It's Murder at the Buy-Right

51

"Henry," Daisy Ann said, "we've worked like dogs, but this place is coming along nicely."

"Yeah," he said. "I don't mind, though. I feel like it's the least I can do for Deke since his house went up in smoke."

"I know what you're saying. It makes me sick to think of having to break that to him."

Henry looked outside.

"Look what the cat's drug up," he said.

It was Richmond Eades. He got out of the cruiser and walked into the store.

"Y'all got it looking good in here," Richmond said, removing his sunglasses and shoving them atop his forehead.

From the little mike on Richmond's shoulder, a booming voice filled the store.

"Eades," Sheriff Albion said, "we just got word that Deke Dewitt is coming around. Head over to the hospital and see if he has anything to say."

"Yes, sir."

Eades flopped his glassed down. He was hurried out without a word.

"Come on, Henry," Daisy Ann said.

"You go, Daisy Ann. I'll stay here and keep working. Give my regards to Deke. Tell him I wish him the best."

Daisy Ann grabbed her purse. She was just about to get into her car, when Monroe pulled into the lot.

"Where's the fire, Daisy Ann? I never saw you move so fast?"

"Deke's coming to, Monroe. I'm heading to the hospital."

"Well, hop in. I'll get us there in a jif."

Daisy Ann got into the squad car and buckled up.

"First time I ever rode in one of these," she said.

"Feels kinda funny."

Monroe grinned his goofy grin.

Daisy Ann looked out the window. She could only hope he knew what he was doing. He was driving so fast, it felt like she had jumped into the saddle of a rocket.

"Slow down, son," she finally said, when her frayed nerves could take it no longer.

"Don't worry," he said. "You're in good hands."

Daisy Ann just shut her eyes and did the only thing she could do.

She prayed.