Episode 22 – “A Damsel in Distress”
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Miles Meadow-Brook informs Bradford Black that he will not win in court if they fight over who inherits the mansion. John Boddy blackmails Jet Black to turn down his inheritance in turn for seeing his brother alive again. Mr. Gold pays Mr. Green a surprise visit and informs him that he will be keeping his eye on him. Colonel Mustard is brought into interrogation over the death of Francesca Thorn. It is revealed in a flashback that Miss Peach has fallen in love with men in the past and killed them when she didn’t get what she wanted. Chandler becomes suspicious of Miss Peach. He then learns that she has kept him unconscious for three days and that she is up to something…
-Tuesday, April 19, 1949; 5.49 pm-
In his Flat, Chandler Weiss exits the kitchenette and sits down on the sofa of the small Drawing Room. Miss Peach cleans up the table in the Kitchenette. She rinses off a plate in the sink as she looks out the small window. The sun is slowly beginning its descent behind the trees, casting an orange glow against the side of the building, streaming warm sunlight onto the kitchen floor.
“I thought we could talk about what you said to me last night at the bar,” Miss Peach lies
He winces from the other room as he feels the pain suddenly rush to his shoulder again. He winces again as he touches the bandage.
“Emily,” he says with a sigh, “I don’t know what I said last night. I was mad and apparently heavily intoxicated since I can’t remember anything.”
“Just rest,” Miss Peach says exiting the kitchenette and standing in the Drawing Room doorway, “I’m sure it will come back to you.”
-FLASHBACK – THREE DAYS AGO –
In the Drawing Room of the Peacock Residence, the uneasy guests shift uncomfortably in their seats after hearing the sudden outbursts in the Hall between Miss Scarlet, Mrs. Peacock, and Chandler Weiss.
“I told you we weren’t safe,” Scott whispers to his brother
“It’s going to be okay.” Jet says
Scott Black leaves his brother and walks towards his mother and Mr. Meadow-Brook who stand near the Study doors. Mrs. Peacock exits the study with a glass of wine and bumps into Scott, drenching him.
“Oh, I’m sorry.” Mrs. Peacock says rather frantically, “Here’s let’s get you cleaned up in the Kitchen.”
Mrs. Peacock and Scott head down the hall to the Kitchen. Mrs. Black and Mr. Meadow-Brook re-enter the Drawing Room
Miss Peach stands up, “Maybe I should go see if I can catch Chandler.”
Mrs. Meadow-Brook looks at her in disgust. Mr. Meadow-Brook doesn’t make eye contact at all.
“Well you people sure know how to throw parties.” Miss Thorn says as Miss Peach exits the house. Miss Peach sees Chandler angrily heading down the sidewalk.
“Chandler wait, where are you going?” asks Miss Peach
“Home,” Chandler says
“You can’t walk home.” Miss Peach says, “Not like this.”
Chandler turns around and stands firmly in front of Miss Peach, “Emily go back to the party.”
Miss Peach is swept over but his flawless facial structure and handsome body. She quickly reaches up to kiss him when he pushes her aside.
“Dammit Emily!” Chandler shouts, “The last thing I want is romance.” He turns from her and starts to walk away. Miss Peach sees a brick in Mrs. Peacock’s flower bed and quickly chucks it at his head. He groans and stumbles to the ground. He begins to crawl away in pain as she opens her purse. She pours from a bottle a large amount of liquid onto a cloth. She quickly covers his nose and mouth with the cloth and waits until he goes limp in her arms.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
At the Meadow-Brook Home, Mrs. Jane Meadow-Brook sits in the Drawing Room wearing her funeral clothes. She slips off her shoes and props her feet up on the coffee table as Miss Ecru comes from the Hall.
“Ma’am,” Miss Ecru says, “I was wondering if I might have a word with you.”
“Of course, dear.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “After all this town has suffered through, talking is the best way of coping.”
“It’s about Miles,” Miss Ecru says
Just then the doorbell rings. Mr. Miles Meadow-Brook exits his Study and opens the door. He sees Miss Cynthia Scarlet with a look of concern on her face.
“Miss Scarlet,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I’m afraid now may not be a good time.”
“Please, may I come in? I need to speak with everyone.” Miss Scarlet begs
“Very well,” Mr. Meadow-Brook sighs and motions for her to come in.
“Cynthia?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook stands up upon seeing Miss Scarlet enter the room
“I haven’t seen Chandler since the night my mother kidnapped Scott.” Miss Scarlet says, “I was wondering if anyone has heard from him.”
“That’s the last time I saw him too.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Miss Peach left the Drawing Room to find him.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “I figured to cause more problems.”
“Most likely.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says with a sigh, “Come to think of it, I haven’t seen Miss Peach either.”
“For the best.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook mutters under her breath
“You don’t think they are together?” asks Miss Scarlet
“She could be with her father?” Miss Ecru suggests
“Should we see what’s going on with them?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“You go,” Miss Ecru speaks up, “I’ll stay here with Jane.”
Mrs. Meadow-Brook smiles and pats Miss Ecru on the hand.
“Be careful Miles,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “I don’t want the skank ruining our marriage again.”
“She won’t.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I finally realize what is most important to me.”
Mrs. Meadow-Brook smiles as Miss Ecru turns her face away from Miles.
“Let’s go see if the colonel knows where she is,” Mr. Meadow-Brook suggests to Miss Scarlet, “Then we can check Chandler’s flat.”
Miss Scarlet and Mr. Meadow-Brook exit the house.
In his Study, Colonel Algernon Mustard neatly adjusts the stack of papers next to his typewriter. A small brown and white cat brushes against his leg.
“With all the interruptions I’ve had, I’m surprised I’ve finished my memoir.” He tells the cat, “Now it’s time forty winks and then a nice spot of tea.” He stands up and watches as Miss Scarlet and Mr. Meadow-Brook make their way up his driveway.
“What in blazes could they want?” he asks himself as he enters the hall and opens the front door.
“Colonel,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Have you seen your daughter lately?”
“No, I don’t suppose anyone has.” Colonel Mustard says
“What do you mean?” asks Miss Scarlet as a breeze picks up, blowing her curly blonde hair against her face.
“She went back home to America after Mrs. Peacock disappeared.” Colonel Mustard says, “She’s visiting her older sister. No relation to me, mind you.”
“She left?” Miss Scarlet asks as she begins to shiver in her thin red sweater.
“The police instructed that anyone who was at the party when Hugh died was to remain in Hampshire for further questioning.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“I’m not sure how much more I can help you.” Colonel Mustard yawns, “If you’ll excuse me, I’d like to take a short nap before dinner.”
Colonel Mustard closes the front door of his house.
“To Chandler’s?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“I’ll drive.” Miss Scarlet says as they head to the driveway of the Peacock Residence
“I really hope she hasn’t done anything irrational.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “She has done a lot to ruin my relationship with Jane.”
“Honestly, Miles,” Miss Scarlet sits in the driver’s seat of her car, “You had a lot to do with the ruining of that relationship.”
“I still can’t believe she’s pregnant.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says as they begin to drive away.
“She’s not pregnant.” Miss Scarlet shouts angrily, “Believe me, I know. I’ve used that old trick a thousand times when I wasn’t ready to end my relationship with a man.”
“So she’s moved on to Chandler?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook showing a brief hint of hurt feelings
“That girl will steal any man with good looks and money.” Miss Scarlet says, “Chandler isn’t that rich but he is drop dead gorgeous.”
“You’ve been hurt by her before?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“My step-mother was.” Miss Scarlet says, “Emily flirted with her second and third husbands. We knew they were both having affairs with her. Fortunately they both died before she could get she hands on their money.”
“How did they die?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“Her second husband, Ernest fell overboard during a storm.” Miss Scarlet says, “Her third husband, Matthew died of a heart attack on their third anniversary.”
“And your father?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“Oh, Emily was only four when he died.” Miss Scarlet chuckles, “I hardly think she seduced him.”
“I know,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I’m just curious as to how your father died.”
Miss Scarlet is silent for a moment, “I knocked over his pill bottles when I was younger. I quickly shoved the pills back in but must have mixed them up. He died of an overdose the next day.”
“Your step-mother always said that her crazy sister stabbed him.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“She was having an affair with him.” Miss Scarlet says, “After my father was dead my step-mother stabbed his body and then killed her sister, she claimed that her sister killed her husband and she killed her out of defense.”
“Murder has always run in your step-mother’s veins.” Mr. Meadow-Brook sighs
“I can’t even imagine.” Miss Scarlet says with a frown as she pulls the car into the driveway outside of Chandler’s flat. The sun shines its last few rays of sunlight on Hampshire before it disappears behind the mountains.
“That’s his car.” Miss Scarlet says pointing to it.
“Let’s hope everything is okay.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Wait,” Miss Scarlet stops him, “Before we go I need to tell you something.”
“Of course,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“I really didn’t hire a hit man to attack Chandler.” Miss Scarlet says
“You pretty much confessed to it.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“I knew it was happening though.” Miss Scarlet lowers her head, “Dante Egret was my ex-boyfriend. He called me the morning Chandler was attacked and told me someone hired him to use a picture of me, Emily, and my step-mother. He asked me if I wanted him to go through with it. I told him I didn’t care.”
“Do you think Emily may have put the hit out on him?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“I’m not sure about anything anymore.” Miss Scarlet says
Back in his flat, Miss Peach seductively walks over and sits with Chandler on the sofa.
“I understand you probably don’t remember what you said to me,” Miss Peach says, “But I assure you, you said it with honestly and true love in your eyes.”
“Emily, I know the truth.” Chandler says
“Truth?” Miss Peach says, “What do you know?”
“I know that you’ve been lying to me.” Chandler says, “How long have I been unconscious?”
“Just since last night.” Miss Peach says
“Don’t lie to me!” Chandler shouts, “I know it’s not Sunday. The weather forecast in the newspaper was wrong and I saw the mailman delivering mail.”
“You need to lie down.” Miss Peach stands up, “Maybe you are just stressed.”
“What have you done to me?” asks Chandler as she shoves Miss Peach against the curtains. Miss Peach knees Chandler in the stomach and digs her finger into the stab wound on his shoulder. He falls to the floor in pain. Miss Peach rushes to the bedroom and returns with a Revolver.
“You really should have cooperated with me,” she says, “We would have made a happy couple.”
“Don’t you think I would have noticed we were living several days in the past?” asks Chandler from the floor.
“You made a huge mistake,” Miss Peach says aiming the Revolver at his head, “I never get loose someone I love with the word no.”
There is a sudden knock at the door. Miss Peach forces Chandler to his feet and shoves him on the sofa, “Not a word.” She holds the Revolver behind her back and opens the door to see Cynthia Scarlet and Miles Meadow-Brook.
“Cynthia?” Chandler is confused upon seeing Cynthia
“Chandler,” Miss Scarlet says in shock to see Miss Peach there
“Cynthia, Miles,” Miss Peach, “Now isn’t the best time,”
“Like hell it is,” Miles pushes past her, “You are supposed to be in America.”
“Cynthia you need to get out of here.” Chandler says softly
“Alright, honey, time to get in the room.” Miss Peach grabs Miss Scarlet by the hair and tosses her into the Drawing Room. She closes the door and points the Revolver at them.
“What do you want from us?” Miss Scarlet asks as she stands up to see the Revolver inches from her face.
“Sit,” Miss Peach says, “I think you and Miles should stay and chat with us for a while.”
Miss Scarlet glances over at Chandler who closes his eyes.
“So, I heard your step-mother is responsible for the murders around Hampshire.” Miss Peach says coldly.
“It would appear so.” Miss Scarlet says
“And from what I heard it was all for money.” Miss Peach laughs, “What people do for money.”
“And love.” Miss Scarlet says
“I beg your pardon?” Miss Peach becomes uncomfortable
“The crazy things that people will do for money and love.” Miss Scarlet says
“Well, yes, I suppose.” Miss Peach says, “But murder isn’t my style.”
“Just adultery.” Miss Scarlet says
“Cynthia, don’t piss her off.” Miles Meadow-Brook says
“And what about you?” she points the gun at Mr. Meadow-Brook, “You and your perfect little wife.”
“Jane has nothing to do with us.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Oh please,” Miss Peach laughs, “She’s the only reason we aren’t still together.”
“If you want to be with him so badly then why are you obsessed with Chandler?” asks Miss Scarlet
“I’m really getting tired of your rude little outbursts.” Miss Peach turns back to Miss Scarlet, “After all, you are the one who hired Dante to attack him.”
Miss Scarlet smiles
“What could you possibly find amusing here?” asks Miss Peach
“You just told us the name of the man who attacked Chandler.” Miss Scarlet says, “Only Chandler, Dante, and myself knew. But you do. I wonder why that is? Unless you were so desperate to move on to a new muse from Miles that you had to turn Chandler against me.”
“Shut up, Cynthia.” Miss Peach says
“No, that’s another thing,” Miss Scarlet says, “I’m tired of you ordering us around. If you are going to kill me, I’d rather have it with Chandler knowing that I love him and that I never meant to hurt him.”
“This is the third time I’ve seen you with someone I love.” Miss Peach says, “But I guarantee it will be the last.”
“You killed my step-father’s.” Miss Scarlet says
“Ernest told me I was just a toy!” Miss Peach says, “Matthew told me I didn’t understand what love was! I know what love is! It’s the constant thing I’ve been missing. I thought finding my father would give me closure and I wouldn’t have to search for love anymore, but it’s only made the longing for love even stronger!”
“What about your step-father?” asks Miles Meadow-Brook, “Just because he wasn’t your biological father didn’t mean that he didn’t love you. I’m sure he adored you and your sister.”
“Don’t talk about her!” Miss Peach says angrily, “He always loved her. She was perfect. She was kind, sweet, gentle, loving, and polite. The exact opposite of me.”
“So all these murders, all these innocent people’s deaths are because you have serious daddy issues?” Miss Scarlet asks
“My step-father raped me.” Miss Peach begins to cry, “I was only seven.”
Miles Meadow-Brook slowly reaches for her, “It’s okay.”
“No, stand back!” Miss Peach shouts.
“Emily,” a voice says from behind her. She turns quickly to see her father, Colonel Algernon Mustard standing in the doorway with sorrow on his face.
“Dad, what are you doing here?” she asks
“I followed them,” Colonel Mustard says, “You need to understand, I love you.”
“You didn’t care when I told you about Ernest.” Miss Peach says as mascara drips down her face onto her light orange dress
“I didn’t want to bring up the pains of the past.” Colonel Mustard says, “I didn’t realize how much pain you were still in.”
Miss Peach remains silent as she motions with the gun for her father to join Cynthia, Chandler, and Miles.
“Emily, we can help you.” Miles Meadow-Brook says, “What your step-father did to you is the past. He can go to prison for rape.”
“No he can’t!” Miss Peach says shaking her head, “I murdered that sick bastard the night he did it!”
“Bloody hell,” Colonel Mustard crosses himself
“Yes, I’m a murderess.” Miss Peach says, “Big deal, you’re step-mother murdered people around Hampshire.” She points the gun at Cynthia Scarlet, “You and your wife were involved in the death of a police man.” She points the gun at Miles Meadow-Brook, “You told me you murdered your best friend ten years ago.” She points the gun at Colonel Mustard, “And Chandler has broken my heart. That is almost as serious as murder.”
“Do you hear yourself?” asks Miss Scarlet as she steps in front of Miss Peach, “People break up. Relationships end! Big deal! But murdering every man who says no to you is not the answer.”
“I love him!” Miss Peach shouts
“Well he doesn’t love you!” Miss Scarlet shouts back, “It’s not because you are a murderess, it’s because you are cold, unloving, shallow, and narrow minded.”
“Cynthia,” Chandler becomes uneasy
“Maybe he would love someone who is less of a controlling bitch. Someone sweet and kind and loving.”
“Cynthia,” Chandler sits up from the sofa.
“Maybe,” Miss Scarlet says, “Just maybe he would love someone like your sister.”
*BANG*
Miss Peach’s big brown eyes are filled with rage and anger. The echoing sound of the gunshot is deaf to her ears. But in that split second from staring into Miss Scarlet’s delicate blue eyes and the moment she pulls the trigger, Miles Meadow-Brook shoves Miss Scarlet to the floor. The bullet lands in his chest. He backs up and slams into the curtains, spilling blood on them. It is at this moment that in the deathly silence Miss Peach has realized what she has done. Chandler painfully leaps from the sofa and grabs Miss Peach’s arm, retrieving the Revolver from her quite easily. Miss Scarlet sits up from the floor as Miles Meadow-Brook gently slides to the floor, gripping onto the curtains and pulling them down with them. Colonel Mustard grabs his daughter by the shoulders and begins frantically shaking the girl who is in a trance-like state. Chandler embraces Miss Scarlet. They two stare deeply into each other’s eyes as their lips become closer and closer. The silence is broken by Miss Peach’s hysterical blood curdling screams.
“Oh my God!” she screams, “Miles!”
-SEVERAL HOURS LATER-
Mrs. Jane Meadow-Brook sits beside Miles Meadow-Brook’s hospital bed. The sound of his heavy breathing fills the room. He opens his eyes slowly with a weak groan. His eyes adjust to the dim lights in the hospital room. He looks at the raindrops falling against the window and then to his wife who is silently sitting at his side. He notices the look on her face is solemn.
“Jane,” he says weakly as he touches her hand
“For years I have covered up the stupid mistakes we have made.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook shuts her eyes as a tear falls down her cheek, “I loved the daughter that you and Sylvia had together, I helped you cover up the death of that cop, I didn’t say a word about your off shore bank account, and I agreed to love you after you had an affair with a 21-year-old American redhead. But now our housekeeper informs me that you raped her the day after Hugh Black was murdered. The night after our little Jessica was murdered! Miles I’m so angry with you.”
“Jane,” Miles says with sadness, “You don’t understand.”
“No,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook stands up, “What I don’t understand is why I keep following you around blindly. I follow you to hell and back and this is what I get? I get a violated housekeeper who is afraid to work in the house if I’m not home. This marriage is over and you have two options for your future. Option 1, you sign over every dime of that offshore account to me and we never speak again. Option 2, I testify against you about your off shore account and you go to prison. Make your choice but either way, I will have nothing to do with you after that choice is made.”
-Tuesday, April 19, 1949; 5.49 pm-
In his Flat, Chandler Weiss exits the kitchenette and sits down on the sofa of the small Drawing Room. Miss Peach cleans up the table in the Kitchenette. She rinses off a plate in the sink as she looks out the small window. The sun is slowly beginning its descent behind the trees, casting an orange glow against the side of the building, streaming warm sunlight onto the kitchen floor.
“I thought we could talk about what you said to me last night at the bar,” Miss Peach lies
He winces from the other room as he feels the pain suddenly rush to his shoulder again. He winces again as he touches the bandage.
“Emily,” he says with a sigh, “I don’t know what I said last night. I was mad and apparently heavily intoxicated since I can’t remember anything.”
“Just rest,” Miss Peach says exiting the kitchenette and standing in the Drawing Room doorway, “I’m sure it will come back to you.”
-FLASHBACK – THREE DAYS AGO –
In the Drawing Room of the Peacock Residence, the uneasy guests shift uncomfortably in their seats after hearing the sudden outbursts in the Hall between Miss Scarlet, Mrs. Peacock, and Chandler Weiss.
“I told you we weren’t safe,” Scott whispers to his brother
“It’s going to be okay.” Jet says
Scott Black leaves his brother and walks towards his mother and Mr. Meadow-Brook who stand near the Study doors. Mrs. Peacock exits the study with a glass of wine and bumps into Scott, drenching him.
“Oh, I’m sorry.” Mrs. Peacock says rather frantically, “Here’s let’s get you cleaned up in the Kitchen.”
Mrs. Peacock and Scott head down the hall to the Kitchen. Mrs. Black and Mr. Meadow-Brook re-enter the Drawing Room
Miss Peach stands up, “Maybe I should go see if I can catch Chandler.”
Mrs. Meadow-Brook looks at her in disgust. Mr. Meadow-Brook doesn’t make eye contact at all.
“Well you people sure know how to throw parties.” Miss Thorn says as Miss Peach exits the house. Miss Peach sees Chandler angrily heading down the sidewalk.
“Chandler wait, where are you going?” asks Miss Peach
“Home,” Chandler says
“You can’t walk home.” Miss Peach says, “Not like this.”
Chandler turns around and stands firmly in front of Miss Peach, “Emily go back to the party.”
Miss Peach is swept over but his flawless facial structure and handsome body. She quickly reaches up to kiss him when he pushes her aside.
“Dammit Emily!” Chandler shouts, “The last thing I want is romance.” He turns from her and starts to walk away. Miss Peach sees a brick in Mrs. Peacock’s flower bed and quickly chucks it at his head. He groans and stumbles to the ground. He begins to crawl away in pain as she opens her purse. She pours from a bottle a large amount of liquid onto a cloth. She quickly covers his nose and mouth with the cloth and waits until he goes limp in her arms.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
At the Meadow-Brook Home, Mrs. Jane Meadow-Brook sits in the Drawing Room wearing her funeral clothes. She slips off her shoes and props her feet up on the coffee table as Miss Ecru comes from the Hall.
“Ma’am,” Miss Ecru says, “I was wondering if I might have a word with you.”
“Of course, dear.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “After all this town has suffered through, talking is the best way of coping.”
“It’s about Miles,” Miss Ecru says
Just then the doorbell rings. Mr. Miles Meadow-Brook exits his Study and opens the door. He sees Miss Cynthia Scarlet with a look of concern on her face.
“Miss Scarlet,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I’m afraid now may not be a good time.”
“Please, may I come in? I need to speak with everyone.” Miss Scarlet begs
“Very well,” Mr. Meadow-Brook sighs and motions for her to come in.
“Cynthia?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook stands up upon seeing Miss Scarlet enter the room
“I haven’t seen Chandler since the night my mother kidnapped Scott.” Miss Scarlet says, “I was wondering if anyone has heard from him.”
“That’s the last time I saw him too.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Miss Peach left the Drawing Room to find him.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “I figured to cause more problems.”
“Most likely.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says with a sigh, “Come to think of it, I haven’t seen Miss Peach either.”
“For the best.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook mutters under her breath
“You don’t think they are together?” asks Miss Scarlet
“She could be with her father?” Miss Ecru suggests
“Should we see what’s going on with them?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“You go,” Miss Ecru speaks up, “I’ll stay here with Jane.”
Mrs. Meadow-Brook smiles and pats Miss Ecru on the hand.
“Be careful Miles,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “I don’t want the skank ruining our marriage again.”
“She won’t.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I finally realize what is most important to me.”
Mrs. Meadow-Brook smiles as Miss Ecru turns her face away from Miles.
“Let’s go see if the colonel knows where she is,” Mr. Meadow-Brook suggests to Miss Scarlet, “Then we can check Chandler’s flat.”
Miss Scarlet and Mr. Meadow-Brook exit the house.
In his Study, Colonel Algernon Mustard neatly adjusts the stack of papers next to his typewriter. A small brown and white cat brushes against his leg.
“With all the interruptions I’ve had, I’m surprised I’ve finished my memoir.” He tells the cat, “Now it’s time forty winks and then a nice spot of tea.” He stands up and watches as Miss Scarlet and Mr. Meadow-Brook make their way up his driveway.
“What in blazes could they want?” he asks himself as he enters the hall and opens the front door.
“Colonel,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Have you seen your daughter lately?”
“No, I don’t suppose anyone has.” Colonel Mustard says
“What do you mean?” asks Miss Scarlet as a breeze picks up, blowing her curly blonde hair against her face.
“She went back home to America after Mrs. Peacock disappeared.” Colonel Mustard says, “She’s visiting her older sister. No relation to me, mind you.”
“She left?” Miss Scarlet asks as she begins to shiver in her thin red sweater.
“The police instructed that anyone who was at the party when Hugh died was to remain in Hampshire for further questioning.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“I’m not sure how much more I can help you.” Colonel Mustard yawns, “If you’ll excuse me, I’d like to take a short nap before dinner.”
Colonel Mustard closes the front door of his house.
“To Chandler’s?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“I’ll drive.” Miss Scarlet says as they head to the driveway of the Peacock Residence
“I really hope she hasn’t done anything irrational.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “She has done a lot to ruin my relationship with Jane.”
“Honestly, Miles,” Miss Scarlet sits in the driver’s seat of her car, “You had a lot to do with the ruining of that relationship.”
“I still can’t believe she’s pregnant.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says as they begin to drive away.
“She’s not pregnant.” Miss Scarlet shouts angrily, “Believe me, I know. I’ve used that old trick a thousand times when I wasn’t ready to end my relationship with a man.”
“So she’s moved on to Chandler?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook showing a brief hint of hurt feelings
“That girl will steal any man with good looks and money.” Miss Scarlet says, “Chandler isn’t that rich but he is drop dead gorgeous.”
“You’ve been hurt by her before?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“My step-mother was.” Miss Scarlet says, “Emily flirted with her second and third husbands. We knew they were both having affairs with her. Fortunately they both died before she could get she hands on their money.”
“How did they die?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“Her second husband, Ernest fell overboard during a storm.” Miss Scarlet says, “Her third husband, Matthew died of a heart attack on their third anniversary.”
“And your father?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“Oh, Emily was only four when he died.” Miss Scarlet chuckles, “I hardly think she seduced him.”
“I know,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I’m just curious as to how your father died.”
Miss Scarlet is silent for a moment, “I knocked over his pill bottles when I was younger. I quickly shoved the pills back in but must have mixed them up. He died of an overdose the next day.”
“Your step-mother always said that her crazy sister stabbed him.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“She was having an affair with him.” Miss Scarlet says, “After my father was dead my step-mother stabbed his body and then killed her sister, she claimed that her sister killed her husband and she killed her out of defense.”
“Murder has always run in your step-mother’s veins.” Mr. Meadow-Brook sighs
“I can’t even imagine.” Miss Scarlet says with a frown as she pulls the car into the driveway outside of Chandler’s flat. The sun shines its last few rays of sunlight on Hampshire before it disappears behind the mountains.
“That’s his car.” Miss Scarlet says pointing to it.
“Let’s hope everything is okay.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Wait,” Miss Scarlet stops him, “Before we go I need to tell you something.”
“Of course,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“I really didn’t hire a hit man to attack Chandler.” Miss Scarlet says
“You pretty much confessed to it.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“I knew it was happening though.” Miss Scarlet lowers her head, “Dante Egret was my ex-boyfriend. He called me the morning Chandler was attacked and told me someone hired him to use a picture of me, Emily, and my step-mother. He asked me if I wanted him to go through with it. I told him I didn’t care.”
“Do you think Emily may have put the hit out on him?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“I’m not sure about anything anymore.” Miss Scarlet says
Back in his flat, Miss Peach seductively walks over and sits with Chandler on the sofa.
“I understand you probably don’t remember what you said to me,” Miss Peach says, “But I assure you, you said it with honestly and true love in your eyes.”
“Emily, I know the truth.” Chandler says
“Truth?” Miss Peach says, “What do you know?”
“I know that you’ve been lying to me.” Chandler says, “How long have I been unconscious?”
“Just since last night.” Miss Peach says
“Don’t lie to me!” Chandler shouts, “I know it’s not Sunday. The weather forecast in the newspaper was wrong and I saw the mailman delivering mail.”
“You need to lie down.” Miss Peach stands up, “Maybe you are just stressed.”
“What have you done to me?” asks Chandler as she shoves Miss Peach against the curtains. Miss Peach knees Chandler in the stomach and digs her finger into the stab wound on his shoulder. He falls to the floor in pain. Miss Peach rushes to the bedroom and returns with a Revolver.
“You really should have cooperated with me,” she says, “We would have made a happy couple.”
“Don’t you think I would have noticed we were living several days in the past?” asks Chandler from the floor.
“You made a huge mistake,” Miss Peach says aiming the Revolver at his head, “I never get loose someone I love with the word no.”
There is a sudden knock at the door. Miss Peach forces Chandler to his feet and shoves him on the sofa, “Not a word.” She holds the Revolver behind her back and opens the door to see Cynthia Scarlet and Miles Meadow-Brook.
“Cynthia?” Chandler is confused upon seeing Cynthia
“Chandler,” Miss Scarlet says in shock to see Miss Peach there
“Cynthia, Miles,” Miss Peach, “Now isn’t the best time,”
“Like hell it is,” Miles pushes past her, “You are supposed to be in America.”
“Cynthia you need to get out of here.” Chandler says softly
“Alright, honey, time to get in the room.” Miss Peach grabs Miss Scarlet by the hair and tosses her into the Drawing Room. She closes the door and points the Revolver at them.
“What do you want from us?” Miss Scarlet asks as she stands up to see the Revolver inches from her face.
“Sit,” Miss Peach says, “I think you and Miles should stay and chat with us for a while.”
Miss Scarlet glances over at Chandler who closes his eyes.
“So, I heard your step-mother is responsible for the murders around Hampshire.” Miss Peach says coldly.
“It would appear so.” Miss Scarlet says
“And from what I heard it was all for money.” Miss Peach laughs, “What people do for money.”
“And love.” Miss Scarlet says
“I beg your pardon?” Miss Peach becomes uncomfortable
“The crazy things that people will do for money and love.” Miss Scarlet says
“Well, yes, I suppose.” Miss Peach says, “But murder isn’t my style.”
“Just adultery.” Miss Scarlet says
“Cynthia, don’t piss her off.” Miles Meadow-Brook says
“And what about you?” she points the gun at Mr. Meadow-Brook, “You and your perfect little wife.”
“Jane has nothing to do with us.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Oh please,” Miss Peach laughs, “She’s the only reason we aren’t still together.”
“If you want to be with him so badly then why are you obsessed with Chandler?” asks Miss Scarlet
“I’m really getting tired of your rude little outbursts.” Miss Peach turns back to Miss Scarlet, “After all, you are the one who hired Dante to attack him.”
Miss Scarlet smiles
“What could you possibly find amusing here?” asks Miss Peach
“You just told us the name of the man who attacked Chandler.” Miss Scarlet says, “Only Chandler, Dante, and myself knew. But you do. I wonder why that is? Unless you were so desperate to move on to a new muse from Miles that you had to turn Chandler against me.”
“Shut up, Cynthia.” Miss Peach says
“No, that’s another thing,” Miss Scarlet says, “I’m tired of you ordering us around. If you are going to kill me, I’d rather have it with Chandler knowing that I love him and that I never meant to hurt him.”
“This is the third time I’ve seen you with someone I love.” Miss Peach says, “But I guarantee it will be the last.”
“You killed my step-father’s.” Miss Scarlet says
“Ernest told me I was just a toy!” Miss Peach says, “Matthew told me I didn’t understand what love was! I know what love is! It’s the constant thing I’ve been missing. I thought finding my father would give me closure and I wouldn’t have to search for love anymore, but it’s only made the longing for love even stronger!”
“What about your step-father?” asks Miles Meadow-Brook, “Just because he wasn’t your biological father didn’t mean that he didn’t love you. I’m sure he adored you and your sister.”
“Don’t talk about her!” Miss Peach says angrily, “He always loved her. She was perfect. She was kind, sweet, gentle, loving, and polite. The exact opposite of me.”
“So all these murders, all these innocent people’s deaths are because you have serious daddy issues?” Miss Scarlet asks
“My step-father raped me.” Miss Peach begins to cry, “I was only seven.”
Miles Meadow-Brook slowly reaches for her, “It’s okay.”
“No, stand back!” Miss Peach shouts.
“Emily,” a voice says from behind her. She turns quickly to see her father, Colonel Algernon Mustard standing in the doorway with sorrow on his face.
“Dad, what are you doing here?” she asks
“I followed them,” Colonel Mustard says, “You need to understand, I love you.”
“You didn’t care when I told you about Ernest.” Miss Peach says as mascara drips down her face onto her light orange dress
“I didn’t want to bring up the pains of the past.” Colonel Mustard says, “I didn’t realize how much pain you were still in.”
Miss Peach remains silent as she motions with the gun for her father to join Cynthia, Chandler, and Miles.
“Emily, we can help you.” Miles Meadow-Brook says, “What your step-father did to you is the past. He can go to prison for rape.”
“No he can’t!” Miss Peach says shaking her head, “I murdered that sick bastard the night he did it!”
“Bloody hell,” Colonel Mustard crosses himself
“Yes, I’m a murderess.” Miss Peach says, “Big deal, you’re step-mother murdered people around Hampshire.” She points the gun at Cynthia Scarlet, “You and your wife were involved in the death of a police man.” She points the gun at Miles Meadow-Brook, “You told me you murdered your best friend ten years ago.” She points the gun at Colonel Mustard, “And Chandler has broken my heart. That is almost as serious as murder.”
“Do you hear yourself?” asks Miss Scarlet as she steps in front of Miss Peach, “People break up. Relationships end! Big deal! But murdering every man who says no to you is not the answer.”
“I love him!” Miss Peach shouts
“Well he doesn’t love you!” Miss Scarlet shouts back, “It’s not because you are a murderess, it’s because you are cold, unloving, shallow, and narrow minded.”
“Cynthia,” Chandler becomes uneasy
“Maybe he would love someone who is less of a controlling bitch. Someone sweet and kind and loving.”
“Cynthia,” Chandler sits up from the sofa.
“Maybe,” Miss Scarlet says, “Just maybe he would love someone like your sister.”
*BANG*
Miss Peach’s big brown eyes are filled with rage and anger. The echoing sound of the gunshot is deaf to her ears. But in that split second from staring into Miss Scarlet’s delicate blue eyes and the moment she pulls the trigger, Miles Meadow-Brook shoves Miss Scarlet to the floor. The bullet lands in his chest. He backs up and slams into the curtains, spilling blood on them. It is at this moment that in the deathly silence Miss Peach has realized what she has done. Chandler painfully leaps from the sofa and grabs Miss Peach’s arm, retrieving the Revolver from her quite easily. Miss Scarlet sits up from the floor as Miles Meadow-Brook gently slides to the floor, gripping onto the curtains and pulling them down with them. Colonel Mustard grabs his daughter by the shoulders and begins frantically shaking the girl who is in a trance-like state. Chandler embraces Miss Scarlet. They two stare deeply into each other’s eyes as their lips become closer and closer. The silence is broken by Miss Peach’s hysterical blood curdling screams.
“Oh my God!” she screams, “Miles!”
-SEVERAL HOURS LATER-
Mrs. Jane Meadow-Brook sits beside Miles Meadow-Brook’s hospital bed. The sound of his heavy breathing fills the room. He opens his eyes slowly with a weak groan. His eyes adjust to the dim lights in the hospital room. He looks at the raindrops falling against the window and then to his wife who is silently sitting at his side. He notices the look on her face is solemn.
“Jane,” he says weakly as he touches her hand
“For years I have covered up the stupid mistakes we have made.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook shuts her eyes as a tear falls down her cheek, “I loved the daughter that you and Sylvia had together, I helped you cover up the death of that cop, I didn’t say a word about your off shore bank account, and I agreed to love you after you had an affair with a 21-year-old American redhead. But now our housekeeper informs me that you raped her the day after Hugh Black was murdered. The night after our little Jessica was murdered! Miles I’m so angry with you.”
“Jane,” Miles says with sadness, “You don’t understand.”
“No,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook stands up, “What I don’t understand is why I keep following you around blindly. I follow you to hell and back and this is what I get? I get a violated housekeeper who is afraid to work in the house if I’m not home. This marriage is over and you have two options for your future. Option 1, you sign over every dime of that offshore account to me and we never speak again. Option 2, I testify against you about your off shore account and you go to prison. Make your choice but either way, I will have nothing to do with you after that choice is made.”