Chapter Two- The Ripples in the Puddle

Brainy saw everything. He ran to the Sunset Arms boarding house, knowing the other victim's parents wouldn't give a damn. Breathless, he knocked on the door.

"I'll be there in a minute!" yelled Phil Bartlett from his 'office.' He flushed the toilet, washed his hands, and walked towards the front door. The ninety-year-old man opened the door, expecting one of Arnold's friends.

Instead, he saw a drenched and breathless young man.

"Mr.... ummmmm."

"The name's Phil. Come in."

"My name is Brainy," he said walking into the living room, desperately trying to get dry.

"Very unusual name. Can I offer you a ...."

"Uh, Phil. I think you should sit down. I have some important news."

"Ok. Pookie!" Phil called for his wife as he sat down.

Gertie, also known as "Pookie," came into the living room dressed as a cowgirl. Phil motioned for her to sit beside him.

"Brainy, has some important news."

"Helga Pataki committed suicide."

At this Phil and Gertie became pale. They looked heart broken.

After the shock sunk in, Phil spoke, "Short man's girlfriend?!?"

"Yes," replied Brainy, becoming teary eyed. "There is more, but we need to go."

"Where?" asked Gertie.

"To the morgue. I'll tell you everything on the way."