Page 80 of Gem Warfare

“Let’s go,” I said. “We can find out how this chase ends on the news.”

Lily brightened. “I hope so! And maybe we can come back and place bets on them in races.”

“We’re not starting an illegal betting ring on elderly escapees.”

“Fun sponge,” huffed Lily.

“Crazy lady,” I countered.

The retirement village was a hive of activity as we entered the main building that seemed to operate as a community hub. Two of the employees were arguing and pointing towards the main doors, which I guessed was an argument about what had just occurred with the escapees. Shouts from the recreation room suggested a particularly fiery game of Bingo.

We crossed the lobby, narrowly avoiding a set of Bingo balls that were hurled through the open double doors.

We stopped by the reception desk and asked for Bea.

“She’s probably in her apartment and you have to sign in,” said the bored-looking young woman, barely looking up. “Are you relatives?”

“Yes,” I said. “Great nieces.”

“The best,” added Lily.

“Sure, whatever,” said the young woman. “Do you know where to go?”

“No,” I said and she fired off directions, pointing in the direction we should take.

“I think we should exit via the parking lot,” I said, perturbed by all the commotion as we passed the rec room to the exteriorof the building where the apartments were situated. The Bingo game appeared to involve a lot of finger pointing and shouting. “A fight could break out in there any moment.”

Lily snorted.

We followed the directions and spotted Bea’s number just a few doors away. “Look! Bea’s door is open.” I headed for it, knocking and sticking my head through the doorway. A glance around the room suggested the apartment was empty, except I could hear the low buzz of the microwave. A huge bouquet of bright flowers was on the occasional table and a large box of gourmet cookies lay open on the coffee table. “Hello! Anyone home?” I called.

A woman’s head appeared from under the counter. She looked familiar and I felt sure we’d found Bea. “Hello,” she said, as the microwave dinged. She opened the door and pulled out a large bowl of popcorn. “I was just going to watch a movie. It starts in a few minutes. Can I help you with something?”

“I’m Lexi Graves from down the street. My mom brought your mail.”

“Goodness me. The Graves’ girl! Are you the clever daughter or the other one?”

“Yes,” I said, hoping she wouldn’t press for a definitive answer. “I’m Lexi, and this is my sister-in-law, Lily.”

“Which one did you marry?” asked Bea.

“Jord,” she said.

“Good choice.”

Lily grinned. “Thanks.”

Bea shut the microwave door and made to lift the popcorn bowl and stabilize herself against the counter at the same time. I hurried forwards and scooped up the bowl and offered her my arm. She accepted and I guided her to the couch.

“It’s my hips,” she explained. “They’re awful sore. Don’t block the doorway, honey. Come inside.” She waved Lily inside.

“I like your flowers. Are they get well flowers?” I asked, hoping she’d be forthcoming.

“No, they’re from an old friend.”

“An oldyoungfriend,” said another lady, coming through the door behind us.

“Do you have a gentleman caller?” asked Lily with a wink.

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