He took out his mobile phone and dialled Ruby’s number. It went straight to voice mail. “We’ve made a big discovery at Jill’s cottage,” said Simon. “If you want to hear about it, call me back.” He leaned against his car and waited. A sudden brisk breeze rustled through the leaves of the lilac tree outside Agatha’s garden. Simon felt a sudden frisson of fear. It was as if the leaves were whispering a warning. He looked along the lane. Nothing and nobody, except a discarded sweet wrapper that skittered along and stuck to his trousers. His phone rang, making him jump. “Hullo, darling boy,” cooed Ruby. “What have you got for me?” “It’s a terrific find,” said Simon. “I’d rather see you in person.” “Come over. It’s my day off,” said Ruby. When she rang off, she turned to her children. “I’m taking you to Granny.” “Wicked!” cried her son, Jonathan. And Pearl said, “We love Granny more’n you.” Ruby shrugged and phoned her mother, who lived a few streets away.
