There was a distinct pause at the far end, a hiss of static on the squawk box.
"
Alright," the tinny voice agreed at last. "
Wait two minutes before you open the gate so I can get the dogs inside."
The box went dead and a magnetic servo clicked as it opened the gate latch. From somewhere down the driveway Peggy heard the sound of a piercing whistle and the barking of dogs responding eagerly to it.
As Peggy opened the gates and started down the driveway, Everly started back on the road to Hollywood with a spatter of gravel from beneath the tires. Her taillights disappeared quickly in the gathering gloom.
The driveway curved in an exaggerated S shape ending in a circle in front of the sprawling ranch house. This was the home of someone rich who wanted to show it off. The gardens were well cared for and tastefully set out. The gravel drive had been raked within a week, and the house looked clean and polished.
As Peggy reached the steps up to the porch, the front door opened and a breathtakingly beautiful young woman saunters out to greet her.
Jeanne St. Jayne is dressed in a stunning Pierre Balmain dress, revealing plenty of leg and cleavage. “
Won’t you come in,” invites St. Jayne, beaming a perfect Hollywood smile. The front room walls are covered with framed pictures of the actress taken from magazine covers, movie posters, and newspaper features.
"
Can I fix you a drink?" she offers pausing in front of a well stocked liquor cabinet. "
I've got a head start on you, I'm afraid, but you can catch up if you like."
As she mixes another bourbon and water for herself and whatever Peggy wants, she asks over her shoulder.
"
So, you said Brophy sent you? What does that pig want now?"