Rather than let Ruby waste away in another hospital, Norma became the old woman's legal guardian.

Life in Barrows Bay quickly went back to normal. Ruby resumed her bridge club evenings and spent several nights a week with the "old biddies," as Norma called them, while Norma kept the house in good shape.

Neither woman seemed in need of a job, and Martin supposed his mother must have been well-off or Norma had come into an inheritance. The money he sent at Christmas couldn't have supported them all these years. However it was they got by, Ruby would consider it rude to ask and "woe betide him" for even considering such a transgression.

"I suppose it's high time to discuss the elephant in the room," Ruby said once she'd finished her meat paste and returned her dentures to her mouth. "The two of you are on the run from a dangerous psychopath, and by returning home you may have put the people of this island in danger. Our nearest constables are across the sound, I'm afraid, and also quite incompetent. So it behooves me to ask if either of you are armed."

Sheila and Martin shared a look. The two of them broke into laughter.

Ruby glowered at them until they stopped.

"I don't like guns, Ruby," Sheila said.

"And I left mine in my footlocker," Martin joked.

"Good then," Ruby said with a nod. "I'll not have a gun under my roof, thank you very much."

Truthfully, Lumsden pretended he hadn't seen the Glock and Martin tucked it into his bag with an armful of loose clothing. The bag was in the trunk. He'd have to remember to tuck it into the glove compartment before bringing his stuff inside. If Norma went snooping, as she had when he was a teen, she'd give him fresh hell for lying. But he couldn't give up his only source of protection if Barclay somehow figured out where they were hiding.

Better to keep it safely locked inside the car.

So long as no one steals the Lexus. Should probably park her in the garage after dinner.

"Who's ready for dessert?" Norma asked, easing out of her chair.

They each ate a huge helping of strawberry-rhubarb pie, all except Ruby who abstained. Sweets and spirits were too "decadent," although she always enjoyed baking.

It was as good as he remembered, the crust flaky and rich and the filling both sweet and tart. A time capsule on a plate. He could almost remember a time when he was happy here.

"This is delicious, Ma."

"Don't speak with your mouth full, Martin."

"Everything was great," Sheila said, clearly trying not to laugh at his scolding.

"I'm glad you both like it. I may no longer be in control of all my faculties but it seems I can still bake a mean pie."

"You said it," Norma said, standing with her plate. She picked up Ruby's bowl. "I'll wash up."

Sheila leaped to her feet with her own plate and grabbed Martin's. "I'll help you."