Episode 7 – “Wealth, Ignorance, and Desperation”
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Inspector Brown arrives at the remains of the Curry Home in devastation. Jane Meadow-Brook tells Miles that their marriage is over and that she wants a divorce. He explains to her that all the money he made while married to her was moved to an offshore account in his name only and that she won’t get a dime. Jane proceeds to tell Miles that after hearing about the affair she burned the bank statement. Dr. Hugh Black realizes that his heart pills have been moved on his dresser. His wife tells him it was probably Mrs. White while she was cleaning. Miss Peach gets her future read by Madame Rose and learns that her birth father, Colonel Mustard, will fall ill shortly after Miss Peach tells him that she is his daughter. Miss Peach also finds out she is pregnant with Miles’ son. Miles Meadow-Brook tells Mr. Green what happened, which enraged Mr. Green since two-thirds of the money in the account was money moved by Mr. Green, which sums up to a hefty £33,000,000. When Miles explains that Jane helped cover up the murder of the cop that Mr. Green and Miles were responsible for, Mr. Green realizes Jane wouldn’t burn it without reading how much money was in the account. They both realize Jane still has the papers and is using them to her advantage. Scott confides in his brother and tells him who kidnapped him. Jet doesn’t believe Scott when he tells him who did it and accuses him of just trying to get attention. Chandler and Miss Scarlet tell Mrs. Peacock of their engagement. When Miss Scarlet leaves to get champagne to celebrate, Mrs. Peacock asks Chandler if he intends to tell Miss Scarlet about the affair they had. When he tells her he won’t, she explains that she will tell Miss Scarlet. The housekeeper, Mrs. Myrtle overhears this entire conversation. Inspector Brown finds out that the document Detective Winters hid in his shirt is an adoption paper. Ms. Curry had twins and gave them up. He also learns that the father of the twins is Dr. Hugh Black…
-Friday, April 15, 1949-
-Dawn-
The morning air is chilling and cold. The air is wet and so is the ground. The sky is grey and windy. Mrs. Peacock stands in her garden holding a hot cup of coffee. She sees Chandler come around the side of the house in his tennis uniform. She steps off the porch with a smirk and walks over to Chandler.
“What are you doing here?” she says with a giggle
“I came to tell you that Cynthia can never know what happened between us. What happened in the past is in the past and I would like to keep it that way.” Chandler says
“I thought we said our goodbyes last night.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Please, for your step-daughter and her happiness, just let her and I see where out future may end up. Cynthia and I are around the same age and there is a large gap in age between us. Cynthia and I understand each other.” Chandler says
“Kiss me.” Mrs. Peacock says forcing herself forward towards him
“What?” Chandler gasps in shock as he backed away
“One last fling together. And I promise I will not tell Cynthia. Just give me a proper goodbye.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Don’t you think I at least deserve a proper goodbye? After everything I did for you? I helped you through the depression of the stress your mother placed on you. I helped you through those pangs of loneliness.”
“What about Cynthia?” asks Chandler looking around to make sure no one is watching.
“She doesn’t need to know. She would want to know that you are a man of honor. You must finish one chapter before starting a new chapter.” Mrs. Peacock says
“But what happens if Cynthia finds out that we continued to see each other behind her back?” Chandler asks in with a new layer of disgust and disappointment crawling over him, “Don’t you think that will get one of us killed?”
“I just want to see you long enough to embrace the fact that we both need to move on.” Mrs. Peacock says, “You’ve got Cynthia and I have my eyes on that Colonel. So this is just innocent fun with no true feelings! We are just reminiscing the old days. One more day of us. Then we are done. Think of our toss in the sheets as practice for the ones we truly do care about.”
“I can't do this!” Chandler turns away from her
“Chandler, if you leave me right now I will tell Cynthia everything we did together and she will never forgive you.” Mrs. Peacock chokes back the anger and frustration
“Why do I mean this much to you?” asks Chandler in confusion
“You are so beautiful,” Mrs. Peacock places her hands on his shoulders and moves closer to him, “It is so rare to find someone as perfect as you. If only I was younger and you could devote your time to me.”
“One last time. That is all you are going to get from me.” Chandler says with a long sigh
“Are you coming to the party tonight?” asks Mrs. Peacock, “At Tudor Close?”
“Yes, Cynthia is my date.” Chandler says, “The party is a commemoration to Scott, Sabata, and myself. Of course I will be there. I am an honored guest!”
“Maybe we can slip away from the party.” Mrs. Peacock says moving her hands down his chest towards his belt.
“That sounds dangerous. We could get caught.” Chandler says
“Oh it will be dangerous. That will make it more fun.” Mrs. Peacock drawing him in and kissing him passionately
“I should go.” Chandler says pulling off of her kiss
“Why?” Mrs. Peacock asks, becoming frustrated with his refusal to engage in their passion play
“I have that feeling like someone is watching us.” Chandler says
At the Meadow-Brook’s Home in the Breakfast Room, Jane and Miles sit at the breakfast table with their daughter Jessica as Miss Ecru serves them breakfast.
“You two haven’t said a word all morning.” Jessica says, “You two need to talk to each other. Try to work this out. This is tearing me apart to watch you two treat each other like this!”
“I have nothing to say to your father.” Jane says to her daughter, “That odious man has ruined the happiest years of my life.”
“I’m not getting in the middle of this.” Jessica says, “I have to go to school.”
Jessica gets up from the table and walks to the door but turns to face them, “Do you two even realize how much you are hurting this family?”
“This family was already tearing at the seams before his raunchy slumber party.” Jane snaps, “Just go to school. Just go.”
In the forest road that leads from Tudor Close, Jet Black walks down the gravel road with his little brother. They reach the end of the road as the Hampshire Transit pulls up to the Bus Stop. Jet notices Jessica Meadow-Brook shivering in the cold against a lamppost across the street.
“You ride the bus.” Jet instructs, “I have to make a stop before school.”
“You’ll be late.” Scott says in a taunting way
“Scott I need to make sure you get on the bus safely. If you disappear again mum and dad will kill me.” Jet says
“Couldn’t we just stay home? We could skip school today!” Scott whines, “We could just play games and do things together and go back to school when the weekend is over. I feel like something bad is going to happen today.”
“You’ll be fine.” Jet says to his brother as he watches Jessica shiver across the street
“Please! You never do anything with me anymore. We never get to spend time together” Scott says kicking the tip of his shoe into the gravel and dirt.
“We'll have plenty of time together when we go to Monte Carlo.” Jet says
“You always say that.” Scott says
“I promise. This time we will spend the whole trip together.” Jet pats him on the shoulder
“I still feel like something bad is going to happen. My stomach hurts and I feel like we should just go back home.” Scott pulls on Jet’s arm.
“Scott, you will be fine. We can’t skip school. Now get on the bus before you are late!” Jet instructs as Scott reluctantly gets on the bus. Jet turns his focus back to Jessica. He crosses the street and stands next to her, “Are you okay?”
“No,” Jessica sobs silently, “My family is falling apart and I’m caught in the middle of it.”
“I know how that feels.” Jet says, “Here.” He hands her a plastic bag.
“Marijuana?” asks Jessica looking at the rolled joints inside, “I am not going to do drugs. That will just cause worse feelings.”
“You need it more than I do.” Jet says, “Just try it.”
“Thanks, Jet.” Jessica says with nervousness, “Actually I don’t think I can go to school today.”
“Then skip it.” Jet says, “We can go back to my house.”
“I’d like that.” Jessica says
“The Servant’s door is always unlocked.” Jet says, “Go up the service stairs turn right down a hallway. Open the door next to the grandfather clock and wait for me.”
“Where are you going?” asks Jessica
“I have a stop to make.” Jet says
“Jet,” Jessica says, “I love you.” She kisses him firmly on the lips. Jet pulls back in disbelief.
“Be careful not to get caught.” Jet says walking in the direction of Ceil Drive.
Jessica walks up the winding gravel road to Tudor Close. She pulls out a joint and lights it. She inhales deeply as her head clears up from all the trauma. She holds the smoke in her lungs as her mind combs over the events between her parents and herself. Her heart hangs heavy as she recalls her childhood memories of joy and bliss which have become torn to pieces. She finally exhales the smoke and begins to feel light headed and dizzy as she staggers towards the trees on either side of her. The gravel slides from under her feet as she tumbles off the side of the road and down a steep slope in the forest. She bangs her head into the trunk of a tree. The joint falls from her fingers as a soft rain begins to fall.
Back at the Meadow-Brook’s Home, Jane Meadow-Brook sits in the Drawing Room flipping through a magazine. She can see through the open doors of the Drawing Room and Study, Miles Meadow-Brook sitting at his desk with his glasses on. He is looking over some papers but is visually distracted.
“Jane,” he says looking up to see her looking at him. She quickly averts eye contact and gazes back to the magazine.
“What?” she asks with irritation in her voice.
“Maybe Jessie is right.” Miles says, “Maybe we should work things out, for her sake.”
“What about us?” Jane asks, “Shouldn’t things be worked out for both our sakes?”
“Fine,” Miles stands up from his desk and crosses the Hall. He sits down on the sofa across from Jane, “What I did was horrible and wrong. I am sorry I cheated on you.”
“Am I supposed to accept your apology and pretend nothing ever happened?” asks Jane
“No,” Miles says, “But we can work from there. Tell me what you want in life. When you think of your own happily ever after ending, how do you picture it. I can make it all happen.”
“Honestly?” Jane asks
“Yes,” Miles says, “Spill your heart out to me. I’ll do anything for you. Just tell me how you picture it.”
“When I think of my happily ever after life, I see myself in a cozy little house on the Mediterranean with the man of my dreams. I see Jessica happily married with children. I see romance. I see love. I see contentment. But I don’t see you with me. You are not the man of my dreams. The man of my dreams is not an egocentric control-freak.” Jane says
“You don’t want me in your life at all?” asks Miles
“I didn’t say that.” Jane says
“You basically did.” Miles says getting up
“No, Miles,” Jane stands up, “I love you. I just don’t love who you’ve become. You can change. We can change. Together.”
“What about the money?” asks Miles
“Forget about the money.” Jane says, “We can rebuild.”
“You really burned the papers?” Miles asks, “You weren’t just saying that to destory me.”
“I burned them.” Jane says
“I don’t believe you.” Miles says calmly, “You were so efficient to cover up the murder of that cop, surely you read them.”
“Money has become your obsession Miles.” Jane says, “I saw the 33 million and I threw it in the fire.”
“That wasn’t all my money.” Miles says becoming enraged again
“What do you mean?” asks Jane
“Thallo Green invested in this get rich quick scheme.” Miles says
“Yes, I know,” Jane says, “He shared the account with you, correct?”
Miles nods grimly
“How much of the money was his?” asks Jane
“Two-thirds of what was in there.” Miles says
“So that is roughly 22 million.” Jane says
“Roughly.” Miles says sarcastically as he rolls his eyes
“I think I can help.” Jane says
“How?” asks Miles
“I wrote down all the information from the bank statement that we need. The 17 digit number that gives you access to the money.” Jane says
“Well, what is it?” asks Miles with excitement
Just then the doorbell rings. Miles becomes aggravated and throws open the door to see Emily Peach.
“Can I come in?” she asks
“Now isn’t a good time, Emily.” Miles says trying to rush her away before Jane sees who is at the door.
“I’m pregnant.” Miss Peach blurts out, “And you are the only man I have been with in a long time.”
In the Lounge of Tudor Close, Mrs. Black sits nervously looking out the window.
“He’ll be fine.” Mrs. White says from the fireplace where she is setting up logs.
“He shouldn’t be returning to school so soon after being kidnapped. I should have at least sent Mr. Ash to drive him instead of that damned public transit!” Mrs. Black says clasping her hands around her cup of coffee
“He’ll be safer there than here. Especially if the person who did this is what Dr. Black suggests: someone who has it out against this family.” Mrs. White says
“Very true.” Madame Rose says entering the Lounge. Thunder rumbles lightly in the dark morning sky as the rain comes down harder on the windows, “I saw a vision this morning in my crystal ball. Something is not right about the people coming to this party. Some are harboring deadly secrets that they would kill to keep hidden. Plans are being laid. Deceit, betrayal, lies.”
“What else did you see?” asks Mrs. White, taking interest in Madame Rose’s premonition, “Mrs. Black, maybe it is best if we call off the party tonight. It seems foolish to invite people who may try to be doing us harm.”
“The Tower card fell from my deck and landed in front of our family photograph on my bureau. Death, Pestilence, Famine, and War! The harbingers of the end of the world. Destruction awaits!” Madame Rose says
“We’ll have none of that.” Mrs. Black says, “Can’t you see I’m frightened! Our town used to be so peaceful. Now each morning our headlines announce another death. Houses being burned down. Children and adults are being snatched right out from under us!”
“I’m not staying in this house for the party tonight.” Madame Rose says matter-of-factly
“What on earth are you talking about.” Mrs. White says, “You can entertain the guests by reading their palms. Maybe make a little cash in the process.”
“No.” Madame Rose says, “The killer will be at this party tonight and I won’t stand around and let them hunt me down too. I’m staying at the Lakeview Palace Hotel tonight.”
“If you insist.” Mrs. Black says, “I’ll have Hugh put you up in a room.”
“No!” Madame Rose says, “I’ll use my own money. I don’t need my brother’s handouts.”
“Well at least let me get Mr. Ash to drive you there.” Mrs. Black says
“I can walk.” Madame Rose says
At the Mayfield Divisional Police Department, Inspector Brown sits in his overly stuffed leather chair with an officer with grey/brown hair and deep green eyes. He is Sergeant Gray.
“So tell me, Sergeant,” Inspector Brown addresses the officer, “What evidence have you found out?”
“Well the date of the adoption papers wasn’t visible due to fire damage,” Sgt. Gray says, “But from the people suspected in Hampshire, Mrs. Sylvia Black and Mr. Miles Meadow-Brook are about the same age, making it likely they could be twins.”
“That would mean Dr. Black married his own daughter.” Inspector Brown says, “Who else?”
“Cynthia Scarlet, Chandler Weiss, and Emily Peach are all in the same age range.” Sgt. Gray reads off his notebook, “This one is a real stretch, but if Ms. Curry gave birth as a teenager, Colonel Mustard and Penelope Peacock could be the twins. I'm not sure if they are exactly the same age, but who can really tell anymore with the makeup and face creams.”
“Anyone else?” asks Inspector Brown
“Jane Meadow-Brook and Thallo Green are the same age as well.” Sgt. Gray says
“What about the servants?” asks Inspector Brown, “There are many housekeepers in those families.”
“Melinda Myrtle, the Peacock’s housekeeper, and Blanche White, the Black’s housekeeper are a year apart, though they may have lied about their ages.” Sgt. Gray says
“How old are you, Sergeant?” asks Inspector Brown
“57.” Sergeant Gray says with hesitation, “You don’t suspect me.”
“You were off duty these past few days.” Inspector Brown says, “No one can escape my suspicion.”
“Is anyone else in my age range?” asks Sgt. Gray
“Senor Sabata Bronce.” Inspector Brown says, “But neither Ms. Curry nor Dr. Black is Spanish and Ms. Curry would have given birth at a very young age.”
“Like you said, no one can escape your suspicion.” Sgt. Gray says
At the Mustard Home in the Study, Colonel Mustard pours himself a glass of water and takes a pill. He lights a cigar and sits down in front of his typewriter. He begins to work on his memoir, typing vigorously as if trying to get done in an allotted amount of time. He finishes a paragraph when the doorbell rings.
“Blast.” He shouts putting his cigar in an ashtray and answering the door. He sees Miss Peach standing in the doorway innocently.
“I hope this is not a bad time.” Miss Peach says
“You look very familiar. You are the young lady from the bar?” Colonel Mustard says
“My name is Emily.” She says
“Emily,” Colonel Mustard says, “What can I do for you?”
“I have some questions.” Miss Peach says
“Questions and interrogations.” Colonel Mustard moans, “I thought this town was a peaceful place to live.”
“You may remember my mother, Amelia Peach. The two of you met in London. You two were madly in love but you had business in Africa and she wanted to return to her family in America.” Miss Peach says
“Thank you for bringing back that painful remembrance of when I fell out of love. Why are you hear?” Colonel Mustard asks with frustration
“I’m your daughter.” Miss Peach says with a hopeful smile
“I cannot do this right now.” Colonel Mustard says breathing heavilly
“I understand your shock.” Miss Peach says, “I was equally shocked when I found out who you were.”
“No,” Colonel Mustard says leaning against the wall, “I can’t take this pressure.”
“I’m sorry if I’ve upset you.” Miss Peach says, “I thought you would want to meet me.”
“Oh god.” Colonel Mustard grabs his chest in pain
“Are you alright?” asks Miss Peach
“I think I’m having a heart attack.” He tries to remain calm
“Oh my god.” Miss Peach gasps, “I’ll call an ambulance.”
Colonel Mustard sits down on the hallway bench as he holds his arm in pain. Miss Peach panicks and picks up the phone, “Yes, 358 Ceil Drive, we need an ambulance quick! My father is having a heart attack.”
At the Peacock Residence in the Drawing Room, Mrs. Peacock waters the plants on top of the closed lid of the grand piano. Miss Scarlet comes down the stairs with the clicking of her high heels. Mrs. Peacock quickly becomes uncomfortable by the presence of her step-daughter.
“Penelope,” Miss Scarlet greets her with a snide voice, “Has Chandler asked for me?”
“What?” Mrs. Peacock asks quite startled, “Chandler? No why would he? I mean he hasn’t been here. I’m sorry dear, I’m a bit muddled with the murders and the town in such an uproar.”
“Yes, I’m sure it has everyone a bit nervous.” Miss Scarlet says, “But I thought I saw Chandler out in the garden this morning.”
“Oh,” Mrs. Peacock turns around quickly, knocking over a photograph from the piano. It clanks against the keys, sending a shrill unexpected tune through the room. She leans over to pick it up but in turn spills some water on the bench from her watering can.
“You are awfully clumsy today,” Miss Scarlet says
“Oh yes, nervous from all the news.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Yes as a matter of fact I did see Chandler while I was watering the plants.”
“Why on earth would you be watering the plants? It rained last night.” Miss Scarlet asks
“Oh,” Mrs. Peacock becomes more flustered, “It did but some of the plants were on the patio and didn’t get wet. It must have been the direction the wind was blowing the rain. You know how these storms can be. I think we are having one tonight.”
“Well did he ask for me?” asks Miss Scarlet as thunder confirms the mention of the impending storm
“He was just telling me that he would be attending the party tonight.” Mrs. Peacock says
“What time should we leave?” asks Miss Scarlet rolling her eyes
“Around 5.30.” Mrs. Peacock says, “We have plenty of time. I believe Chandler is coaching right now if you’d like to see him.”
“I actually have a vocal lesson to attend in Port Wells. I am their leading Soprano after all.” Miss Scarlet says, “Did you ever get that tire changed?”
“Mezzo.” Mrs. Peacock corrects her, “You are a Mezzo-Soprano.”
“Did you ever get that tire changed?” asks becoming frustrated with her step-mother
“Colonel Mustard changed it for me.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Where are the keys?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Hanging in the Kitchen.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Come home directly after.”
“Of course.” Miss Scarlet says snidely as she exits the room. Mrs. Peacock sighs in relief as she picks up the photograph and sets it back on the piano. She hears the howl of an ambulance in the distance.
“What on earth?” she groans as she looks out the window.
In the Drawing Room of the Meadow-Brook’s Home, Jane sits on the sofa in disbelief. Miles is pacing back and forth nervously.
“How could you do this?” Jane Meadow-Brook shouts in an voice
“Jane, I am as shocked as you are.” Miles says, “Please, can’t we overlook this.”
“Overlook this?” Jane repeats with her mouth hanging open, “How am I supposed to overlook this?”
“Let’s focus on our marriage.” Miles says, “You have the numbers written down?”
“Are you serious?” Jane stands up and walks towards the Hall, “You drop this on me and expect me to patch up things between you and Thallo?”
“Dammit, Jane.” Miles stands up as she approaches the staircase, “I’m sick and tired of you inferring with my work life!”
“Work life?” Jane laughs sarcastically, “You are making money with a member of a drug kingpin!”
Miles grabs her arm and shoves her against the wall, Jane trips up the stairs and whimpers in pain, “I learnt a thing or two from the mafia. I am sick and tired of the way you have been acting out lately. When I say to do something you will stop what you are doing and do it. You are not the master of this house. I am.”
“Miles, stop.” She whimpers
“Where are the blasted numbers?” Miles asks calmly
“Please,” she cries, “You’re hurting me.”
“Where the hell did you put the numbers?” He shouts in her ear, pinning her against the wall
“In the false bottom of my jewelry box,” Jane says as tears fall from her face.
Miles releases his grip on her wrist and Jane stumbles to the Hall floor. She sits against the wall breathing heavily, her entire body trembling. Miles Meadow-Brook returns downstairs with the note safely tucked away in his pocket. He tosses a diamond bracelet into Jane’s lap.
“Wear that tonight.” Miles says, “We don’t want anyone seeing your bruise.”
Jane looks down to see her wrist is bruised from where Miles held her tightly.
As a light mist continues to fall over the town, no one notices Jessica Meadow-Brook still lying unconscious at the foot of a tree. Blood is visible on the dried leaves beneath her. A mocking bird sits on a branch above her.
-Friday, April 15, 1949-
-Dawn-
The morning air is chilling and cold. The air is wet and so is the ground. The sky is grey and windy. Mrs. Peacock stands in her garden holding a hot cup of coffee. She sees Chandler come around the side of the house in his tennis uniform. She steps off the porch with a smirk and walks over to Chandler.
“What are you doing here?” she says with a giggle
“I came to tell you that Cynthia can never know what happened between us. What happened in the past is in the past and I would like to keep it that way.” Chandler says
“I thought we said our goodbyes last night.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Please, for your step-daughter and her happiness, just let her and I see where out future may end up. Cynthia and I are around the same age and there is a large gap in age between us. Cynthia and I understand each other.” Chandler says
“Kiss me.” Mrs. Peacock says forcing herself forward towards him
“What?” Chandler gasps in shock as he backed away
“One last fling together. And I promise I will not tell Cynthia. Just give me a proper goodbye.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Don’t you think I at least deserve a proper goodbye? After everything I did for you? I helped you through the depression of the stress your mother placed on you. I helped you through those pangs of loneliness.”
“What about Cynthia?” asks Chandler looking around to make sure no one is watching.
“She doesn’t need to know. She would want to know that you are a man of honor. You must finish one chapter before starting a new chapter.” Mrs. Peacock says
“But what happens if Cynthia finds out that we continued to see each other behind her back?” Chandler asks in with a new layer of disgust and disappointment crawling over him, “Don’t you think that will get one of us killed?”
“I just want to see you long enough to embrace the fact that we both need to move on.” Mrs. Peacock says, “You’ve got Cynthia and I have my eyes on that Colonel. So this is just innocent fun with no true feelings! We are just reminiscing the old days. One more day of us. Then we are done. Think of our toss in the sheets as practice for the ones we truly do care about.”
“I can't do this!” Chandler turns away from her
“Chandler, if you leave me right now I will tell Cynthia everything we did together and she will never forgive you.” Mrs. Peacock chokes back the anger and frustration
“Why do I mean this much to you?” asks Chandler in confusion
“You are so beautiful,” Mrs. Peacock places her hands on his shoulders and moves closer to him, “It is so rare to find someone as perfect as you. If only I was younger and you could devote your time to me.”
“One last time. That is all you are going to get from me.” Chandler says with a long sigh
“Are you coming to the party tonight?” asks Mrs. Peacock, “At Tudor Close?”
“Yes, Cynthia is my date.” Chandler says, “The party is a commemoration to Scott, Sabata, and myself. Of course I will be there. I am an honored guest!”
“Maybe we can slip away from the party.” Mrs. Peacock says moving her hands down his chest towards his belt.
“That sounds dangerous. We could get caught.” Chandler says
“Oh it will be dangerous. That will make it more fun.” Mrs. Peacock drawing him in and kissing him passionately
“I should go.” Chandler says pulling off of her kiss
“Why?” Mrs. Peacock asks, becoming frustrated with his refusal to engage in their passion play
“I have that feeling like someone is watching us.” Chandler says
At the Meadow-Brook’s Home in the Breakfast Room, Jane and Miles sit at the breakfast table with their daughter Jessica as Miss Ecru serves them breakfast.
“You two haven’t said a word all morning.” Jessica says, “You two need to talk to each other. Try to work this out. This is tearing me apart to watch you two treat each other like this!”
“I have nothing to say to your father.” Jane says to her daughter, “That odious man has ruined the happiest years of my life.”
“I’m not getting in the middle of this.” Jessica says, “I have to go to school.”
Jessica gets up from the table and walks to the door but turns to face them, “Do you two even realize how much you are hurting this family?”
“This family was already tearing at the seams before his raunchy slumber party.” Jane snaps, “Just go to school. Just go.”
In the forest road that leads from Tudor Close, Jet Black walks down the gravel road with his little brother. They reach the end of the road as the Hampshire Transit pulls up to the Bus Stop. Jet notices Jessica Meadow-Brook shivering in the cold against a lamppost across the street.
“You ride the bus.” Jet instructs, “I have to make a stop before school.”
“You’ll be late.” Scott says in a taunting way
“Scott I need to make sure you get on the bus safely. If you disappear again mum and dad will kill me.” Jet says
“Couldn’t we just stay home? We could skip school today!” Scott whines, “We could just play games and do things together and go back to school when the weekend is over. I feel like something bad is going to happen today.”
“You’ll be fine.” Jet says to his brother as he watches Jessica shiver across the street
“Please! You never do anything with me anymore. We never get to spend time together” Scott says kicking the tip of his shoe into the gravel and dirt.
“We'll have plenty of time together when we go to Monte Carlo.” Jet says
“You always say that.” Scott says
“I promise. This time we will spend the whole trip together.” Jet pats him on the shoulder
“I still feel like something bad is going to happen. My stomach hurts and I feel like we should just go back home.” Scott pulls on Jet’s arm.
“Scott, you will be fine. We can’t skip school. Now get on the bus before you are late!” Jet instructs as Scott reluctantly gets on the bus. Jet turns his focus back to Jessica. He crosses the street and stands next to her, “Are you okay?”
“No,” Jessica sobs silently, “My family is falling apart and I’m caught in the middle of it.”
“I know how that feels.” Jet says, “Here.” He hands her a plastic bag.
“Marijuana?” asks Jessica looking at the rolled joints inside, “I am not going to do drugs. That will just cause worse feelings.”
“You need it more than I do.” Jet says, “Just try it.”
“Thanks, Jet.” Jessica says with nervousness, “Actually I don’t think I can go to school today.”
“Then skip it.” Jet says, “We can go back to my house.”
“I’d like that.” Jessica says
“The Servant’s door is always unlocked.” Jet says, “Go up the service stairs turn right down a hallway. Open the door next to the grandfather clock and wait for me.”
“Where are you going?” asks Jessica
“I have a stop to make.” Jet says
“Jet,” Jessica says, “I love you.” She kisses him firmly on the lips. Jet pulls back in disbelief.
“Be careful not to get caught.” Jet says walking in the direction of Ceil Drive.
Jessica walks up the winding gravel road to Tudor Close. She pulls out a joint and lights it. She inhales deeply as her head clears up from all the trauma. She holds the smoke in her lungs as her mind combs over the events between her parents and herself. Her heart hangs heavy as she recalls her childhood memories of joy and bliss which have become torn to pieces. She finally exhales the smoke and begins to feel light headed and dizzy as she staggers towards the trees on either side of her. The gravel slides from under her feet as she tumbles off the side of the road and down a steep slope in the forest. She bangs her head into the trunk of a tree. The joint falls from her fingers as a soft rain begins to fall.
Back at the Meadow-Brook’s Home, Jane Meadow-Brook sits in the Drawing Room flipping through a magazine. She can see through the open doors of the Drawing Room and Study, Miles Meadow-Brook sitting at his desk with his glasses on. He is looking over some papers but is visually distracted.
“Jane,” he says looking up to see her looking at him. She quickly averts eye contact and gazes back to the magazine.
“What?” she asks with irritation in her voice.
“Maybe Jessie is right.” Miles says, “Maybe we should work things out, for her sake.”
“What about us?” Jane asks, “Shouldn’t things be worked out for both our sakes?”
“Fine,” Miles stands up from his desk and crosses the Hall. He sits down on the sofa across from Jane, “What I did was horrible and wrong. I am sorry I cheated on you.”
“Am I supposed to accept your apology and pretend nothing ever happened?” asks Jane
“No,” Miles says, “But we can work from there. Tell me what you want in life. When you think of your own happily ever after ending, how do you picture it. I can make it all happen.”
“Honestly?” Jane asks
“Yes,” Miles says, “Spill your heart out to me. I’ll do anything for you. Just tell me how you picture it.”
“When I think of my happily ever after life, I see myself in a cozy little house on the Mediterranean with the man of my dreams. I see Jessica happily married with children. I see romance. I see love. I see contentment. But I don’t see you with me. You are not the man of my dreams. The man of my dreams is not an egocentric control-freak.” Jane says
“You don’t want me in your life at all?” asks Miles
“I didn’t say that.” Jane says
“You basically did.” Miles says getting up
“No, Miles,” Jane stands up, “I love you. I just don’t love who you’ve become. You can change. We can change. Together.”
“What about the money?” asks Miles
“Forget about the money.” Jane says, “We can rebuild.”
“You really burned the papers?” Miles asks, “You weren’t just saying that to destory me.”
“I burned them.” Jane says
“I don’t believe you.” Miles says calmly, “You were so efficient to cover up the murder of that cop, surely you read them.”
“Money has become your obsession Miles.” Jane says, “I saw the 33 million and I threw it in the fire.”
“That wasn’t all my money.” Miles says becoming enraged again
“What do you mean?” asks Jane
“Thallo Green invested in this get rich quick scheme.” Miles says
“Yes, I know,” Jane says, “He shared the account with you, correct?”
Miles nods grimly
“How much of the money was his?” asks Jane
“Two-thirds of what was in there.” Miles says
“So that is roughly 22 million.” Jane says
“Roughly.” Miles says sarcastically as he rolls his eyes
“I think I can help.” Jane says
“How?” asks Miles
“I wrote down all the information from the bank statement that we need. The 17 digit number that gives you access to the money.” Jane says
“Well, what is it?” asks Miles with excitement
Just then the doorbell rings. Miles becomes aggravated and throws open the door to see Emily Peach.
“Can I come in?” she asks
“Now isn’t a good time, Emily.” Miles says trying to rush her away before Jane sees who is at the door.
“I’m pregnant.” Miss Peach blurts out, “And you are the only man I have been with in a long time.”
In the Lounge of Tudor Close, Mrs. Black sits nervously looking out the window.
“He’ll be fine.” Mrs. White says from the fireplace where she is setting up logs.
“He shouldn’t be returning to school so soon after being kidnapped. I should have at least sent Mr. Ash to drive him instead of that damned public transit!” Mrs. Black says clasping her hands around her cup of coffee
“He’ll be safer there than here. Especially if the person who did this is what Dr. Black suggests: someone who has it out against this family.” Mrs. White says
“Very true.” Madame Rose says entering the Lounge. Thunder rumbles lightly in the dark morning sky as the rain comes down harder on the windows, “I saw a vision this morning in my crystal ball. Something is not right about the people coming to this party. Some are harboring deadly secrets that they would kill to keep hidden. Plans are being laid. Deceit, betrayal, lies.”
“What else did you see?” asks Mrs. White, taking interest in Madame Rose’s premonition, “Mrs. Black, maybe it is best if we call off the party tonight. It seems foolish to invite people who may try to be doing us harm.”
“The Tower card fell from my deck and landed in front of our family photograph on my bureau. Death, Pestilence, Famine, and War! The harbingers of the end of the world. Destruction awaits!” Madame Rose says
“We’ll have none of that.” Mrs. Black says, “Can’t you see I’m frightened! Our town used to be so peaceful. Now each morning our headlines announce another death. Houses being burned down. Children and adults are being snatched right out from under us!”
“I’m not staying in this house for the party tonight.” Madame Rose says matter-of-factly
“What on earth are you talking about.” Mrs. White says, “You can entertain the guests by reading their palms. Maybe make a little cash in the process.”
“No.” Madame Rose says, “The killer will be at this party tonight and I won’t stand around and let them hunt me down too. I’m staying at the Lakeview Palace Hotel tonight.”
“If you insist.” Mrs. Black says, “I’ll have Hugh put you up in a room.”
“No!” Madame Rose says, “I’ll use my own money. I don’t need my brother’s handouts.”
“Well at least let me get Mr. Ash to drive you there.” Mrs. Black says
“I can walk.” Madame Rose says
At the Mayfield Divisional Police Department, Inspector Brown sits in his overly stuffed leather chair with an officer with grey/brown hair and deep green eyes. He is Sergeant Gray.
“So tell me, Sergeant,” Inspector Brown addresses the officer, “What evidence have you found out?”
“Well the date of the adoption papers wasn’t visible due to fire damage,” Sgt. Gray says, “But from the people suspected in Hampshire, Mrs. Sylvia Black and Mr. Miles Meadow-Brook are about the same age, making it likely they could be twins.”
“That would mean Dr. Black married his own daughter.” Inspector Brown says, “Who else?”
“Cynthia Scarlet, Chandler Weiss, and Emily Peach are all in the same age range.” Sgt. Gray reads off his notebook, “This one is a real stretch, but if Ms. Curry gave birth as a teenager, Colonel Mustard and Penelope Peacock could be the twins. I'm not sure if they are exactly the same age, but who can really tell anymore with the makeup and face creams.”
“Anyone else?” asks Inspector Brown
“Jane Meadow-Brook and Thallo Green are the same age as well.” Sgt. Gray says
“What about the servants?” asks Inspector Brown, “There are many housekeepers in those families.”
“Melinda Myrtle, the Peacock’s housekeeper, and Blanche White, the Black’s housekeeper are a year apart, though they may have lied about their ages.” Sgt. Gray says
“How old are you, Sergeant?” asks Inspector Brown
“57.” Sergeant Gray says with hesitation, “You don’t suspect me.”
“You were off duty these past few days.” Inspector Brown says, “No one can escape my suspicion.”
“Is anyone else in my age range?” asks Sgt. Gray
“Senor Sabata Bronce.” Inspector Brown says, “But neither Ms. Curry nor Dr. Black is Spanish and Ms. Curry would have given birth at a very young age.”
“Like you said, no one can escape your suspicion.” Sgt. Gray says
At the Mustard Home in the Study, Colonel Mustard pours himself a glass of water and takes a pill. He lights a cigar and sits down in front of his typewriter. He begins to work on his memoir, typing vigorously as if trying to get done in an allotted amount of time. He finishes a paragraph when the doorbell rings.
“Blast.” He shouts putting his cigar in an ashtray and answering the door. He sees Miss Peach standing in the doorway innocently.
“I hope this is not a bad time.” Miss Peach says
“You look very familiar. You are the young lady from the bar?” Colonel Mustard says
“My name is Emily.” She says
“Emily,” Colonel Mustard says, “What can I do for you?”
“I have some questions.” Miss Peach says
“Questions and interrogations.” Colonel Mustard moans, “I thought this town was a peaceful place to live.”
“You may remember my mother, Amelia Peach. The two of you met in London. You two were madly in love but you had business in Africa and she wanted to return to her family in America.” Miss Peach says
“Thank you for bringing back that painful remembrance of when I fell out of love. Why are you hear?” Colonel Mustard asks with frustration
“I’m your daughter.” Miss Peach says with a hopeful smile
“I cannot do this right now.” Colonel Mustard says breathing heavilly
“I understand your shock.” Miss Peach says, “I was equally shocked when I found out who you were.”
“No,” Colonel Mustard says leaning against the wall, “I can’t take this pressure.”
“I’m sorry if I’ve upset you.” Miss Peach says, “I thought you would want to meet me.”
“Oh god.” Colonel Mustard grabs his chest in pain
“Are you alright?” asks Miss Peach
“I think I’m having a heart attack.” He tries to remain calm
“Oh my god.” Miss Peach gasps, “I’ll call an ambulance.”
Colonel Mustard sits down on the hallway bench as he holds his arm in pain. Miss Peach panicks and picks up the phone, “Yes, 358 Ceil Drive, we need an ambulance quick! My father is having a heart attack.”
At the Peacock Residence in the Drawing Room, Mrs. Peacock waters the plants on top of the closed lid of the grand piano. Miss Scarlet comes down the stairs with the clicking of her high heels. Mrs. Peacock quickly becomes uncomfortable by the presence of her step-daughter.
“Penelope,” Miss Scarlet greets her with a snide voice, “Has Chandler asked for me?”
“What?” Mrs. Peacock asks quite startled, “Chandler? No why would he? I mean he hasn’t been here. I’m sorry dear, I’m a bit muddled with the murders and the town in such an uproar.”
“Yes, I’m sure it has everyone a bit nervous.” Miss Scarlet says, “But I thought I saw Chandler out in the garden this morning.”
“Oh,” Mrs. Peacock turns around quickly, knocking over a photograph from the piano. It clanks against the keys, sending a shrill unexpected tune through the room. She leans over to pick it up but in turn spills some water on the bench from her watering can.
“You are awfully clumsy today,” Miss Scarlet says
“Oh yes, nervous from all the news.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Yes as a matter of fact I did see Chandler while I was watering the plants.”
“Why on earth would you be watering the plants? It rained last night.” Miss Scarlet asks
“Oh,” Mrs. Peacock becomes more flustered, “It did but some of the plants were on the patio and didn’t get wet. It must have been the direction the wind was blowing the rain. You know how these storms can be. I think we are having one tonight.”
“Well did he ask for me?” asks Miss Scarlet as thunder confirms the mention of the impending storm
“He was just telling me that he would be attending the party tonight.” Mrs. Peacock says
“What time should we leave?” asks Miss Scarlet rolling her eyes
“Around 5.30.” Mrs. Peacock says, “We have plenty of time. I believe Chandler is coaching right now if you’d like to see him.”
“I actually have a vocal lesson to attend in Port Wells. I am their leading Soprano after all.” Miss Scarlet says, “Did you ever get that tire changed?”
“Mezzo.” Mrs. Peacock corrects her, “You are a Mezzo-Soprano.”
“Did you ever get that tire changed?” asks becoming frustrated with her step-mother
“Colonel Mustard changed it for me.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Where are the keys?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Hanging in the Kitchen.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Come home directly after.”
“Of course.” Miss Scarlet says snidely as she exits the room. Mrs. Peacock sighs in relief as she picks up the photograph and sets it back on the piano. She hears the howl of an ambulance in the distance.
“What on earth?” she groans as she looks out the window.
In the Drawing Room of the Meadow-Brook’s Home, Jane sits on the sofa in disbelief. Miles is pacing back and forth nervously.
“How could you do this?” Jane Meadow-Brook shouts in an voice
“Jane, I am as shocked as you are.” Miles says, “Please, can’t we overlook this.”
“Overlook this?” Jane repeats with her mouth hanging open, “How am I supposed to overlook this?”
“Let’s focus on our marriage.” Miles says, “You have the numbers written down?”
“Are you serious?” Jane stands up and walks towards the Hall, “You drop this on me and expect me to patch up things between you and Thallo?”
“Dammit, Jane.” Miles stands up as she approaches the staircase, “I’m sick and tired of you inferring with my work life!”
“Work life?” Jane laughs sarcastically, “You are making money with a member of a drug kingpin!”
Miles grabs her arm and shoves her against the wall, Jane trips up the stairs and whimpers in pain, “I learnt a thing or two from the mafia. I am sick and tired of the way you have been acting out lately. When I say to do something you will stop what you are doing and do it. You are not the master of this house. I am.”
“Miles, stop.” She whimpers
“Where are the blasted numbers?” Miles asks calmly
“Please,” she cries, “You’re hurting me.”
“Where the hell did you put the numbers?” He shouts in her ear, pinning her against the wall
“In the false bottom of my jewelry box,” Jane says as tears fall from her face.
Miles releases his grip on her wrist and Jane stumbles to the Hall floor. She sits against the wall breathing heavily, her entire body trembling. Miles Meadow-Brook returns downstairs with the note safely tucked away in his pocket. He tosses a diamond bracelet into Jane’s lap.
“Wear that tonight.” Miles says, “We don’t want anyone seeing your bruise.”
Jane looks down to see her wrist is bruised from where Miles held her tightly.
As a light mist continues to fall over the town, no one notices Jessica Meadow-Brook still lying unconscious at the foot of a tree. Blood is visible on the dried leaves beneath her. A mocking bird sits on a branch above her.