Episode 33 – “Fitting Together While Falling Apart”
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Sylvia Black arrives at Mr. Green’s to find that he and Jane Meadow-Brook have just arrived. Bradford and Sergei watch from a safe distance. Sylvia warns Jane who rushes into the house to get help. Once confronted by Bradford and Sergei, Mr. Green turns against Sylvia and pulls out a gun. A gunshot rings out as Miss Peach and Dr. Olive approach them. Meanwhile, inside the house, Jane is met by Jet who prepares to murder her. Jane tries to delay him from killing her when they both hear the gunshot from outside. Miss Scarlet finds herself tied up in the basement of the LeNoir Villa. She finds her unconscious uncle and a small bag of fine white powder on him. She finds a secret passage and makes her way to freedom. Mrs. Peacock gets free from Helena’s grip and after a bit of a struggle, manages to impale her onto a fireplace poker. Miss Scarlet and Chandler walk in at that moment.…
Life is very unfair. You can ask anyone in the town of Mayfield. You could ask Mrs. Black, the mother of the boy who has been kidnapped and bartered. You could ask Miss Scarlet, the girl who is hiding her step-mother from the cops because she now understands the risks of loving a family member. You can ask Sergei Gold, the mobster whose young son was found murdered in a burned car. You can ask Bradford Black, the man who will stop at nothing until he earns back the money his stingy wife kept from him. You can ask Georgia Peach, the girl who was shot by her sister and then witnessed her sister’s suicide. You can ask Jet Black, the boy who doesn’t know whether his father is Hugh Black or Thallo Green. You can ask Lady Oakwood, the woman who has been hiding a family secret for years. You can ask any of these people if life is fair. All of them will tell that life is very unfair and often times cruel. What they can’t tell you is that later today four sounds will be uttered – a gunshot, a gasp, a scream, and a splash – as one of these people is murdered…
-Friday, April 22, 1949 –
-Afternoon-
Rain pours down all over the Mayfield Countryside. A group is gathered around under black umbrellas at the Hampshire Cemetery. Mrs. Sylvia Black stands sheltered next to Mrs. White. Mrs. White is dabbing her eyes gently with a handkerchief. She sniffles and tries to give Sylvia a reassuring smile. Jet Black is standing in the rain not paying attention to anything but the gravestone and the large hole in front of him. Four days since the wake, Hugh Black’s body is finally being laid to rest. The murderess, Mrs. Peacock is still on the loose and no one knows where she is. Sorrow is abundant in the air. The priest is speaking of love, family, and the tragedies that occur from the hearts of the wicked. Jet Black stares angrily at the hole in the ground as the pallbearers walk through the rain. Colonel Mustard, Mr. Boddy, Bradford Black, and Mr. Ash all carry the casket with gentleness and care. The tension between the four is obvious, but not shown physically. They set it down gently and join the congregation as the priest, Reverend Hunter, opens the Bible.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted…” Reverend Hunters reads as heads are lowered in respect
Mr. Meadow-Brook stands nearby with a malicious grin on his face. Mrs. Meadow-Brook stands on the other side of the procession hiding her face beneath a veiled cap. She glances at Jet as he continues to stare off into the distance. Mrs. Meadow-Brook turns her gaze to Mrs. Black. Their eyes meet for a moment and Mrs. Black shakes her head slowly. Mrs. Meadow-Brook then turns to the man standing next to her, Bradford Black. He takes a deep breath trying to hold back the tears. Madame Rose stands next to her father in a black pant suit. Sabata Bronce is on her other side in his wheel chair. Madame Rose is holding a pink rose. Rusty Naylor, the gardener stands next to Madame Rose in a worn black suit. Lord Oakwood, Lady Oakwood, and Percival Oakwood stand nearby. Lord Oakwood holds out his cane and weakly stands up and removes his hat as Reverend Hunter concludes the sermon. Inspector Brown removes his hat and turns his face towards the rain.
“…rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven.” Reverend Hunter finishes closing the Bible.
Lady Oakwood crosses herself while Percival stares at her in disgust. Miss Scarlet lets out a small cry as she watches the casket be set into place. Chandler Weiss holds her tight under the umbrella that shelters the both of them. Madame Rose steps forward into the rain and places the rose on the casket.
“Rest in peace, dear brother.” She says kissing her hand and touching the casket.
Mrs. Black turns around, hiding her tears. She looks off into the foggy distance to see Mr. Green coming towards her. His right hand is bandaged.
“Don’t!” Mrs. Black says holding up her hand as he approaches her
“I just wanted to talk.” Mr. Green says
“Talk?” Mrs. Black whimpers, “It’s my husband’s funeral for Christ’s sake.”
“We haven’t talked since it happened!” Mr. Green says
“Since what happened?” Mrs. Black bites her lip, “Say it!”
“You know what happened.” Mr. Green says
“I want to hear you say it!” Mrs. Black says
“Since I held a gun against you.” Mr. Green says
“It was a creative thing to do to distract Sergei and Bradford.” Mrs. Black says, “But you considered pulling the trigger.”
“I couldn’t pull myself to hurt you.” Mr. Green says
“You considered it.” Mrs. Black says, “You considered shooting me in the head and orphaning my children.”
“I made a promise to you.” Mr. Green says, “I will keep that promise.”
As the Funeral Procession breaks away into groups, Mrs. Black takes her son’s arm as they walk away.
“Sylvia,” Mr. Green says, “I’ll find Scott, I promise.”
“Please,” Mrs. Black says, “Can’t we just mourn without false hopes?”
“Come on, mother,” Jet says as they walk away from Mr. Green
Miss Scarlet walks past them on her way to the royal blue Rolls Royce which is waiting for her. She opens the door to see her step-mother, Penelope Peacock sitting in the backseat wearing sunglasses, a black pillbox cap, and drinking from a martini glass.
“You shouldn’t have come.” Miss Scarlet says
“Hugh Black is biologically my father.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I wanted to pay my respects.”
“Respects?” Miss Scarlet gets in the passenger’s seat, “You are the one who murdered him. Have you been so hopped up on morphine, pain pills, and vodka that you forgotten what you did?”
“What’s the big deal, Cynthia?” Mrs. Peacock rolls her eyes, “It’s not like anyone is expecting me to be here.”
“Look,” Miss Scarlet points to Inspector Brown who is shaking Mrs. Black’s hand in sympathy, “Inspector Brown is here.”
“I’m wearing a disguise.” Mrs. Peacock motions to her hat and sunglasses
“How drunk are you?” Miss Scarlet asks, “Do you honestly think that a hat and sunglasses will make you invisible in the town where you murdered a handful of people.”
“Francesca helped.” Mrs. Peacock says, “She murdered quite a few too. I can’t take all the blame.”
“Francesca was strangled in your Study by Colonel Mustard.” Miss Scarlet points out
“Oh just drive!” Mrs. Peacock orders
“Chandler is driving,” Miss Scarlet says, “And he is still paying his respects.”
“I don’t know why you are all acting holier than me.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Do I need to remind you that both you and Chandler buried Helena’s body in Paris?”
“Helena was a horrible woman.” Miss Scarlet says
“So was Hugh!” Mrs. Peacock says
Miss Scarlet remains silent and puts her head against the car window, watching the rain make small patterns on the outside of the glass.
“So now you see,” Mrs. Peacock says finishing her drink, “I’m not as bad of a person as you thought!”
“We already had this conversation in Paris.” Miss Scarlet says, “You murdered anyone who was going to threaten the security of this family. You needed your inheritance to sustain a proper life for me.”
“I did it all for you.” Mrs. Peacock says
“If you are trying to guilt me,” Miss Scarlet says, “You are doing a horrible job.”
“I’m just trying to point out that you owe me.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Actually, the way I see it,” Miss Scarlet turns to her, “You owe me. I buried Helena’s body for you, I smuggled you out of France, I agreed to hide you from the police in the very town where you committed a series of murders, and I agreed to remain in good terms with Commissioner Forest even though we both know that he will be sniffing around until Scott Black is returned to his mother’s arms.”
“Is Chandler almost done kissing up to Sylvia?” Mrs. Peacock asks, “I want to get home. I could kill for a bowl of noodles. Rainy days always make me hungry.”
“Have you even been listening?” Miss Scarlet asks
“Yes, yes,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Something about the good old days being over.”
“You do realize that you won’t be living the luxurious lifestyle you once loved.” Miss Scarlet says, “No more garden parties, no more dinner parties, no more tea parties…”
“It’s probably for the best since people end up dying at those parties anyway.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Oh, perhaps if someone else dies at a dinner party they’ll exonerate me.”
“Oh god,” Miss Scarlet groans
“Don’t worry, Cynthia,” Mrs. Peacock says staring at Sylvia Black, “Scott will be back in her arms very soon. And when I deliver him to her, she’ll have no choice but to accept my apology for murdering her husband.”
In the Attic of Tudor Close, Scott Black is blindfolded, gagged, and tied to a chair. Monsieur Brunette is looking out the window at the rainy weather.
“I would let you have a little more freedom,” Monsieur Brunette says in a distinct American accent, “But I saw how excited you got on the roof once you realized how close you were to home.”
Scott mumbles underneath the gag.
“I might as well let you talk since no one is home yet.” Monsieur Brunette says removing the gag and blindfold, “Would you care to repeat that?”
“Go to hell!” Scott shouts as tears drip from his puffy, red eyes.
“That’s no way for an 11-year-old to talk.” Monsieur Brunette says, “You are going to grow up with such a foul mouth.”
“I’d rather have a foul mouth than be a slave to the prince of a starving country.” Scott says
“I’ll agree with you on that one.” Monsieur Brunette chuckles
“Why did you bring me here?” asks Scott, “You brought me to my own home.”
“A place that no one would expect you to be.” Monsieur Brunette says
“Only one problem,” a voice says from the stairway leading downstairs.
Monsieur Brunette pulls out his pocket knife.
“It’s me,” Sergei Gold says
“You scared the hell out of me.” Monsieur Brunette says
“We have a big problem.” Sergei says
“What would that be?” asks Monsieur Brunette
“Bradford told Sylvia that Scott is in Hampshire.” Sergei says
“Why would he go and do a thing like that?” asks Monsieur Brunette
“Because we were going to kill her.” Sergei says
“Mom?” Scott whimpers
“Don’t worry,” Sergei says, “Mr. Green hampered with that and got himself shot by two witnesses.”
“Is this plan going to go up in smoke?” asks Monsieur Brunette
“I asked myself the same thing,” Sergei says, “Until I went down to the Study and saw that Sylvia and Jet are planning on getting us the money.”
“Bradford didn’t interfere with that?” Monsieur Brunette says
“Surprisingly, no.” Sergei says
“That doesn’t seem like him,” Monsieur Brunette says
“You know what that means?” Sergei rolls up his sleeves
“He’s planning something.” Scott finishes their thought
“You are a pretty smart kid.” Sergei says, “Too bad you didn’t see right through Mrs. Peacock’s plans to kidnap you, I mean you did, after all, recognize her face when you found Ms. Curry’s body.”
“She planned it out and told me the plan.” Scott says
“You knew she was going to kidnap you.” Monsieur Brunette says
“No,” Scott says, “She told me that I needed to be in the Kitchen near the end of the party in order for my family to stay safe.”
Back in the car at the Cemetery, Mrs. Peacock has propped her feet up in the backseat. Miss Scarlet is growing impatient as she waits for Chandler to stop chatting with Mrs. Black and Jet.
“I wish I wouldn’t have gone to Bradford Black about Hugh being my father.” Mrs. Peacock says
“That was another mistake you made.” Miss Scarlet says
“I wish I hadn’t agreed to kidnap Scott Black.” Mrs. Peacock says
“That’s another mistake.” Miss Scarlet says
“I wish I hadn’t split apart from Monsieur Brunette and Scott,” Mrs. Peacock says, “I never would have met with Helena and I never would have…”
“I get it!” Miss Scarlet says, “You made a lot of mistakes. Face it, you are bad at murdering people.”
“It was such a good plan though!” Mrs. Peacock says sitting forward in her seat, “Where did I go wrong?”
“Not telling the truth after I accidentally poisoned my father,” Miss Scarlet closes her eyes, trying to rest, “Killing your sister out of jealousy. Being a nosy neighbor and talking to Celeste Curry.”
“I mean after I’d planned on killed Celeste and Hugh.” Mrs. Peacock says
“I’d say it was involving Colonel Mustard.” Miss Scarlet says
“Involving him was the only way of getting Francesca to Hampshire.” Mrs. Peacock says
“But he was a jealous Colonel that was in prison for murder.” Miss Scarlet says, “Why wouldn’t he murder again?”
On Ceil Drive, Mr. Green drives his car into his driveway and enters his house through the side door. He turns on the Kitchen light and sees the brown folder on the table. He fixes his eyes on the folder and slowly sits down at the head of the table. The muscular exterior of this mob leader is slowly diminishing as he comes to the painful realization that he has signed away his own life.
-FLASHBACK- YESTERDAY EVENING-
Bradford Black and Sergei Gold sit at Mr. Green’s kitchen table. Mr. Green is looking nervously at his hands as he listens to the two men.
“In here is all the information you need to get Scott back to Sylvia.” Sergei says holding onto the brown envelope.
“Are you sure you want to do this?” asks Bradford
“Jet will never admit to me being his father.” Mr. Green says, “My life is worthless. I can at least give my life in return for the life of his brother.”
“Thallo,” Sergei says, “You and I both know that if I hand this folder over to you, that you only have twenty-four hours to get this to Sylvia before I put a bullet in your head.”
“I know.” Mr. Green says
“He’s just a kid.” Bradford says, “He’s my grandson. He can rebuild his life in Africa at the hands of Prince Azure. It will be easy and painless.”
“You and I both know that it won’t be easy or painless.” Mr. Green says staring at Bradford, “Give me the envelope, set the kid free, and take my life.”
Sergei slides the envelope over to Mr. Green.
“Thallo,” Sergei says, “By pulling the gun on Sylvia you had already proved your worth. We needed a man like you on our side. I’m giving you one last chance to reconsider.”
Mr. Green stares Sergei in the eye and then opens the folder.
“Damn you,” Sergei says, “The clock has started. Twenty-four hours.”
-END OF FLASHBACK-
Mr. Green stops staring at the envelope and looks up at the clock above the stove.
“Eight hours left,” Mr. Green says picking up the envelope and heading back outside.
Back in the car at the Cemetery, Miss Scarlet’s patience has run dry.
“I’m sure Sylvia would forgive me,” Mrs. Peacock says
“I don’t think so.” Miss Scarlet says opening the car door
“Where are you going?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“To get Chandler so we can leave.” Miss Scarlet says, “I don’t want to be here when Inspector Brown comes around.”
Miss Julia Oakwood stands at the window of her room at the convent. She has her hand placed gently over her stomach. She appears to be calm and at ease on the outside but she is silently and justly hating her baby and her overbearing mother. There is a knock at the door.
“Miss Julia,” a nun says, “It is time for supper.”
“Thank you Sister Mary Marjorie,” Miss Oakwood says as she heads towards the door. She enters the hall with the nun, “How well do you know my mother?”
“Oh, Elizabeth and I go way back.” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “She and your father have made exceptional donations to us.”
“But why?” asks Miss Oakwood, “No offense, but what is so special about this convent than the other one’s in Mayfield?”
“Well you mother was very close with several nuns and Reverend Moss.” Sister Mary Marjorie says
“Reverend Hunter,” Miss Oakwood says, “He went missing years ago.”
“Yes,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “It’s a shame. His sermons are so much better than Reverend Hunter.”
“Oh,” Miss Oakwood says glancing at the pictures of the past and present nuns and priests on the wall.
“I’m sorry,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “I shouldn’t speak ill of the Reverend.”
“Who is that?” Miss Oakwood says stopping at a picture. There is a beautiful young blonde woman in a beautiful dress. A priest stands to her left and two nuns to her right.
“Oh that’s your mother,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “That picture was taken after her incredible donation.”
“I’m guessing that is the late Reverend Moss.” Miss Oakwood points to the priest
“Yes and that nun is Sister Camille Silver. She passed away several days ago. They believe it to be murder.” Sister Mary Marjorie crosses herself
“And the other nun?” asks Miss Oakwood
“I’m not sure,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “I don’t remember her.”
“I know her.” Miss Oakwood says, “Her face is so familiar. I’ve seen her before!”
“It’s possible.” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “I haven’t a clue who she is though. Anyway, lets head down to the dining room.”
Miss Scarlet exits the car back into the rain. She walks over to Chandler and puts her arm around him under the shelter of their umbrella. Mrs. White, Mr. Ash, Jet, Mrs. Black, and Inspector Brown are all sheltered under several umbrellas.
“I was just telling Chandler how lucky he is to have found love.” Mrs. Black says, “I’m not sure I’ll ever have that chance again.”
“You never know,” Miss Scarlet says, “Love can find you in so many different ways.”
“Especially when you least expect it.” Chandler says
“Thank you both,” Mrs. Black says
“I’m terribly sorry for your loss,” Miss Scarlet says, “Dr. Black will be greatly missing in the community.”
“I remember when he came in to give a speech on the cardiovascular system when I was in high school.” Chandler says
Mrs. Black smiles as the memories. Jet remains silent.
“We are having a small memorial to Hugh tonight at Tudor Close,” Mrs. Black says, “We’ll be sharing memories of Hugh.”
“I’ll be making Hugh’s favorite dishes,” Mrs. White adds in
“We would love it if you two could join us.” Mrs. Black says wiping her eyes with a handkerchief
“Oh,” Miss Scarlet smiles politely, “I wouldn’t want to impose. It seems like a family thing.”
“Not at all,” Mrs. Black says, “Inspector Brown, Colonel Mustard, and Mr. and Mrs. Meadow-Brook have agreed to come.”
“I’m not sure.” Miss Scarlet says nervously
“I understand,” Mrs. Black says, “Feel free to drop in if you change your mind.”
“I’ll think about it.” Miss Scarlet smiles hugging Mrs. Black goodbye.
“Take care, dear.” Mrs. Black says with a weak smile, “It was so good to see you.”
“It was good to see you too,” Miss Scarlet says as she and Chandler make their way back to the car.
“She seems very well composed for someone who lost her husband and her son is still missing.” Miss Scarlet says
“It’s very courageous of her to put on a brave face.” Chandler says
“Should we go?” asks Miss Scarlet, “I mean with you-know-who staying at home and Uncle Gregory in the hospital, I’m not sure if we should even go.”
“It’s a memorial to Hugh,” Chandler says, “I think it would be rude if we didn’t go.”
“We both really didn’t know him all that well.” Miss Scarlet says
“Still,” Chandler says, “We should be there to support Sylvia.”
“I suppose.” Miss Scarlet says
“How have your… visions been?” asks Chandler
“Ever since Paris I stopped imagining your death.” Miss Scarlet says
“I still think you should talk to a psychiatrist about this.” Chandler says
“Chandler,” Miss Scarlet says opening the passenger door of the car, “Everything is fine…” she stops on her last word as she looks at the empty backseat, “Chandler, she’s gone.”
Life is very unfair. You can ask anyone in the town of Mayfield. You could ask Mrs. Black, the mother of the boy who has been kidnapped and bartered. You could ask Miss Scarlet, the girl who is hiding her step-mother from the cops because she now understands the risks of loving a family member. You can ask Sergei Gold, the mobster whose young son was found murdered in a burned car. You can ask Bradford Black, the man who will stop at nothing until he earns back the money his stingy wife kept from him. You can ask Georgia Peach, the girl who was shot by her sister and then witnessed her sister’s suicide. You can ask Jet Black, the boy who doesn’t know whether his father is Hugh Black or Thallo Green. You can ask Lady Oakwood, the woman who has been hiding a family secret for years. You can ask any of these people if life is fair. All of them will tell that life is very unfair and often times cruel. What they can’t tell you is that later today four sounds will be uttered – a gunshot, a gasp, a scream, and a splash – as one of these people is murdered…
-Friday, April 22, 1949 –
-Afternoon-
Rain pours down all over the Mayfield Countryside. A group is gathered around under black umbrellas at the Hampshire Cemetery. Mrs. Sylvia Black stands sheltered next to Mrs. White. Mrs. White is dabbing her eyes gently with a handkerchief. She sniffles and tries to give Sylvia a reassuring smile. Jet Black is standing in the rain not paying attention to anything but the gravestone and the large hole in front of him. Four days since the wake, Hugh Black’s body is finally being laid to rest. The murderess, Mrs. Peacock is still on the loose and no one knows where she is. Sorrow is abundant in the air. The priest is speaking of love, family, and the tragedies that occur from the hearts of the wicked. Jet Black stares angrily at the hole in the ground as the pallbearers walk through the rain. Colonel Mustard, Mr. Boddy, Bradford Black, and Mr. Ash all carry the casket with gentleness and care. The tension between the four is obvious, but not shown physically. They set it down gently and join the congregation as the priest, Reverend Hunter, opens the Bible.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted…” Reverend Hunters reads as heads are lowered in respect
Mr. Meadow-Brook stands nearby with a malicious grin on his face. Mrs. Meadow-Brook stands on the other side of the procession hiding her face beneath a veiled cap. She glances at Jet as he continues to stare off into the distance. Mrs. Meadow-Brook turns her gaze to Mrs. Black. Their eyes meet for a moment and Mrs. Black shakes her head slowly. Mrs. Meadow-Brook then turns to the man standing next to her, Bradford Black. He takes a deep breath trying to hold back the tears. Madame Rose stands next to her father in a black pant suit. Sabata Bronce is on her other side in his wheel chair. Madame Rose is holding a pink rose. Rusty Naylor, the gardener stands next to Madame Rose in a worn black suit. Lord Oakwood, Lady Oakwood, and Percival Oakwood stand nearby. Lord Oakwood holds out his cane and weakly stands up and removes his hat as Reverend Hunter concludes the sermon. Inspector Brown removes his hat and turns his face towards the rain.
“…rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven.” Reverend Hunter finishes closing the Bible.
Lady Oakwood crosses herself while Percival stares at her in disgust. Miss Scarlet lets out a small cry as she watches the casket be set into place. Chandler Weiss holds her tight under the umbrella that shelters the both of them. Madame Rose steps forward into the rain and places the rose on the casket.
“Rest in peace, dear brother.” She says kissing her hand and touching the casket.
Mrs. Black turns around, hiding her tears. She looks off into the foggy distance to see Mr. Green coming towards her. His right hand is bandaged.
“Don’t!” Mrs. Black says holding up her hand as he approaches her
“I just wanted to talk.” Mr. Green says
“Talk?” Mrs. Black whimpers, “It’s my husband’s funeral for Christ’s sake.”
“We haven’t talked since it happened!” Mr. Green says
“Since what happened?” Mrs. Black bites her lip, “Say it!”
“You know what happened.” Mr. Green says
“I want to hear you say it!” Mrs. Black says
“Since I held a gun against you.” Mr. Green says
“It was a creative thing to do to distract Sergei and Bradford.” Mrs. Black says, “But you considered pulling the trigger.”
“I couldn’t pull myself to hurt you.” Mr. Green says
“You considered it.” Mrs. Black says, “You considered shooting me in the head and orphaning my children.”
“I made a promise to you.” Mr. Green says, “I will keep that promise.”
As the Funeral Procession breaks away into groups, Mrs. Black takes her son’s arm as they walk away.
“Sylvia,” Mr. Green says, “I’ll find Scott, I promise.”
“Please,” Mrs. Black says, “Can’t we just mourn without false hopes?”
“Come on, mother,” Jet says as they walk away from Mr. Green
Miss Scarlet walks past them on her way to the royal blue Rolls Royce which is waiting for her. She opens the door to see her step-mother, Penelope Peacock sitting in the backseat wearing sunglasses, a black pillbox cap, and drinking from a martini glass.
“You shouldn’t have come.” Miss Scarlet says
“Hugh Black is biologically my father.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I wanted to pay my respects.”
“Respects?” Miss Scarlet gets in the passenger’s seat, “You are the one who murdered him. Have you been so hopped up on morphine, pain pills, and vodka that you forgotten what you did?”
“What’s the big deal, Cynthia?” Mrs. Peacock rolls her eyes, “It’s not like anyone is expecting me to be here.”
“Look,” Miss Scarlet points to Inspector Brown who is shaking Mrs. Black’s hand in sympathy, “Inspector Brown is here.”
“I’m wearing a disguise.” Mrs. Peacock motions to her hat and sunglasses
“How drunk are you?” Miss Scarlet asks, “Do you honestly think that a hat and sunglasses will make you invisible in the town where you murdered a handful of people.”
“Francesca helped.” Mrs. Peacock says, “She murdered quite a few too. I can’t take all the blame.”
“Francesca was strangled in your Study by Colonel Mustard.” Miss Scarlet points out
“Oh just drive!” Mrs. Peacock orders
“Chandler is driving,” Miss Scarlet says, “And he is still paying his respects.”
“I don’t know why you are all acting holier than me.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Do I need to remind you that both you and Chandler buried Helena’s body in Paris?”
“Helena was a horrible woman.” Miss Scarlet says
“So was Hugh!” Mrs. Peacock says
Miss Scarlet remains silent and puts her head against the car window, watching the rain make small patterns on the outside of the glass.
“So now you see,” Mrs. Peacock says finishing her drink, “I’m not as bad of a person as you thought!”
“We already had this conversation in Paris.” Miss Scarlet says, “You murdered anyone who was going to threaten the security of this family. You needed your inheritance to sustain a proper life for me.”
“I did it all for you.” Mrs. Peacock says
“If you are trying to guilt me,” Miss Scarlet says, “You are doing a horrible job.”
“I’m just trying to point out that you owe me.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Actually, the way I see it,” Miss Scarlet turns to her, “You owe me. I buried Helena’s body for you, I smuggled you out of France, I agreed to hide you from the police in the very town where you committed a series of murders, and I agreed to remain in good terms with Commissioner Forest even though we both know that he will be sniffing around until Scott Black is returned to his mother’s arms.”
“Is Chandler almost done kissing up to Sylvia?” Mrs. Peacock asks, “I want to get home. I could kill for a bowl of noodles. Rainy days always make me hungry.”
“Have you even been listening?” Miss Scarlet asks
“Yes, yes,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Something about the good old days being over.”
“You do realize that you won’t be living the luxurious lifestyle you once loved.” Miss Scarlet says, “No more garden parties, no more dinner parties, no more tea parties…”
“It’s probably for the best since people end up dying at those parties anyway.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Oh, perhaps if someone else dies at a dinner party they’ll exonerate me.”
“Oh god,” Miss Scarlet groans
“Don’t worry, Cynthia,” Mrs. Peacock says staring at Sylvia Black, “Scott will be back in her arms very soon. And when I deliver him to her, she’ll have no choice but to accept my apology for murdering her husband.”
In the Attic of Tudor Close, Scott Black is blindfolded, gagged, and tied to a chair. Monsieur Brunette is looking out the window at the rainy weather.
“I would let you have a little more freedom,” Monsieur Brunette says in a distinct American accent, “But I saw how excited you got on the roof once you realized how close you were to home.”
Scott mumbles underneath the gag.
“I might as well let you talk since no one is home yet.” Monsieur Brunette says removing the gag and blindfold, “Would you care to repeat that?”
“Go to hell!” Scott shouts as tears drip from his puffy, red eyes.
“That’s no way for an 11-year-old to talk.” Monsieur Brunette says, “You are going to grow up with such a foul mouth.”
“I’d rather have a foul mouth than be a slave to the prince of a starving country.” Scott says
“I’ll agree with you on that one.” Monsieur Brunette chuckles
“Why did you bring me here?” asks Scott, “You brought me to my own home.”
“A place that no one would expect you to be.” Monsieur Brunette says
“Only one problem,” a voice says from the stairway leading downstairs.
Monsieur Brunette pulls out his pocket knife.
“It’s me,” Sergei Gold says
“You scared the hell out of me.” Monsieur Brunette says
“We have a big problem.” Sergei says
“What would that be?” asks Monsieur Brunette
“Bradford told Sylvia that Scott is in Hampshire.” Sergei says
“Why would he go and do a thing like that?” asks Monsieur Brunette
“Because we were going to kill her.” Sergei says
“Mom?” Scott whimpers
“Don’t worry,” Sergei says, “Mr. Green hampered with that and got himself shot by two witnesses.”
“Is this plan going to go up in smoke?” asks Monsieur Brunette
“I asked myself the same thing,” Sergei says, “Until I went down to the Study and saw that Sylvia and Jet are planning on getting us the money.”
“Bradford didn’t interfere with that?” Monsieur Brunette says
“Surprisingly, no.” Sergei says
“That doesn’t seem like him,” Monsieur Brunette says
“You know what that means?” Sergei rolls up his sleeves
“He’s planning something.” Scott finishes their thought
“You are a pretty smart kid.” Sergei says, “Too bad you didn’t see right through Mrs. Peacock’s plans to kidnap you, I mean you did, after all, recognize her face when you found Ms. Curry’s body.”
“She planned it out and told me the plan.” Scott says
“You knew she was going to kidnap you.” Monsieur Brunette says
“No,” Scott says, “She told me that I needed to be in the Kitchen near the end of the party in order for my family to stay safe.”
Back in the car at the Cemetery, Mrs. Peacock has propped her feet up in the backseat. Miss Scarlet is growing impatient as she waits for Chandler to stop chatting with Mrs. Black and Jet.
“I wish I wouldn’t have gone to Bradford Black about Hugh being my father.” Mrs. Peacock says
“That was another mistake you made.” Miss Scarlet says
“I wish I hadn’t agreed to kidnap Scott Black.” Mrs. Peacock says
“That’s another mistake.” Miss Scarlet says
“I wish I hadn’t split apart from Monsieur Brunette and Scott,” Mrs. Peacock says, “I never would have met with Helena and I never would have…”
“I get it!” Miss Scarlet says, “You made a lot of mistakes. Face it, you are bad at murdering people.”
“It was such a good plan though!” Mrs. Peacock says sitting forward in her seat, “Where did I go wrong?”
“Not telling the truth after I accidentally poisoned my father,” Miss Scarlet closes her eyes, trying to rest, “Killing your sister out of jealousy. Being a nosy neighbor and talking to Celeste Curry.”
“I mean after I’d planned on killed Celeste and Hugh.” Mrs. Peacock says
“I’d say it was involving Colonel Mustard.” Miss Scarlet says
“Involving him was the only way of getting Francesca to Hampshire.” Mrs. Peacock says
“But he was a jealous Colonel that was in prison for murder.” Miss Scarlet says, “Why wouldn’t he murder again?”
On Ceil Drive, Mr. Green drives his car into his driveway and enters his house through the side door. He turns on the Kitchen light and sees the brown folder on the table. He fixes his eyes on the folder and slowly sits down at the head of the table. The muscular exterior of this mob leader is slowly diminishing as he comes to the painful realization that he has signed away his own life.
-FLASHBACK- YESTERDAY EVENING-
Bradford Black and Sergei Gold sit at Mr. Green’s kitchen table. Mr. Green is looking nervously at his hands as he listens to the two men.
“In here is all the information you need to get Scott back to Sylvia.” Sergei says holding onto the brown envelope.
“Are you sure you want to do this?” asks Bradford
“Jet will never admit to me being his father.” Mr. Green says, “My life is worthless. I can at least give my life in return for the life of his brother.”
“Thallo,” Sergei says, “You and I both know that if I hand this folder over to you, that you only have twenty-four hours to get this to Sylvia before I put a bullet in your head.”
“I know.” Mr. Green says
“He’s just a kid.” Bradford says, “He’s my grandson. He can rebuild his life in Africa at the hands of Prince Azure. It will be easy and painless.”
“You and I both know that it won’t be easy or painless.” Mr. Green says staring at Bradford, “Give me the envelope, set the kid free, and take my life.”
Sergei slides the envelope over to Mr. Green.
“Thallo,” Sergei says, “By pulling the gun on Sylvia you had already proved your worth. We needed a man like you on our side. I’m giving you one last chance to reconsider.”
Mr. Green stares Sergei in the eye and then opens the folder.
“Damn you,” Sergei says, “The clock has started. Twenty-four hours.”
-END OF FLASHBACK-
Mr. Green stops staring at the envelope and looks up at the clock above the stove.
“Eight hours left,” Mr. Green says picking up the envelope and heading back outside.
Back in the car at the Cemetery, Miss Scarlet’s patience has run dry.
“I’m sure Sylvia would forgive me,” Mrs. Peacock says
“I don’t think so.” Miss Scarlet says opening the car door
“Where are you going?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“To get Chandler so we can leave.” Miss Scarlet says, “I don’t want to be here when Inspector Brown comes around.”
Miss Julia Oakwood stands at the window of her room at the convent. She has her hand placed gently over her stomach. She appears to be calm and at ease on the outside but she is silently and justly hating her baby and her overbearing mother. There is a knock at the door.
“Miss Julia,” a nun says, “It is time for supper.”
“Thank you Sister Mary Marjorie,” Miss Oakwood says as she heads towards the door. She enters the hall with the nun, “How well do you know my mother?”
“Oh, Elizabeth and I go way back.” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “She and your father have made exceptional donations to us.”
“But why?” asks Miss Oakwood, “No offense, but what is so special about this convent than the other one’s in Mayfield?”
“Well you mother was very close with several nuns and Reverend Moss.” Sister Mary Marjorie says
“Reverend Hunter,” Miss Oakwood says, “He went missing years ago.”
“Yes,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “It’s a shame. His sermons are so much better than Reverend Hunter.”
“Oh,” Miss Oakwood says glancing at the pictures of the past and present nuns and priests on the wall.
“I’m sorry,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “I shouldn’t speak ill of the Reverend.”
“Who is that?” Miss Oakwood says stopping at a picture. There is a beautiful young blonde woman in a beautiful dress. A priest stands to her left and two nuns to her right.
“Oh that’s your mother,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “That picture was taken after her incredible donation.”
“I’m guessing that is the late Reverend Moss.” Miss Oakwood points to the priest
“Yes and that nun is Sister Camille Silver. She passed away several days ago. They believe it to be murder.” Sister Mary Marjorie crosses herself
“And the other nun?” asks Miss Oakwood
“I’m not sure,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “I don’t remember her.”
“I know her.” Miss Oakwood says, “Her face is so familiar. I’ve seen her before!”
“It’s possible.” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “I haven’t a clue who she is though. Anyway, lets head down to the dining room.”
Miss Scarlet exits the car back into the rain. She walks over to Chandler and puts her arm around him under the shelter of their umbrella. Mrs. White, Mr. Ash, Jet, Mrs. Black, and Inspector Brown are all sheltered under several umbrellas.
“I was just telling Chandler how lucky he is to have found love.” Mrs. Black says, “I’m not sure I’ll ever have that chance again.”
“You never know,” Miss Scarlet says, “Love can find you in so many different ways.”
“Especially when you least expect it.” Chandler says
“Thank you both,” Mrs. Black says
“I’m terribly sorry for your loss,” Miss Scarlet says, “Dr. Black will be greatly missing in the community.”
“I remember when he came in to give a speech on the cardiovascular system when I was in high school.” Chandler says
Mrs. Black smiles as the memories. Jet remains silent.
“We are having a small memorial to Hugh tonight at Tudor Close,” Mrs. Black says, “We’ll be sharing memories of Hugh.”
“I’ll be making Hugh’s favorite dishes,” Mrs. White adds in
“We would love it if you two could join us.” Mrs. Black says wiping her eyes with a handkerchief
“Oh,” Miss Scarlet smiles politely, “I wouldn’t want to impose. It seems like a family thing.”
“Not at all,” Mrs. Black says, “Inspector Brown, Colonel Mustard, and Mr. and Mrs. Meadow-Brook have agreed to come.”
“I’m not sure.” Miss Scarlet says nervously
“I understand,” Mrs. Black says, “Feel free to drop in if you change your mind.”
“I’ll think about it.” Miss Scarlet smiles hugging Mrs. Black goodbye.
“Take care, dear.” Mrs. Black says with a weak smile, “It was so good to see you.”
“It was good to see you too,” Miss Scarlet says as she and Chandler make their way back to the car.
“She seems very well composed for someone who lost her husband and her son is still missing.” Miss Scarlet says
“It’s very courageous of her to put on a brave face.” Chandler says
“Should we go?” asks Miss Scarlet, “I mean with you-know-who staying at home and Uncle Gregory in the hospital, I’m not sure if we should even go.”
“It’s a memorial to Hugh,” Chandler says, “I think it would be rude if we didn’t go.”
“We both really didn’t know him all that well.” Miss Scarlet says
“Still,” Chandler says, “We should be there to support Sylvia.”
“I suppose.” Miss Scarlet says
“How have your… visions been?” asks Chandler
“Ever since Paris I stopped imagining your death.” Miss Scarlet says
“I still think you should talk to a psychiatrist about this.” Chandler says
“Chandler,” Miss Scarlet says opening the passenger door of the car, “Everything is fine…” she stops on her last word as she looks at the empty backseat, “Chandler, she’s gone.”