Page 40 of Nightcaps at The Beach House Hotel

Rhonda and I looked at one another as we both realized something.

“What is it?” asked Becka.

“Brock Goodwin mentioned that he was going to see Everly today,” I said.

“He made a big deal out of being photographed with her,” said Rhonda. “He told us they were helping one another. He’s such a liar that it’s hard to know what’s real with him.”

“We both saw his photograph with Everly in the newspaper,” Joe said to Becka.

“We’ll inform the DVD officer, and he can take it from there,” said Becka.

“Is it possible for me to go home?” I asked. “I have guests staying with me.” For now, I’d keep Darryl’s whereabouts private. But if one of the officers needed to talk to him, I’d let them know.

“You’re free to go. I think we have all the information we need for now,” said Becka. “I’m sure you have things to take care of.”

I went to find Bernie to tell him I was leaving, and a DVD officer was arriving. After giving him a complete update, I headed home. Rhonda would stay behind with Bernie.

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When I arrived home, Darryl and Abbie were sitting on the lanai reading while Robbie sprawled on the floor, playing a video game on his iPad. Liana had left for her college class.

“Hi, Mom! Liana made us stuff for a taco dinner like she usually does on class night,” said Robbie.

“Perfect,” I said, relieved I wouldn’t have to worry about that. When Vaughn was home tomorrow, he’d be glad to grill some steaks.

“That sounds wonderful,” said Abbie. “Something different.”

“Liana uses her grandmother’s recipes, and her food is delicious.” I grew somber as I said to Darryl, “I need to speak to you in private. Will you join me in the living room?”

“Sure. Is everything all right?” he said, getting to his feet.

“No,” I managed to say and held back a sob.

We walked into the living room, and I indicated Darryl should sit on the couch.

I took a seat nearby and faced him. “I have some terrible news. We found Everly dead in her hotel room. She apparently died from a drug overdose. It’s being investigated now.”

Darryl closed his eyes and let out a long breath. “What a damn waste. I’m sorry it came to this. I can’t say I’m surprised though. It was one reason we broke up. She liked to party, and I didn’t. Still don’t. Not with drugs.”

I shook my head sadly. “I’m sorry. I really am. I hope this doesn’t bring you more trouble.”

He gave me an unhappy look. “Thank you.”

“I’m offering you a place here for as long as you’d like,” I said. “You certainly don’t want to be at the hotel.”

“Thanks. I appreciate that.” Darryl’s eyes filled. “It’s all unnecessary. She wouldn’t get help.”

“Do you know who should be notified?” I asked him.

“Everly’s sister, Veronika, lives in New York City. We’ve stayed in touch. I’ll call her,” said Darryl. “You can give the number to whoever needs it.”

“I’m sure newspeople will want to get a statement from you.”

“Okay. I’ll call my agent and have him make a statement for me. I don’t want him or anyone else to know where I’m staying.”

“I think it’s best. Now, let’s go speak to Abbie. She’s welcome to stay here until Tina returns.” I couldn’t help smiling. “Things seem to be going well with your training sessions.”

He returned my smile. “I can’t say enough good things about it. Abbie’s a taskmaster, but I’ve never been happier to do the work.”

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