Episode 4 – “The Search”
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Jane Meadow-Brook confronts her husband, Miles, about his affair with Emily Peach. Mrs. White realizes that Scott is still not at home, resulting in her panic. When Jet leaves before dinner, Mrs. White takes it upon herself to dine with Madame Rose, which results in the careful planning on Mrs. White’s part to get Madame Rose drunk and reveal information about Bryce. Mrs. White learns that Hugh and Claire have another sister named Estelle who died the same night as Bryce and because of the fear that jet would be taken away; they buried both Bryce and Estelle in the forest. Mrs. Black makes a fool out of herself by sharing Jane Meadow-Brook’s secrets at the dinner party. When Mrs. Black mentions the blackmail photos in Ms. Curry’s home, both Miss Scarlet and Mrs. Peacock are alarmed. Jet is hired by Mr. Green in his own grow house. Mr. Green recalls two days earlier when Ms. Curry blackmailed him for importing drugs. Colonel Mustard calls Italy but finds out that his wife hasn’t been to her family’s home in months and that her father isn’t even sick. Mrs. Peacock and Miss Scarlet realize that a secret they covered up seventeen years ago can still harm them today. Mrs. Black and Dr. Black call the police after realizing that Scott may be in danger…
-Friday, April 15, 1949-
-Night-
A woman rushes into the bathroom and looks at reflection in the mirror. Her hands are shaking and covered in blood. She turns on the water and removes her diamond engagement ring. She begins to scrub her hands vigorously in the soapy water as the blood goes down the drain. The bathroom door opens and the woman spins around in fear. Her heart rate goes back to normal when she recognizes the figure.
“Is everything ready?” the woman asks
“Yes,” the figure says solemnly
“Good.” The woman says, “I want you to get out of here.”
“Are you sure you don’t need any more help with the body?” the figure asks
“No,” the woman says, “What did you do with the murder weapon?”
“Left it with the body,” the figure says
“You idoit!” the woman says, “It has my fingerprints on it.”
“Do you want me to get it?” asks the figure.
“No.” the woman says, “I’ll do it. Get out of here before someone finds you. You aren’t supposed to be here”
-ONE DAY EARLIER-
-Thursday, April 14, 1949-
-Morning-
At the Mayfield Divisional Police Department, Inspector Winfield Brown sits down at his desk observing a detailed map of Hampshire. He has Ceil Drive circled. A red line attached the circle to a part of the forest behind the Black Estate, showing numerous walking trails from the small street to the forest. He also has police records for Mr. Green and Mr. Meadow-Brook lying on the desk. He takes a sip of his coffee and proceeds to label the houses on Ceil Drive with the names of the inhabitants.
At the Black Estate, Mrs. Sylvia Black nervously walks around the Lounge. Dr. Hugh Black sits in a large armchair reading the morning’s issue of the Daily Echo. The headline reads ‘Black’s Youngest Son Missing’
“Shouldn’t we have heard something by now?” Mrs. Black asks nervously, “It could be any of them that took him!”
“None of them would have a reason to take him.” Dr. Black says, “I’m not sure how you’ve convinced me to go through with searching their houses.”
“I bet it’s the Meadow-Brook’s.” Mrs. Black says, “Jane probably wanted revenge after how I treated her. She thinks she can raise every child perfectly!”
“Sylvia, we can’t point fingers at anyone.” Dr. Black says
“I’ll make them pay when I find out who’s responsible.” Mrs. Black says
“Where’s Jet?” asks Dr. Black
“He’s at school.” Mrs. Black says
“You sent him to school?” asks Dr. Black, “His brother is missing.”
“He doesn’t care about his brother’s safety.” Mrs. Black says, “He would enjoy a day off of school and have no remorse.”
“Just like the way it was with Bryce.” Dr. Black asks
“Jet never knew about Bryce!” Mrs. Black shouts
“I was referring to you.” Dr. Black says tossing the newspaper at the coffee table.
Mr. Miles Meadow-Brook sleeps uncomfortably on the sofa in the Living Room of the Meadow-Brook’s home. The curtains are pulled tight and blankets are piled up on top of Miles. His eyes are red and tired and his hair is messy. He is woken by the gentle sound of the doorbell ringing. He groans and pulls on his bathrobe as the loud knocking on the glass of the front door is audible. He closes his robe and opens the door to see two police officials.
“Miles Meadow-Brook?” asks the taller officer.
“Yes,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says groggily, “Can I help you with anything?”
“We would like to search the premise. If you refuse we will be back in several days with a search warrant.” The shorter officer says
“A search warrant? That is completely unnecessary.” Mr. Meadow-Brook looks over it with curiosity, “What does this pertain to?”
“We have reason to believe that Hugh Black’s son Scott disappeared while delivering papers on this street.” The shorter officer says, “We are searching houses for any clues indicating the possible location.”
“Of course.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Please come in. Forgive the mess. It’s our maid’s day off.”
“Would you by chance know where Celeste Curry is?” asks the taller officer, “She didn’t answer when we knocked.”
“My wife might know more about that.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Would you mind getting her and the rest of your family?” the taller officer asks
At the Peacock Residence, Miss Scarlet comes downstairs in a tight red dress. Mrs. Peacock is sitting in the Drawing Room drinking a cup of coffee while staring out at the Meadow-Brook’s house and the police car parked in front.
“Good morning, Aunt Penelope.” Miss Scarlet asks
“Hello, Cynthia.” Mrs. Peacock says, sipping her coffee.
“What’s happening at the Meadow-Brooks?” Miss Scarlet asks seeing the police car.
“Well, according to Sylvia, they are going through marital problems.” Mrs. Peacock says putting her cup on the side table, “Maybe there was some domestic violence last night.”
“I hope they are okay.” Miss Scarlet says with genuine concern.
At the Green’s Home, Mr. Thallo Green stands in his grow house with Mr. Dante Egret, his boss.
“So this is all you’ve got?” asks Dante
“You seem disappointed.” Mr. Green says
“It’s just that I’ve been giving you my plants for months now and you’ve only got a room full.” Dante says
“A few of them didn’t survive the move.” Mr. Green says
“Not my fault.” Dante says, “I expect a full payment.”
“Of course.” Mr. Green stammers, “I intend to pay you back fully.”
“I don’t care what you have to do.” Dante says, “Make your little clients work overtime, just get my money.”
“I will.” Mr. Green says, “You won’t be disappointed.”
“I like to hear that.” Dante says says, “I really like you Thallo. You’re a strong man. Good string character with good money. I’d hate to see that all blow up.”
At the Hampshire Tavern, Miss Emily Peach rushes in to see it is mostly empty except for an older man hunched over the bar. Miss Peach goes over to the bar and the bartender walks over to her as she gives a concerned look to the older man.
“He’s been here all night.” The bartender says, “His wife is cheating.”
Miss Peach nods in an understanding way.
“Can I get you a coffee?” asks the bartender
“That would be nice.” Miss Peach says
“What do you like in your coffee?” asks the bartender
“Whiskey,” Miss Peach says, “Without the coffee.”
“You don’t seem like the drinking type.” The bartender pours her a shot
“Well, when you are preparing to tell a random man you’ve never met before that you are his daughter, it takes its toll.” Miss Peach downs it, “Also since I’m sleeping with a man who is married. I’ll have another.”
“You get mixed with a bad crowd.” The bartender pours her another
“So,” Miss Peach says, “I’m from America and bars might be a little different there, but aren’t you supposed to give me some tips and make my life meaningful.”
The old man sits up, “At least you have something to live for.” He steps up into the light. It’s Colonel Mustard. He sits down next to Miss Peach.
“When you are my age,” Colonel Mustard says, “The drama of finding your long-lost family brings joy and hope. It gives you dreams at night when you are thinking about kicking the chair out from under you.”
“I’m sorry.” Miss Peach says
“Don’t be sorry.” Colonel Mustard says, “Its life. Life’s a bitch, and then you die. We’ll both have another. On me.”
The bartender fixes their drinks as Miss Peach continues.
“It just seems like anything I do, whenever I find pleasure or happiness it ends in a horrible way.” Miss Peach says
“I know you’ve heard this song already but: its life.” Colonel Mustard says as they both down their drinks together, “Live it up while you’re young and the surprises are unlimited. When you are my age there is really only one surprise left.”
Colonel Mustard reaches into his pocket and puts £100 on the bar, “Keep the change.”
The bartender takes the money as Colonel Mustard exits the tavern.
“You should go to the Black Estate and see Claire Rose.” The bartender says, “She’s the town’s psychic. She is very good. Maybe she can help you find your father.”
“I don’t need help finding him. I need to gain the courage to tell him who I am. I have his name.” Miss Peach says
“Who is it?” asks the bartender, “I get all sorts of people here and it’s a small town. I’m sure I can at least point you in the direction of your father.”
“Algernon Mustard.” Miss Peach says with some hesitation
“Well, you and your father just had drinks together.” The bartender winks.
At the Meadow-Brook’s Home, Jane Meadow-Brook sits at the breakfast table in her night robe with Jessica who is in her school uniform. Miles Meadow-Brook stands in his business suit near the window. Morning sunlight is pouring into the room, giving it a yellow glow. The police officer’s stand there.
“I’m Officer Lyle Ebony.” The tall one says, “This is my partner, Officer Stan Pyrite.”
“What is this all about,” Jane says with a yawn, “We have family matters to deal with.”
“Was your paper delivered yesterday by Scott Black?” Officer Ebony asks
“Yes,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “I mean I would assume it was by little Scotty, but I didn’t actually see him.”
“I did.” Jessica says as everyone’s attention is drawn to her, “I was combing my hair and I saw him ride his bike in the reflection of my mirror.”
“You are certain it was him?” asks Officer Ebony
“There aren’t very many little blonde paper boys in this town. I guarantee it was him.” Jessica says
“Jessica,” Officer Ebony looks at his notebook, “What is your relationship with the Black’s?”
“Their oldest son, Jet and I occasionally flirt.” She blushes
“Oh for the love of Jesus,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook shouts, “Can we stay on topic and get this over with?”
“Mrs. Meadow-Brook, you seem a bit bitter?” Officer Ebony says
“Yes, I am rather bitter.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “I found out less than twenty four hours ago that my husband is screwing a young blonde girl. I have every right to be bitter.”
“Ma’am,” Officer Pyrite says, “I understand your anger, I really do, but we are trying to find out what happened to Scott Black.”
“Something happened to him?” Jessica asks with nervousness
“He’s missing.” Officer Ebony says, “We believe he was kidnapped during his paper route. Now I would like to know everyone’s relationship with the Black’s to find out if anyone would want to hurt their child.”
At Tudor Close, in the Kitchen, Mrs. White scrubs the breakfast dishes while humming quietly.
“Good morning, Blanche.” Mr. Ash says
“Oh did you sleep well, Reggie?” Mrs. White asks cheerfully
“I did.” Mr. Ash smiles, “Thank you for letting me sleep the morning in.”
“After the lengthy night with the police, I figured the least I could do is make sure you got a sound sleep.” Mrs. White turns back to the sink while humming again
“You seem very cheerful this morning.” Mr. Ash says, “Under the circumstances I thought you’d be a bit more solemn.”
“Well,” Mrs. White spins around, “Madame Rose read Mrs. Black’s tea leaves this morning and she said that Scott will be back before the night is over.”
“Oh tosh,” Mr. Ash scoffs as he picks up the dry dishes and begins to put them away, “You mustn’t believe everything Madame Rose says.”
“Why ever not?” asks Mrs. White, “She’s been 100% honest with me.”
“Yes,” Mr. Ash says, “But all that psychic mumbo jumbo…”
“She confided in me about Bryce.” Mrs. White says
Mr. Ash drops the remaining plates onto the kitchen’s cobblestone floor. The plates shatter to bits while Mrs. White stands at the sink watching Mr. Ash.
“She told you about Bryce.” Mr. Ash says
“She certainly did.” Mrs. White says taken back by the sudden crash of plates.
“What exactly did she tell you?” Mr. Ash asks
“She told me about her sister Estelle.” Mrs. White says, “She told me that she was drunk and fell on top of the poor boy as they fell down the stairs. She told me that both Estelle and Bryce were buried in the backyard and that they couldn’t go to the police because they may have taken Jet away.”
“Oh.” Mr. Ash says with confusion
“Oh?” Mrs. White says, “What do you mean by ‘oh’?”
“Nothing.” Mr. Ash says quickly, “I’m just surprised you aren’t still upset about the whole matter.”
“She lied to me, didn’t she?” Mrs. White asks
“No no no.” Mr. Ash says fumbling around the floor with the broken pieces of glass, “Mrs. White would you be a dear and get the broom.”
“You are lying to me Reginald Ash!” Mrs. White says tapping her foot with anger
“Lying?” Mr. Ash says with a laugh that is more of a snort, “Oh don’t be daft. I… I don’t lie. Now would you please go fetch that broom.”
At the Green Home, there is a knock at the door. Mr. Green closes the grow house door and bolts it. He walks in the hallway and sees two officers at the front door.
“Oh god.” He swallows hard. He rushes to the cloak closet and puts on a roman collar and a green vest. There is a knock at the door again. He quickly pulls a bible from the top shelf of his closet and walks to the front door and opens it with a cheeky grin on his face.
“Thallo Green?” asks Officer Ebony
“Yes my child?” he asks in the most angelic and priestly tone
“Can we have a word with you?” asks Officer Ebony
“Of course, please come in.” Mr. Green says
“I didn’t realize you were a priest.” Officer Pyrite says
“Recently ordained.” Mr. Green lies, “It was my calling and you should never turn down a call from the Lord.”
“Well,” Officer Ebony says after a moments pause, “Did you recieve your newspaper yesterday?”
“Yes.” Mr. Green says, “A little boy came to my door and told me he was my paper boy. I’m new to this street so we worked out his pay and he was on his merry way.”
“I see.” Officer Ebony says
“We have a warrant to search the premise.” Officer Ebony says
“Oh dear.” Mr. Green says, “Whatever for?”
“We believe the boy was kidnapped.” Officer Ebony says
“Oh my.” Mr. Green says, “I suppose you could come on through. Forgive the mess. I’m still unpacking.”
There is a knock at the door. For a brief moment Mr. Green believes that God really heard his cry of help and sent this messenger to his door.
“Mrs. Meadow-Brook,” Mr. Green says cheerfully as he answers the door.
“Mr… ehh Reverend Green.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says with confusion, “I saw the officers come over to your home and I realized I forgot to tell them that I have a key for Ms. Curry’s home.”
“You do?” asks Officer Ebony, “That would be the house that no one answered, 357 Ceil Drive?”
“Yes.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says
“She was a suspicious woman.” ‘Reverend’ Green says, “She came by and threatened me for no reason.”
“She was supposed to have left for Scotland to visit her sister.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says
“She might be holding the boy hostage.” Officer Pyrite says with urgency as he takes the key from Mrs. Meadow-Brook. The two officer’s rush out of the house in the direction of the Curry Home leaving Mrs. Meadow-Brook and Mr. Green in the doorway.
“You are really going to have to explain this charade Marc.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says
“Thallo. You will call me Thallo Green like we discussed. Unless you want me to refer to your prior name as well.” Mr. Green says tearing off his Roman collar and letting Mrs. Meadow-Brook into the house.
“I take it you are still growing?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook asks
“Not that it is any of your business but yes I am.” Mr. Green says
“I just thought you would have learned your lesson after what happened in Paris.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says sitting down in his on the sofa.
The officers reach the front door and unlock it. They look around nervously and see that all the current newspapers are laying on her hall table next to a piece of Lead Piping and two pairs of rusty colored gloves. Officer Pyrite goes to the kitchen while Officer Ebony goes to the Basement door.
“Oh my god!” Officer Pyrite shouts.
Officer Ebony rushes back up the basement stairs to the sound of Officer Pyrite who is at the backdoor looking outside. They exit the house to see Ms. Curry discolored, laying limp next to the clothesline. The rope is clearly visible around her swollen neck. The sheets continue to blow quietly in the wind.
“We need to search her house. Maybe Scott is in there.”
They enter the house and Officer Pyrite picks up the phone and calls the Station. “357 Ceil Drive there has been a murder.”
Officer Ebony and Officer Pyrite head down the stairs to the basement to see a furnace, a coal bin, and a work bench. Along the wall is a small wooden door with a padlock on it. He sees the key still in the padlock and unlocks the door. He opens it and sees the faces of the three prisoners, Scott Black, Chandler Weiss, and Sabata Bronce.
-Friday, April 15, 1949-
-Night-
A woman rushes into the bathroom and looks at reflection in the mirror. Her hands are shaking and covered in blood. She turns on the water and removes her diamond engagement ring. She begins to scrub her hands vigorously in the soapy water as the blood goes down the drain. The bathroom door opens and the woman spins around in fear. Her heart rate goes back to normal when she recognizes the figure.
“Is everything ready?” the woman asks
“Yes,” the figure says solemnly
“Good.” The woman says, “I want you to get out of here.”
“Are you sure you don’t need any more help with the body?” the figure asks
“No,” the woman says, “What did you do with the murder weapon?”
“Left it with the body,” the figure says
“You idoit!” the woman says, “It has my fingerprints on it.”
“Do you want me to get it?” asks the figure.
“No.” the woman says, “I’ll do it. Get out of here before someone finds you. You aren’t supposed to be here”
-ONE DAY EARLIER-
-Thursday, April 14, 1949-
-Morning-
At the Mayfield Divisional Police Department, Inspector Winfield Brown sits down at his desk observing a detailed map of Hampshire. He has Ceil Drive circled. A red line attached the circle to a part of the forest behind the Black Estate, showing numerous walking trails from the small street to the forest. He also has police records for Mr. Green and Mr. Meadow-Brook lying on the desk. He takes a sip of his coffee and proceeds to label the houses on Ceil Drive with the names of the inhabitants.
At the Black Estate, Mrs. Sylvia Black nervously walks around the Lounge. Dr. Hugh Black sits in a large armchair reading the morning’s issue of the Daily Echo. The headline reads ‘Black’s Youngest Son Missing’
“Shouldn’t we have heard something by now?” Mrs. Black asks nervously, “It could be any of them that took him!”
“None of them would have a reason to take him.” Dr. Black says, “I’m not sure how you’ve convinced me to go through with searching their houses.”
“I bet it’s the Meadow-Brook’s.” Mrs. Black says, “Jane probably wanted revenge after how I treated her. She thinks she can raise every child perfectly!”
“Sylvia, we can’t point fingers at anyone.” Dr. Black says
“I’ll make them pay when I find out who’s responsible.” Mrs. Black says
“Where’s Jet?” asks Dr. Black
“He’s at school.” Mrs. Black says
“You sent him to school?” asks Dr. Black, “His brother is missing.”
“He doesn’t care about his brother’s safety.” Mrs. Black says, “He would enjoy a day off of school and have no remorse.”
“Just like the way it was with Bryce.” Dr. Black asks
“Jet never knew about Bryce!” Mrs. Black shouts
“I was referring to you.” Dr. Black says tossing the newspaper at the coffee table.
Mr. Miles Meadow-Brook sleeps uncomfortably on the sofa in the Living Room of the Meadow-Brook’s home. The curtains are pulled tight and blankets are piled up on top of Miles. His eyes are red and tired and his hair is messy. He is woken by the gentle sound of the doorbell ringing. He groans and pulls on his bathrobe as the loud knocking on the glass of the front door is audible. He closes his robe and opens the door to see two police officials.
“Miles Meadow-Brook?” asks the taller officer.
“Yes,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says groggily, “Can I help you with anything?”
“We would like to search the premise. If you refuse we will be back in several days with a search warrant.” The shorter officer says
“A search warrant? That is completely unnecessary.” Mr. Meadow-Brook looks over it with curiosity, “What does this pertain to?”
“We have reason to believe that Hugh Black’s son Scott disappeared while delivering papers on this street.” The shorter officer says, “We are searching houses for any clues indicating the possible location.”
“Of course.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Please come in. Forgive the mess. It’s our maid’s day off.”
“Would you by chance know where Celeste Curry is?” asks the taller officer, “She didn’t answer when we knocked.”
“My wife might know more about that.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Would you mind getting her and the rest of your family?” the taller officer asks
At the Peacock Residence, Miss Scarlet comes downstairs in a tight red dress. Mrs. Peacock is sitting in the Drawing Room drinking a cup of coffee while staring out at the Meadow-Brook’s house and the police car parked in front.
“Good morning, Aunt Penelope.” Miss Scarlet asks
“Hello, Cynthia.” Mrs. Peacock says, sipping her coffee.
“What’s happening at the Meadow-Brooks?” Miss Scarlet asks seeing the police car.
“Well, according to Sylvia, they are going through marital problems.” Mrs. Peacock says putting her cup on the side table, “Maybe there was some domestic violence last night.”
“I hope they are okay.” Miss Scarlet says with genuine concern.
At the Green’s Home, Mr. Thallo Green stands in his grow house with Mr. Dante Egret, his boss.
“So this is all you’ve got?” asks Dante
“You seem disappointed.” Mr. Green says
“It’s just that I’ve been giving you my plants for months now and you’ve only got a room full.” Dante says
“A few of them didn’t survive the move.” Mr. Green says
“Not my fault.” Dante says, “I expect a full payment.”
“Of course.” Mr. Green stammers, “I intend to pay you back fully.”
“I don’t care what you have to do.” Dante says, “Make your little clients work overtime, just get my money.”
“I will.” Mr. Green says, “You won’t be disappointed.”
“I like to hear that.” Dante says says, “I really like you Thallo. You’re a strong man. Good string character with good money. I’d hate to see that all blow up.”
At the Hampshire Tavern, Miss Emily Peach rushes in to see it is mostly empty except for an older man hunched over the bar. Miss Peach goes over to the bar and the bartender walks over to her as she gives a concerned look to the older man.
“He’s been here all night.” The bartender says, “His wife is cheating.”
Miss Peach nods in an understanding way.
“Can I get you a coffee?” asks the bartender
“That would be nice.” Miss Peach says
“What do you like in your coffee?” asks the bartender
“Whiskey,” Miss Peach says, “Without the coffee.”
“You don’t seem like the drinking type.” The bartender pours her a shot
“Well, when you are preparing to tell a random man you’ve never met before that you are his daughter, it takes its toll.” Miss Peach downs it, “Also since I’m sleeping with a man who is married. I’ll have another.”
“You get mixed with a bad crowd.” The bartender pours her another
“So,” Miss Peach says, “I’m from America and bars might be a little different there, but aren’t you supposed to give me some tips and make my life meaningful.”
The old man sits up, “At least you have something to live for.” He steps up into the light. It’s Colonel Mustard. He sits down next to Miss Peach.
“When you are my age,” Colonel Mustard says, “The drama of finding your long-lost family brings joy and hope. It gives you dreams at night when you are thinking about kicking the chair out from under you.”
“I’m sorry.” Miss Peach says
“Don’t be sorry.” Colonel Mustard says, “Its life. Life’s a bitch, and then you die. We’ll both have another. On me.”
The bartender fixes their drinks as Miss Peach continues.
“It just seems like anything I do, whenever I find pleasure or happiness it ends in a horrible way.” Miss Peach says
“I know you’ve heard this song already but: its life.” Colonel Mustard says as they both down their drinks together, “Live it up while you’re young and the surprises are unlimited. When you are my age there is really only one surprise left.”
Colonel Mustard reaches into his pocket and puts £100 on the bar, “Keep the change.”
The bartender takes the money as Colonel Mustard exits the tavern.
“You should go to the Black Estate and see Claire Rose.” The bartender says, “She’s the town’s psychic. She is very good. Maybe she can help you find your father.”
“I don’t need help finding him. I need to gain the courage to tell him who I am. I have his name.” Miss Peach says
“Who is it?” asks the bartender, “I get all sorts of people here and it’s a small town. I’m sure I can at least point you in the direction of your father.”
“Algernon Mustard.” Miss Peach says with some hesitation
“Well, you and your father just had drinks together.” The bartender winks.
At the Meadow-Brook’s Home, Jane Meadow-Brook sits at the breakfast table in her night robe with Jessica who is in her school uniform. Miles Meadow-Brook stands in his business suit near the window. Morning sunlight is pouring into the room, giving it a yellow glow. The police officer’s stand there.
“I’m Officer Lyle Ebony.” The tall one says, “This is my partner, Officer Stan Pyrite.”
“What is this all about,” Jane says with a yawn, “We have family matters to deal with.”
“Was your paper delivered yesterday by Scott Black?” Officer Ebony asks
“Yes,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “I mean I would assume it was by little Scotty, but I didn’t actually see him.”
“I did.” Jessica says as everyone’s attention is drawn to her, “I was combing my hair and I saw him ride his bike in the reflection of my mirror.”
“You are certain it was him?” asks Officer Ebony
“There aren’t very many little blonde paper boys in this town. I guarantee it was him.” Jessica says
“Jessica,” Officer Ebony looks at his notebook, “What is your relationship with the Black’s?”
“Their oldest son, Jet and I occasionally flirt.” She blushes
“Oh for the love of Jesus,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook shouts, “Can we stay on topic and get this over with?”
“Mrs. Meadow-Brook, you seem a bit bitter?” Officer Ebony says
“Yes, I am rather bitter.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “I found out less than twenty four hours ago that my husband is screwing a young blonde girl. I have every right to be bitter.”
“Ma’am,” Officer Pyrite says, “I understand your anger, I really do, but we are trying to find out what happened to Scott Black.”
“Something happened to him?” Jessica asks with nervousness
“He’s missing.” Officer Ebony says, “We believe he was kidnapped during his paper route. Now I would like to know everyone’s relationship with the Black’s to find out if anyone would want to hurt their child.”
At Tudor Close, in the Kitchen, Mrs. White scrubs the breakfast dishes while humming quietly.
“Good morning, Blanche.” Mr. Ash says
“Oh did you sleep well, Reggie?” Mrs. White asks cheerfully
“I did.” Mr. Ash smiles, “Thank you for letting me sleep the morning in.”
“After the lengthy night with the police, I figured the least I could do is make sure you got a sound sleep.” Mrs. White turns back to the sink while humming again
“You seem very cheerful this morning.” Mr. Ash says, “Under the circumstances I thought you’d be a bit more solemn.”
“Well,” Mrs. White spins around, “Madame Rose read Mrs. Black’s tea leaves this morning and she said that Scott will be back before the night is over.”
“Oh tosh,” Mr. Ash scoffs as he picks up the dry dishes and begins to put them away, “You mustn’t believe everything Madame Rose says.”
“Why ever not?” asks Mrs. White, “She’s been 100% honest with me.”
“Yes,” Mr. Ash says, “But all that psychic mumbo jumbo…”
“She confided in me about Bryce.” Mrs. White says
Mr. Ash drops the remaining plates onto the kitchen’s cobblestone floor. The plates shatter to bits while Mrs. White stands at the sink watching Mr. Ash.
“She told you about Bryce.” Mr. Ash says
“She certainly did.” Mrs. White says taken back by the sudden crash of plates.
“What exactly did she tell you?” Mr. Ash asks
“She told me about her sister Estelle.” Mrs. White says, “She told me that she was drunk and fell on top of the poor boy as they fell down the stairs. She told me that both Estelle and Bryce were buried in the backyard and that they couldn’t go to the police because they may have taken Jet away.”
“Oh.” Mr. Ash says with confusion
“Oh?” Mrs. White says, “What do you mean by ‘oh’?”
“Nothing.” Mr. Ash says quickly, “I’m just surprised you aren’t still upset about the whole matter.”
“She lied to me, didn’t she?” Mrs. White asks
“No no no.” Mr. Ash says fumbling around the floor with the broken pieces of glass, “Mrs. White would you be a dear and get the broom.”
“You are lying to me Reginald Ash!” Mrs. White says tapping her foot with anger
“Lying?” Mr. Ash says with a laugh that is more of a snort, “Oh don’t be daft. I… I don’t lie. Now would you please go fetch that broom.”
At the Green Home, there is a knock at the door. Mr. Green closes the grow house door and bolts it. He walks in the hallway and sees two officers at the front door.
“Oh god.” He swallows hard. He rushes to the cloak closet and puts on a roman collar and a green vest. There is a knock at the door again. He quickly pulls a bible from the top shelf of his closet and walks to the front door and opens it with a cheeky grin on his face.
“Thallo Green?” asks Officer Ebony
“Yes my child?” he asks in the most angelic and priestly tone
“Can we have a word with you?” asks Officer Ebony
“Of course, please come in.” Mr. Green says
“I didn’t realize you were a priest.” Officer Pyrite says
“Recently ordained.” Mr. Green lies, “It was my calling and you should never turn down a call from the Lord.”
“Well,” Officer Ebony says after a moments pause, “Did you recieve your newspaper yesterday?”
“Yes.” Mr. Green says, “A little boy came to my door and told me he was my paper boy. I’m new to this street so we worked out his pay and he was on his merry way.”
“I see.” Officer Ebony says
“We have a warrant to search the premise.” Officer Ebony says
“Oh dear.” Mr. Green says, “Whatever for?”
“We believe the boy was kidnapped.” Officer Ebony says
“Oh my.” Mr. Green says, “I suppose you could come on through. Forgive the mess. I’m still unpacking.”
There is a knock at the door. For a brief moment Mr. Green believes that God really heard his cry of help and sent this messenger to his door.
“Mrs. Meadow-Brook,” Mr. Green says cheerfully as he answers the door.
“Mr… ehh Reverend Green.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says with confusion, “I saw the officers come over to your home and I realized I forgot to tell them that I have a key for Ms. Curry’s home.”
“You do?” asks Officer Ebony, “That would be the house that no one answered, 357 Ceil Drive?”
“Yes.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says
“She was a suspicious woman.” ‘Reverend’ Green says, “She came by and threatened me for no reason.”
“She was supposed to have left for Scotland to visit her sister.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says
“She might be holding the boy hostage.” Officer Pyrite says with urgency as he takes the key from Mrs. Meadow-Brook. The two officer’s rush out of the house in the direction of the Curry Home leaving Mrs. Meadow-Brook and Mr. Green in the doorway.
“You are really going to have to explain this charade Marc.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says
“Thallo. You will call me Thallo Green like we discussed. Unless you want me to refer to your prior name as well.” Mr. Green says tearing off his Roman collar and letting Mrs. Meadow-Brook into the house.
“I take it you are still growing?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook asks
“Not that it is any of your business but yes I am.” Mr. Green says
“I just thought you would have learned your lesson after what happened in Paris.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says sitting down in his on the sofa.
The officers reach the front door and unlock it. They look around nervously and see that all the current newspapers are laying on her hall table next to a piece of Lead Piping and two pairs of rusty colored gloves. Officer Pyrite goes to the kitchen while Officer Ebony goes to the Basement door.
“Oh my god!” Officer Pyrite shouts.
Officer Ebony rushes back up the basement stairs to the sound of Officer Pyrite who is at the backdoor looking outside. They exit the house to see Ms. Curry discolored, laying limp next to the clothesline. The rope is clearly visible around her swollen neck. The sheets continue to blow quietly in the wind.
“We need to search her house. Maybe Scott is in there.”
They enter the house and Officer Pyrite picks up the phone and calls the Station. “357 Ceil Drive there has been a murder.”
Officer Ebony and Officer Pyrite head down the stairs to the basement to see a furnace, a coal bin, and a work bench. Along the wall is a small wooden door with a padlock on it. He sees the key still in the padlock and unlocks the door. He opens it and sees the faces of the three prisoners, Scott Black, Chandler Weiss, and Sabata Bronce.