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rollers and high-heeled shoes on her swollen feet. She was being
served by a woman with an enormous bosom that rested on the counter
They both eyed her, knowing at once that she was strange to the xx
area. Brede swallowed.
"It'*'s all right, Mrs McConkey, you can serve this girl first.
I'm in no hurry.”
"As long as you're aresure Mrs Mullet.” Mrs McConkey looked at
Brede. "What can I get you then?”
"Bar of milk coh chocolate,” said Brede quickly. She took the
money from her purse. She had just enough to pay for it.
Mrs McConkey shuffled over to the shelf, took down the bar of
chocolate and shuffled back to the counter again. It gave Mrs Mullet
plenty of time to examine Brede.
Brede passed over the monejt. As she moved towards the door she
paused and said asked where thefor directions to Sadie's street. she was looking for was.
"I live there,” said Mrs Mullet. "Hang on a minute and I'll walk
you along. Just give me six eggs, Mrs McConkey, and I'll pay you
tomorrow.”
Mrs McConkey passed the eggs over reluctantly.
"Thanks a lot.” Mrs Mullet said to Brede, "Come on then and I'll
show you the way. Are you looking for anyone in particular?”
"Well... actually, the Jacksons' house.”
Mrs Mullet stopped on the pavement. "The Jacksons? Fancy
that, they're old friends of mine. Their son Tommy's walking out withcourting
my Linda."
