Page 37 of Grave Stone

“I wonder how long an accidental carbon monoxide death would take in a garage this size.”

“Not now, Stevie,” I said. “She spends her days in court and her nights watching true crime. She’s not a psychopath.”

“Of course I’m not,” Stevie said. “No one is because it’s not a real thing.”

“You’re not helping,” I stage-whispered.

“It’s not a medical diagnosis; it’s a legal term. There. Is that better?”

“A little,” I admitted.

“Follow me,” Sin said. “Stone and Tomb will get your bags.”

We passed a large in-ground pool and an outdoor kitchen on our way to the main house.

While we waited for the elevator, Hadley pointed to a water slide partially hidden by a rock wall. “I hope we get to use that while we’re here.”

“I didn’t bring a bathing suit.” Swimming wasn’t even a consideration when I was packing.

“Neither did I,” she said. “A T-shirt and some shorts will work. Hell, even a black bra with black panties would do.”

“Order one and have it delivered tomorrow,” Stevie said. “They can obviously receive packages here.”

When the elevator opened, Sin gestured for us to exit. Thankfully, Stevie was happy to lead the way. I never liked being the first one to enter a room.

“Hello! You must be our guests. I’m Cora, and that good-looking devil headed this way is mine,” she said and pointed to a man walking toward us.

“The silver fox is off-limits,” Stevie said. “Noted.”

Cora grinned. “I like you. What’s your name, hot stuff?”

“Stevie.”

“I’m Hadley.”

“Then you must be Whitney.”

Raising my hand, I wiggled my fingers. “That’s me.”

“Welcome to the clubhouse,” she said warmly. “Let me show you to your room. After you’ve had a moment to get settled, we’ll get you something to eat, and then I’ll show you around.”

“Thank you,” I said. “That sounds great.”

Our room looked like the inside of a summer camp cabin—three sets of bunk beds, each one hugging a wall, and an en suite bathroom.

“Towels and washcloths are in the bathroom. Extra blankets and pillows are in the closet.”

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. Make yourselves comfortable. I’ll be back to get you for dinner in thirty minutes.”

“Do you think we could have an hour?” I asked.

“Of course, honey. I’ll be back in an hour.”

As soon as Cora left, I turned to Stevie and Hadley. “What in the actual fuck is going on?” I whisper-shouted. It was the first time the three of us had been alone to talk since Stone delivered the news of the letter.

Stevie pointed to something behind me. “The bathroom. Let’s talk in there.” Once inside, she turned on the shower. “Okay, now go.”