Merry, Merry Ghost

Harrison cleared his throat. “In a world where there is so much dishonesty, I wonder if Farrell has been quite careful. As a man of the world, I’d recommend that you make a thorough check of all claims.”

Susan’s quick glance at Harrison was cool, her voice crisp. “The matter is settled.” Her look of command faded, replaced by uncertainty. She looked appealing, her classic features drawn in concern, her frail health evident. “Until Keith came, I had no direct family. I have, through the years, felt close to each of you. I appreciated your support for me. I made no secret that I had divided my estate among you. Now everything has changed. I realize”—she did not look toward Jake—“that quite reasonably each of you wonders how this will affect you.”

Tucker flashed a boyish smile. “Hey, Susan, we understand. Keith’s the man. None of us has a claim on you. You don’t owe anybody any explanations.”

Susan’s smile was grateful. “In my mind and heart each of you does have a claim and I want to be clear. No one will be forgotten. Tucker, you have been the best manager the ranch has ever had. I hope you’ll want to stay on. I’ll make certain that you receive an excellent salary. In fact, each of you will receive a substantial bequest.” She looked at Jake, a hopeful tentative look. “I’ll arrange that you have a life interest in the house. I won’t forget anyone.”

Harrison cleared his throat. “Susan, as always, you are a gracious and generous woman. Certainly all of us are proud to be a part of your unofficial family and join in wishing you happiness. I propose a toast.” He nodded at Jake. “See that everyone has a glass of wine.”

Jake frowned at his commanding tone, but moved to the sideboard. She lifted a decanter and filled eight glasses.

When everyone was served, Harrison lifted his glass. “To Susan, wishing you sunny days—and years—with your grandson.” His smile was wide, but his eyes were frightened.

In the entryway as coats were brought out of the closet, Dave reached out and pulled loose a short charcoal gray wool jacket. He handed it to Peg. “Let’s drive around and see the lights.” He was smiling but his gaze was steely.

Peg took a quick breath and swung toward Gina. “Won’t you come with us?”

Gina carefully did not look toward Dave. She smothered an unconvincing yawn. “I’m early to bed tonight. Have fun.” She glanced at Jake, bidding Tucker and Harrison and Charlotte good night. “Hey, Jake, after you make the cocoa, do you want me to take Susan’s tray up?”

Dave took Peg’s elbow, urged her toward the door. “I can show you the property while we’re out.”

Jake massaged one temple. “Thank you, Gina. I’m awfully tired. Everything’s ready. I’ll take care of making it right now. She likes her cocoa very hot to start with, though sometimes she lets it sit forever and drinks it stone cold…”

Jake’s querulous voice was cut off as the door closed.

Neither Dave nor Peg spoke until they were in his car, a two-seater sports car. He turned on the motor. “Did you talk to Susan this afternoon?”

“There wasn’t time.” Peg stared straight ahead.

“Look, Peg. You have to make an effort.” His tone was curt. “I’m making an effort. It’s critical that I get this loan. I’ve got everything lined up.”

Peg lifted a shaky hand, clung to the lapel of her coat. “Let’s not talk about it now.”

The car picked up speed. His profile in the wash of a streetlamp was set and cold. “Now is when you have to do something. She’s about ready to give all the money to that brat.”

“He isn’t a brat. He’s a sweet, dear little boy.”

Dave’s voice was measured. “Okay, he’s the world’s greatest kid. Tell her you think he’s wonderful. Lay it on thick. Then explain to her that I was going to give you an engagement ring for your birthday, but everything may have to go on hold. I can’t get engaged and think about a wedding when I’m trying to start up a new practice unless I’ve got some backing. For God’s sake, she’s taking away everything you’ve counted on. The least she can do is come through on the loan.”

The car pulled up at a stop sign perhaps three blocks from Pritchard House.

“Do you know, I think I’m too tired to take a drive.” Her voice was thin. She unclicked her seat belt, opened the door. “I’ll walk back. I have a headache and maybe the night air will make me feel better.”

“Peg…”

The door slammed shut.

In an instant, the car jolted forward, tires squealing.

The occupants of the house settled for the night. Peg had turned toward the wall as if shutting out the world. A night-light glowed not far from Keith’s bed. Keith was curled against an oversize teddy bear almost as big as he. Charlotte Hammond had presented the jumbo brown plush bear to him after the tree- trimming party. The bear, promptly named Big Bob by Tucker, sported a Santa hat and a red muffler decorated with candy canes.

I glided past the sleeping child and patted Big Bob’s soft plush fur as I set out to make my rounds.

Gina held a book. Her irregular features were drawn in a worried frown. She stared without seeing at the printed lines.

Jake’s plump face was puckered with unhappiness. She tossed and turned, misery evident even in her sleep.

Everyone was in their place. I smothered a yawn. As soon as I checked on Susan, I would settle on the chaise longue, ready to drift into sleep, remembering the friendly welcome from a stranger at the Christmas party and Keith’s excitement as he and Leon placed the star on the tip-top of the tree. I suspected memories of the afternoon would weave happy dreams as well for Susan Flynn tonight. However, I feared that the dreams of those to whom she had spoken after dinner would not be so sweet. I would be glad when Susan had signed the new will. Until then, I could not assume Keith was safe.