Larissa O Mally: A Short Story

Casey wondered what had happened to this happy family—her family. Lisa also said there was speculation that Sean’s murder was a result of his wife’s infidelity. She hoped that wasn’t true. Larissa O’Malley being unfaithful was incomprehensible. Her expression was one of adoration as she gazed up at her husband, and he back at her. The love they shared emanated through paint and brushstrokes tangible, boundless. How strong their love was in life if a painting could capture its essence on canvas.

Although her marriage had started out in a similar fashion with love and adoration, and circumstances had quickly changed that. Why was life so cruel? I’m going to find out all that I can about this family. I need to know what happened.

With the air

“There’s nothing supernatural going on here. I’m jumping at shadows, for no reason.” Still feeling apprehensive, Casey ran down the stairs.

One final sweep of the house to make sure she had assessed every room. Then out to the veranda to make a few quick notes. Remnants of the climbing rose bushes at the corner columns caught her attention. She hadn’t seen them yesterday with all the weeds and dead vines that had overtaken them. Although all that was left were bare branches and briars, except for one white rose with a faint vein of pink and lilac that enticed her to come closer.

Casey reached her hand out to pluck the rose from the vine. “Ouch!” A bright spot of red formed on the tip of her finger. It fell to the ground to stain the dirt a rusty-brown.

She wrapped her finger in a Wet Wipe and got into the driver’s seat dreading the trip home. As the car backed down the lane, she took one last glimpse at the house and added saving the roses to her list. She wanted the sweet fragrance of flowers to fill the rooms at Glendara.

To restore the homestead would be a major undertaking. She was willing but could she convince Ray it would be a good