Silencio Bay: Last Novel in the Point of the Circle Series

By Leona Gibbs

After years of searching for his wife’s killer, Chief Miles Johnson now stands at the threshold of justice. He waits for the verdict which will bring peace to his soul and a renewed purpose in life. Then he remembers Laura Brooks…a murder victim of an unprecedented occurrence.  Attaining justice for her may be as elusive as the

• Language: English
• Publisher: Patricia Raffelson
• Release date: May 27, 2019
• ISBN: 9780578512945

Leona Gibbs

Author of 1800's fictional adventure/mystery novels. Living on the Oregon Coast with her husband she enjoys nature and is an animal lover. Member of the ASPCA and Humane Society.

Book preview

Also by Leona Gibbs

Novels in the Series

Point of the Circle

RuCutta Vineyards

Whispering Ashes

Valda Bay

Silencio Bay

Novel

The Poison Pestle

Silencio Bay

Silencio Bay

Last Novel in the Series

Point of the Circle

Leona Gibbs

Dedication

For the Creatures of the Earth

HLH

Acknowledgements

Jill Van Hess, your support, advice and much-needed expertise is deeply appreciated.

Jerri Wallis, dear friend and accomplished artist for painting the cover of this novel.

Larry, my wonderful husband, who makes it possible for me to write.

Romie Turner, for all you do for me and countless other reasons. 

To those who read my books – thank you.

Characters

Jake/Judith Hamilton            Wife of Jake Hamilton

Jasper Stone                  Husband of Iris

Iris Hamilton Stone      Wife of Jasper Daughter of Judith

Chief Miles Johnson      Retired Magistrate and Fire Chief

Daniel Batley                  Owner of Lumber Company 

James Foster Jr.            Son of Wealthy Family

Mr. and Mrs. Ivy      Managers – The Sweet Shop

Flint Ralston                  Plantation Owner in Cuba

Lissett Ralston                  Wife of Flint – Rue’s Sister

Irais Ralston                  Daughter of Flint and Lissett

Mr. Rios      Foreman - Ralstino Cigar Co. 

Lorena Rios                  Best Friend of Irais

Hector Valencia      Surveyor’s Son – Lorena’s Sweetheart

Keith Randall                  Furniture Maker

Carlene Harris                  Owner of Harris Farm

Alois Randall                  Lady’s Maid

Silas Kern                  Doctor in Valda Bay

Rue De La Cotta            Sister of Lissett Ralston

Glaydene Chandler            Grazer Family Cook

Hemp Roper                  Friend of Lucy

Hans Mueller                  Businessman in Cuba

Mrs. Galindo                  Mother of Deceased Surveyor

Marco Galindo            Son of Deceased Surveyor

Father Gomez                  Priest in Cuba

Marie Wells                  Lucy’s Friend

Lucy (Lilly) Schwebel      Owner of the Parrot Perch

Mr. Forbes                  Mysterious/Dangerous Man

Owen Whitmore            Wealthy Businessman

Penny Emerson            Friend of Lucy

Luke Prentice                  Gambler

Geraldine Macbeth            Friend of Miles Johnson

Eunice Baldwin            Friend of Miles Johnson

Erik Foster Jr.                  Sea Captain

Jasper Stone                  Husband of Iris

Ricardo                  Kunekune Piglet

Franco and Sophia            Miss Lilly’s Parrots

Parrot Perch                  Brothel

Chapter 1

T

he water had been bloodied…again.  The glistening moonlight reflected on the bay water never revealed the violence and death that gave pause to the bravest of men. Turning a blind eye did not change anything except to make daily existence even more shameful and difficult to endure.  He had to do something; but who would be strong enough to challenge what had become the status quo?  Who would be willing to help and more importantly who could be trusted and still remain above suspicion? The answer came with the words…I’ll help you.

The tobacco plants were thriving in the perfect soil and climate of Cuba.  Many years of work and devotion in making a world-renowned product was now a very profitable business.  Workers were skilled and took pride in the final product bearing the signature logo of their employer and company—Ralston Cigar Company. The workers, always treated respectfully, acknowledged their employer. From all indications, everything was routine and pleasant. 

Flint Ralston knew there was trouble in other tobacco companies; he just didn’t know the root cause. He suspected the workers knew but failed to disclose the problem out of fear. He heard rumors of violence and read of unexplained deaths reported through the newspaper. On this day, he unknowingly became involved in something he never considered possible.

Mr. Ralston, a young woman called to him.

Yes? Oh, hello Lorena, how are you? He recognized the girl as his daughter’s friend.

I am doing all right. May I speak with you?

Lorena!  See to your work and do not waste time speaking with Mr. Ralston.  He is busy and has many things to do.

Yes, papa. She blushed slightly before bowing her head and resumed working.

I am sorry. My daughter is young and forgets she is not to bother you, he explained.

There is no need to apologize. I have a daughter myself.

Yes, I have seen her a few times and she is a lovely young lady. The man waited for acknowledgement that he was at liberty to continue working.

Thank you. Well, I must be on my way. Good morning, Mr. Rios.

Flint watched him return to his duties but did not miss the look in Lorena’s eyes just prior to leaving. There was a message there; she needed to speak with him. He made a mental note to find out what the young woman wanted. It was important to tread carefully as he did not want to offend her father. The situation needed to be handled with the utmost of care.  He did not have long to wait.

Flint walked into his home thinking about Lorena and what she could possibly want to share with him.  He located his wife outside on the veranda. She was watering a variety of beautiful and colorful plants, which produced vibrant and sweet-smelling blooms.  The floor tiles were rustic and added a welcoming charm to the area. He took a seat and watched as she carefully trimmed off dead leaves and inspected each plant for any signs of distress.  He watched her for a few moments before she noticed him.

Hello; I didn’t see you walk in. She put down her garden tool and removed her work gloves. In a moment, she walked over to him and gave him a quick kiss before sitting next to him.

I’ve only been here a minute. You looked so lost in the beauty of your flowers I didn’t want to disturb you.  How are the plants?

Lovely and full of new buds. I should have the world on a string considering I received some wonderful news this morning.

You received wonderful news but something is still amiss. What has happened?

A letter from my sister. It’s wonderful; Rue is coming for a visit. I haven’t seen her in ages. I have a million things to do before she gets here; however, I know I won’t be able to get organized because I’m very concerned about Irais.

Why the concern?

She is acting differently and has been for a couple of days.  Rue will be here soon since her letter is dated almost a month ago.

I should think you have plenty of time; Spain isn’t exactly next door. It isn’t a long voyage as far as voyages are concerned, but it will take a little while. Tell me more about Irais.

Oh, I wish I could tell you what has her so upset. In truth, I have no idea. Perhaps you could talk with her.

All right, I’ll talk with her. I think I know how to begin so that she will confide in me.

You do? She looked a bit surprised upon hearing his words.

Lorena Rios wanted to speak with me.  I got the impression she wanted it to be in private.

In private?

Yes.  Perhaps it’s nothing, but I’m going to see if the two situations are connected.

What do you suspect?

That’s just it; I don’t exactly know. I know the girls are the best of friends. Mr. Rios doesn’t approve of the friendship because of the difference in the girls' social standing and all that rot. I’ll find a way to ask if she knows why Lorena approached me this morning.

Perhaps I should speak with Lorena.

No, I think if Lorena wanted to speak with you, she wouldn’t have spoken to me.  This is something more. You should have seen the look in her eye; she was upset but was trying to hide it.

Then your plan is to talk with Irais about Lorena’s concerns?

Exactly. Maybe that will open the door to other things.

Promise to tell me everything she says; I mean it Flint.

Honey, don’t worry.  I’ll tell you what we discussed, if anything.

Oh my word…you don’t think she could be in trouble do you?

Who?

My God Flint! Who do you think?  Our daughter.

For Heaven’s sake, at this moment, we know absolutely nothing.  Where is she right now?

In her bedroom playing her guitar. She has been playing for most of the morning.

When she plays for that long, she is troubled about something. I best go talk with her now; no time like the present, as they say. He stood up and left to speak with his daughter.

The tune coming from her room was enchanting and played so beautifully it held him captive for several minutes.  When the music stopped, he quickly knocked on her bedroom door.

Come in.

Hello, I could not help but listen for a few minutes before I knocked.  You play from the heart, and it is very moving.

Thank you.  She stood up and walked over to her father.

Your mother tells me you have been playing for most of the morning.

I guess I have. I find playing to be comforting and soothing.

"Music can soothe the soul. Tell me, what has you in such a state that you must find comfort alone in your room with just the guitar? He hugged her, and she rested her head against his chest. For just a few seconds, she was little again and he was her hero. 

I don’t know, she whispered against his chest.

He gently took her by the shoulders and moved her so he could look at her eyes. Sweetheart, you know I love you and nothing will ever change that.

I know you love me. I love you, too.

What has happened that has you so sorrowful? Trust me enough to share your concerns with me. Maybe I don’t have the answers but together we can at least share the burden. 

It’s all such a mess. She turned away and walked over to her bed and sat on the edge.  Flint pulled up a chair to sit close to her.

Perhaps it is, but maybe I can still help.

It concerns Lorena.

How? Has anything happened that would change your friendship? Did you quarrel?

No.

Has she mentioned any family problems?

No, nothing like that. Her voice was unusually curt.

I see. Well, she tried to speak with me today but it proved impossible for her. I know she has something important on her mind.

Like what?

Well, that’s what I was hoping you might be able to tell me, he replied.

I really don’t know much, but she did say she would try to speak with you.

It might help if you tell me what you do know.

I don’t want to get her in trouble. Her papa always warns the family not to do anything that would make things difficult for you or draw unnecessary attention.

Would it ease your mind if I told you that I won’t say anything to her papa and will just try to keep this between us?

It’s so bad…I don’t want anything to happen to you or mama. A tear ran down her cheek and upon seeing it, he moved to sit next to her and hugged her tightly. He was right; something was very wrong.

Don’t concern yourself about that.  Your mother and I can take care of ourselves. Now, tell me what has you so upset?

It’s something Lorena told me a couple of days ago. She made me promise not to say anything. It could get her family killed if anyone found out.

I promise you that I will be careful, and that I’ll do everything I know to keep you and your mama safe. Honey, I have to know what it is if I am to do that. Keeping a secret that is so serious can’t remain a secret forever; that’s when real trouble starts and often can’t be stopped. Trust me enough to share this burden that has you tormented.

Lorena told me she saw some men commit murder.

A murder?  When?

Three days ago.

Tell me what she said.

She and Hector were sitting among the trees near the beach. They wanted to be alone; you know, because they love each other. His father doesn’t approve of the relationship so they meet in secret. They saw some men in the distance and she said it looked like one man was struggling to get away from the others. That’s when things went badly and the man was killed.

So they were together when the murder occurred.

Yes, that’s what she said.

Did he see what happened?

Yes. He told her to say hidden behind the bushes and to be very quiet no matter what she saw. He said he needed to find out what the murderers would do with the dead man and to get a better look at them. It’s all so terrible. She began to cry, and he gave her a moment to collect herself.

I know it’s hard to talk about it, but you must try. What happened next?

He was tossed into the bay; the water was so still and unnaturally quiet it was dispiriting.

That’s why it’s nicknamed Silencio Bay, he whispered under his breath.

What?

Nothing. Tell me, does this young man know Lorena told you about the murder?

No, because he told her to say nothing, but we are such good friends, she told me anyway.

Did anyone see them?

No.

Well, at least that’s something, he replied.

I guess so, but then she told me something even worse.

What? He could not imagine anything more horrifying than murder.

The poor man was beaten for a long time before they slit his throat. My friends heard the murderers say that Mr. Mueller wants several plantations, but he especially wants yours. He plans to steal the plantation and take over your business by the start of next season. Papa, if you resist you’ll end up dead like the man in the bay. She broke down and sobbed uncontrollably.

Be calm; we have an entire season to prepare if what those men say is true. These murderers don’t know that we are aware of their plans and that is to our advantage.

How is that an advantage?

Don’t concern yourself with that. I want you to continue as if nothing is wrong. Say nothing to Lorena about our conversation. It’s safer for her to think we are unaware. Just one thing. Does Mr. Rios know?

I don’t think so because then she would have to mention Hector. Her father told her not to see him anymore. I could ask her to be sure if you want me to.

No, don’t. The less this is spoken about the better.  Now, I have something to ask of you. It’s going to be one of the hardest things you will ever do. He took her hands in his and gave them a tight squeeze.

What is it?

I want you to keep this from your mother.

You want me to keep this from Mama? Her eyes went wide with surprise.

That’s right. She will worry and I want our lives to appear as normal as possible because we will be safer that way. Do you understand how important this is?

Yes, but what if she asks me what we spoke about?

Tell her all this is about Lorena and her boyfriend. Tell her that the young man wants a job with us because he wants to get married and his father disapproves. He is threatening to disinherit him if he continues seeing her. Mention that Hector really doesn’t want to study abroad and that makes his father angry. That’s not exactly a lie is it?

No. Do you think she will believe that story?

She will if you are convincing.

I’ll do my best.

That’s my girl. Now, on a happier note, are you aware that your Aunt Rue is coming for a visit?

Yes, I am. It will be nice to see her again. I was so young the last time we were all together. Is Uncle Joaquin coming too?

No, I don’t believe so. Your mother would have said something about that.

I remember how very beautiful she is and how close she and Mama are.   

Yes, as close as two sisters can be. Now, do you think you are going to be all right?

I’m sure I will. How did you know I was so troubled?

I’m your father—it’s my job to know.  He kissed her forehead while hugging her gently.

He left his daughter thinking any issues he imagined troubling her now paled when compared to the reality. He knew some plantations were experiencing difficulties but had no specific details. From time-to-time, there were articles about a body discovered in Silencio Bay, so named for the illegal transactions, acts of violence and murder, which apparently were never witnessed. The area was inexplicably quiet and the water perplexingly still. Fear and rumors of impending doom ran rampant each time a body was discovered floating in the Bay. People speculated that the victims were tossed in the Bay by transit sailors solving disputes in the cruelest way possible. Others suggested the men were murdered to satisfy gambling debts, which were unacceptably delinquent. Many wondered if the murdered man had been a participant in a love triangle gone bad; perhaps a jealous husband found a way to eliminate a rival.  Flint, like many others, read about the violence, but it never touched home—until now. 

Mr. Mueller was not anyone to have as an adversary.  Clearly, he was taking ownership of plantations by any means possible. From what Flint read in the newspapers, every dead man found in the bay had their