“The Ursulina!” he explained, as if that was obvious. “I haven’t forgotten our conversation, you know. Or the look on your face back then. Deny it if you want, but I’m convinced we’re both members of the club. We both know he’s real. One of these days, I hope to prove it.”

I said nothing to verify what he suspected about me.

Ben squatted down and put a pudgy hand on my shoulder. His eyes were serious. “Also, as long as we’re talking about that night, I wanted to say that I heard what happened to you later with your ex-husband. I was desperately sorry to find out what you went through.”

“Thanks. It was months ago, and I’m much better now. And you can deny it if you want, but I know you helped me with your anonymous gift, Ben. I really appreciate it. The money you gave me got me through some tough times.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about!” he replied graciously, getting back to his feet. He finally lit his pipe and primed it with several breaths. Then he gestured at the resort around us, which was showing its age. “So what brings you to the Fair Day? I stay here out of nostalgia, but with all due respect to Marvin, the place could use a serious sprucing up. Of course, it’s still better than staying with my mother.”

“I’m helping Darrell,” I replied vaguely.

“Ah, something to do with the latest killing, no doubt. Well, at least Darrell and Jerry are smart enough to keep you involved. That’s good. I couldn’t believe it when I heard what happened to Ajax. It’s tragic for poor Ruby, but a new Ursulina murder only a couple of weeks before my special airs? That’s ratings gold. I called the network as soon as I heard about his death. We’re filming a new ending to the documentary while I’m in town.”

“That’s not in very good taste, Ben.”

He shrugged. “Words that will appear on my tombstone! Would you like to be interviewed for the show? I know Darrell would say no, but what about you? The network would fall in love with your pretty face.”

“No, thanks.”

“Are you sure? We don’t have to talk about Ajax or the murder investigation.” His eyes twinkled. “We could talk about whatever it was you saw in the forest that you’re hiding from me.”

“No,” I repeated firmly. “No interview.”

“All right. If you say so. That’s a shame. Anyway, I hope I’ll see you at the party.”

Ben headed for the hotel lobby.

“Hey, can I ask you something?” I called after him.

He stopped and gave me a quizzical look. “Why, of course.”