“No, in fact she was kind of cagey about the whole thing.” I picked up a molasses cookie and took a big bite, relishing the combination of sugar and spice. “But if we could match one of Ophelia’s coats to that navy blue fabric, then we’d have something concrete.”

Pepper wrinkled her nose. “I’m still not convinced Ophelia is the killer, but I do have a special tea for her. Maybe we could pay her a visit.”

“You’re not trying to make her nice with one of your teas are you?” I could only picture what would happen if that backfired like some of Pepper’s other attempts. I shuddered to think of a meaner Ophelia Withington.

Pepper smiled. “Not trying to make her nice. Just restoring her faith and her natural personality.”

I rolled my eyes.

“I know she always leaves the office at three p.m. and goes home to sort through her client list and match the new properties to potential clients,” Pepper said. “We could stop by and catch her off-guard. I’ll bring some tea and cookies and distract her and you can pretend you need to use the bathroom and look through her closet.”

“That sounds perfect.”

“So, I take it you’re not going to heed Eddie’s warning and step out of the investigation?”

“Heck, no.” I gave Pepper my, ‘you-know-me-better-than-that’ look. “I’m going to do just what Lavinia asked and find her killer, even if it’s the last thing I do.”

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Twelve

Ophelia Withington lived in a big, old barn converted into a house just outside of town. We stood on the granite slab doorstep—Pepper in her prim sweater set and plaid skirt and me in my plain old maroon turtleneck and faded jeans.

Pepper held a warming bag made from a bright paisley print at her side. She’d had the bags specially made so she could prepare tea at her shop and keep it warm for travel.

I wiped my sweaty palms on my jeans and rang the bell.

We heard some noises inside, and then the door opened to reveal a surprised-looking Ophelia Withington.

“Hi, Pepper.” She started to half-smile until she saw me standing next to Pepper, then her face turned to an ugly frown. “Wilhelmina … I hope you’re not here to harass me again. If so, I’m calling the cops.”

I held my hands up. “We come in peace.”

She looked from me to Pepper skeptically, ready to slam the door in our faces.

Pepper held out the bag. “I made you some tea and cookies. I know the anniversary of Pete’s passing is coming up and I thought it might help comfort you.”

I shot a look at Pepper. She was really laying it on, but it seemed to work.

Ophelia’s face softened. “Well, I was working …”