Page 19 of Murder By the Millions

I tamped down a laugh as I mentally pictured Vanna doing the Charleston “bee’s knees” step, bent at the waist, hands on her thighs.

“Many of us have ancestors who enjoyed the dances of the day and donning the latest fashions,” Reika said. “My grandmother was one of the first women to show her ankles.”

Chloe whistled.

“Keep these and ponder which you’d like. I’ll be back with more.” Reika left the suitcase, gathered the dog, and departed as quickly as she’d entered.

I told Tegan and Chloe we’d review the items later; then I packed up the suitcase, took it to the stockroom, and returned.

The door to the shop opened, and two women, regulars to the shop, stepped inside.

“Morning!” Tegan cried.

The women responded with a breezy hello.

“I received a new batch of Percy Jackson novels your boys will love,” Tegan added.

“Thanks,” the taller of the two said as they headed for the YA aisle. Their kids were avid readers.

Right behind them appeared Evelyn Evers, the head of the Community Theater Foundation. She was a dynamo in the African American world and had been one of Tegan’s aunt’s best friends. Her coiled updo made her look eons taller than she already was. “Tegan, I have all sorts of items to lend you for theGatsbyevent. I simply can’t wait! My people have been amassing them for days. I brought a list.” She waved it.

I said, “With Reika and Evelyn’s help, our cup runneth over.”

Tegan beamed. “No kidding.”

“Chloe, honey,” Evelyn said, “before I continue with Tegan, tell me, do you sing?”

“Sing?” Chloe froze, looking like a kid who was going to be punished. “Why?”

“I’m curious.”

“Um, yes. I sing. In the shower. And I used to sing in the choir at church.”

“I knew it. Your speaking voice is so lovely,” Evelyn said. “I want you to audition for our new production.”

“Audition? To act? In a p-play?” Chloe sputtered.

“To act and sing.”

“I’ve never acted.”

“There’s always a first time,” Evelyn said. “I think you’re perfect for a role inMiss Saigon.”

“I love that show,” Chloe effused. “I never saw the play. I was a girl when it closed on Broadway, but I’ve seen the twenty-fifth anniversary film production ten times.”

“Excellent. Then you’re familiar with the story.”

“Yes, ma’am, but …” Chloe looked between Tegan and me. Was she hoping we’d say we couldn’t spare her, so she could opt out? When we didn’t, she addressed Evelyn. “I’m too shy.”

“Shy,schmy.” Evelyn batted the air. “I’ve seen you in action here. You are not a wallflower. You love being attentive to others. That’s what acting is. Focusing on your fellow thespians. Let the lines provide your dialogue and allow the music to carry you away.” Evelyn petted Chloe’s cheek. “You’ll shine. I can see it now. Auditions are tonight. Seven p.m.”

Chloe pulled Tegan and me aside. Her cheeks were rosy red. Her eyes were glistening. “I’d like to try, but I won’t unless one of you accompanies me. I’ll be too nervous.”

Tegan squeezed her arm. “Sure, I’ll go. It’ll be a lark. You’ll have fun. I never acted. I used to be frightened of public speaking. I mean petrified, but my dread has eased up a tad.”

She had emceed her aunt’s memorial and had done a bang-up job.

“Allie acted years ago. She’s talented,” Tegan added.