Grave New World: A Jane Ladling Mystery

Using the ingredients Conrad had on hand, Jane whipped up a super easy decadent chocolate lava cake, then tidied up her appearance. Though she’d hated ditching the comfort of Conrad’s shirt and those yoga pants, she exchanged the garments for an ivory silk blouse with subtle darts and a relaxed knee-length pencil skirt in black. A sophisticated look sure to let Christopher know she was a professional investigator who meant business. For the sake of her healing head wound, she forwent a hat. Boo, hiss.

With Beau at the wheel of his truck, they made the ten-minute drive in twelve, arguing about the dessert the entire way. He parked in front of Aurelian Hills Fire Station Number 2, and they exited the vehicle, still arguing. Jane carried the cake. A clear lid provided a glimpse of the sweet delight within, while a latch and two handles allowed for sturdier transportation. She kept an eye out for Cartier.

“Just one taste,” Beau said as he held open the door for her. “The firefighters won’t care.”

She soared inside. “I won’t feed your addiction to my desserts while you’re on duty. You’ll lose focus and only want more.”