Episode 3 – “Never Trust Your Spouse”
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Miles Meadow-Brook’s continues his illicit affair with a young lady by the name of Emily Peach who is in Hampshire to locate her birth father. They make plans for dinner, while Miles assures her that Jane doesn’t have any idea of their affair. Scott, Chandler, and Sabata all find out what they have in common. Their revelation reveals that each of them knows or works for Dr. Black, they all knew too much about Ms. Curry, and that their conversation is being tape recorded. Jane Meadow-Brook is assured by Mrs. Black that Ms. Curry is visiting her sister in Scotland. When Jane confides in Mrs. Black about the suspicion of her husband’s affair, Jane becomes hysterical and verbally abuses Mrs. Black. Mrs. White asks Madame Rose about the death of Bryce but gets shut out in a similar manner as Mrs. Black had previously. Miss Scarlet gives up on waiting for Chandler. Mrs. Peacock, Colonel Mustard, and Miss Scarlet all welcome Dr. Black and Mrs. Black to their dinner party, but it turns a bit sour when Mrs. Black shared Miles infidelity which Jane early told her. Jane and her daughter Jessica see Miles and Emily at the restaurant…
-Wednesday, April 13, 1949-
-Evening-
At the A Le Carte Restaurant, Jane and Jessica Meadow-Brook are finishing their salads at a nice table for two near the center of the restaurant.
“Mother, you’ve hardly uttered a word since I came home from school.” Miss Meadow-Brook says, “Are you alright.”
“I’m just a bit distant, dear.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says
“You can tell me anything.” Miss Meadow-Brook says
“Well, there have been some nasty rumors going around about Miles.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says painfully
“That daddy’s having an affair?” asks Miss Meadow-Brook
“You know about the rumors?” asks Mrs. Meadow-Brook
“I don’t think they are rumors?” Miss Meadow-Brook says
“What?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “Why?”
“Look over there.” Miss Meadow-Brook says tearfully
Mrs. Meadow-Brook turns around to where her daughter is pointing to see her husband sitting at a table not too far from them sipping champagne with Miss Peach. He lovely puts his hand on her shoulder.
“That bastard.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says gulping down the remainder of her wine.
“Calm down, mom.” Miss Meadow-Brook says
Mrs. Meadow-Brook stands up and walks quickly in the direction of Miles and Emily.
“Oh god.” Miles mutters as he removes his hand from Emily’s shoulder.
“Who the hell is this?” Jane shouts, attracting the attention of several other people.
“Jane,” Miles says standing up, “This isn’t how it seems.”
“Save it, Miles.” Jane says, “Let’s make this as brief as possible. How long have you been screwing around behind my back?”
“Jane,” Miles stands up and sees his daughter standing near the table in the center of the restaurant, “This is just a client of mine. She is going through a hard time having lost both parents and is trying to locate her father.”
“How touching. What the hell is she doing spoon feeding you in the A Le Carte?” Jane asks with rage
“I was only patting her on the shoulder.” Miles says
Jane pulls a chair from an empty table and sits down, “Why does she need a lawyer, Miles? She’s searching for her father. She’s not trying to get a divorce.”
“I was helping her deal with the legal matters of it. She is completely financially set and she isn’t trying to find her father to ask for money. It’s a technicality.” Miles lies.
“Don’t talk to me about technicalities, Miles.” Jane says, “I’ve seen pictures of you with her.”
“You sent a PI?” asks Miles
“No,” Jane says trying to work her way around finding the pictures, “Someone I know did.”
“You’ve always had trust issues,” Miles says, “I just never knew they would go this far?”
“Trust issues?” Jane fumes, “I was right to not trust you. You are cheating on me with that.” She motions to Miss Peach
“Can we talk about this later?” asks Miles
Jane stands up and walks back to her daughter, leaving Miles and Emily standing near the table.
“This is bad.” Miss Peach says
“It’s about to get a lot worse.” Miles Meadow-Brook says
At Tudor Close, Mrs. White enters the Kitchen to see Mr. Ash preparing the salads.
“Scott isn’t home yet.” Mrs. White says
“He probably went to play with a friend after school.” Mr. Ash says, “Boys will be boys.”
“He doesn’t have any friends.” Mrs. White says grimly, “I hope nothing’s happened to him. He never came back from his paper route.”
“Blanche, we’ve been over this all afternoon.” Mr. Ash stops making the salad and turns to face the distraught housekeeper, “He is a strong boy. He’ll manage.”
Jet Black pushes open the Kitchen door, startling the two.
“Dinner will be ready shortly.” Mrs. White says, “It looks like it will just be you and your Auntie Claire for dinner tonight.”
“Actually, I’m on my way out.” Jet says, “When my parents get back from their party, tell them I’ll be home around 11.”
“Actually,” Mrs. White says, “They wanted you in by 7.”
Jet exits the Kitchen ignoring the housekeeper.
“Well, I guess Madame Rose is eating alone tonight.” Mr. Ash says
“Perhaps, perhaps not. I think I might join her.” Mrs. White says with a smirk as she takes a bottle of red wine and moves to the Dining Room.
At the Peacock Residence, Dr. Black’s face is bright red as his wife continues to go on about Jane Meadow-Brook. Miss Scarlet is on her third glass of champagne. Colonel Mustard keeps checking his watch. Mrs. Peacock is too busy absorbing the attention that she is receiving to notice that Sylvia Black is a gossiping shrew.
“… but it wouldn’t have hurt me so much if she just would have been kind enough to accept the offer to come by the mansion for some comfort from her dear friend.” Mrs. Black continues on, “I understand that I may have crossed the line when I suggested cribbage, but you must understand my intentions of trying to distract a stressed woman with a game of merriment.” Mrs. Black takes a sip of her champagne, “I mean we were having a pleasant afternoon, tea and gossip.”
“Two of your favorite things.” Miss Scarlet mutters under her breath
“What was that dear?” Mrs. Black asks as bubbly and cheerful as ever
“I was commenting on how this roast is one of my favorite things.” Miss Scarlet lies
“It is a very savory cut of beef. I assume you got it at Glen’s Butchery. Then again anything is better than the distaste fish paste they put on the finger sandwiches at the Bluebell Tea House.” Mrs. Black says without giving Mrs. Peacock enough time to answer, “Anyway, I didn’t even share with you the best part of the story!”
“Sylvia, perhaps we should finish dinner. We need to get home soon.” Dr. Black says
Ignoring her husband, Mrs. Black continues on, “She found out about her husbands after by sneaking into old Ms. Curry’s home.”
“Sylvia!” Dr. Black says slamming his hand on the hand and standing up, “That’s enough! I won’t have any more of this foolishness! The Meadow-Brooks are good friends of ours!”
Miss Scarlet’s eyes are widened a bit, “You say she found out from Ms. Curry?”
“Apparently Ms. Curry was blackmailing Miles about it.” Mrs. Black says
“But I thought Ms. Curry was…” Miss Scarlet pauses and looks around the table, “I hear she was away.”
“Gone to visit her sister in Scotland,” Mrs. Black says, “She left a letter in my mailbox apologizing for her sudden departure.”
“Sylvia, perhaps we should go.” Dr. Black says, “We’ve clearly upset Miss Scarlet.”
“No,” Miss Scarlet says, “I just didn’t expect Ms. Curry to be brought up in any gossip. She seems to quiet and lonely to be in any of the towns gossip.”
“Cynthia,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Just because she doesn’t have any friends doesn’t mean she’s quiet. We both know that.”
“Has she blackmailed you?” Mrs. Black says
“Come on, Sylvia.” Dr. Black says pulling on his coat
“It’s alright.” Mrs. Black says, “I’ll admit I too was blackmailed by her.”
Dr. Black hands Sylvia her coat and leads her towards the door.
“It was nice of you to have us here Mrs. Peacock.” Dr. Black says, “I’m sorry it didn’t work out.”
The front door closes and Miss Scarlet, Mrs. Peacock, and Colonel Mustard all sit at the dining room table awkwardly.
“I guess we know Sylvia Black’s limit on alcohol.” Miss Scarlet says sarcastically
“Well that was fun.” Colonel Mustard says finishing his dinner.
“Colonel,” Mrs. Peacock says, “I hate to be rude, but I think it’s time that you left.”
“Of course.” Colonel Mustard says, “Thank you for inviting me at the last minute. Dinner was wonderful. Give my compliments to Mrs. Myrtle. I hope we can do this again. Next time I’ll host.”
“Good bye, Colonel.” Mrs. Peacock says
As soon as the front door closes again, Mrs. Peacock stands up and heads to the Drawing Room.
“Come on Cynthia.” Mrs. Peacock says, “We need to talk about something I did years ago, and the brandy is in the Drawing Room.”
At the Green’s Home, on Ceil Drive, Mr. Green opens the front door to see Jet Black standing on the front steps.
“Did anyone see you?” asks Mr. Green
“My parents almost did.” Jet says, “They are leaving the Peacock’s.”
“Get in.” Mr. Green leads Jet in the house and closes the door quickly.
“So what did you want me over her for?” asks Jet
Mr. Green leads him down a hallway to a room with a lock. Mr. Green unlocks the door and Jet’s eyes widen as he sees a room with dozens and dozens of marijuana plants and lights above them.
“You grow and distribute marijuana?” Jet says
“Listen, everyone starts at the bottom. In order to keep the money flowing and keep the bosses happy. I am only temporarilly growing until my boss and his boss find someone more suitable. You are a smart, bright young man. I want you start working here tomorrow after school.” Mr. Green says
“What about my clients?” asks Jet
“I’ll be taking over the dealing.” Mr. Green says, “You’ll be taking over the growing and shipping.”
“Are there any names I should know?” Jet asks with nervousness and excitement
“Dante Egret.” Mr. Green says, “6’4”, muscular, African-American. Tattoo of a snake wrapped around his arm.”
“Is he our boss?” Jet asks
“He’s my boss.” Mr. Green says, “And I’m your boss. Let me be 100% honest with you. I put a bullet Kevin Ochre’s head. We don’t just deal marijuana. We deal other things. We work strictly under the title of Import Export. If people become unreliable they become a problem. If we get a problem we take care of that problem. Are you going to be a problem for me Jet?”
“No, sir.” Jet says
“That doesn’t scare you?” asks Mr. Green
“I live in Tudor Close.” Jet says, “Blood has splattered the floors on my house over the years. I am not afraid of death.”
“Let’s hope you don’t end up splattered on my floors, breaking your family’s customs.” Mr. Green says
“I won’t.” Jet says, “Because I’m going to be your most successful employee yet.”
“I like to hear that.” Mr. Green says, “I really like you Jet. You’re a strong boy. Good family with good money. I’d hate to see that all blow up.”
“Trust me.” Jet says, “It’s going to take a lot more than a drug kingpin to destroy my family. Besides, family has proven unreliable to me. All they care about is themselves, their problems, and their secrets. I need a new start. I need something to be proud of, something to be concerned with, I need my own secret.”
“Don’t be so sure.” Mr. Green says, “I want you to go home. Get plenty of rest and don’t think of telling your little friends about this. I’ve dealt with enough poking around by policemen because of a tip off.”
Jet Black nods and exits the house the same way he came. Mr. Green stands there for a moment and then walks over to where he has a large coil of rope on the coat rack.
-FLASHBACK- TWO DAYS AGO-
Mr. Green walks down the hallway to the front door as the doorbell rings for the fifth time. He opens it and sees Ms. Curry standing on the front steps with a casserole.
“Hello,” she says, “I’m Celeste Curry. I live two doors down. I just wanted to say that you have one of the finest homes on this street. May I come in?”
“Of course,” Mr. Green hesitates, “Let’s get this to the kitchen.”
Mr. Green leads Ms. Curry down the hall to the kitchen.
“So where did you move from?” asks Ms. Curry
“I had a townhouse across town so I’m pretty familiar with the people and the layout of the town.” Mr. Green says
“Well I must warn you that this is a small street so it is hard to keep secrets here.” Ms. Curry says
“It smells delicious.” Mr. Green says motioning to the casserole that she is holding, “Shall I cut you a slice?”
“Oh no,” Ms. Curry says, “I have a luncheon with Mrs. Black this afternoon. I just came by to tell you that I always love watching people move into new homes. You get to see the movers carrying in priceless antiques, fancy sofas, and old bureaus. But not you. All I saw was a tall black man helping you carry boxes after boxes after boxes into your home. Now the normal passerby would think, ‘they sure have a lot of trinkets’. But not me. All I could think is, ‘what could be in those boxes?’ Money? Jewels? Stolen Art Pieces? No.”
“What is your point, Ms. Curry.” Mr. Green says
“I partied a lot when I was younger. We would drink and smoke all night long.” Ms. Curry says, “That’s why I’ve always been able to smell Marijuana. It has a distinct smell. Almost like a fragrance of its own.”
“What exactly do you want?” Mr. Green asks
“Twenty Thousand a month and I’ll keep my lips sealed.” Ms. Curry says as Mr. Green slowly reaches for his pocket, “Oh, careful, I have a very sharp knife under this casserole.”
“Won’t the neighbors think it odd when you walk out of this house carrying a knife?” asks Mr. Green
“No,” Ms. Curry says, “I’ll just tell them that you are allergic to onions and couldn’t eat the casserole. I guess I could give it to the Meadow-Brooks. The poor things don’t have enough time to eat decent meals anymore with Miles’ late work hours… but that’s a whole other story.”
Mr. Green squeezes his fists angrily, “Twenty Thousand Pounds.”
“Good day to you, Mr. Green.” Ms. Curry says
“How do you know my name?” he asks angrily
“Oh, honey, I know more than just your name. I’m very sorry about your wife’s death. I’m sure if was an accident.” Ms. Curry leaves the house clutching onto the knife beneath the casserole.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
At Mustard’s Home, Colonel Mustard stands at his fireplace looking at a picture of his new wife. He sits down in an armchair and picks up the phone and dials a number.
“May I help you?” a dry voice says on the other end of the line.
“Is Dame Constance Olivine available?” asks Colonel Mustard, nervously twisting the telephone flex with his fingers
“Who may I tell her is calling?” asks the man
“Colonel Algernon Mustard.” He says
“I’m sorry but Dame Olivine hasn’t been to her family’s estate in several months.” The man says
“I thought she was visiting her sick father.” Colonel Mustard says with shock and anticipation
“Her father is in perfectly good health.” The man says, “I’m afraid you were misinformed.” There is a long pause, “Colonel?”
“Thank you.” Colonel Mustard says with pain in his voice. He hangs up the phone and looks up at the photo.
“I knew she didn’t want an old man like me.” Colonel Mustard says with sorrow in his voice.
At the Peacock Residence, Miss Scarlet and Mrs. Peacock are shouting at each other.
“Cynthia,” Mrs. Peacock shouts, “If you would stop wasting your time on Holly Wood dreams and stepped into reality, you’d make your life useful!”
“This has nothing to do with my acting career.” Miss Scarlet shouts
“What career?” Mrs. Peacock sits down on the couch, “You modeled for a magazine. They took pictures and when the issue came out you weren’t even in the print!”
“They are saving those pictures for a different issue.” Miss Scarlet says
“Cynthia, regardless, Ms. Curry knows my dirty little secret as well as yours.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Everything would have been fine if my mom didn’t die.” Miss Scarlet says, “You and your sister wouldn’t have come into the picture and daddy wouldn’t be dead.”
“I only was trying to protect you!” Mrs. Peacock says, lowering her voice, “I lied to protect you. My sister was a psychopath and everyone believed that she stabbed your father. If you realized what you did as a child then you would have said something and our cover would have been blown and we would both be in prison!”
“You still lied to me.” Miss Scarlet says
“Murder is much more serious than lying.” Mrs. Peacock says sternly
“I didn’t think it would kill him.” Miss Scarlet says wiping her eyes, “I was four. It was an accident”
“And seventeen years have passed and we are still in as much risk then as we are now.” Mrs. Peacock says solemnly, “Even more since someone knows.”
At Tudor Close in the Dining Room, Mrs. White has changed out of her uniform and into a more comfortable white blouse and black skirt. She sits with Madame Rose at the Dining Room table eating dinner with her.
“More wine?” asks Mrs. White filling Madame Rose’s glass to the rim.
“I really shouldn’t!” Madame Rose chuckles, “But tonight is a night for us girls to unite. Age and class mean nothing!”
“Amen to that.” Mrs. White says, “Here here.”
They toast and Madame Rose finishes her third glass of wine.
“This wine is so good.” Madame Rose says
“Have another.” Mrs. White says, “You deserved it.”
“You are too kind.” Madame Rose says as Mrs. White fills it again.
Madame Rose slowly sips it and burps a little.
“So I got to thinking.” Mrs. White says filling Madame Rose’s half empty glass to the top again, “After I left the conservatory earlier I felt that I was a bit to skeptical. Bryce’s death wasn’t really anyone’s fault and I apologize for making it seem like you were involved somehow.” Mrs. White works up some fake tears, “It’s just that time of the year and he’s been on my mind a lot.”
“Oh dear.” Madame Rose says, “No I didn’t mean to sent you away so abruptly.”
“I am just certain that it was Bradford who was with us in the lounge.” Mrs. White says
“No no.” Madame Rose says, “Our father came earlier that week it was our sister that came on that night.”
“I didn’t know you and Hugh had another sister.” Mrs. White says
“Estelle.” Madame Rose says, “She was a sweet thing.”
“Was?” Mrs. White says, “She passed.”
“That same night.” Madame Rose lowers her voice
“She did?” Mrs. White says
“She was drunk.” Madame Rose says, “Alcoholism runs in the family and Estelle drank like a fish. She was correcting Bryce as to how he shouldn’t be playing in the Hallway and she struck him with her cane. He ran to the stairs to tell his mother but as he went to the stairs Estelle fell down the stairs and knocked him down with her. All her weight on top of the boy caused a severe concussion for the boy.”
“What happened then?” asks Mrs. White
“The boy never recovered.” Madame Rose says, “Estelle has a heart attack and died in her sleep.”
“It was an accident. Why didn’t they go to the police?” Mrs. White asks
“Because they would have taken Jet away. They would have said that this was an unfit environment for a child.” Madame Rose says, “Jet was only a few months old.”
“Why did no one tell me this?” asks Mrs. White
“They were worried that you would have turned us in to the police. We illegally buried two bodies on our property.” Madame Rose says
“You buried your sister too?” asks Mrs. White
“Right next to him.” Madame Rose says, “Fortunately Jet was too little to remember any of this. It is just too painful to talk about.”
Mrs. White feels sympathy and guilt as to how she manipulated the truth out of a drunken elderly woman.
The front door opens and Mrs. White excuses herself from the table. She exits the Dining Room to see Mrs. Black and Dr. Black enter through the hall.
“Hello, Mrs. White.” Dr. Black says, “You look lovely.”
“I assume you put Scott to bed?” asks Mrs. Black
“No,” Mrs. White says
“What on earth not?” Mrs. Black says, “It’s 10.45.”
“He still hasn’t come home.” Mrs. White says
“What?” Dr. Black begins to panic
“Mr. Ash told me not to worry about it.” Mrs. White says
“My baby.” Mrs. Black begins to pace the Hall
“Ash!” Dr. Black shouts, his voice echoing through the Hall.
Mr. Ash comes from the Kitchen, “Sir?”
“Why didn’t you call the constable?” Dr. Black says
“Why in heaven’s name would I call the constable?” asks Mr. Ash
“Scott is missing?” Dr. Black shouts
“He still isn’t home?” Mr. Ash asks
Mrs. White walks over to Mrs. Black and begins to comfort her. Just then the front door opens. Everyone turns with anticipation, but it turns to disappointment when they see Jet.
“What’s going on?” Jet asks, seeing everyone standing around so anxiously
“Your little brother is missing.” Dr. Black says, “Ash, call the constable!”
Mr. Ash goes over to the telephone next to the Lounge door.
“When’s the last time you saw him?” asks Jet with slight concern
“This morning,” Mrs. White says ringing her hands nervously, “I gave him a piece of toast before his paper route.”
“It’s a small town,” Dr. Black says hopefully, “He can’t be too far.”
“Unless it’s a ransom,” Madame Rose says loudly from the Dining Room doorway.
-Wednesday, April 13, 1949-
-Evening-
At the A Le Carte Restaurant, Jane and Jessica Meadow-Brook are finishing their salads at a nice table for two near the center of the restaurant.
“Mother, you’ve hardly uttered a word since I came home from school.” Miss Meadow-Brook says, “Are you alright.”
“I’m just a bit distant, dear.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says
“You can tell me anything.” Miss Meadow-Brook says
“Well, there have been some nasty rumors going around about Miles.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says painfully
“That daddy’s having an affair?” asks Miss Meadow-Brook
“You know about the rumors?” asks Mrs. Meadow-Brook
“I don’t think they are rumors?” Miss Meadow-Brook says
“What?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “Why?”
“Look over there.” Miss Meadow-Brook says tearfully
Mrs. Meadow-Brook turns around to where her daughter is pointing to see her husband sitting at a table not too far from them sipping champagne with Miss Peach. He lovely puts his hand on her shoulder.
“That bastard.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says gulping down the remainder of her wine.
“Calm down, mom.” Miss Meadow-Brook says
Mrs. Meadow-Brook stands up and walks quickly in the direction of Miles and Emily.
“Oh god.” Miles mutters as he removes his hand from Emily’s shoulder.
“Who the hell is this?” Jane shouts, attracting the attention of several other people.
“Jane,” Miles says standing up, “This isn’t how it seems.”
“Save it, Miles.” Jane says, “Let’s make this as brief as possible. How long have you been screwing around behind my back?”
“Jane,” Miles stands up and sees his daughter standing near the table in the center of the restaurant, “This is just a client of mine. She is going through a hard time having lost both parents and is trying to locate her father.”
“How touching. What the hell is she doing spoon feeding you in the A Le Carte?” Jane asks with rage
“I was only patting her on the shoulder.” Miles says
Jane pulls a chair from an empty table and sits down, “Why does she need a lawyer, Miles? She’s searching for her father. She’s not trying to get a divorce.”
“I was helping her deal with the legal matters of it. She is completely financially set and she isn’t trying to find her father to ask for money. It’s a technicality.” Miles lies.
“Don’t talk to me about technicalities, Miles.” Jane says, “I’ve seen pictures of you with her.”
“You sent a PI?” asks Miles
“No,” Jane says trying to work her way around finding the pictures, “Someone I know did.”
“You’ve always had trust issues,” Miles says, “I just never knew they would go this far?”
“Trust issues?” Jane fumes, “I was right to not trust you. You are cheating on me with that.” She motions to Miss Peach
“Can we talk about this later?” asks Miles
Jane stands up and walks back to her daughter, leaving Miles and Emily standing near the table.
“This is bad.” Miss Peach says
“It’s about to get a lot worse.” Miles Meadow-Brook says
At Tudor Close, Mrs. White enters the Kitchen to see Mr. Ash preparing the salads.
“Scott isn’t home yet.” Mrs. White says
“He probably went to play with a friend after school.” Mr. Ash says, “Boys will be boys.”
“He doesn’t have any friends.” Mrs. White says grimly, “I hope nothing’s happened to him. He never came back from his paper route.”
“Blanche, we’ve been over this all afternoon.” Mr. Ash stops making the salad and turns to face the distraught housekeeper, “He is a strong boy. He’ll manage.”
Jet Black pushes open the Kitchen door, startling the two.
“Dinner will be ready shortly.” Mrs. White says, “It looks like it will just be you and your Auntie Claire for dinner tonight.”
“Actually, I’m on my way out.” Jet says, “When my parents get back from their party, tell them I’ll be home around 11.”
“Actually,” Mrs. White says, “They wanted you in by 7.”
Jet exits the Kitchen ignoring the housekeeper.
“Well, I guess Madame Rose is eating alone tonight.” Mr. Ash says
“Perhaps, perhaps not. I think I might join her.” Mrs. White says with a smirk as she takes a bottle of red wine and moves to the Dining Room.
At the Peacock Residence, Dr. Black’s face is bright red as his wife continues to go on about Jane Meadow-Brook. Miss Scarlet is on her third glass of champagne. Colonel Mustard keeps checking his watch. Mrs. Peacock is too busy absorbing the attention that she is receiving to notice that Sylvia Black is a gossiping shrew.
“… but it wouldn’t have hurt me so much if she just would have been kind enough to accept the offer to come by the mansion for some comfort from her dear friend.” Mrs. Black continues on, “I understand that I may have crossed the line when I suggested cribbage, but you must understand my intentions of trying to distract a stressed woman with a game of merriment.” Mrs. Black takes a sip of her champagne, “I mean we were having a pleasant afternoon, tea and gossip.”
“Two of your favorite things.” Miss Scarlet mutters under her breath
“What was that dear?” Mrs. Black asks as bubbly and cheerful as ever
“I was commenting on how this roast is one of my favorite things.” Miss Scarlet lies
“It is a very savory cut of beef. I assume you got it at Glen’s Butchery. Then again anything is better than the distaste fish paste they put on the finger sandwiches at the Bluebell Tea House.” Mrs. Black says without giving Mrs. Peacock enough time to answer, “Anyway, I didn’t even share with you the best part of the story!”
“Sylvia, perhaps we should finish dinner. We need to get home soon.” Dr. Black says
Ignoring her husband, Mrs. Black continues on, “She found out about her husbands after by sneaking into old Ms. Curry’s home.”
“Sylvia!” Dr. Black says slamming his hand on the hand and standing up, “That’s enough! I won’t have any more of this foolishness! The Meadow-Brooks are good friends of ours!”
Miss Scarlet’s eyes are widened a bit, “You say she found out from Ms. Curry?”
“Apparently Ms. Curry was blackmailing Miles about it.” Mrs. Black says
“But I thought Ms. Curry was…” Miss Scarlet pauses and looks around the table, “I hear she was away.”
“Gone to visit her sister in Scotland,” Mrs. Black says, “She left a letter in my mailbox apologizing for her sudden departure.”
“Sylvia, perhaps we should go.” Dr. Black says, “We’ve clearly upset Miss Scarlet.”
“No,” Miss Scarlet says, “I just didn’t expect Ms. Curry to be brought up in any gossip. She seems to quiet and lonely to be in any of the towns gossip.”
“Cynthia,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Just because she doesn’t have any friends doesn’t mean she’s quiet. We both know that.”
“Has she blackmailed you?” Mrs. Black says
“Come on, Sylvia.” Dr. Black says pulling on his coat
“It’s alright.” Mrs. Black says, “I’ll admit I too was blackmailed by her.”
Dr. Black hands Sylvia her coat and leads her towards the door.
“It was nice of you to have us here Mrs. Peacock.” Dr. Black says, “I’m sorry it didn’t work out.”
The front door closes and Miss Scarlet, Mrs. Peacock, and Colonel Mustard all sit at the dining room table awkwardly.
“I guess we know Sylvia Black’s limit on alcohol.” Miss Scarlet says sarcastically
“Well that was fun.” Colonel Mustard says finishing his dinner.
“Colonel,” Mrs. Peacock says, “I hate to be rude, but I think it’s time that you left.”
“Of course.” Colonel Mustard says, “Thank you for inviting me at the last minute. Dinner was wonderful. Give my compliments to Mrs. Myrtle. I hope we can do this again. Next time I’ll host.”
“Good bye, Colonel.” Mrs. Peacock says
As soon as the front door closes again, Mrs. Peacock stands up and heads to the Drawing Room.
“Come on Cynthia.” Mrs. Peacock says, “We need to talk about something I did years ago, and the brandy is in the Drawing Room.”
At the Green’s Home, on Ceil Drive, Mr. Green opens the front door to see Jet Black standing on the front steps.
“Did anyone see you?” asks Mr. Green
“My parents almost did.” Jet says, “They are leaving the Peacock’s.”
“Get in.” Mr. Green leads Jet in the house and closes the door quickly.
“So what did you want me over her for?” asks Jet
Mr. Green leads him down a hallway to a room with a lock. Mr. Green unlocks the door and Jet’s eyes widen as he sees a room with dozens and dozens of marijuana plants and lights above them.
“You grow and distribute marijuana?” Jet says
“Listen, everyone starts at the bottom. In order to keep the money flowing and keep the bosses happy. I am only temporarilly growing until my boss and his boss find someone more suitable. You are a smart, bright young man. I want you start working here tomorrow after school.” Mr. Green says
“What about my clients?” asks Jet
“I’ll be taking over the dealing.” Mr. Green says, “You’ll be taking over the growing and shipping.”
“Are there any names I should know?” Jet asks with nervousness and excitement
“Dante Egret.” Mr. Green says, “6’4”, muscular, African-American. Tattoo of a snake wrapped around his arm.”
“Is he our boss?” Jet asks
“He’s my boss.” Mr. Green says, “And I’m your boss. Let me be 100% honest with you. I put a bullet Kevin Ochre’s head. We don’t just deal marijuana. We deal other things. We work strictly under the title of Import Export. If people become unreliable they become a problem. If we get a problem we take care of that problem. Are you going to be a problem for me Jet?”
“No, sir.” Jet says
“That doesn’t scare you?” asks Mr. Green
“I live in Tudor Close.” Jet says, “Blood has splattered the floors on my house over the years. I am not afraid of death.”
“Let’s hope you don’t end up splattered on my floors, breaking your family’s customs.” Mr. Green says
“I won’t.” Jet says, “Because I’m going to be your most successful employee yet.”
“I like to hear that.” Mr. Green says, “I really like you Jet. You’re a strong boy. Good family with good money. I’d hate to see that all blow up.”
“Trust me.” Jet says, “It’s going to take a lot more than a drug kingpin to destroy my family. Besides, family has proven unreliable to me. All they care about is themselves, their problems, and their secrets. I need a new start. I need something to be proud of, something to be concerned with, I need my own secret.”
“Don’t be so sure.” Mr. Green says, “I want you to go home. Get plenty of rest and don’t think of telling your little friends about this. I’ve dealt with enough poking around by policemen because of a tip off.”
Jet Black nods and exits the house the same way he came. Mr. Green stands there for a moment and then walks over to where he has a large coil of rope on the coat rack.
-FLASHBACK- TWO DAYS AGO-
Mr. Green walks down the hallway to the front door as the doorbell rings for the fifth time. He opens it and sees Ms. Curry standing on the front steps with a casserole.
“Hello,” she says, “I’m Celeste Curry. I live two doors down. I just wanted to say that you have one of the finest homes on this street. May I come in?”
“Of course,” Mr. Green hesitates, “Let’s get this to the kitchen.”
Mr. Green leads Ms. Curry down the hall to the kitchen.
“So where did you move from?” asks Ms. Curry
“I had a townhouse across town so I’m pretty familiar with the people and the layout of the town.” Mr. Green says
“Well I must warn you that this is a small street so it is hard to keep secrets here.” Ms. Curry says
“It smells delicious.” Mr. Green says motioning to the casserole that she is holding, “Shall I cut you a slice?”
“Oh no,” Ms. Curry says, “I have a luncheon with Mrs. Black this afternoon. I just came by to tell you that I always love watching people move into new homes. You get to see the movers carrying in priceless antiques, fancy sofas, and old bureaus. But not you. All I saw was a tall black man helping you carry boxes after boxes after boxes into your home. Now the normal passerby would think, ‘they sure have a lot of trinkets’. But not me. All I could think is, ‘what could be in those boxes?’ Money? Jewels? Stolen Art Pieces? No.”
“What is your point, Ms. Curry.” Mr. Green says
“I partied a lot when I was younger. We would drink and smoke all night long.” Ms. Curry says, “That’s why I’ve always been able to smell Marijuana. It has a distinct smell. Almost like a fragrance of its own.”
“What exactly do you want?” Mr. Green asks
“Twenty Thousand a month and I’ll keep my lips sealed.” Ms. Curry says as Mr. Green slowly reaches for his pocket, “Oh, careful, I have a very sharp knife under this casserole.”
“Won’t the neighbors think it odd when you walk out of this house carrying a knife?” asks Mr. Green
“No,” Ms. Curry says, “I’ll just tell them that you are allergic to onions and couldn’t eat the casserole. I guess I could give it to the Meadow-Brooks. The poor things don’t have enough time to eat decent meals anymore with Miles’ late work hours… but that’s a whole other story.”
Mr. Green squeezes his fists angrily, “Twenty Thousand Pounds.”
“Good day to you, Mr. Green.” Ms. Curry says
“How do you know my name?” he asks angrily
“Oh, honey, I know more than just your name. I’m very sorry about your wife’s death. I’m sure if was an accident.” Ms. Curry leaves the house clutching onto the knife beneath the casserole.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
At Mustard’s Home, Colonel Mustard stands at his fireplace looking at a picture of his new wife. He sits down in an armchair and picks up the phone and dials a number.
“May I help you?” a dry voice says on the other end of the line.
“Is Dame Constance Olivine available?” asks Colonel Mustard, nervously twisting the telephone flex with his fingers
“Who may I tell her is calling?” asks the man
“Colonel Algernon Mustard.” He says
“I’m sorry but Dame Olivine hasn’t been to her family’s estate in several months.” The man says
“I thought she was visiting her sick father.” Colonel Mustard says with shock and anticipation
“Her father is in perfectly good health.” The man says, “I’m afraid you were misinformed.” There is a long pause, “Colonel?”
“Thank you.” Colonel Mustard says with pain in his voice. He hangs up the phone and looks up at the photo.
“I knew she didn’t want an old man like me.” Colonel Mustard says with sorrow in his voice.
At the Peacock Residence, Miss Scarlet and Mrs. Peacock are shouting at each other.
“Cynthia,” Mrs. Peacock shouts, “If you would stop wasting your time on Holly Wood dreams and stepped into reality, you’d make your life useful!”
“This has nothing to do with my acting career.” Miss Scarlet shouts
“What career?” Mrs. Peacock sits down on the couch, “You modeled for a magazine. They took pictures and when the issue came out you weren’t even in the print!”
“They are saving those pictures for a different issue.” Miss Scarlet says
“Cynthia, regardless, Ms. Curry knows my dirty little secret as well as yours.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Everything would have been fine if my mom didn’t die.” Miss Scarlet says, “You and your sister wouldn’t have come into the picture and daddy wouldn’t be dead.”
“I only was trying to protect you!” Mrs. Peacock says, lowering her voice, “I lied to protect you. My sister was a psychopath and everyone believed that she stabbed your father. If you realized what you did as a child then you would have said something and our cover would have been blown and we would both be in prison!”
“You still lied to me.” Miss Scarlet says
“Murder is much more serious than lying.” Mrs. Peacock says sternly
“I didn’t think it would kill him.” Miss Scarlet says wiping her eyes, “I was four. It was an accident”
“And seventeen years have passed and we are still in as much risk then as we are now.” Mrs. Peacock says solemnly, “Even more since someone knows.”
At Tudor Close in the Dining Room, Mrs. White has changed out of her uniform and into a more comfortable white blouse and black skirt. She sits with Madame Rose at the Dining Room table eating dinner with her.
“More wine?” asks Mrs. White filling Madame Rose’s glass to the rim.
“I really shouldn’t!” Madame Rose chuckles, “But tonight is a night for us girls to unite. Age and class mean nothing!”
“Amen to that.” Mrs. White says, “Here here.”
They toast and Madame Rose finishes her third glass of wine.
“This wine is so good.” Madame Rose says
“Have another.” Mrs. White says, “You deserved it.”
“You are too kind.” Madame Rose says as Mrs. White fills it again.
Madame Rose slowly sips it and burps a little.
“So I got to thinking.” Mrs. White says filling Madame Rose’s half empty glass to the top again, “After I left the conservatory earlier I felt that I was a bit to skeptical. Bryce’s death wasn’t really anyone’s fault and I apologize for making it seem like you were involved somehow.” Mrs. White works up some fake tears, “It’s just that time of the year and he’s been on my mind a lot.”
“Oh dear.” Madame Rose says, “No I didn’t mean to sent you away so abruptly.”
“I am just certain that it was Bradford who was with us in the lounge.” Mrs. White says
“No no.” Madame Rose says, “Our father came earlier that week it was our sister that came on that night.”
“I didn’t know you and Hugh had another sister.” Mrs. White says
“Estelle.” Madame Rose says, “She was a sweet thing.”
“Was?” Mrs. White says, “She passed.”
“That same night.” Madame Rose lowers her voice
“She did?” Mrs. White says
“She was drunk.” Madame Rose says, “Alcoholism runs in the family and Estelle drank like a fish. She was correcting Bryce as to how he shouldn’t be playing in the Hallway and she struck him with her cane. He ran to the stairs to tell his mother but as he went to the stairs Estelle fell down the stairs and knocked him down with her. All her weight on top of the boy caused a severe concussion for the boy.”
“What happened then?” asks Mrs. White
“The boy never recovered.” Madame Rose says, “Estelle has a heart attack and died in her sleep.”
“It was an accident. Why didn’t they go to the police?” Mrs. White asks
“Because they would have taken Jet away. They would have said that this was an unfit environment for a child.” Madame Rose says, “Jet was only a few months old.”
“Why did no one tell me this?” asks Mrs. White
“They were worried that you would have turned us in to the police. We illegally buried two bodies on our property.” Madame Rose says
“You buried your sister too?” asks Mrs. White
“Right next to him.” Madame Rose says, “Fortunately Jet was too little to remember any of this. It is just too painful to talk about.”
Mrs. White feels sympathy and guilt as to how she manipulated the truth out of a drunken elderly woman.
The front door opens and Mrs. White excuses herself from the table. She exits the Dining Room to see Mrs. Black and Dr. Black enter through the hall.
“Hello, Mrs. White.” Dr. Black says, “You look lovely.”
“I assume you put Scott to bed?” asks Mrs. Black
“No,” Mrs. White says
“What on earth not?” Mrs. Black says, “It’s 10.45.”
“He still hasn’t come home.” Mrs. White says
“What?” Dr. Black begins to panic
“Mr. Ash told me not to worry about it.” Mrs. White says
“My baby.” Mrs. Black begins to pace the Hall
“Ash!” Dr. Black shouts, his voice echoing through the Hall.
Mr. Ash comes from the Kitchen, “Sir?”
“Why didn’t you call the constable?” Dr. Black says
“Why in heaven’s name would I call the constable?” asks Mr. Ash
“Scott is missing?” Dr. Black shouts
“He still isn’t home?” Mr. Ash asks
Mrs. White walks over to Mrs. Black and begins to comfort her. Just then the front door opens. Everyone turns with anticipation, but it turns to disappointment when they see Jet.
“What’s going on?” Jet asks, seeing everyone standing around so anxiously
“Your little brother is missing.” Dr. Black says, “Ash, call the constable!”
Mr. Ash goes over to the telephone next to the Lounge door.
“When’s the last time you saw him?” asks Jet with slight concern
“This morning,” Mrs. White says ringing her hands nervously, “I gave him a piece of toast before his paper route.”
“It’s a small town,” Dr. Black says hopefully, “He can’t be too far.”
“Unless it’s a ransom,” Madame Rose says loudly from the Dining Room doorway.