Chapter 1
Jasmine placed her signature meat and cheese platter on the counter of the wine bar. She enjoyed the last drop of sunlight that reflected off the tall glass door and bounced across the polished wooden surface of the bar. She loved the color and the texture of red wood. The wood was local and sturdy, but elegant, with unpredictable whorls.
She could set up a table for two but decided against the idea because it didn’t suit the occasion. It was a Sunday afternoon, and nothing on this side of town was open. She wasn’t supposed to be at the restaurant, let alone holding a reception for a city detective who was here to stick his nose into the business of this small community.
Gisborne, a small town on the outskirts of Melbourne, Australia, was known for its tranquility and the peac
