Amy Phipps - Amanda Blakemore 01 - A Bazaar Murder (9 page)

A few days later Amanda was sitting on the porch swing petting Ghost who was stretched out  on her lap. Teaching Margaret how to use her new smart phone. After everything that happened Margaret realized that a cellphone wasn't a bad thing. While Twinkie was rolling back and forth on his back out in the front yard making strange noises obviously enjoying himself.  They were laughing at the ridiculous dog as Cassie pulled into the driveway. Amanda hadn't spoken to Cassie since her mother's funeral. A lot has happened since then. Nervously, Amanda gave Margaret a meaningful look and waited for Cassie to make it to the porch.

“I'm sorry.....” Cassie blurted then hesitated and started again. “I should have come earlier but there was a lot of things that I needed to take care of first. Adam has been charged with embezzlement, murder, and attempted murder. ” Sighing she ran her fingers through her chestnut hair. “That's not completely true. I was embarrassed and wasn't sure you would want to see me or anyone with the name Hardy.”

“Why wouldn't I want to see you?” Amanda tilted her head confused.

“My brother did try to kill you.” Cassie commented with a concerned look on her face.

“Yeah but what's a little attempted murder between friends.” Amanda smiled and waved her hand in the air. “Actually I'm sorry too.” Amanda admitted. “I wasn't sure you wanted to talk to me.”

“Why?” It was Cassie's turn to be confused.

Amanda reached down and picked up Ghost to scratch his ears. “I did send your brother to prison.”

“ I don't think my brother will be bothering either of us for a long time. Besides you did get me out of jail.” Cassie said with a shrug.

Amanda stretched out her hand. “So friends?” 

“I would love that if you truly still want to be friends?” She asked surprised taking her hand to shake it.

“Of course! You're the only vet in town and what if Ghost needs you.” Amanda tried to sound serious but couldn't hold in her laughter.

“I'm making fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy. Do you want to stay for dinner?” Margaret asked getting up from the porch swing and stuffing her phone in her sweater pocket.

Cassie smiled. “Absolutely!”  

THE END