Chapter 69

Chapter 69 of We Solve Murders unfolds in the Gregor household, where Bonnie Gregor is immersed in the process of packing for her upcoming trip. The air buzzes with excitement and mild chaos as her mother, Lois, supervises while her children, Mimi and Maxie, attempt to “help” in their own unpredictable way. Bonnie meticulously selects her wardrobe, treating the process as both a professional obligation and an opportunity to showcase her personal brand. For her, this isn’t just about stuffing clothes into a suitcase—it’s a calculated effort to ensure she presents herself flawlessly in every situation. Lois watches with a mixture of amusement and admiration, occasionally chiming in with remarks about Bonnie’s choices. A comment about Bonnie’s decision to pack bikinis for an influencer event promoting paint leads to laughter, with Lois playfully questioning the logic behind it. Bonnie, unfazed, explains that social media marketing often thrives on visual appeal rather than strict industry relevance.

Despite the seemingly lighthearted packing, Bonnie’s mind is preoccupied with the weight of this opportunity. She recognizes that her transition from working behind the scenes for companies like Forest Paints to stepping into the spotlight as an influencer is a defining moment. Though she has been steadily growing her online presence, this trip signifies a major step forward. A significant part of her excitement stems from her partnership with Felicity Woollaston, whose belief in Bonnie has boosted her confidence. As she folds her clothes with precision, she envisions the possibilities that await—networking with key figures in the industry, expanding her reach, and proving that she is more than just a behind-the-scenes consultant. She briefly wonders if she should express her gratitude to Felicity by taking her out to lunch upon her return. It’s a small gesture, but one that could strengthen their professional bond.

Meanwhile, Mimi and Maxie bring their own brand of energy into the room, transforming the task into a game. Their excited chatter fills the space as they pretend to pack for their own grand adventures. Maxie, in his usual dramatic fashion, suggests they should take a trip to the moon, prompting Bonnie to chuckle at his boundless imagination. Mimi, always the voice of reason, proposes France as a more realistic destination, which sparks a fleeting daydream in Bonnie’s mind. She allows herself to imagine a future where she can take her family on a luxurious vacation—one that is fully funded by her successful career as an influencer. The idea fuels her determination, reinforcing why this opportunity is so important. Lois, noticing her daughter’s thoughtful expression, reassures Bonnie that she’s on the right path. Bonnie smiles, grateful for her mother’s unwavering support.

As the conversation shifts toward Bonnie’s upcoming responsibilities, Lois playfully pretends to be a customs officer, inspecting Bonnie’s suitcase with exaggerated seriousness. “And what’s this?” she teases, holding up a bottle of organic paint. Bonnie laughs, explaining that her contract includes an “unboxing” video to showcase a new line of eco-friendly paints—a trendy niche that influencers have recently embraced. Lois raises an eyebrow, skeptical about the concept of influencers promoting paint, but ultimately shrugs it off with a knowing smile. She has always supported Bonnie’s ambitions, even when she doesn’t fully understand them. The lighthearted exchange eases some of Bonnie’s pre-trip nerves, allowing her to momentarily enjoy the absurdity of her profession. She appreciates that, despite all the stress of packing, her mother and children keep her grounded.

As the evening progresses, Bonnie finds herself reflecting on how far she has come. Not long ago, she was simply working for brands like Forest Paints, helping others market their products. Now, she is stepping into the role of an influencer herself, using her own personality and style to shape her career. The transition is both thrilling and terrifying, but she knows she is ready. With her suitcase finally packed and her plans in place, she takes a deep breath, feeling a mix of anticipation and confidence. She knows that success in this field requires risk, adaptability, and a willingness to step outside her comfort zone. As she prepares for bed, she reassures herself that she has everything she needs—not just in her suitcase, but within herself. Tomorrow marks the beginning of a new chapter, and Bonnie is determined to make the most of it.