The Harvest Club by Iona Morrison

Reba’s eyes.
    After their lunch arrived, Jessie picked up the story by telling Reba about last night at the church. “It was then that I realized the woman I had seen was Gina Martin.” She sipped her water and added any other pertinent information.
    “It seems you are the one she has chosen to entrust with this job. There’s a lot at stake for her children. I believe if this was an open and shut case, she wouldn’t be here at all.” Reba proceeded carefully. “Sometimes folks get stuck, if something is left unfinished in life, especially when their lives are taken suddenly. Oh, I know people think I’m strange, but there are a lot of spiritual things in this life that we don’t understand at all.”
    “But, why me, I wonder? I’ve never been open to this kind of stuff. In fact I’m still skeptical.”
    “You’re a strong woman, but you also have a tender heart. It seems to me I read somewhere that as a writer you were tenacious about getting the facts right. You’re absolutely the perfect woman for the job!” Reba’s expression became thoughtful. “I do have a word of warning, Jessie. Be very careful. Once it is known that you are asking questions, you could become the next target. In fact you will be challenged in the near future.”
    ****
    As if a ghost wasn’t enough, Reba’s warning left her apprehensive. She didn’t want to become anyone’s target. Not now, not ever!
    Right now, she had to take care of the second thing on her list. Using her cell phone, she called Rocky Pointe. “Hello, may I speak to Mrs. Bradley?”
    “This is her.”
    “My name is Jessie Reynolds. I know you don’t know me, but I’m working at the church where your daughter was a pastor. I’m also a journalist and would like your permission to do a human interest story about your daughter.”
    “What good would it do but dredge up some very hurtful stuff?” The woman’s tone was cold.
    “First of all, it would keep the unsolved murder in the news, before people, which could spark someone to remember a small detail that might be helpful to the police. And, besides that, I have been touched so much by her story I would like to see it told.”
    “I’m not sure. I would need to talk to my husband first. My grandkids have been through so much already. I just don’t know if it would be right.”
    “I can understand your hesitancy, and I have a suggestion that you can accept or decline. I could come and meet you and your husband. I will explain to you why I want to do the story, and you can decide. If you tell me no, I’ll walk away and leave you alone.”
    “I have your number from your call, so I’ll call you back and let you know.”
    “Thanks for considering it. I know this has been a hard time for your family.”
    Who knew what would come of that, but she had to try. Sensing she wasn’t alone, Jessie whispered, “Gina, you’re going to have to work on your mother if you want me to do this. I’ll keep trying.”
    At five, she turned off her computer, unplugged the coffee, and went back to Pastor Rick’s office to let him know she was leaving for the day. Before she knocked on his closed door, she could hear his angry muffled voice speaking on the phone. Pastor Rick didn’t sound too happy. She turned to leave, but then retraced her steps, and knocked on the door.
    “Just a minute, I’ll be right with you. I’ve got to go, and don’t call me here again,” she heard him say. “You can come in now.” He motioned for her to be seated.
    “I thought I should tell you that I’m leaving for the day.” She sat down on the edge of the chair. “Everything is done for the week. Is there something you would like me to do extra, tomorrow?”
    “I can’t think of anything.” He looked at her. “Will you be going to the concert?”
    “Yes, I’m going with a friend.”
    “Good, I’m sure I’ll see you there.” He smiled at her.
    The way he was staring at her was unnerving. She stood up before he could