SHORTS FROM THE SHELF features short serialized fiction by author Shannon Muir, administrator of SHANNON MUIR’S THE PULP AND MYSTERY SHELF, that may be later released as part of e-book or print collections. The story line featured currently is “Blacke and Nu Beginnings,”  that will appear on Saturdays and Sundays over the next several weekends, and then a special daily run from March 21st to March 27th, 2020. This is Part Six.

“I see,” Saundra watched Cait finally respond, showing very little emotion. Then, she hung up.

“What’s the update, Cait?”

“Nothing, Saundra,” she heard Cait sigh. “My contact checked in to tell me there has been no word.”

“I’m so sorry.”

“Hey, look,” Marcel offered. “I spent my whole life studying to be in the police force. Let me use those skills to help you now.”

“And why should I trust you? And how do you want to be paid?”

“Only you can decide about trusting me. Ad to payment, credit at this bakery will do just fine.”

Marcel handed cash to Saundra.

“That said, I am paying for this order as agreed as a sign of good faith. If you are willing to work with me, share with me all you know over some cupcakes. If not, I’ll take the cupcakes and. e on my way.”

Saundra turned to Cait.

“It’s all up to you from here, Cait. What do you want?”