Free The Right Side of Memphis by Jennifer Scott Page A

like reports on Bobby Douglas, when he was going through his breakup with Kelly.  An example was the trip Billie made to Florida to try and locate him.  Billie knew she had to stop this conversation soon.  Chris' constant instigating could get Bobby in some major trouble.  He would put two and two together.  Just as her manager was about to tell Chris about her in depth interview with Bobby, she tapped on the door.  She made up something spontaneously.  “Billie, we were just talking about your outstanding journalism.  Chris also happened to mention your plans for a retreat with Andy Johnston and friends,” Mr. Reid said in a mellow tone. 
    She hesitated, “Well, what’s the verdict?” 
    He assured, “Chris has convinced me that you deserve a little rest and relaxation for all of your hard work.  So, have fun.  And maybe do a bit of brainstorming at the same time.  That is usually your best work.” 
    It was settled.  Billie could go to Andy’s cabin with a clear conscience.  She wondered who else would show up there.  It was really up to Maria and Andy as well.  It had not occurred to her yet that every single person there was bound to find out about her and Chris, if they didn’t already know it.  She hoped they would be discreet and that their couple status did not leave the cabin.
    Chris called her to tell her he was through packing and was on his way to pick her up at her place. She wanted to ride with Maria, too.  He pulled up in his SUV a few minutes later.  He helped her load her stuff.  As she was placing her camera case in the back, she saw the suitcase that contained the gun.  She looked at Chris and he said, “What? Andy and I are going sharp shooting, so obviously I’ll need a gun.  Just like you are going to be taking pictures and will need a camera.  Catch my drift?”
    Billie moaned, “No arguing, remember? We can’t let anything ruin this trip.”  Maria had already left for the cabin.  Chris was driving in almost the opposite direction of Andy’s.  Billie demanded, “Where are we going?” 
    He notified, “Oh, I am in charge of picking up our other guests for the weekend.  Maria asked me to pick them up for her. They couldn’t leave when she did, so we’ll be doing the honors.” 
    Billie remarked, “I’m just curious as to why you didn’t mention this earlier.”  She wondered who they might be.  She soon found out the answer.
    They pulled in the driveway and saw the couple approaching them.  Chris helped them with their things and then said, “This should be fun.” The vacation Billie had been looking forward to now would seem more torturous. Was this punishment for being with Bobby?  How would she be able to disguise the truth? She’d have to somehow, starting at that moment. 
    Kelly was the first to speak to her.  “Hi, Billie.  How have you been?” 
    Billie was beginning to feel sick.  She thought about whether or not Kelly knew the secret, and if she would still be speaking to her.  She acknowledged, “I’ve been okay.  I’m just happy to be a part of this, to actually be invited.” 
    Kelly agreed, “I can’t believe it either.” 
    Billie inquired, “Where will the kids be staying while you are away?”
    Kelly answered, “They are staying with my parents.  Bobby wanted to bring them along, but I suggested we make time for ourselves.”  Bobby looked up at Billie, as she was turned around in the front seat.  She was waiting on him to say something about Chris, but he remained silent. 
    It was almost plain eerie.  Like someone knew something and was afraid to give it away. Chris was next to break the ice.  He was always quite the joker, but Billie couldn’t help but feel like this was a set up.  He taunted, “Don’t get me wrong, but aren’t we going to a party for a whole week?  It feels like we’re on our way to a funeral.” 
    Billie added, “Must be.”  Bobby smiled. 
    Then, Kelly asked, “So Chris, when