Bring Your Own Poison by Jimmie Ruth Evans Page B

her head in puzzlement. “I just don’t get it. I’ve never heard her talk that much. The times I’ve been around her, it was the other way around. It’s usually like pulling teeth to get her to say much.”
    â€œThat’s what I thought, too,” Mayrene said. “I was expecting her to be real quiet, but something flipped her switch. I can’t find a way to turn it off.”
    â€œI don’t want you to have to put up with all that,” Wanda Nell said. “Why don’t you bring her over here, and maybe I can talk to her, get her to quiet down.”
    Mayrene sighed. “Thank you, honey. I appreciate it. I was just about to call you anyway when you called me. I spoke to Dixon this morning, and he’s coming over in a little while to talk to her about this stalking thing. I thought maybe he could help her.” She shook her head. “She’s been talking at me so much I ain’t even told her he’s coming yet.”
    â€œWhy don’t you go get her, and you and me will try to calm her down until Mr. Vance gets here. He can talk to her here, and you can get some peace and quiet while he’s doing it.”
    â€œSounds like a good plan to me,” Mayrene said, pushing herself up and off the couch.
    â€œWait a minute,” Wanda Nell said. “Before I forget, did you hear about what happened last night?”
    Mayrene nodded. “Dixon told me about it this morning.” She frowned. “I can’t say as I’m really sorry. It couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy. But I sure hate that you had to see it.”
    â€œYeah, it wasn’t very nice,” Wanda Nell said.
    â€œYou okay?” Mayrene asked.
    Wanda Nell nodded. “I’ll tell you about it later.” She stood. “Just give me five minutes to get dressed,” she said, glancing down at her housecoat. “I can’t talk to a policeman dressed like this.”
    â€œI think I’ll wait here while you’re changing,” Mayrene said. “Then I’ll go get her.”
    Wanda Nell tried not to laugh. She had never seen Mayrene like this. Usually nothing fazed her. Wanda Nell knew it wasn’t that funny, though, and Mayrene sure wouldn’t appreciate it if she laughed at her.
    She just nodded and went to her bedroom to change. A few minutes later she was back, dressed in jeans and a loose-fitting T-shirt.
    â€œI’ll be back in a minute,” Mayrene said, heading out the door.
    Wanda Nell went to the kitchen for some coffee. Her head ached a little, and she knew some caffeine would help that. She had made a full pot of coffee without intending to, so there would be enough if anyone else wanted any. She poured herself a cup, added some milk and sugar, and went back to the living room.
    She had just sat down when the door opened, and Lisa Pemberton walked in, followed by Mayrene.
    â€œGood morning, Lisa,” Wanda Nell said, standing up. “How are you this morning?” She eyed the younger woman closely for signs of stress and was faintly surprised to see that Lisa appeared perfectly calm and happy.
    â€œI’m doing fine, Wanda Nell,” Lisa said with a friendly smile. “Mayrene is just the nicest, kindest person. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you and your friend looking after me.” She turned to Mayrene and startled her by wrapping her arms around her for a quick hug.
    Mayrene, who was both heavier and taller than the petite Lisa, patted her awkwardly on the back. “Glad I could help out, honey.”
    â€œWould either of you like some coffee?” Wanda Nell asked. “Or something else?”
    â€œI’m fine,” Lisa said. “Mayrene fixed us a very nice breakfast.”
    â€œI’m okay, too,” Mayrene said.
    â€œY’all sit down,” Wanda Nell said, waving at the couch.
    Lisa sat on the end of the couch nearest Wanda Nell’s chair while Mayrene