Death Drops Page 24

  We’d just tucked back into the pancakes when there was another knock on the door. I motioned to Merrily to stay put. “For all we know it’s Janice, spoiling our good time.” But when I looked out, I saw it was Mr. Matthews, Aunt Claire’s lawyer, who stood on the front steps. I let him in and he sat down at the table.

  “Would you like something to eat?” I asked. “There’s plenty.”

  “No, I’m fine. I just wanted to stop by to tell you what’s happened. I heard about the arrest in Claire’s murder, so I called the judge about Janice’s action on the will. He said in light of what happened and because of Claire’s letter to you, Janice had no grounds to contest it. He’s dismissed the case.”

  A huge load lifted off my shoulders. I would be able to keep Nature’s Way open and continue Aunt Claire’s mission. “Thank you so much. We’re still in business!” I exclaimed as Jackson hugged me.

  “That means I still have a job?” Merrily said. “I was getting worried.”

  “Yes, Merrily. We all still have jobs to do,” I said. “You too, Nick.”

  “I’m ready,” he said. “Let’s do it.”

  “Merrily, turn around the sign. We’re open for business!”

  “If that’s the case,” Mr. Matthews said, “could you direct me to the products you mentioned, the tongue scraper and the chlorophyll tablets? I’ve been to the dentist but I’m still having problems.”

  I thought of the letter Aunt Claire had left for me: I want you to carry on my life’s work here by helping the community you and I both love.

  “Happy to be of service, Mr. Matthews. This way,” I said, throwing a wink at the group still seated at the table while I led him over to the wall of supplements.

  I knew that, somewhere, Aunt Claire was smiling.

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