Hostage Midwife

“Did he say my name?”

Kelly’s heart went out to this sad-looking woman in her beautiful but empty house. Julia wanted to know if she was in her lover’s thoughts when he knew he was dying. “I’m sorry.”

“That’s typical. He always took me for granted.” She opened the door wider. “Would you like to come in?”

Nick strode into the gracious flagstone foyer as though he belonged there. “I’m hoping you can help me. I have some questions about Samuel’s death.”

“His suicide,” she said. “Isn’t that what the police are saying? He committed suicide?”

“That seems to be the expert opinion. The security cameras outside the elevators didn’t show anyone leaving. The one on the tenth floor was out, but that shouldn’t make a difference because Samuel’s office was on nine. His office door was locked, and the gun was in his hand.”

“I know about the gun.” She led them into a sunken living room with a massive stone fireplace. Only a few paintings were hung, but the light from the stained glass decorated the walls. “The police spoke to me. They wanted to know if Samuel usually kept his .45 at the office.”

“Did he?”

“He carried his gun in the glove compartment when he was on the road, and he’s been traveling a lot. I assume he didn’t want to leave it in his car.”

“Where has he been going?”

“Hell if I know. He never tells me anything anymore.” Her tone was harsh, angry. “Can I offer you a cup of tea?”

“That would be great,” Nick said. “Do you mind if I show Kelly your house?”

“I’d rather you didn’t go into the bedroom. Otherwise, feel free to look around. This place is a tribute to your uncle. As long as I live here, you’re welcome to come and visit.”

Nick led the way from the large living room and down a hallway to a combination study and sitting room. All the while, he pointed out the features. “There’s no wasted space. Even the hallway has an area for sitting, and windows looking out on a fountain and a stone Buddha. Transition from one room to another is a pleasure.”

His enthusiasm was as endearing as his love for his uncle. Nick appreciated architecture. Like her, he loved his work. But she had the distinct impression that he wasn’t fond of the corporate responsibilities that came with being a Spencer heir.

“There’s a secret passageway in the house,” he confided. “I can’t show it to you because it’s in the bedroom, but it’s pretty cool. If you didn’t know it was there, you’d never find it.”

“Why put in a secret passage?”

“It’s fun,” he said. “The great designers always find a way to surprise you.”

He took her hand to cross the study, and she felt a thrill ripple up her arm. The immediate chemistry when they met was turning into a deeper attraction. It was one thing to admire a handsome man, and another to enjoy being with him. With Nick, she had both.