The Ruby of Siam Book 7 (Jillian Bradley Mysteries Series Book 7)

By Nancy Jill Thames

When Jillian and Teddy arrive with her wedding attendants at Heathrow Airport, they become embroiled in a jewel heist with a man left stabbed to death. Can they solve the crimes in the midst of Jillian's wedding plans? An old acquaintance from San Diego comes to their aid, but will his help be enough? Perhaps the jewel has a curse.

Book 7 in the Jillian Bradley Mystery Series. Cozy Christian fiction for lovers of murder mysteries and series alike. Featuring sleuth dog, Teddy, Jillian's lovable Yorkie companion.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Nancy Jill Thames
• Release date: Aug 28, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301684533

Nancy Jill Thames

Author The Jillian Bradley Mystery Series ABOUT THE AUTHOR Nancy Jill Thames was born to write mysteries. From her early days as the neighborhood story-teller to the Amazon Author Watch Bestseller List, she has always had a vivid imagination and loves to solve problems – perfect for plotting whodunits. In 2010, Nancy Jill published her first mystery "Murder in Half Moon Bay," introducing her well-loved protagonist Jillian Bradley and clue-sniffing Yorkie Teddy. After writing eleven books and a short story collection Nancy Jill travels between Texas, California, and Georgia finding new ways to spoil her grandchildren, playing classical favorites on her baby grand, or having afternoon tea with friends. She lives with her husband in Texas where she served as President of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) CenTex Chapter. To learn more about Nancy Jill visit these sites: Website: https://nancy-jill.blogspot.com/?m=0 E-Mail: [e-mail] Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/mystriterdva/ FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/mystriterdva/ Cozy Mystery Magazine: https://cozymysterymagazine.blogspot.com/p/nancy.html?m=1

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

Prentice knelt on one knee and held my hands – the proposal was about to begin.

To sit in his lovely parlor underneath a 15th century painting put me in a dreamlike state. My heart raced, but I managed to keep composed. Teddy, my Yorkie companion, lay asleep beside me, worn out from the New Year’s Eve party that had now ended.

Jillian, darling, I realize I promised you a special proposal. He kissed my hand. But with my competitor leaving so abruptly I thought I’d better get your answer tonight. Will you marry me? I’ll give you the world if you’ll say yes.

For a moment, a twinge of pain stabbed my heart. It left as quickly as it came after I realized that Prentice was the one with whom I wished to be. A previous suitor, Vincent Fontaine, was on his way to South America – I’d probably never see him again.

Yes, I’ll marry you. I gave him a long tender kiss. Such happiness washed over me that I wanted to shout the news to everyone I knew. I was going to be Mrs. Prentice Duvall, wife of a noted art dealer. Wife again – no longer a widow. Life would be different.

The Ask Jillian column held the copyright for ongoing syndication – no more articles to write. Deadlines over. Problem solved. Things always worked out when I gave troubles to God. Now I must trust Him with a second marriage.

Prentice joined me on the sofa and put his arms around me.

It caused Teddy to stir, but he fell back asleep.

Holding me tight, my fiancé spoke.

I’ll be honest with you, darling. There are going to be times your patience and understanding will be required in our new life together.

I wondered what he was trying to tell me.

Beginning with? I pulled away for a moment and faced him.

Our wedding. I hope you will understand.

Was I marrying a spy? A secret government agent? These were the only people I knew with commitments that overshadowed personal issues.

I crossed my arms. Try me.

Teddy stretched, obviously asleep.

Prentice stood and paced. Work is keeping me so busy that we can’t possibly get married for a few months. The London Frieze Art Fair is an event in October that I’ve been committed to for over a year. I thought we’d have a destination wedding. We’ll buy your rings at Tiffany’s, just like Audrey Hepburn. How does that sound? Rest assured, before you say anything, all the details are my responsibility, I promise. It will only take one call to put the plans in motion.

There was no hesitation.

London? In that case, I have a question.

Just one, darling?

Well, two actually.

He stroked Teddy.

Had Prentice read my mind?

First, what about Teddy? Second, who will be in the wedding party? This doesn’t sound like it’s going to be easy.

Prentice sat next to me again, took my hand and kissed it.

"Teddy is welcome to join us. I’ll make all the arrangements if you wish. For attendants, why don’t you invite a few garden club ladies to come along? Plenty of my friends attending the Frieze will stand up for me, I’m certain. In fact, I’m thinking of a couple who owe me favors."

What about your sons?

Too busy with their work and family commitments. I know from experience. We’ll plan something when we return home.

A shiver ran down my back – perhaps it was due to the excitement, and yet it didn’t feel right. Maybe it was just as well I had ten long months to deal with this major life transition. The editors would also appreciate having enough time to segue into a new contributor for their papers.

Coffee Cup

With spring gardening tasks completed, planting bulbs and pruning dead branches from the shrubs, I attended the Lovejoy Family Reunion in Pacific Beach at the end of June. Such a wonderful time to be with loved ones. Then, a few whirlwind months passed shopping for new clothes, getting a passport, and attending wedding parties given by friends.

I arranged for Walter and Cecilia Montoya, parents of my precious godson, D.J., to house-sit while I was away. Since the young couple lived in a cramped condo, they were only too happy to do so.

With everything ready, I boarded a plane with two garden club friends, Ann Fieldman and Nicole Summers, as attendants and headed for London.

Teddy rode in cargo.

Due to his busy schedule, Prentice had flown ahead. It was a disappointment not to accompany him, but I had decided to maintain an attitude of patience and understanding. To help compensate, he’d arranged for someone to meet our party at the airport and drive us to the hotel.

Indeed, standing in the crowded baggage claim area near the exit was our driver holding an iPad with Bradley Party typed on the screen. Teddy sat at his feet, held by his red rhinestone leash. When Teddy spotted me, he stood up and yipped. Heads turned to stare, but I soon reached him and gathered him in my arms.

The driver stepped forward. Mrs. Bradley? If you will allow me to collect your luggage and then follow me, madam.

With bags heaped upon two carts, and Teddy safely ensconced in the cheetah tote I’d carried on the plane, our party headed for the car.

Before reaching the exit, out of nowhere, a man ran through the crowd, crashed into us, and knocked me over. When he fell on top of me, Teddy yipped wildly as I struggled to get up. I held tight to Teddy’s leash. Something sticky appeared in my hand. People shrieked.

After a closer view of the man’s torso, I realized someone had stabbed him. Buried in his belly the handle of a knife protruded. I now understood his blood caused the stickiness.

Grabbing me before I tried to stand, he held me close. Take care of my family. His voice was only a whisper.

All I could do was nod.

The man’s grasp loosened as he collapsed and died.

Teddy whined in pity.

A weight of sadness crept over me, not only for his death, but also for this poor man to die leaving a family. How on earth did he expect me to help them? I felt nauseous from the sight of the blood.

Within moments, airport security dispersed the crowd. Paramedics arrived and examined the victim, checking his neck for a pulse. Somehow, I knew they wouldn’t find one.

With Ann on one side and Nicole on the other helping me up, I caught a glimpse of someone standing in the back of a group of onlookers. Did I have double vision? I’d seen this person before, I was certain.

Oh, my knee stung! Must have skinned it from the fall. My head hurt – I couldn’t think clearly anymore. A concussion?

The uneasiness grew. Was it imagination or was he staring at me? In a single blink, he disappeared into the crowd. Unable to cope with all that had happened, I fainted.

When I woke up, Prentice bent over me as I lay in bed. Had I been dreaming? The room seemed as if it were the dream.

Oh, my head. I groaned.

Prentice patted me.

I looked around the bed. Where’s Teddy?

Easy now, sweetheart. He’s next to you.

I turned slowly to where he pointed.

Teddy pricked up his silky little ears and cocked his head as if to say, Are you all right, Mistress?

Prentice offered me a glass of water from the nightstand.

Here, drink this. You’ve had a bad fall. Don’t worry, though. You’re going to be fine. The doctors examined you and everything’s okay except for a few bruises and some soreness. According to them, you’ll be up and around by tomorrow. No rush. I want you to rest until you’re back to normal. Care to tell me what happened?

I searched my brain trying to remember.

"Right before we were leaving the terminal someone charged into me. All I could think about was to hold onto Teddy’s leash. The next thing I knew, the man had fallen on top of me.

We hit the ground hard – I might have been knocked out, not sure. Teddy kept yipping, poor little dear, and no wonder he did. I had blood all over me. It came from the man’s wounds.

Prentice patted my arm. "That’s enough for now. Lie back and rest. Ann and Nicole reported just what you told me. I’m sure the man was running away from someone. He may have been a criminal. Who knows?

I’m calling a friend of mine who works for the police here to talk to you when you’re a little stronger. Might put your mind to rest. For now, let’s not think about this unpleasantness anymore.

I closed my eyes.

Prentice tucked me in and kissed me on the forehead.

I fell asleep, exhausted.

Coffee Cup

The doctor must have given me a strong sedative because I slept soundly until the following afternoon. When I finally awakened, I didn’t remember anything except that Prentice had visited me the day before. What we talked about I wasn’t sure. I thought we were in London.

Slowly, I swung my legs over the side of the mattress. By holding on to the edge of the bed for support, I steadied myself until I could stand, walk to the window, and glance out.

A band was playing for a formal ceremony some five stories below. I was watching the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace!

As I lowered into a chair, I continued to stare, mesmerized. Someone knocked on the door. I had no strength, so I called for them to enter.

In walked one of my oldest and dearest friends, Ann Fieldman.

Jillian, you’re out of bed. She rushed to my side. You shouldn’t be up. The doctor said you may have a concussion.

Oh, don’t worry. I’m okay. A little muddled, perhaps, but I’m not staying in bed the entire time we’re in London. I looked around for my other friend who’d come along, Nicole King.

Where’s Nicole?

Out with Teddy for a walk. She wanted a closer look at the changing of the guard. Jillian, this hotel is incredible. We have a butler, did Prentice tell you?

My head started to swim again. Ah, no. At least I don’t remember if he did or not. Ann, what happened to the man at the airport?

You mean the one who plowed into you yesterday? Dead, I’m afraid. Someone stabbed him. The police want to get your statement, but not until you’re well enough to talk.

Ann, I’m hungry.

Not another word. Watch this. She went to the phone and pressed a button. Yes, please send up a cheeseburger and a Coke. Oh, and a slice of key lime pie and a pot of tea. Thank you.

I had to smile even though to do so hurt. Ann, you’re marvelous.

The door opened and in walked Nicole carrying Teddy in her arms.

You’re awake. She placed Teddy in my lap. He was a good boy and went potty. How’s your head?

I’ll live. What bad luck to be in an accident just as we got here. Where are we staying anyway? I don’t remember much.

Ann handed me the information folder. "We’re at The Lanesborough in Knightsbridge, one of the most fashionable hotels in London. It’s right across from Buckingham Palace, as you’ll notice. Jillian, the hotel even provided a butler."

A what? I tried to process the information. My head still hurt.

Yes, he was the one who met us at the airport. We’re to call him Barnes, just like in ‘Downton Abbey.’ You remember, on Masterpiece Theater?

Someone rapped on the door and called out. Your luncheon, madam.

Nicole walked toward the summons. I’ll get it.

In walked our driver from the airport followed by a young man pushing a covered cart.

Barnes bowed slightly. Shall I serve now?

After I nodded yes, Barnes motioned for the server to set lunch out on the small table beside the window.

A grandfather clock chimed once. One o’clock.

Barnes placed a linen napkin on my lap and removed the plastic wrap from the water glass. Luncheon is served. That was a most extraordinary thing to happen, madam. I hope you are recovering quickly.

Thank you, Barnes. Has Mr. Duvall left a message?

The butler paused.

No, madam. Do you require anything else?

That’s all for now. Please inform me of any messages.

How I wished Prentice had come to visit.

Nicole waved and started to walk to her room. I’ll check on Teddy a little later. You should try to eat.

Thanks, Nicole.

Ann followed suit. I’ll be in the bedroom if you need me. I’ll leave you to your lunch.

I nodded in appreciation. Such a blessing to have dear friends with me.

After I’d eaten a few bites, I peeked in to see what Nicole and Ann were doing in their rooms. Both were napping soundly from jet lag.

I heard Teddy growling and scratching on his tote in the corner, tipping the contents over on the floor.

Out spilled an exquisite ruby necklace.

Teddy! Where did this come from?

He made all sorts of sounds and whines as if trying to tell me.

My friends slept on.

This looks valuable. A gift from Prentice? Doesn’t seem to be his style, though.

To get attention again, Teddy yawned with a groan.

From what I’d read, dogs did this when stressed.

Oh, Teddy – I bet this is the reason why the poor man died. Well, until I learn more, and at the risk of withholding evidence, my instinct says no one else must know. But where to hide it?

Teddy ruffed.

Right. We can’t keep our find here. Wait. I have an idea. Stay! I pointed, giving him a stern look to make him understand the seriousness of the command.

I dressed quickly and put the amulet in a small jewelry case I’d brought with me.

After I’d hidden it in a safe place, I returned to the room and lay down with Teddy beside me.

Oh, I had been clever, but I wondered where this untimely treasure might lead.

CHAPTER TWO

My first day in London had been a disaster, but I was determined not to let that stop me from enjoying the rest of the trip. Prentice did manage to show up for dinner. I admit feeling somewhat ignored since it wasn’t until 7:30 that evening when he arrived home.

Jillian, my love, you look marvelous. Feeling better? I hope you got some rest today. Without letting me get a word in edgewise, he continued. The Frieze exhibits were wonderful. So many important entries this year…. Before finishing his sentence, he finally realized I wasn’t listening.

Why, what’s the matter? Still not over your ordeal?

I stopped pouting. Oh, I’m being silly. I’ve just missed you is all. Please forgive me. The way you work such long hours is something I’ll need to get used to.

I do apologize, but remember – I warned you. It doesn’t mean I couldn’t wait to be with you again. Now, let’s go down to dinner. Where are the girls?

Ann and Nicole entered the room. I hadn’t realized they’d even left since I’d taken a little nap.

We’ve had a late tea. Ann set her purse on the entryway table. Jillian was resting and waiting for you. You two go on and enjoy yourselves.

Nicole strolled over to Teddy on the sofa and picked him up. I’ll watch Teddy and take him for a walk.

Thanks. I stood in front of the entryway mirror and patted a stray blond hair back into place. I filled Barnes in on how to feed him. Having a butler is something I could get used to.

Prentice chuckled. I’m glad to hear it. Charles looks forward to serving you.

Ann and Nicole exchanged glances of approval.

How silly of me to forget Prentice had the Simpkins working for him. A butler, a housekeeper… and both cooked as well.

What would my role be then? To keep Prentice happy and content, I decided, beginning now.

He took my arm.

Darling, shall we go?

Coffee Cup

The dinner was marvelous. Apsleys, the Lanesborough’s signature restaurant, served Italian fare in an exquisite setting reflecting the hotel’s decor. Since I couldn’t decide what to order, Prentice ordered for me.

For starters, we had lobster salad with avocado, fresh tomato, and crispy potatoes. Other dishes I’d never had before were braised pigeon with grilled polenta, marinated figs, and cauliflower for the entree followed by a chocolate and vanilla sphere with raspberry heart.

In consideration of watching my weight, Prentice quietly informed the server to bring half portions for her ladyship.

England is beginning to grow on me.

What are your plans for tomorrow? I sipped the cappuccino I’d ordered with dessert.

Prentice pursed his lips. This was a facial expression I’d started to notice whenever he reverted to business.

Back to the Frieze exhibit. Several collectors I wish to meet will be in attendance. Potential buyers, of course. Always a good idea to mingle. I’m also meeting with a director I’m currently working with from one of the galleries to discuss a bid. I should be finished in time for dinner.

How lovely. Why don’t we make it early? Then we’ll call it a night, if you don’t mind. I’m a little tired. Tomorrow sounds like a busy day for you. Will we have time to take in some sightseeing and do a little shopping?

"I believe so, if you think you’ll be up to it."

I smiled and touched his hand. I just want to be with you.

He took me in his arms and kissed me. That’s my girl. Don’t you know how happy you make me?

Then I’m happy, too.

By the way, Inspector Grimes promised to stop by just as soon as he could. We had a nice chat.

I nodded my note of thanks.

Coffee Cup

After a night of fitful sleep, reliving that strange little man crashing into me, I shook myself and rang for breakfast in bed. Prentice had insisted – his way to spoil me in lieu of spending time together, which