thirty-six

I hoped to have a chance to talk to Geneva before the wake. I knew she was on thin emotional ice, and I was far more worried about her than I was about Brooke. I’d called Mary Leary’s house, but the only response was the answering machine. Geneva was probably at the funeral home by now. I left a message on her cell to call me if she was able to. Then I munched on a dinner roll and fed Wizard.

Rummaging in the hallway closet, I found a navy dress and jacket appropriate for the wake. I even had a pair of navy blue heels. My grandmother would be scandalized if I hadn’t produced a pair of shoes to match my outfit. I may not have much in my checking account, but thanks to her samples, I have plenty of clothes. I switched purses, gave Wizard a big hug, brushed cat hairs off my jacket, and trotted down the stairs to the car.

I reached my grandmother’s house in twenty minutes. As usual, parking was impossible and I pulled up to the garage door. Fog had rolled in with a vengeance and was billowing in from the bay. I rang the bell, then, using my key, opened the front door. I called up the stairs to Gloria’s apartment.

“Hello dear. Come on up,” she replied. “Kuan’s here too. We’re just having some tea.”

I climbed the stairs and walked down the short hallway to the kitchen. Mahjongg tiles were laid out on the kitchen table. “I’m getting an education in strategy.” She looked up at me.

“Julia, how are you?” Kuan stood and gave me a kiss on the cheek. “You look very nice. So sorry it’s for a sad occasion.”

“Aren’t these fascinating, Julia? They’re so beautiful! These are Winds and these are Dragons. Would you like some tea?”

“Thanks, no. We have to hit the road if we’re going to make it in time.”

Kuan said, “You two go ahead. I’ll clear up before I go downstairs.”

“Are you aiding and abetting my grandmother’s gambling?” I asked.

“Yes. Of course. In fact, she’s pretty good.”

“I want him to teach me Weigi and Chien-tsu too. I just love those names, don’t you?” Gloria turned to me with a smile. “So exotic.”

“Sounds like something you do in an opium den. Come on, let’s go.” I waved to Kuan. “Just make sure she doesn’t lose her house, okay?”

He chuckled in response but gave me a hard look, as if he knew that I was the one getting involved in things best left alone.