turned smartly and left, pulling his door quietly closed behind her. At eleven o’clock, Grace came back again with a puzzled expression on her face. “There’s a Detective Snouder here to see you. Do you want me to bring him back to your office?”

  Jason felt a pang of alarm and then slight anger. Why is the detective coming to my place of business? Does he think I’m guilty or know more than I told them? “Yes, please, Grace, show him on back.”

  “Hello, Detective Snouder,” Jason greeted him rising and coming around to the front of his desk to shake hands. “Have a seat. Would you like some coffee?”

  “I’d love some. Small amount of cream, no sugar, please,” he smiled at Grace who turned reluctantly and left the office. The two men discussed weather, football scores and innocuous topics until Grace had delivered two mugs of hot coffee and some pieces of cake, then left, closing the door behind her.

  “Jason, may I call you Jason?” Detective Snouder smiled.

  “Of course. I’m curious as to the purpose of your visit.”

  Lt. Snouder sat back in his chair and placed his left ankle over his right knee. “My partners and I were impressed with you, and after a thorough investigation, we thought you’d be relieved to know that you are not a suspect, not even a person of interest.”

  Jason stared at him for a few moments. “Well, thank you --I think. Why make a special trip to tell me?”

  “We’re hoping that you’ll be willing to be alert and keep an ear open for any comments from anyone that sounds as if they’re hiding something. I don’t expect you to become a detective overnight,” he chuckled, “but we sure could use a friend inside. People might talk in front of you where they wouldn’t in front of us.”

  “I guess I should feel flattered, but I would not be comfortable playing the part of a spy on the members, or anyone.”

  “Oh, we don’t want you to spy; just listen carefully to comments.”

  “I won’t promise anything, but I will say if someone is obviously covering up or appearing guilty, then I will talk to you about it.”

  “Thank you. That’s all I can hope for. Thank you for the coffee and for your time.”

  The men stood, shook hands, and Jason escorted Lt. Snouder out.

  Jason realized that Grace was curious about the detective’s visit, but he was not ready to talk about the death of Margaret to his staff. He had a jolt of surprise when Grace followed him back into his office and leaned against the door.

  “I wonder what happened to that Margaret Archer. She hasn’t called again and she seemed so determined. Well, maybe she’s busy like all of us.” She stared at Jason, and when he said nothing, she shrugged her shoulders and left.

  Jason felt guilty because he knew Grace was fond of him and what a loyal assistant she was. How could he tell her -- and the other two? Would they think I was careless and negligent? No. We have a special rapport, both working and personal. Maybe I should tell them. I’ll think about it, and pray about it. It might be well for them to know because it’s possible they would be able to advise me. At least they’ll give me moral support.

  The next morning Jason had decided to confide in his staff. He went in early, but even then, Grace was ahead of him. “Grace, please have everyone meet me at the long table in half an hour, and have plenty of coffee.”

  Franklin wandered in which, at first, made Jason a little uneasy, but he decided that the older man had been in business for years and would have common sense advice. Too, he was a friend and just as interested in Jason as his staff was.

  They were all unsure and uneasy when they first sat down with their mugs of coffee. Jason looked down at the papers in his hands and then carefully placed them on the table. The others began to be afraid he had traumatic news for them. Finally he looked up.

  “I’ve kept a secret and feel guilty about it because I felt insecure and wasn’t sure how all of you would feel about me. Although I didn’t instigate the situation, and could do nothing about it, I still felt badly.” he was silent.

  Greg cleared his throat, but didn’t follow through with saying anything. Beth looked concerned and Grace unconscientiously reached and took Franklin’s hand.

  Jason took a deep breath. “Remember the calls from the woman who gave her name as Margaret Archer? I need to start before that. Six weeks ago, I joined a dating agency called The Perfect Spouse.”

  Greg almost choked on his sip of coffee and started to cough. Beth actually dropped her mouth open and stared. Grace kept Franklin’s hand and placed her other hand on his forearm. She looked very concerned. Franklin just waited looking solemn.

  “Jason. Why would you join a dating agency? You’re a handsome man and have a successful business. Lots of women would be eager to know you better, and I know some in church who are interested.” Grace spoke with affection.

  “I just wanted to make some friends who didn’t know much about me, and I’m sure not looking for a permanent relationship.”

  “That’s all right, son. It’s your business. You didn’t have to tell us, but there must be a reason why you’re telling us now.” Franklin looked concerned and spoke encouragingly.

  “A very good reason. Margaret Archer had joined the same dating agency long before I did. Even though we are promised confidentiality, she did some unethical digging and found my business phone. She caught me one day after work, on the street, and confessed that she had recognized me from my picture and followed me to the office.”

  “Well! That’s why the snit wouldn’t give me her phone number or leave a message,” Grace huffed. “I’m glad she was never able to catch you here.”

  “She, as I said, did catch me one day on the street. I told her I didn’t do business on the street and she’d have to tell my secretary what she wanted. She laughed, a crazy laugh, and that very night was so obnox
ious at the agency, I almost walked out. Others begged me to stay and they told her to get lost.” Here he paused

  “A few of the men had dated her at first, but they warned me away from her. It seems she was so man crazy she now caused the men to dodge her and to warn others about her. That night at the agency, she grabbed me like an octopus and I had a time getting away from her. The owners finally asked her to talk to them in private.”

  “Good. I hope she lets you alone after that,” Beth smiled.

  “She wasn’t in any shape to be an additional bother because on either Christmas day or the day after, she was murdered.” Everyone gasped. “She was found nude and in a dumpster behind the restaurant. That’s why the detective was in here the other day to talk to me. At first I was a person of interest because someone had told them what a time I had getting rid of her that night. The detectives interviewed everyone that was at the party, and others, too. They finally decided I was completely innocent; at least that’s what they’re telling me now.”

  “Well, of course, you’re innocent. Any fool would know that,” Grace spoke through tight lips.

  Beth nodded so strongly that she must have hurt her neck. Greg leaned back in his chair and stared as if he couldn’t believe what he was hearing.

  Franklin placed a hand on Jason’s shoulder. “I’m sure you weren’t the only one the detectives were investigating. With a reputation as you tell us she had, I’m sure there were several others under suspicious and maybe some who didn’t belong to the agency.”

  “Yes. Others were questioned and a few of the women were questioned because they had verbal battles with her.”

  “It’s unfortunate that the woman’s life ended that way, but knowing you, I’m positive you know nothing about it. You’re feeling badly about it, and you shouldn’t. You never dated her or had any contact with her except what she instigated on her own. You’re a gentleman and a very kind person. You’re just feeling badly about the whole situation,” Franklin observed.

  “It’s needless to say forget about it, but I’m glad you told us. Everyone needs a friend who can listen to their heartaches and concerns and assure them of all kinds of support. We love you and admire you and will stand by your no matter what.” Grace gave a firm nod.

  Beth jumped up and came around the table to hug Jason. “There was absolutely nothing wrong with you joining the dating agency. It’s your personal business and I hope you’ll eventually meet someone who will make a great and good difference in your life. All humans need someone that they can confide in.”

  Greg stood, looking worried. “Jason, never hesitate to discuss anything with us. You’ve been like a big brother to me and I treasure our friendship. I’m sure everyone here feels close to you and wants the best for you. You’ve told us now -- so be at ease. Try to put it behind you and know we’re here for all and any reasons.”

  “Hey! I know and I do love all of you. However, that’s not the most shocking item I need to discuss.” He turned to Franklin. “I need to know what a wiser head than mine thinks of this next piece of business.”

  Greg and Beth sat back down looking at each other and then at Jason. He proceeded to tell them of the letter he received, and even read it to them. “One part of me is curious and wants to know more about this person, but then I remember Margaret Archer and shudder.”

  Greg had picked up the letter to read silently. He laid it on the table. “I say answer and find more about this person. She doesn’t sound like someone who would give you any kind of grief. After all, she isn’t close by.”

  “I don’t know. Why would someone who doesn’t live here want to get in touch, and at the same time remain detached?” Beth mused.

  Grace said nothing but got up and hugged Jason with moist eyes. She sat down again and looked as if she were thinking deeply.

  Franklin smiled at him, “Leave it be for a while. It’s unfortunate this letter came practically on the murder of the other women. Of course it fills you with questions. I would let it rest for a week or two and then decide what you want to do. Never mind what we think. It’s your life, and as the others have said, we all are here to support you in whatever you decide.”

  Franklin leaned over and whispered something to Grace. She smiled at him with trembling lips. He stood up and walked out without another word.

  Jason looked at his staff. “Thank you for your understanding and your support. I value your opinions. Now, we’d better get to work. We have people depending on us.”

  Chairs scraped as each one stood and walked to their own work station. Jason ambled back to his office and slowly closed his door. He made a valiant effort to keep his mind on business, but couldn’t keep from thinking of happenings outside the office.

  The remainder of the week went by with no new developments in the murder case. The following Monday morning, Gary frantically called Jason.

  “Hey, Jason. Can you please come to the dating agency? I need all the friends around that I can get.”

  “Sure. What’s up, Gary?”

  “Too much to tell right now. Please hurry down here.”

  Jason hung up bewildered, but had presence of mind to call Grace and tell her where he would be. He assured her he was not in any trouble, but was going to help a friend. He was astonished to see police, agency staff, and lots of members in the building when he arrived.

  Gary, Nigel and Tucker hurried to meet Jason all trying to talk. “Whoa, whoa. I can’t understand if all of you are going to talk at once. Gary, since you’re the one who called me, tell me what this is all about.”

  Gary sat down heavily showing that his legs were about to collapse under him. He struggled for a steady breath and finally spoke. “As you, and the others, know, I don’t often sleep well. I have been classified as an insomniac. I get up and either watch TV or read. Last night I decided to bundle up and go for a walk at one in the morning. As I walked past the alley by the hardware store, I heard a woman’s voice protesting something and calling for help. I ran into the alley intending to help. I know,” he said, holding up a hand when Jason opened his mouth to speak. “I know it was a foolish thing to do. I should have yelled loudly and got a lot of attention. Anyway I did rush in. Yes, I know the old saying, ‘fools rush in where angels fear to tread’, but I didn’t think about anything except some woman needed help.”

  “Well, that was a gentlemanly thing to do, but very dangerous. You didn’t know whether the assailant had a knife or a gun,” Jason reasoned.

  “I know, but how do you think I would have felt if I had hesitated and found another dead woman?”

  “Tell him the rest,” Nigel prompted.

  Steve Nighthawk joined them and asked permission to sit with them. “Being in law business, I’m interested and would like to help.” The four men welcomed him and briefly brought him up-to-date. He had apparently been told of the events surrounding Margaret’s demise. They each introduced themselves.

  Gary proceeded. “When I yelled, the person swung around to look at me and then dropped the woman like a rag doll and ran. I ran to her, relieved to find a pulse. My continuous yelling had gotten the attention of a foot patrolman and he ran to us while calling for backup. A police car pulled in to the entrance of the alley and two officers got out and ran to us. The EMTs were right behind them. Thankfully the woman was taken to the hospital in time.”

  “Was she wounded in any way?” Steve asked.

  “She had a small cut across the back of one shoulder and the person had attempted to strangle her. The shocking part is that she’s one of our members. Alice Daniels.”

  Nigel made a disgusted noise. “Someone is trying to make a point by attacking women from this dating agency, but, for the life of me, I can’t imagine what that point is.”

  “That’s not all,” Tucker spoke. “One of Margaret’s blouses was found nearby and Alice’s blouse was nearly torn off her. He apparently was trying to leave her nude and dead as he had Margaret.”

  Detective Watson and
Detective Boggs moved to this group of men. Det. Watson was tired and angry. “This person is baiting us. He’s attempting to commit murder and leave useless clues. I don’t know yet what to make of it, except that it proves whomever killed Margaret Archer also tried to kill the Daniels woman. He’s a master at baiting us.”

  Detective Boggs gave a whoop of laughter and slapped his thigh. “Yeah, he’s master baiter. Get it? A master baiter.” When no one laughed with him, he stopped, getting red in the face. The men, and others around them, were looking at Boggs as if they thought he’d lost his mind.

  Detective Watson frowned, pursed his lips, and proceeded to talk to others hoping to get a glimmer of a reason for the attack on Alice. “I’ll go to the hospital later and hope Miss Daniels will be able to tell me what happened.”

  Chapter Fourteen

  Days went by and still no new evidence in the Margaret Archer case. Members, of the dating agency, began to trickle back in, although many of them were subdued and didn’t seem to have the interest they had before. A few went on dates, but, for the most part, they were content to have get-togethers and visit with each other.

  Toward the end of January Detective Boggs came alone to one of the parties. The members were polite to him and even included him in conversations, but no one seemed to try to get close to him or know him better. He was probably an excellent officer, but he lacked people skills. He tried too hard to fit in and it turned people off.

  February rolled in with cold, brisk winds, but the snows seemed to go farther north and west. A cold rain fell one day and made slush of the banked snow that was pushed to the side of the road and the patches on the grass under trees.

  Jason’s office was extremely busy. He began to wonder if he needed to hire an additional staff member. Even Grace was doing some of the less demanding paper work and answering questions to the best of her ability.

  Jason was pleased that he had built such a good reputation and attributed it to his great staff.