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picnics while we watched the remodeling crews coming and going.”
    “And let Carter kick the soccer ball to his heart’s content.” Vanessa tilted her head back and looked up at a V formation of white ibis. “He’s got so much room to play, and I don’t worry about him as long as he doesn’t go beyond the fence and Angel is with him.”
    “It’s hard to believe a yellow Lab with her instincts ended up as a rescue dog at the humane society,” Zoe said. “Speaking of Angel, where is she?”
    Vanessa’s eyebrows came together, her eyes the color of the summer sky. “I don’t know. I don’t remember seeing her this morning. With Carter at day camp, I haven’t paid attention to what she’s doing. She loves to roam as much as he does. You’ll have to bring Grace with you next time and let her take a ride on Angel again. I’m not sure who enjoyed it more—her or the dog.”
    “Actually, I think Carter did.” Zoe smiled. “He oversaw the entire operation and made sure she didn’t fall off.”
    “You’d think they were siblings the way he watches after her.”
    “I know. It’s cute.” Zoe glanced at her watch. “I can’t believe we’re out of time. It’s been so great catching up. Your next group of guests will be arriving soon, and I’ve got to get going. I’m sure Adele and Isabel are ready to give my little bundle of energy back.”
    “It’s great that Adele has taken such an interest in Grace. What a wonderful godmother.”
    “She’s absolutely a blessing,” Zoe said. “Thanks for brunch. You’ve got your crepes down to perfection.”
    Vanessa beamed. “I have Pierce to thank for that. The guests are crazy about them, and I can offer them a lot of choices because they’re so easy. Plus they look beautiful on the plate. A fine presentation always adds to the experience. Isn’t that what you and Pierce always say?”
    Zoe laughed. “I think we’ve cloned you.”
    As the two friends strolled back toward the house, Angel moved toward them across the grounds.
    “Well, there you are.” Vanessa bent down in anticipation of the dog jumping on her with excitement. But instead, Angel barked frantically and ran in circles. “What are you carrying on about?” Vanessa tried to pet the dog, but Angel kept pulling away.
    “Does she want to play?”
    Vanessa shook her head. “She’s trying to tell me something. I’d better go see what she’s fussing about. Let’s talk soon, okay?”
    “Definitely. Thanks again.” Zoe gave her a quick hug. “Tell Ethan hello.”
    “I will. Give my love to Pierce and Grace.”
    Vanessa turned and walked briskly across the grounds, Angel already twenty yards in front of her.
    Zoe trudged along the walkway that led back to the manor house, mulling over the morning’s conversation and mentally savoring the shrimp and asparagus crepes Vanessa served her for brunch. Why didn’t she get out like this more often? Few things were more energizing than having good conversation with a friend and sharing something delicious to eat.
    She reached her car, which was the only vehicle parked in the guest lot, and had just opened the door when a scream echoed across the Louisiana sky and sent her heart racing.
    “Zoe!”
    Zoe turned on her heels and raced toward the sound as fast as she could, wishing she had on athletic shoes instead of sandals. She looked out across the rolling green and saw Vanessa waving her arms in the air.
    Zoe pushed herself harder, and half a minute later slowed to a stop in front of Vanessa, a little short of breath. “What’s … wrong?”
    “He’s dead!” Vanessa’s face was ashen, her sandals covered in mud. “He has no pulse!”
    “Who’s dead?”
    “The man in the bayou.” Vanessa pointed beyond an open gate to a body lying faceup in shallow water. “Go take a closer look, and tell me if it’s who I think it is.”

     

CHAPTER 8
     
    Vanessa pulled back the lacy sheers on the parlor window at Langley Manor and saw Zoe