Chapter 2

I called my assistant.

"Get in touch with the organizers of the Ashford City art exhibition. Whatever it costs, secure a booth for my husband."

"Chairwoman Mason, your husband's work does have a certain level to it, but this is a world-class masters' exhibition. That may be difficult."

David liked to paint, but his skill was only average. My assistant had put it politely.

Still, I had to get him out of the way.

"Throw money at it. Have the organizers call him directly. Don't let on that I'm behind it. And I want a result as fast as possible."

About two hours later, David came bounding into the room, thrilled.

"Honey, the Ashford City exhibition called me. They've reserved a booth and asked me to bring my work over."

"Come help me pack."

I got up quietly and packed his luggage, sorting out those paintings of his.

When I finished, I noticed him staring at the jar of liquor.

"Is it that fascinating? You've been looking at it for over ten minutes."

"I just feel happy." David came over and wrapped his arms around me. "I got the medicinal liquor from that miracle doctor, so your illness can be cured now, and my work's been recognized by the Ashford City exhibition."

"Two blessings at once."

I pushed him off. "All right, I know how impressive you are. Everything's packed. Have a safe trip."

"The exhibition doesn't start until the day after tomorrow. You're not feeling well, so I'll stay with you tonight."

Did he need to watch me drink the liquor before he could leave?

I didn't want to look too eager, so I forced myself to hold back for now.

That night I lay in bed, unable to sleep, terrified of what the night might bring.

Late into the night, I heard movement.

David took his phone and crept out of the bedroom.

When I heard the bathroom door click shut, I couldn't help my curiosity and padded barefoot to stand outside it.

"The Ashford City exhibition called me today and reserved me a booth. I know Maureen arranged it. She must feel guilty for refusing to lend the money and wants to make it up to me."

"Don't worry, I won't go soft over something like this. No matter how good she is to me, I'll never love her. You're the only one in my heart."

"I promised you a birthday gift, and I won't break my word. Three to five days at most, and I'll have her dead. Her death is how I'll prove my love for you."

"Mwah. I miss you too."

I couldn't hear the voice on the phone, but I could hear every word David said.

I'd thought he wanted me dead because I wouldn't lend money to his sister's family, thought his whole family just wanted to bleed me dry.

I never imagined he was cheating too.

That night was almost more than I could bear.

Early the next morning I pretended to be cheerful as I saw him off, wishing him a safe trip.

The moment he left, I pulled strings to trace where that call of his had gone last night.

When the results came back, I understood everything.

It seemed this poisoned banquet would need one more guest.