Midas Murders [Book 3 of the Katherine Miller Mysteries] by Janet Lane-Walters Page A

Take good care of them. They're only on loan, you know. I'd hate to see them broken."
    "They're Kate's and perfect for her,” Lars said.
    "But Daddy...” She thrust her lower lip into a pout.
    "Bonnie.” A hard edge entered his voice.
    Damon appeared in the doorway. “Lars, I thought I heard your voice. Mrs. Miller, the jewelry and the dress are stunning."
    Bonnie turned to him. “Have you seen Carl? He should be at my side to greet our guests.” She put a hand on Lars’ arm. “I need a host. Aunt Katherine, can you spare Daddy for a bit?"
    "No problem."
    "And think about how much I love the jewelry.” She smiled. “You've always done the right thing."
    In her eyes I had. Not this time. I intended to treasure Lars’ gift.
    Damon took my arm. “Let's find Carl."
    We entered the spacious L-shaped living room. Sofas and chairs in gold and white brocade were arranged in conversation areas. A fire burned in the large corner fireplace and the fragrant aroma of burning wood filled the air.
    Damon steered me through an archway into the dining room where a large terraced buffet filled with chaffing dishes stood against one wall. Small tables for two or four were scattered through the room. A man in a spotless white uniform backed through a door that must have led to the kitchen. He placed a crystal bowl of shrimp on the serving table.
    Damon motioned to Carl who stood at the bar. “You're presence is requested in the foyer."
    Carl left his glass on the bar. “On my way.” He paused. “Mrs. Miller, you look fabulous. Lars was right. The jewelry suits you perfectly. My wife must be heartbroken.” He sauntered away.
    He sounded as if he was pleased to see his wife had lost something she desired. What was going on between the pair of them? Damon released my arm. “Mind if I abandon you? I need to check on the orchestra."
    "I'll be fine.” I wandered into the living room.
    A short time later, Lars arrived with a young couple. He made quick introductions and drew me to one of the chairs by the fire. “Don't even think about giving her the jewelry."
    "I wasn't."
    "Good. What would you like to drink?"
    "What do you think?"
    He patted my hand. “My daughter doesn't serve mint tea."
    "Very funny. A daiquiri will be fine."
    Moments later he returned and handed me a drink. The daiquiri had been blended to perfection and the crust of sugar on the rim of the glass added a touch of sweetness to the tart lime.
    Before long a crowd had gathered. Lars and I put our glasses on a tray held by a young woman wearing a bright fiesta dress.
    As we circulated, he made introductions. Though I tried, most of the names were quickly forgotten. To my surprise many of the women exclaimed over my necklace and earrings. The silver and turquoise creation was in competition with diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires. The amount of glitter in the room hurt my eyes.
    Music drifted from the ballroom. “Where's Don?” I asked.
    "He and Megan are with friends. He refuses to leave her with a sitter and he avoids Bonnie's house."
    "How long has this been going on?"
    "Almost since his marriage. Bonnie and Ramona never got along. It's been worse lately. Not long after Ramona's funeral, he and Megan had food poisoning after eating dinner here. Megan ended up in the hospital. Don blamed Bonnie. I've tried to make peace and pretty much failed."
    Poor Lars. He had a knack for making money but little fortune with his children. When he's back east, his meetings with his older sons and their wives are few and generally take place in restaurants.
    My reflections were interrupted by the arrival of Dr. Verdigras. “Mr. Claybourne, you're looking fit.” He faced Lars and turned his back on me.
    "Feel great,” Lars said.
    "Uncle Joe said you haven't made an appointment for a follow-up."
    "No need. A good night's sleep and I was fine.” Lars tugged me closer. “You remember Kate...Mrs. Miller."
    The doctor's nostrils tightened. “Yes...of course. Have you