Read Requiem Murder [Book 2 of the Katherine Miller Mysteries] for Free Online

into ecstasy."
    "He swears the cat wants him for dinner.” Laura rolled her eyes. “I think it's the new shoe polish.” She poured two glasses of wine, handed one to Edward and filled a plate with an assortment of appetizers. She joined Bob and Betty on the couch. Edward sat on the loveseat beside Mrs. Greene.
    When the Simpsons arrived, Judith tried to grab Robespierre. “Oh, you darling cat,” she crooned.
    He made himself small and slithered under the couch. Judith is one of the people he avoids.
    "Your allergies,” Martin said.
    Judith glared at her husband. “I wasn't going to sleep with him. I just want to feel his soft fur with my hands."
    "More like his claws in her fingers,” Beth whispered. She filled a plate with shrimp, cheese and crackers and some other items. Her mouth curved into a smile.
    I turned. Tall, broad-shouldered Lars Claybourne filled the doorway. With a flourish, he handed me a box of Godiva chocolates. “You're as beautiful as ever.” He kissed the corner of my mouth.
    "And you're still a liar.” Lars and I have greeted each other this way for years. He, his wife, Charles and I had been great friends. Even after his wife died leaving him with four young children, there'd never been a party here when Lars wasn't included.
    His blue eyes twinkled. “Let me see what oddities you've assembled. Is there anyone you want me to charm?"
    "You're mine tonight."
    "Threat or promise?” He strode into the living room. Judith's husky greeting was followed by Lars’ booming laughter. All here but the guest of honor, I thought.
    Robespierre emerged from beneath the couch. He positioned himself at the top of the stairs. I walked to the door.
    Roger reached the landing. He held a huge bouquet of flowers. “I know it's like bringing jewels to a maharajah, but I ran out of inspiration."
    "They're perfect. I was so busy this afternoon, I never cut flowers for the buffet."
    He reached the next to last step. For a moment, I thought he meant to step back. “Cat.” His deep voice sounded as though he was being strangled.
    "Are you allergic?"
    He shook his head. “Phobic.” He backed down several steps.
    Judith appeared at my side. She laughed and grabbed for Robespierre. The cat dashed through the living room.
    Roger walked upstairs and handed me the flowers. “Sorry. It's just...it's a long story."
    "Lars, close the bedroom door.” I smiled at Roger. “The next time you come, I'll send Robespierre to Maria's. He likes to watch the baby."
    Judith handed Roger a glass of wine. “I'd love to get my hands on that gorgeous beast, but every time I come close he runs. He comes to you and you don't want him."
    "He's perverse,” I said.
    Judith pointed to the island table. “Try the appetizers. The shrimp are divine and the cheese ball piquant.” She turned to me. “When I retire from the library, will you give me cooking lessons?"
    "If I'm still around. Surely that's years away."
    She shook her head. “I told Martin that when Marcie graduates from high school, I'll have done my bit.” She took Roger's arm. “Let me introduce you to people."
    I clamped my mouth shut. Somehow, she'd become the hostess.
    Beth entered the kitchen. “Go inside. I'll take care of the flowers."
    "The vases are in the bottom of the china cabinet."
    After pausing to greet my guests again, I joined Lars on the window seat. Martin sat on one of the Queen Anne chairs and Ralph sat on the other. Judith had drawn a folding chair beside the piano bench where Roger sat. He tasted the shrimp and kissed his fingers in appreciation.
    Conversation flowed around me. I caught bits of several conversations and the meshings amused me. “Did you hear...Johnny took...seven strokes to reach... Beethoven's...five puppies.” The juxtaposition amused me.
    Beth crossed the room and sat on the floor near the window seat. She sipped wine and watched Judith's attempt to claim exclusive possession of Roger's attention.
    "Beth, there's room on the