Quilt Trip: A Southern Quilting Mystery (22 page)

“Thanks so much, Posy,” said Martha smoothly. “You always have everything I need here.”

“Thanks for being one of my best customers,” said Posy brightly.

“Before I go,” said Martha carelessly, “I wanted to see if I could join you ladies on Friday evening, too.”

“Oh!” said Posy, startled. She looked helplessly over at Meadow and Beatrice for direction.

“No room! No room!” Miss Sissy repeated aggressively.

Meadow gave a ferocious frown, putting her hands on her wide hips. “I thought you told Phyllis that you were done with your quilt.”

“No,” said Martha, “I said that
Phyllis
should be done with her quilt. She procrastinates. I, on the other hand, have been incredibly busy. I only have a little ways to go, but this would give me a deadline for finishing my project.” She looked expectantly at Posy over the bags of fabric still sitting on the checkout counter in front of her.

Posy nervously fingered the beagle pin on her fluffy blue cardigan. “I’m sure I can find a spot for you at the retreat, Martha. I’d love to have you come.”

Martha rewarded her with a smile. “Thanks so much, Posy. See you ladies on Friday,” she added coolly to Beatrice and Meadow.

“Now, why on earth would she want to come to your retreat when clearly she and Phyllis don’t get along?” asked Beatrice.

“Isn’t it obvious?” asked Meadow. “To get on her nerves, of course.”

“Dangerrr,” crooned Miss Sissy, right on cue.