Free Shadows in the Night [Hawkman--Book 12] by Betty Sullivan La Pierre Page A

we have to pay for them. Hope you brought some money."
    "I'm covered. How much?"
    George pulled out his wallet as they strolled to the end of the line. “Five dollars a head, and three for children under twelve."
    Hawkman gestured toward the crowd. “From the looks of this large group, the expenses should be covered."
    "They usually get a good turnout on these types of shows,” George said. “Kids love a magician, and Saturday is a good time to come see grandma or grandpa."
    The line moved swiftly, and they found good seats almost immediately. Hawkman noted they had a stage and a spot light from the ceiling, along with large speakers on each side. He leaned toward the Hamptons. “This is a great setup. Bet it cost a small fortune to buy all these props."
    George nodded. “Believe me, we pay for it."
    The lights dimmed and the show began. The magician did an excellent job. He held everyone's attention by telling funny stories along with doing tricks, and involving the audience which kept the younger set in stitches. After the performance, Hawkman walked the couple back to Maggie's apartment.
    "I really enjoyed myself,” he said. “The guy was good. He even had me laughing at his antics."
    Maggie flopped down on one of the small couches in her cozy living room. “Their entertainment here is usually excellent. I don't think we've seen a show yet we didn't like. In the warmer months they have all sorts of festivals between the buildings around the fish pond. Very pleasant."
    "No wonder there's a waiting list for this place. I'm sure the word has gotten around about all the benefits."
    Maggie put her feet up on the ottoman. “George, could you pull off my shoes and get my scuffs out of the closet? These are not my most comfortable pair."
    He obliged and shook his head. “Women. I don't understand why they have to have everything a size smaller than they wear."
    "Oh, George. They're the right size, they're just made different."
    Hawkman raised a hand. “Before I forget, tell me the schedule for meals on Sunday? Do you have the normal three a day routine?"
    "Oh, yes.” Maggie said. “The dining room is open all day, just as it is during the week.” Maggie looked at him questionably. “Why are you interested in the meal schedule?"
    "Just curious. What about people who are vegetarians, or allergic to certain foods?"
    George stroked his fingers across his chin. “On the menu are special dishes you can order. So it's no problem."
    "How is it you get to eat in the dining room, but don't live with Maggie?” Hawkman asked.
    "We pay a small extra fee for me to have at least two meals a day."
    "Hawkman nodded, then turned toward Maggie. “I'll get out of here so you can prepare for bed. Thanks for a pleasant evening, and I'll talk to you tomorrow."
    Maggie rose, tottered a moment, then grabbed her walker. “Oh, I hate almost losing my balance.” Once stable, she added. “Have a good evening."
    Hawkman headed down the hallway, wondering why Maggie appeared anxious for him to leave. He glanced over his shoulder as he waited for the elevator, and spotted her coming out of her room, pushing the walker at quite a rate of speed.
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CHAPTER THIRTEEN
    Hawkman thought about returning to Maggie's apartment, but decided against it, as George could handle her antics. He realized Maggie's freedom to roam the halls and visit her cronies had been squelched by her hovering bodyguards. She probably felt like a caged animal and needed a breather. Also, she needed to reassure her friends that things were okay.
    Driving home, he thought about his schedule for tomorrow. He planned to arrive at the office early, then later in the day drop in on Maggie and see if anything new had developed. He still needed to get in touch with Gracie Parker, the old maid sister of George's checker partner, Eddie, and to touch base with Sybil's son.
    When he pulled into the driveway, he could see the faint glow of a lamp through the