Murder in the Mist (29 page)

“Aunt Philly, inhale, then exhale, and try to calm down. Tell me about the gas leak.”

Tears stained her aunt’s cheeks, and her shoulders shook as she sobbed. She did as Laura suggested. Inhaled, exhaled. “Apparently, and unbeknownst to anyone in the town, gas has been leaking and accumulating underground for quite a while. There was an explosion.” She placed her hands over her face and shook her head before refocusing on Laura. “The bookstore, the newspaper office, the entire block went up in flames. The Silly Lobstah is gone, and the gazebo, too. Maudie said it looked like a bombed-out war zone. Buildings blown apart and houses burned to the ground.”

Laura’s heart pounded against her chest. She had difficulty getting the words out. “Was anyone hurt?”

“Maudie said ten people were killed, and about twenty-six injured. She wasn’t sure exactly who or how many. Thank goodness most everyone leaves for warmer climates, and they don’t return until after Easter.”

A word about the author...

Loretta C. Rogers is an award-winning author who writes romance with a twist. When not writing, she enjoys reading and traveling, especially going with her husband on their motorcycle. She enjoys hearing from readers and invites them to visit her website:

www.lorettacrogersbooks.com

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