Free 'Til Death Do Us Part by Amanda Quick Page B

is that?”
    â€œI have begun to wonder if one of the gentlemen I have rejected as a client might have decided to take revenge.”
    He considered that briefly and nodded. “That is definitely a possibility we must consider.”
    â€œThe box containing the coffin bell was inside the cab that I hailed this afternoon. It turns out the driver was paid a special gratuity to pick me up.”
    â€œThe driver saw the man who put the box in the cab?”
    â€œYes. But he did not get a close look at his face. Trust me, I demanded a description. All I got was the information that the individual appeared to be in his early thirties, was well dressed, and wore expensive gloves.”
    â€œBut the driver was certain that it was a man?”
    â€œQuite certain,” Calista said. “I intend to sort through my files of rejected male clients. I have Andrew’s notes and my own to examine. I shall draw up a list of men who might want revenge.”
    Trent thought about that for a moment. “How many men have you rejected?”
    â€œIt will not be a long list. I have always been very careful when it comes to clients. Because of that I have not had to reject many. But there have certainly been a few. I may be able to eliminate some of them now that I have the cab driver’s description.”
    Trent contemplated the coffin bell. “Your plan is a good one, but I believe the first step is to find the shop where that bell was purchased.”
    She watched him with a mix of hope and uncertainty.
    â€œYou are determined to help me discover the identity of the person who is doing this?”
    â€œIf you will allow me to do so,” Trent said.
    â€œI must admit, I am quite desperate. My nerves are starting to fray. I would be very grateful for some assistance.”
    â€œI wish to help you, Miss Langley. But let me be clear—I do not want your gratitude.”
    She smiled for the first time since she had walked into the drawing room. It was a rather tremulous smile but it was warm and genuine.
    â€œThen I will repay you in kind, sir,” she said.
    â€œIn kind?”
    â€œYour sister mentioned in passing that you are something of a recluse.”
    â€œEudora told you that?” Trent said. He would have a word with her when he got home.
    â€œI understand that as a writer you must spend a great deal of time alone. That would, of course, make it difficult to meet people.”
    â€œI assure you, I am not keen to meet great numbers of people.”
    She paid no attention. “In exchange for your assistance in identifying the person who is sending me these objects, I will endeavor to introduce you to a suitable female companion. I’m sure there is someone on my roster of clients who will be just perfect for you. I perceive that you would appreciate a lady who can provide stimulating, intellectual conversation. One who can share your interests.”
    Reflexively he touched the scars on his jaw. “Promise me that she will not feel obliged to share her opinion of my novels.”

11
    â€œA H , YES , THAT is one of my late husband’s patented safety coffin bells,” Mrs. Fulton said. “No one should be buried without one. I can only guarantee that it will function properly, however, if one also purchases the special coffin that Mr. Fulton designed to be used with the bell. I cannot recommend attempting to use it with an inferior coffin.”
    Calista was not sure what she had expected when she and Trent walked into the somber premises of J. P. Fulton Coffins & Mourning Goods. But for some reason it came as a bit of a shock to discover that J. P. Fulton was no longer among the living. His widow was now in charge.
    Mrs. Fulton appeared to be in her midforties, attractive in a dignified way that suited her profession. She wore a stylish black gown with a high collar of black lace that framed her throat. Her pale blond hair, lightened with gray, was snugged up