The Best Laid Plans

“Attention!” Broderick tapped his glass with a spoon. ” The estate is under lockdown until the authorities determine the danger has passed.”

The entire gathering gasped. Melinda glanced at her diamond watch. “I need to be home by eleven for Fifi’s bedtime,” she complained.

“Darling,” Helene said soothingly, “apparently there has been a murder, so we must put up with a little disruption until they get it sorted out. After all, the villain could come after one of us next.”

Broderick harumphed. “Let’s not drive our guests into hysterics, Helene. I am sure the murderer had a personal grievance with Cookie that has nothing whatsoever to do with us.”

Sebastian remarked, “I think the hunt for the culprit shall pose quite a challenge as several at the table were terribly upset at the way Cookie crafted the asparagus en croute.”

“It was just a flesh wound!” the detective announced from the doorway. “No need for further alarm.”

“Someone stabbed our cook?” Helene asked.

The detective waved that away. “Not cut. She was bitten cruelly by a savage beast.” He pulled a tiny snarling dog from the pocket of his overcoat and held it far away from his body. “Anyone know whose monster this is?”

“Fifi!” Melinda ran over to grab her pet and kissed its face vigorously. “My poor baby!”

“I swear, Helene,” Broderick whispered to his wife. “We are never inviting her again. This is the last time she runs our plans.”

Helene nodded. “I quite agree.”

~*~
©️2023 Paula Light and Light Motifs II. No unauthorized use permitted.

Written for the Min Min Prompt (248 words on plans) and the Sunday Whirl Wordle 589 (lockdown watch danger hunt challenge glass flesh gathering disrupt murder craft cut).