The Fifth Victim

Jamie reached over and grabbed Jim’s shoulder. “We’re both men of the world. You know how it is. A man’s gotta do what a man’s gotta do.” Jim glowered at his grandson. “Exactly what is it that you do, boy, other than spend my money and raise hell?” Jamie laughed, an infectious, lightearted chuckle that personified his shallow, flippant personality. “Don’t tell me you don’t understand what it’s like to need a little variety. Laura is a sweetie. Really she is. But every once in a while I need something a bit spicier. You adore Big Mama, but that doesn’t mean you don’t dip your quill in other inkwells and we both know it.” Anger heated Jim’s face. The unmitigated gall of the boy! “We aren’t discussing my behavior.” “Don’t get all huffy.” Jamie patted Jim on the chest. “You’re liable to give yourself a heart attack and we don’t want that. I didn’t mean any offense. I was just stating a fact. You’ve kept something on the side for as long as I remember, so don’t go getting all righteous on me just because I—” Jim slapped Jamie soundly across the cheek, the force of the blow sending... Далее