I twined my scarf in my fingers.
“Impulsive.” He made a chopping motion with one large hand.
My collar felt tight.
“Rash.” A shake of his head, this thick brown hair quivering.
Was the wool of my lovely suit irritating my skin?
“Forthright.” His tone was thoughtful.
I sighed.
“Daring.” He spoke with finality.
I awaited dismissal.
Suddenly his generous mouth spread in a huge smile, his brown eyes glowed. “God bless, Bailey Ruth. You saved Kathleen and dear Bayroo. When you thought of me, knew you needed help, why, I was able to come in time. If it had not been for you . . . However”—he
Ca ro ly n H a rt
stood and waved an admonishing finger, though kindly—“I feel that your status as a probationer must continue.” Continue?
“Before another mission can be considered, I suggest you spend time in contemplation of the Precepts, especially Precept One.” His thick brows drew down. “And Three.” A head shake. “And Four.
And Six. My goodness, that’s a shocking number of Precepts you haven’t mastered. However, if you study hard”—he looked at me doubtfully—“perhaps next time—”
My heart raced. Next time. Oh, dear Heaven, there might be a next time. I might still be on probation, but the door had not been closed.
“—events will proceed in a more orderly manner.”
“I’ll learn the Precepts by heart. Of course,” I was quick to reassure him, “I already know them. It was simply that things happened.
Everything will go much better next time. Oh, Wiggins.” I jumped up and gave him a hug.
Next time . . .
About the Author
An accomplished master of mystery, Carolyn Hart is the author of more than forty books, including eighteen Death on Demand novels. Her books have won multiple Agatha, Anthony, and Macavity Awards. She is also the creator of the highly praised Henrie O series. One of the founders of Sisters in Crime, Hart lives in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
www.carolynhart.com
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A l s o b y C a r o l y n H a r t
DEATH ON DEMAND
HENRIE O
