One Grave Too Many

eye. She reminded herself that this directorship at the museum was supposed to bring her into a kinder world—at least, one free of violence and death. Just as she was thinking those thoughts, Alix, the first violinist, came up and threaded her arm through Dylan’s, and they exchanged a flash of bright smiles. Alix had nary a bruise or blemish on her fair skin.
    “Getting pretty good with that violin,” Dylan said. “I’m beginning to like that kind of music—though a little bluegrass would be nice.” Alix nudged him in the ribs and laughed.
    “I never thought this rambling old building would make such a great museum,” Dylan said to Diane. “Dad took me and Alix on a tour through the rooms earlier this evening, and it’s really impressive. I like those big guys in the other room.”
    “Thank you. We are all very proud of it.” At least, most of us are, she mused as she caught a glimpse of Donald talking with Craig Amberson.
    “I agree with Dylan.” Kenneth took in the room with a sweeping gaze. “It looks good. I like what you’ve done with computers. I’d like to suggest you use more computer simulations of dinosaurs—maybe something interactive, Jurassic Park -style. Some sound effects.”
    He opened his arms wide and, for a moment, Diane thought he was going to imitate a dinosaur. “This is a computer world now. If you want to hold people’s attention, you got to give them high tech. By the way, I’ve got a nice laptop I’m bringing you tomorrow. My compliments. I’d like you to check it out, see how you like it. I’ve installed GPS on it. Just the thing for museum personnel in the field—not that I’d use my position as a board member to help my business.” He laughed, and Diane had to laugh with him. Kenneth was one of the most shameless people she’d ever met.
    Signy sashayed up and neatly slid between Alix and Dylan. “Kenneth’s been telling me some good things about you, Dylan. It must be so exciting graduating, ready to make your mark in the world.”
    Alix rolled her eyes. Dylan smiled politely. “I’ll be going to graduate school in the fall, so the world will have to wait while I make another mark at Harvard.”
    The way Signy eyed her, Diane could tell she was going to say something about moving the museum. Diane started to excuse herself—too late. Signy opened her mouth to speak. However, Craig Amberson came over and interrupted before Signy got out her first syllable.
    “Somebody just told me you’ve been looking at a bone for the police. Going to get back into that business? You think you can do that and run a museum too?”
    Signy obviously approved of the question, if the way she beamed at Craig was any measure.
    “I looked at one bone for a detective as a favor. As well as director, I’m also the curator of the primate skeletal collection. I believe looking at a bone still falls under my purview.”
    It just hit her—in light of what Vanessa had said about the rumor of a golf course—that the museum building would make a grand hotel and restaurant for someone like Craig who was in that business. Something must have shown on her face, for his eyes narrowed as he stared at her.
    “I think looking at bones is fascinating,” said Alix. “Just like that TV show. . . .”
    “I agree,” said Dylan. “My father’s been wanting to write a book. You two ought to get together.”
    “You talking about the bone Dad showed you?”
    “Hush, Kevin. What did I tell you about breaking into other people’s conversations?” Cindy and her son had joined the small group. Diane was starting to feel suffocated.
    “Dad said you told him a whole lot about it,” said Kevin, ignoring his mother.
    “Not that much, really,” said Diane. “I’d need more of the skeleton. Ah, Mrs. Van Ross is talking to the botanical collection manager. I need to speak with both of them. Nice meeting you, Dylan. Excuse me, please.” Diane moved away before anyone else could ask her about that damn bone.
    She spoke briefly with Vanessa and went straight to the buffet table. With the affair flowing along on its own, she could afford to feed her stomach before it started growling.
    Armed with a plate of raw vegetables, a couple of small triangle sandwiches and a glass of wine, Diane headed for the giant short-faced bear exhibit. She sat down on its platform, set down her plate and glass, and took up the sandwich. Just when she thought she had picked a secluded spot without leaving the