In a small Scottish village, the sudden death of a stray cat uncovers a web of secrets and tensions among the residents. The story follows the local police as they investigate the circumstances surrounding the cat's demise, revealing hidden relationships and long-buried grievances. As the community grapples with the loss, themes of grief, connection, and the impact of seemingly trivial events on daily life emerge, leading to unexpected revelations and a deeper understanding among the villagers.
Lew Morgan is a despised man, with friends and family wishing for his demise. Grover, his longtime friend who runs the local general store, is frustrated by Lew's refusal to grant him another loan. Lew’s son, Whit, endures constant mistreatment, while Whit's wife, Dort, is a manipulative woman intent on securing Lew's wealth. Victoria, Lew’s daughter, struggles for her father's affection amidst the animosity surrounding him. Unbeknownst to Lew, his arrogance has made him a target, and at least one person is plotting his murder.
In another story, Garth Sullivan shares a brownstone with his brother Howdy and Howdy's wife, Pamela. Once a woodworker, Garth's career ended due to an accident caused by Howdy, leading to a deep-seated hatred that intensifies during their family dinners. Garth devises a plan to eliminate Howdy by faking his own death, biding his time for the perfect moment to strike. However, he fails to consider Eunice, their unattractive neighbor who harbors feelings for him. When Eunice sees Garth alive after his staged death, she vows to keep his secret, but some secrets are too difficult to maintain.
Set against a backdrop of emotional turmoil, the narrative explores themes of confinement and longing as the protagonist grapples with the complexities of love and identity. Through vivid imagery and introspective prose, the story delves into the struggles of finding solace and freedom within one's own life. The characters navigate their relationships amidst a landscape of personal and societal expectations, ultimately seeking a sense of belonging and understanding in a world that often feels restrictive.
Příběh z amerického maloměsta, které je vzrušeno zprávou, že ve vile místního, již zemřelého doktora byla nalezena mrtvola jeho hospodyně. Vše nasvědčuje nešťastné náhodě a jen podezřelé chování doktorova syna vyvolá dohady o zločinu a uvede do pohybu policejní aparát. Takto se pomalu odhaluje rodinné prostředí, vyostřené rodinné vztahy, konvence, společenská přetvářka, atmosféra, která vedla ke zločinu..
