Episode 49 – “The Garden Party” Part II
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Sylvia Black overdoses on morphine. Madame Rose tells Mrs. Meadow-Brook a startling premonition. Mrs. Peacock agrees to marry Colonel Mustard. Mr. Meadow-Brook blackmails Professor Plum about his affair with Roxanne Prussian and manipulates him to kill Rusty Naylor. Professor Plum reluctantly agrees. Mr. Ash finds Sylvia Black passed out in the Conservatory and is confronted by Prince Azure. Mr. Meadow-Brook tries to make an advance at Miss Scarlet which is overseen by Mrs. Peacock. Mrs. Peacock attacks Mr. Meadow-Brook which Mrs. Meadow-Brook witnesses. Mr. Meadow-Brook makes the public announcement that he and Jane are getting a divorce. Lord Grey finds Jet and Lady Lavender in the Stables after they have had sex. Lord Grey picks up a heavy Wrench and approaches Jet…
-Saturday, May 14, 1949 –
-Early Afternoon-
“Please no!” Lady Lavender shouts covering her bare chest with her wrinkled kimono as Lord Grey extends his arm over his head with the Wrench grasped firmly under his fingers. Jet Black winces and cowers against the hay.
“One more step and you’re dead.” A voice says from behind them
They turn to see Mr. Green holding a gun in one hand and a briefcase in the other.
“Who in blazes are you?” Lord Grey asks dropping the Wrench on the floor and crossing his arms.
“Jet’s father.” Mr. Green says
Jet avoids eye contact with Mr. Green.
“Come Su Sian.” Lord Grey says as Lady Lavender finishes getting dressed.
Lady Lavender hangs her head and follows Lord Grey.
“What the hell happened?” asks Mr. Green
“What does it look like?” Jet asks putting on his sock
“You need to be careful.” Mr. Green says
“She likes me and I like her.” Jet says buttoning his shirt, “What’s the big deal.”
“The big deal is that you now have an enemy who wants you dead.” Mr. Green says, “If I wasn’t here you might be dead.”
“Stop bothering me!” Jet shouts, “You’ll never be my father!”
“Jet,” Mr. Green sighs putting the gun away
“My father was Hugh Black.” Jet says, “All you will ever be is a street thug.”
In the Garage, Rusty Naylor walks over to the wooden cabinet and hangs up the Garden Shears. He reaches into his back pocket in pulls out the ball-headed hammer which he was hiding.
“Time to pay Mr. Meadow-Brook a visit.” Rusty says
“I wouldn’t if I were you.” Professor Plum says from the doorway. He is clutching onto a Tennis Racquet.
“Professor,” Rusty tips his cap to Professor Plum.
“Unfortunately I can’t let you go near Mr. Meadow-Brook.” Professor Plum says, “I’m not entirely sure why but I do know that I have to do this for the sake of my freedom.”
“What are you going on about?” Rusty asks as Professor Plum comes closer.
Professor Plum grinds his teeth and swings the Tennis Racquet at Rusty Naylor’s head. Rusty grips onto the handle of the Hammer and prepares to defend himself from the wood frame of the Tennis Racquet, but meets his head before he can protect himself. Rusty falls to the floor of the Garage. Professor Plum drops the Tennis Racquet and drags Rusty by the feet towards the side door. In the Gazebo, Mrs. Blanche White sips on her Gin and Tonic as she watches Miss Peach, Lady Oakwood, Mayor Cerise, and Madame Rose play croquet. She notices Percival Oakwood and his father in the lawn near the croquet field.
-FLASHBACK- MAY 8-
Outside of the Hampshire Convent, Mrs. White makes her way across the old cobblestone street. She is wearing a dark cloak to hide her face. The glow of a dim street light silhouettes her as she climbs the steps. She reaches for the doorbell when Sister Mary Marjorie steps out of the shadows of the porte chocere.
“Don’t ring the bell,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “The other sisters will hear.”
“I’m sorry I had to meet you out here,” Mrs. White says, “It would be too risky back at home.”
“I understand,” Sister Mary Marjorie says
Mrs. White hands takes her hands into her hands, “I wanted to thank you personally for lying for me.”
“I understand your reasons.” Sister Mary Marjorie says
“Madame Rose doesn’t deserve to know her son after abandoning him.” Mrs. White says
“Or that her son is alive and well, living in the same town as her.” Sister Mary Marjorie adds
“Now,” Mrs. White says removing the hood of her cloak, “I need you to do one more thing for me…”
“How typical of you,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “Once you get me involved in one con you just keep pushing don’t you.”
“Just work with me,” Mrs. White says bitterly, “Once the baby is born we are set to get the revenge we deserve.”
“You deserve.” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “I’ve gotten sick of you anger and resentment years ago. It was a childhood crush, you need to move on.”
“That bitch stole my man away from me and he grew to treat me like garbage.” Mrs. White says, “I’ll do anything in my
power to hurt her.”
-END OF FLASHBACK-
Mrs. White smirks and stares off into the distance beyond the croquet players and through the thick forest trees which surround the premise. “Time to get on with it.” Mrs. White says drunkenly as she tosses her glass against the bricks that fence in the marigolds around the Gazebo. The glass shatters upon impact. At the steps leading to the front door of Tudor Close, Scott sits on the bottom step playing with some leaves that he plucked from the bushes. Jet hurries past adjusting his rumpled clothing.
“What’s wrong?” Scott asks following his visibly upset brother into the house.
“Leave me alone.” Jet says climbing the stairs. Scott stands at the foot of the stairs with an angry look on his face.
“You never tell me anything!” he shouts. He angrily rushes into the Conservatory and stops dead in his tracks as he sees Mr. Ash and his mother bound together in the center of the room.
“Oh god,” Scott’s face gets tense as tears begin to fall from his eyes, “Not again.”
“Change of plans.” Prince Azure says emotionlessly, “I guess I’ll be taking three captives today rather than two.”
Scott stands motionless as the Conservatory door creaks closed behind him.
“Get over here,” Prince Azure motions
Scott lowers his head in mortified anticipation and fears what new horrors lie in store for him.
“I said come here,” Prince Azure snaps angrily
“Scott,” Sylvia says sorrowfully, “Do what he says.”
Scott stands his ground and remains resilient. Prince Azure snatches a knife from his belt and with a flick the silvery blade brings it against Scott’s throat.
“I hate to ruin your confidence in yourself but you are no longer the center of my intentions.” Price Azure says, “If you don’t get over on the floor with your mother and butler I will slit your throat and watch your blood drain all over the floor.”
Scott winces and closes his eyes and gently nods. Prince Azure gently takes the knife away from his throat and puts it away as Scott sits next to his bound mother.
“Perfect.” Prince Azure says with a smirk, “And no one is hurt either.”
In the Garage, Professor Plum opens the trunk of a car and puts a small screwdriver in Rusty’s limp hand. He proceeds to hotwire the Rolls Royce Convertible. Exhaust fumes begin to pour into the Garage as Professor Plum gets out of the car and takes one look at Rusty before leaving the Garage. Rusty begins to awaken on the floor of the garage and holds his head. He lets the screwdriver roll under the car which he realizes has it’s motor running.
“Dear goodness!” Rusty shouts standing up and beginning to cough. He grabs the Tennis Racquet and exits the back door of the Garage to see Professor Plum heading away.
“What the hell is wrong with you?” Rusty smacks the Tennis Racquet against the hedges
“Rusty,” Professor Plum is shocked and horrified to see him
“Start talking,” Rusty says
“Meadow-Brook made me,” Professor Plum caves in, “Blackmailed me.”
“You bloody bastard,” Rusty shouts, “Don’t you know how to handle blackmailers?”
“Not exactly,” Professor Plum says, “My life is rather innocent and tame… aside from the current bit of drama I’m all caught up in.”
“The blackmailer wants you to kill someone, which means you aren’t against murder,” Rusty says, “Kill the bloody blackmailer, you will be free from the bondage of secrets.”
Professor Plum’s face grows tense.
“Better take care of it sooner than later,” Rusty hands Professor Plum the Tennis Racquet and walks off.
“He’s right,” Professor Plum says with a smirk
At the Gate House, Mrs. Jane Meadow-Brook stands outside the stone building with her hand clutching the open iron gates. She is staring off into the forest.
“Jane,” a voice calls out
She turns around to see Mr. Green heading towards her.
“What do you want,” she turns her face away from her brother
“I just wanted to see if you’ve seen or heard from Sylvia Black lately,” Mr. Green says, “I have this theory as to where a man I’m hunting down is going to be hiding.”
“So you are an assassin now?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook asks without interest or emotion
“I’m moving up,” Mr. Green says, “I’m no longer the errand boy, Jane. I am second hand to Mr. O’Range. I can finally provide the life of luxury which I wanted for my little sister.”
“Why don’t you leave your little sister alone,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “She doesn’t want to talk to you?”
“What is on your mind?” Mr. Green says, “Let me help you.”
“No!” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “Just leave. Leave Hampshire and do what you do best. Leave my life.”
“Jane,” Mr. Green says putting his hand on her shoulder, “I have always looked out for you. Tell me what is wrong and I will fix it.”
“Do you really want to know?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says
“Yes,” Mr. Green says, “What kind of brother would I be if I didn’t help you when you are in need?”
“Kill Miles.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says as tears falls from his, “I don’t even care anymore. If he was a good father and husband he would have been there for Jessica when she was in need. He was too busy sleeping around with young women. Now he’s moved on to Miss Scarlet.”
“I thought he was trying to stay loyal to you.” Mr. Green says
“He always had a weakness for young beautiful women.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says
“You want him dead.” Mr. Green says
“Anytime I think of the divorce I think of all the further conversations we will have together. I don’t want to give him a chance to worm back into my heart. I want him gone. I don’t want to see his face again!” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says angrily as she wipes away her tears, “Make it quick and easy. Make it look like an accident.”
“Are you certain?” Mr. Green asks
“Yes,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook sighs, “I am certain that this will remove the burden from my life.”
In the Boat House, Miss Peach throws open the door and looks around, “Hello? Is someone in here?”
She walks through the messy storage building and makes her way to the door leading to the Boat Dock. Once there she sees Miss Scarlet stand up from the edge of the dock. Her hand, arm, and the hammer she grips onto are dripping with water.
“Cynthia,” Miss Peach is confused, “I thought I heard someone talking over here.”
“You must have been mistaken.” Miss Scarlet says brushing past her
“Have you seen Mrs. Black?” asks Miss Peach
“Georgia,” Miss Scarlet rolls her eyes and turns to her, “You are a sweet innocent girl who is probably just set on finding answers.”
“I am,” Miss Peach says with eagerness in her voice
“You need to move on and do something else.” Miss Scarlet says, “This town is not a place for answers, it’s a place for secrets.”
“I don’t understand.” Miss Peach says
“People have secrets.” Miss Scarlet says, “Secrets they will kill to keep. I suggest you keep your nose in your own business if you don’t want to end up murdered.”
Miss Peach is startled by Miss Scarlet’s blunt words.
“Enjoy the party.” Miss Scarlet leaves her alone on the Boat Dock.
At the Gazebo, Lord Oakwood sips on some tea while Percival stands with his back to the railing. Lady Oakwood comes over to them and sits down with her husband.
“I’m not feeling well.” Lady Oakwood says
“Maybe we should go home,” Percival says, “I mean we’ve already heard the divorce announcement.”
“No,” Lady Oakwood says, “It is barely past noon. We are going to stay and show that we are once again members of society
and that we are not afraid to mingle with the gossipers and adulterers.”
“What a charming party,” Mayor Cerise says as she fixes herself plate of finger sandwiches and potato salad.
“So tell us,” Lady Oakwood says, “What are your plans after your mayoral term runs out.”
“I’m going to try my hand at governess.” Mayor Cerise says, “I think I can set the steady example of a strong-minded woman who knows how to handle affairs with grace and dignity.”
“That is exactly how I feel,” Lady Oakwood says, “Edward may be the man of the home but I’ve successfully created order and a strong foundation of rules.”
“Women are growing strong and independent.” Mayor Cerise says
“And with King George VI and his illness it won’t be long before his daughter takes the throne.” Lady Oakwood says
“How terrible to suggest,” Mayor Cerise says
“We all know it’s going to happen sooner or later.” Lady Oakwood says
“Let’s just hope later than sooner.” Mayor Cerise says
“Ladies,” Lord Grey nods entering the Gazebo with Lady Lavender at his side. She is quiet and reserved.
“Lord Grey,” Mayor Cerise nods
“Maybe my ears were just burning but were we having a political conversation?” Lord Grey takes a seat
“Unfortunately you just missed it,” Lady Oakwood says crudely. Mrs. White approaches the group with a look of anger on her face.
“Have you seen Sylvia lately?” Mayor Cerise asks
“If one more person asks me that question today I will go crazy.” Mrs. White says sitting down abruptly, “No I have not seen her. Perhaps it is for the best. Lord knows what I’d say after the way she snubbed me.”
In the Conservatory, Scott Black is confined with his mother and butler. Prince Azure stands looking out at the party guests through the windows.
“Looks like they are getting a bit anxious.” Prince Azure says, “Maybe we should give them a little excitement.”
“The bomb,” Sylvia says
“Yes, what about it?” asks Prince Azure
“Philippe,” Sylvia begs, “Please, get rid of it. I’ll do anything you want.”
“I know you will,” Prince Azure says, “That’s why I need you and your lovely son as the pawns in the next part of this lovely game.”
“And me?” Mr. Ash asks
“I will be upfront and tell you the truth,” Prince Azure gets down to eye level with Ash, “You are the exposable one. If they don’t cooperate and the game starts going in the wrong direction you will be killed.”
“I’m so sorry, Reggie,” Sylvia says
“Just keep me alive,” Mr. Ash says bitterly, “And I expect a raise after all this is settled.”
“This will never be settled.” Prince Azure says darkly
“How long until the bomb goes off?” Scott whispers to his mother in fear
“Eight minutes.” Prince Azure says pulling out his pocket watch.
In the Garden, Rusty Naylor stands near the shrubs with his Garden Shears in hand. He glances at Professor Plum who nods in his direction. Professor Plum is standing near Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard who toast champagne to each other. Miss Scarlet stands near the Gazebo with her arms crossed. Mrs. White stands in the Gazebo leaning on the rail clutching her drink. The Oakwoods talk politely with Mayor Cerise in the Gazebo. Jet Black stands near the Tennis Courts watching Lady Lavender and Lord Grey who stand near the fountain in the center of the Garden. Mr. Green comes behind Jet.
“I’m sorry for the way I’ve left things.” Mr. Green says
“Don’t!” Jet puts his hand between them
“I just want you to know that I will be back one day.” Mr. Green says, “Until then I want you to take care of your mother and little brother.”
Mr. Green walks away from him and towards the Gate House. He passes Roxanne Prussian on his way out. Mrs. Prussian walks over to the Garden where everyone is mingling. She taps Professor Plum on the shoulder.
“What did I miss?” she asks
“Roxanne get out of here.” Professor Plum says
“I’m sorry?” she is confused
“I can’t explain it,” Professor Plum says, “But you need to get out of here before anyone else becomes suspicious of us.”
“Anyone else?” asks Roxanne
“I’ve got it under control.” Professor Plum says
“Greg,” Roxanne stands in front of him, “I’m not leaving until you tell me what is going on!”
Madame Rose and Mr. Boddy stand with each other on the Terrace across from the Garden.
“Have we been chosen as the new hosts of this party?” asks Mr. Boddy
“Sylvia took it upon herself to disappear,” Madame Rose says, “So I guess we should lead this crowd.”
“Where is that little blonde girl from the other night?” asks Mr. Boddy
“Miss Peach?” Madame Rose says surveying the group, “I don’t see her.”
“I don’t see the Meadow-Brook’s either.” Mr. Boddy says
“My premonition.” Madame Rose says softly
“What premonition?” asks Mr. Boddy in confusion
Madame Rose walks away from Mr. Boddy and heads to the Garden. From the stone fountain in the center of the Garden a faint ticking noise can be heard. Underneath the second fountain tier the bomb is strapped to the concrete. All the guests chat merrily with each other unaware of the impending danger. Inside the Conservatory, Prince Azure turns and looks towards the Garden.
“Let the game begin.” Prince Azure smirks.
Sylvia’s eyes fixate on the Garden as smoke, stone, and leaves are thrown about in a sudden explosion. A tear rolls down her cheek.
-Saturday, May 14, 1949 –
-Early Afternoon-
“Please no!” Lady Lavender shouts covering her bare chest with her wrinkled kimono as Lord Grey extends his arm over his head with the Wrench grasped firmly under his fingers. Jet Black winces and cowers against the hay.
“One more step and you’re dead.” A voice says from behind them
They turn to see Mr. Green holding a gun in one hand and a briefcase in the other.
“Who in blazes are you?” Lord Grey asks dropping the Wrench on the floor and crossing his arms.
“Jet’s father.” Mr. Green says
Jet avoids eye contact with Mr. Green.
“Come Su Sian.” Lord Grey says as Lady Lavender finishes getting dressed.
Lady Lavender hangs her head and follows Lord Grey.
“What the hell happened?” asks Mr. Green
“What does it look like?” Jet asks putting on his sock
“You need to be careful.” Mr. Green says
“She likes me and I like her.” Jet says buttoning his shirt, “What’s the big deal.”
“The big deal is that you now have an enemy who wants you dead.” Mr. Green says, “If I wasn’t here you might be dead.”
“Stop bothering me!” Jet shouts, “You’ll never be my father!”
“Jet,” Mr. Green sighs putting the gun away
“My father was Hugh Black.” Jet says, “All you will ever be is a street thug.”
In the Garage, Rusty Naylor walks over to the wooden cabinet and hangs up the Garden Shears. He reaches into his back pocket in pulls out the ball-headed hammer which he was hiding.
“Time to pay Mr. Meadow-Brook a visit.” Rusty says
“I wouldn’t if I were you.” Professor Plum says from the doorway. He is clutching onto a Tennis Racquet.
“Professor,” Rusty tips his cap to Professor Plum.
“Unfortunately I can’t let you go near Mr. Meadow-Brook.” Professor Plum says, “I’m not entirely sure why but I do know that I have to do this for the sake of my freedom.”
“What are you going on about?” Rusty asks as Professor Plum comes closer.
Professor Plum grinds his teeth and swings the Tennis Racquet at Rusty Naylor’s head. Rusty grips onto the handle of the Hammer and prepares to defend himself from the wood frame of the Tennis Racquet, but meets his head before he can protect himself. Rusty falls to the floor of the Garage. Professor Plum drops the Tennis Racquet and drags Rusty by the feet towards the side door. In the Gazebo, Mrs. Blanche White sips on her Gin and Tonic as she watches Miss Peach, Lady Oakwood, Mayor Cerise, and Madame Rose play croquet. She notices Percival Oakwood and his father in the lawn near the croquet field.
-FLASHBACK- MAY 8-
Outside of the Hampshire Convent, Mrs. White makes her way across the old cobblestone street. She is wearing a dark cloak to hide her face. The glow of a dim street light silhouettes her as she climbs the steps. She reaches for the doorbell when Sister Mary Marjorie steps out of the shadows of the porte chocere.
“Don’t ring the bell,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “The other sisters will hear.”
“I’m sorry I had to meet you out here,” Mrs. White says, “It would be too risky back at home.”
“I understand,” Sister Mary Marjorie says
Mrs. White hands takes her hands into her hands, “I wanted to thank you personally for lying for me.”
“I understand your reasons.” Sister Mary Marjorie says
“Madame Rose doesn’t deserve to know her son after abandoning him.” Mrs. White says
“Or that her son is alive and well, living in the same town as her.” Sister Mary Marjorie adds
“Now,” Mrs. White says removing the hood of her cloak, “I need you to do one more thing for me…”
“How typical of you,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “Once you get me involved in one con you just keep pushing don’t you.”
“Just work with me,” Mrs. White says bitterly, “Once the baby is born we are set to get the revenge we deserve.”
“You deserve.” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “I’ve gotten sick of you anger and resentment years ago. It was a childhood crush, you need to move on.”
“That bitch stole my man away from me and he grew to treat me like garbage.” Mrs. White says, “I’ll do anything in my
power to hurt her.”
-END OF FLASHBACK-
Mrs. White smirks and stares off into the distance beyond the croquet players and through the thick forest trees which surround the premise. “Time to get on with it.” Mrs. White says drunkenly as she tosses her glass against the bricks that fence in the marigolds around the Gazebo. The glass shatters upon impact. At the steps leading to the front door of Tudor Close, Scott sits on the bottom step playing with some leaves that he plucked from the bushes. Jet hurries past adjusting his rumpled clothing.
“What’s wrong?” Scott asks following his visibly upset brother into the house.
“Leave me alone.” Jet says climbing the stairs. Scott stands at the foot of the stairs with an angry look on his face.
“You never tell me anything!” he shouts. He angrily rushes into the Conservatory and stops dead in his tracks as he sees Mr. Ash and his mother bound together in the center of the room.
“Oh god,” Scott’s face gets tense as tears begin to fall from his eyes, “Not again.”
“Change of plans.” Prince Azure says emotionlessly, “I guess I’ll be taking three captives today rather than two.”
Scott stands motionless as the Conservatory door creaks closed behind him.
“Get over here,” Prince Azure motions
Scott lowers his head in mortified anticipation and fears what new horrors lie in store for him.
“I said come here,” Prince Azure snaps angrily
“Scott,” Sylvia says sorrowfully, “Do what he says.”
Scott stands his ground and remains resilient. Prince Azure snatches a knife from his belt and with a flick the silvery blade brings it against Scott’s throat.
“I hate to ruin your confidence in yourself but you are no longer the center of my intentions.” Price Azure says, “If you don’t get over on the floor with your mother and butler I will slit your throat and watch your blood drain all over the floor.”
Scott winces and closes his eyes and gently nods. Prince Azure gently takes the knife away from his throat and puts it away as Scott sits next to his bound mother.
“Perfect.” Prince Azure says with a smirk, “And no one is hurt either.”
In the Garage, Professor Plum opens the trunk of a car and puts a small screwdriver in Rusty’s limp hand. He proceeds to hotwire the Rolls Royce Convertible. Exhaust fumes begin to pour into the Garage as Professor Plum gets out of the car and takes one look at Rusty before leaving the Garage. Rusty begins to awaken on the floor of the garage and holds his head. He lets the screwdriver roll under the car which he realizes has it’s motor running.
“Dear goodness!” Rusty shouts standing up and beginning to cough. He grabs the Tennis Racquet and exits the back door of the Garage to see Professor Plum heading away.
“What the hell is wrong with you?” Rusty smacks the Tennis Racquet against the hedges
“Rusty,” Professor Plum is shocked and horrified to see him
“Start talking,” Rusty says
“Meadow-Brook made me,” Professor Plum caves in, “Blackmailed me.”
“You bloody bastard,” Rusty shouts, “Don’t you know how to handle blackmailers?”
“Not exactly,” Professor Plum says, “My life is rather innocent and tame… aside from the current bit of drama I’m all caught up in.”
“The blackmailer wants you to kill someone, which means you aren’t against murder,” Rusty says, “Kill the bloody blackmailer, you will be free from the bondage of secrets.”
Professor Plum’s face grows tense.
“Better take care of it sooner than later,” Rusty hands Professor Plum the Tennis Racquet and walks off.
“He’s right,” Professor Plum says with a smirk
At the Gate House, Mrs. Jane Meadow-Brook stands outside the stone building with her hand clutching the open iron gates. She is staring off into the forest.
“Jane,” a voice calls out
She turns around to see Mr. Green heading towards her.
“What do you want,” she turns her face away from her brother
“I just wanted to see if you’ve seen or heard from Sylvia Black lately,” Mr. Green says, “I have this theory as to where a man I’m hunting down is going to be hiding.”
“So you are an assassin now?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook asks without interest or emotion
“I’m moving up,” Mr. Green says, “I’m no longer the errand boy, Jane. I am second hand to Mr. O’Range. I can finally provide the life of luxury which I wanted for my little sister.”
“Why don’t you leave your little sister alone,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “She doesn’t want to talk to you?”
“What is on your mind?” Mr. Green says, “Let me help you.”
“No!” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “Just leave. Leave Hampshire and do what you do best. Leave my life.”
“Jane,” Mr. Green says putting his hand on her shoulder, “I have always looked out for you. Tell me what is wrong and I will fix it.”
“Do you really want to know?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says
“Yes,” Mr. Green says, “What kind of brother would I be if I didn’t help you when you are in need?”
“Kill Miles.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says as tears falls from his, “I don’t even care anymore. If he was a good father and husband he would have been there for Jessica when she was in need. He was too busy sleeping around with young women. Now he’s moved on to Miss Scarlet.”
“I thought he was trying to stay loyal to you.” Mr. Green says
“He always had a weakness for young beautiful women.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says
“You want him dead.” Mr. Green says
“Anytime I think of the divorce I think of all the further conversations we will have together. I don’t want to give him a chance to worm back into my heart. I want him gone. I don’t want to see his face again!” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says angrily as she wipes away her tears, “Make it quick and easy. Make it look like an accident.”
“Are you certain?” Mr. Green asks
“Yes,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook sighs, “I am certain that this will remove the burden from my life.”
In the Boat House, Miss Peach throws open the door and looks around, “Hello? Is someone in here?”
She walks through the messy storage building and makes her way to the door leading to the Boat Dock. Once there she sees Miss Scarlet stand up from the edge of the dock. Her hand, arm, and the hammer she grips onto are dripping with water.
“Cynthia,” Miss Peach is confused, “I thought I heard someone talking over here.”
“You must have been mistaken.” Miss Scarlet says brushing past her
“Have you seen Mrs. Black?” asks Miss Peach
“Georgia,” Miss Scarlet rolls her eyes and turns to her, “You are a sweet innocent girl who is probably just set on finding answers.”
“I am,” Miss Peach says with eagerness in her voice
“You need to move on and do something else.” Miss Scarlet says, “This town is not a place for answers, it’s a place for secrets.”
“I don’t understand.” Miss Peach says
“People have secrets.” Miss Scarlet says, “Secrets they will kill to keep. I suggest you keep your nose in your own business if you don’t want to end up murdered.”
Miss Peach is startled by Miss Scarlet’s blunt words.
“Enjoy the party.” Miss Scarlet leaves her alone on the Boat Dock.
At the Gazebo, Lord Oakwood sips on some tea while Percival stands with his back to the railing. Lady Oakwood comes over to them and sits down with her husband.
“I’m not feeling well.” Lady Oakwood says
“Maybe we should go home,” Percival says, “I mean we’ve already heard the divorce announcement.”
“No,” Lady Oakwood says, “It is barely past noon. We are going to stay and show that we are once again members of society
and that we are not afraid to mingle with the gossipers and adulterers.”
“What a charming party,” Mayor Cerise says as she fixes herself plate of finger sandwiches and potato salad.
“So tell us,” Lady Oakwood says, “What are your plans after your mayoral term runs out.”
“I’m going to try my hand at governess.” Mayor Cerise says, “I think I can set the steady example of a strong-minded woman who knows how to handle affairs with grace and dignity.”
“That is exactly how I feel,” Lady Oakwood says, “Edward may be the man of the home but I’ve successfully created order and a strong foundation of rules.”
“Women are growing strong and independent.” Mayor Cerise says
“And with King George VI and his illness it won’t be long before his daughter takes the throne.” Lady Oakwood says
“How terrible to suggest,” Mayor Cerise says
“We all know it’s going to happen sooner or later.” Lady Oakwood says
“Let’s just hope later than sooner.” Mayor Cerise says
“Ladies,” Lord Grey nods entering the Gazebo with Lady Lavender at his side. She is quiet and reserved.
“Lord Grey,” Mayor Cerise nods
“Maybe my ears were just burning but were we having a political conversation?” Lord Grey takes a seat
“Unfortunately you just missed it,” Lady Oakwood says crudely. Mrs. White approaches the group with a look of anger on her face.
“Have you seen Sylvia lately?” Mayor Cerise asks
“If one more person asks me that question today I will go crazy.” Mrs. White says sitting down abruptly, “No I have not seen her. Perhaps it is for the best. Lord knows what I’d say after the way she snubbed me.”
In the Conservatory, Scott Black is confined with his mother and butler. Prince Azure stands looking out at the party guests through the windows.
“Looks like they are getting a bit anxious.” Prince Azure says, “Maybe we should give them a little excitement.”
“The bomb,” Sylvia says
“Yes, what about it?” asks Prince Azure
“Philippe,” Sylvia begs, “Please, get rid of it. I’ll do anything you want.”
“I know you will,” Prince Azure says, “That’s why I need you and your lovely son as the pawns in the next part of this lovely game.”
“And me?” Mr. Ash asks
“I will be upfront and tell you the truth,” Prince Azure gets down to eye level with Ash, “You are the exposable one. If they don’t cooperate and the game starts going in the wrong direction you will be killed.”
“I’m so sorry, Reggie,” Sylvia says
“Just keep me alive,” Mr. Ash says bitterly, “And I expect a raise after all this is settled.”
“This will never be settled.” Prince Azure says darkly
“How long until the bomb goes off?” Scott whispers to his mother in fear
“Eight minutes.” Prince Azure says pulling out his pocket watch.
In the Garden, Rusty Naylor stands near the shrubs with his Garden Shears in hand. He glances at Professor Plum who nods in his direction. Professor Plum is standing near Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard who toast champagne to each other. Miss Scarlet stands near the Gazebo with her arms crossed. Mrs. White stands in the Gazebo leaning on the rail clutching her drink. The Oakwoods talk politely with Mayor Cerise in the Gazebo. Jet Black stands near the Tennis Courts watching Lady Lavender and Lord Grey who stand near the fountain in the center of the Garden. Mr. Green comes behind Jet.
“I’m sorry for the way I’ve left things.” Mr. Green says
“Don’t!” Jet puts his hand between them
“I just want you to know that I will be back one day.” Mr. Green says, “Until then I want you to take care of your mother and little brother.”
Mr. Green walks away from him and towards the Gate House. He passes Roxanne Prussian on his way out. Mrs. Prussian walks over to the Garden where everyone is mingling. She taps Professor Plum on the shoulder.
“What did I miss?” she asks
“Roxanne get out of here.” Professor Plum says
“I’m sorry?” she is confused
“I can’t explain it,” Professor Plum says, “But you need to get out of here before anyone else becomes suspicious of us.”
“Anyone else?” asks Roxanne
“I’ve got it under control.” Professor Plum says
“Greg,” Roxanne stands in front of him, “I’m not leaving until you tell me what is going on!”
Madame Rose and Mr. Boddy stand with each other on the Terrace across from the Garden.
“Have we been chosen as the new hosts of this party?” asks Mr. Boddy
“Sylvia took it upon herself to disappear,” Madame Rose says, “So I guess we should lead this crowd.”
“Where is that little blonde girl from the other night?” asks Mr. Boddy
“Miss Peach?” Madame Rose says surveying the group, “I don’t see her.”
“I don’t see the Meadow-Brook’s either.” Mr. Boddy says
“My premonition.” Madame Rose says softly
“What premonition?” asks Mr. Boddy in confusion
Madame Rose walks away from Mr. Boddy and heads to the Garden. From the stone fountain in the center of the Garden a faint ticking noise can be heard. Underneath the second fountain tier the bomb is strapped to the concrete. All the guests chat merrily with each other unaware of the impending danger. Inside the Conservatory, Prince Azure turns and looks towards the Garden.
“Let the game begin.” Prince Azure smirks.
Sylvia’s eyes fixate on the Garden as smoke, stone, and leaves are thrown about in a sudden explosion. A tear rolls down her cheek.