The structure was the first the city commissioned to be built. Considered an architectural challenge, the peak of a ravine just off what would become Huron Street was chosen as its location. Overlooking the Huron River that passed behind and many of the developments that sprung around it, initially the building was the tallest in the downtown area. Four stories covering the span of less than a fourth of a city block was the size it had always been. From the outside, giving the appearance of wealth and prestige, the latest in masonry innovations allowed the original cobblestone facing to be replaced with marble from a local foundry. Inside, aside from the occasional plumbing, heat and cooling upgrades, an elevator that went from the basement to the second floor complimented the decades old decor and respected the privacy of the leased third floor offices. It was from atop the stairwell City Manager Peter Reynolds stormed through the door of Price Investments winded and worried.
"Good morning, Mr. Reynolds," secretary Jayne Alters greeted. "Sorry, but Mr. Jackson isn't in at the moment."
Peter calmed himself and caught his breath. "What do you mean he's not in? His car's in the parking lot and"—Peter moved towards the usually unnoticed coatrack in the corner, pointing.— "isn't this his coat and hat?"
Amidst the obvious insinuation, Jayne rose to her feet, walked over, and opened the door to her boss' office. "As I stated, sir. Mr. Jackson isn't in. Feel free to have a look for yourself if you'd like."
Peter's face flushed red, but what could he do? Jayne was simply an employee following instructions. As bad as he wanted to, he knew better than to barge pass her on a whim she could possibly be lying. Besides, he could see from where he stood there wasn't a light on in the room. And what if she was? Peter reasoned. For now his only option was to leave a message and return later. "No, that won't be necessary. Just tell Ethan that I said I saw Adrian's son, he's back. And to call me as soon as he gets in."
"Will do, sir. As soon as he gets in."
With not so much as a departing goodbye, Peter turned and thundered from the office.
Boom!
The door sounded like a gun blast as it slammed behind him.
YOU ARE READING
The Widower Murders
Mystère / ThrillerTwo decades ago, a total of five widowers were killed by a female serial killer named Ella Timmins. Believed to have been the fifth, local philanthropist and businessman, Adrian Price, was discovered bludgeon and mutilated in his mansion, Price Esta...
