Gators and Garters (Miss Fortune Mystery, #18)

by Jana Deleon

“I would think not with Carter staying over,” Gertie said. “And who told you that?” I asked again. “We all have our sources,” Gertie said. I narrowed my eyes at her. “You’ve made friends with Ronald, haven’t you?” She feigned an innocent look. “I’m sure I have no idea what you’re talking about.” “Oh good God,” Ida Belle said. “Like we needed more crazy in our lives.” “Has he been feeding that gator in my yard?” I asked. “No,” Gertie said. I stared at her. “I swear he hasn’t,” she said. “I mean, he’s baked casseroles and stood out there for a while, but he said he hasn’t seen Godzilla since that day he ate the terrorist.” “And what about you?” Ida Belle asked. “I’ve seen him when I went out fishing,” Gertie said. “But across the lake.” “If he gets hungry and lazy, he’ll be back here begging,” I said. “Last time we fed him a terrorist,” Gertie said. “Maybe he decided he didn’t like the menu here.” “I didn’t feed him a terrorist,” I said. “He just happened to be in my yard.” Gertie shrugged. “He was trying to kill you. Godzilla was hungry. Worked out well for everyone. Except maybe the terrorist.” “Maybe?” “You were going to shoot him anyway,” Gertie said. “It was just a matter of time.” It was a valid point so I couldn’t really argue.