by Garcia, Rita
Each of the four shook their heads. “Wait.” Thelma tapped her temple. “There was a Daniel Cunningham in our senior class. I don’t remember much about his family.” She turned her attention to the frothy concoction in her glass.
Thelma remembered his name, but so had Roger—I needed more. My glass reached the half-full stage and the conversation hit a lull. “Thanks for a great afternoon.” I stood with Goldie’s leash in hand.
Thelma touched my arm. “Quilting circle meets Thursday afternoon. Bring your appliqué and let me see how you’re doing.”
“You caught me—I haven’t started one. But I’d love to attend another session.”
“This meeting is in honor of National Quilters Day—it’ll be fun. We’re having a pattern exchange and plenty of food. And wear a fancy hat—there’ll be drawings and prizes.”
I gave Thelma a hug. “I’ll talk to Maggie and make sure to be there.” I glanced at Rachel. “Nice seeing you.”
“Me, too.” She gave me a shy smile.
Additional words would have prompted more conversation. I tossed a wave to the group, and with an abrupt turn, Goldie and I made our getaway.
I crossed the street, my head spinning from all the talk. I held the door for Goldie, thankful to be home. When had I started thinking of this as home? When had I become comfortable here? Home and comfort brought one person to mind. Logan.
Chapter Thirty-two
My sister’s singing wafted into my room. How does she do cheerful before breakfast? I limped into the kitchen and sat on one chair and propped my leg on another. “You’re overdoing joy.”
She ignored my bitter tone. “Linda agreed to take care of the store for me today, so brother dear, I’m all yours.”
“And Sam?” I adored my sister—but it was easier with Sam.
“Sam stayed home today.” She deposited a plate of food in front of me.
“This sausage looks anemic. Why’s this omelet white?” I poked at the food. Why did Dorthea need a day off?
“You need healthy food. That’s turkey sausage with an egg white omelet.” She sat and I smelled the cinnamon in her steamy oatmeal.
I pushed the plate over and snagged her bowl. “I prefer this, and I’m not a big fan of hot cereal.”
She got up, put the plate in the sink, and returned with the coffee carafe.
“Sorry, sis.” She didn’t deserve my gruffness. I eased up from the table and picked up my cup.
I wandered out to the deck and watched the antics of the seagulls while finishing my coffee.
“Alec’s coming up the walk.” Maggie set another mug along with the carafe on the outside table. “I’ll go let him in.”
“This day is riding an elevator with no up.” I topped off my mug and settled onto a chair.
Alec emerged from inside the house. “Hey, boss. How you feeling?” He helped himself to the coffee.
“Splendid.”
He toyed with the folder he’d brought with him. “Sarcasm noted.”
“What’s going on?” I pointed to the file stuffed under his arm.
“I’m resigning. Thought you should know before I filed the paperwork.” He set the papers on the small table next to me.
“You better sit. What’s this foolishness?”
“My mind’s made up.” He slumped in a chair.
“Oh, this is about me getting shot. Come on—these things happen. It’s law enforcement.” But no one could prepare you for the day. Although, getting shot wasn’t my issue—I’d failed as a cop. My men had to clean up my mess.
“Being his sister…” She nodded toward me. Alec glanced up with a surprised look. Apparently, neither of us had noticed when she’d come back outside, I waited for her to continue. “It wouldn’t disappoint me if he quit the force. But as a citizen, I’m proud of Logan for serving Serenity Cove. I’m proud of you, too.” She nodded toward Alec. “You’re responsible for the criminals being caught. I don’t have to start worrying each morning as I open my shop doors.”
I motioned at Alec. “I only know the condensed version—how’d it go down?”
Alec leaned back and balanced an ankle on his opposite knee. “After the medics arrived, I contacted Ted and Nicole who were already searching the area. I jumped in my patrol car, and joined them. Spotted a guy messing with a screen on one of the summer cottages—he was holding one arm pressed to his chest and I could see blood dripping.” Alec squirmed in his chair. “Since the Grants were not yet in residence for the season, I sneaked around the other side and two other crooks were working on the back windows. I signaled Ted and Nicole, and the three of us moved in and made the arrests.”
Page by page, I shredded the forms in the folder Alec had handed me. I sat in silence, the words lodged in my throat.
“Boss, I don’t…” He began tapping his fingertips on his knee.
Alec drumming his unheard tune meant the crisis had ended. “I’m proud of you. Man. If getting shot helped bring criminals down—I’d give my other leg to the cause. It’s what we’re sworn to do—protect and serve our town.” And it had rightfully been a team effort.
“Hi.” I heard the sweetness of Sam’s voice as she walked onto the deck. Ah, there was an up button. The day looked brighter. Sam’s outward loveliness glowed when she smiled, but the beauty from a deeper source stirred my soul.
I’d learned a big lesson—each day we’re given counts. My grandmother was wise. I’d walked over coals and came out stronger on the other side. First on my list—recuperating. I glanced over at Sam, enamored by her smile.
Chapter Thirty-three
My heart votes to stay in Serenity Cove—but I still need answers. In some ways, going back to Stone Valley seems the easiest choice. Yet, I can’t ignore my feelings for Logan. Thank you, God, for giving me another chance. Please—show me the way and give me courage. A future and hope—is it here in Serenity Cove? ~ Journal entry
In the back of the bookshop, I sat with my Bible opened staring at the pages. I held my breath, wanting to stop the storm inside me. Lord, please help me to be still before You.
Goldie laid her paw on my knee. I turned to see Audra enter the shop, her appearance both stunning and professional in a black pencil skirt topped with a raspberry twin sweater set. With a slight smile, I waved. “Join me.”
“Hi, is this a good time to talk?” She removed her long-sleeved, sweater and draped it on the back of her chair, revealing the knitted shell underneath with its delicate crocheted trim.
“Sure. How’s the revamping on your home?”
“Fantastic. Also, I found a location for my office, near Farmer’s market.” She pointed toward the rear of the shop, which was the opposite direction of Farmer’s. Being a person who was also directionally challenged, I smiled as she continued her story. “The shopping district here on Main Street is unique and lovely, but since becoming more acquainted with the town, it isn’t a good choice for a real estate office.” She swept her fingers across the neckline of her sweater.
“Sounds as if you found an ideal place.” What else did she want?
“Another thing. You’re right. This should remain a bookshop. It’s the perfect mix with the other shops here. When you’re ready, I’d be happy to help you find the right buyer.”
“Thanks, I would like that.” I studied Audra’s features. “You seem familiar, like I should know you.” Something about her—
“Yeah, I think it’s the eyes. You’re the only other person I’ve met, outside my father, who has azure eyes.” Audra tilted her head and lines formed across her forehead.
I’d gone this far—I rushed on. “You mentioned you’re restoring your grandparents’ house. I’m curious about their last name—if we’re somehow connected.”
“It was Donnelly. I don’t recall any Forresters in our family. Must be that everyone has a twin thing. What are the odds?” She grinned and pulled her cardigan from the back of the chair. “I better get on the road. I’m driving to Mariner Bay to pick up
wallpaper samples.”
I walked behind her, imagining how her heels sounded clicking across the wood flooring.
“I’ll be in touch about listing the shop.” Watching her leave, I was distracted by another woman approaching the bookshop.
With an extra wave in Audra’s direction, I focused on the lady walking toward me. “What can I do for you?”
“I’m Betsy. Roger’s cousin. He asked me to speak with Elizabeth about Anne’s writings.” She handed me a leather portfolio tied with a ribbon. “Elizabeth wants you to have these. She hopes you’ll enjoy reading Anne’s stories. Said it’s important you don’t attempt to return them. John might become distraught if he found out.”
One never could tell when the course might change. “Please, come in.”
She clutched the strap on her purse hanging against her blue floral dress, and stepped inside. I led the way upstairs, where we sat in the cushioned slipper chairs flanking the fireplace.
“I’m so glad you’re here. I’d love to hear about my grandmother.”
“Elizabeth? She’s the gentlest soul I’ve ever met. She loved her daughter. When John’s not around, she enjoys sharing her memories about Anne. Too bad John won’t listen to his wife.” I noticed her sensible shoes as she crossed her legs. No-nonsense shoes—it fit.
“John refuses to see me. Does Elizabeth agree?”
“I doubt it. But she’d never go against his wishes.” She straightened the scarf she’d added to the neck of her dress.
Betsy hesitated as we said goodbye at the door. “By the way, I heard about Logan being shot. I’ve been praying for him.”
“He’s resumed his duties as the police chief, part-time.”
“Glad he’s better. I’m sorry to rush, but I promised John I’d stay with Elizabeth this afternoon.” She hefted her purse to her shoulder. “If you want to send Elizabeth a message, I’ll see she gets it.”
She drove away and a wave of warmth swept over me—at last, a link to my grandparents. I rushed inside, locking the front door of the bookshop behind me.
Eager as a child at Christmas, I bounded up the stairs two at a time. What treasures waited in the leather pouch? I contained my excitement long enough to change into something comfortable and settled on the couch. I removed the ribbon and started to pull the top few pages out when a letter-sized envelope, yellowed by the passing years, fell into my lap. On the front, the words My Baby Girl were written in blue ink.
To My Baby Girl:
I heard your new parents named you Samantha. I would’ve named you Elizabeth, after my mother. When I looked into your eyes, you reminded me of your grandmother. She is kind, sweet, and gentle. Under the surface of your beautiful newborn face, I sensed those same qualities in you. The hardest isolated moment of my life was giving you up. I didn’t know how to fight my father—if only I’d been older.
Your father is a good person. He grew up as one of the entitled elites and wasn’t taught to take responsibility for his actions. Life will teach him different. I never told my own father or anyone his name, and I’m not going to say now. I can’t call anything that brought you, my precious baby, into the world a mistake.
I’d noticed your father around school. His James Dean good looks certainly turned a girl’s head. One day, he happened to come to the cove where I liked to go write. We sat and talked—as though our hearts were destined to find each other. Our passion became like the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden. After that day, I stopped going to the cove. Once was all it took—God knew it was time for you to grace this earth.
I held you under my heart for nine months. I’ll hold you in my heart for the rest of my life and then forever. The hope of seeing you again remains with me and gives me a reason to keep going.
Another note was at the end in a different color of ink. I received a letter from your mother today. How it breaks my heart to call another woman your mother. She sent a snapshot. You are beautiful. I learned from the letter your middle name was Elizabeth. It’s odd—I never told anyone what I would have named you. I love you, my baby! I pray God sends his angels to hold you safe in their arms.
PS. If you’re reading this, it probably means you’re grown. I pray it brings you comfort and peace knowing you were always loved, and always wanted.
Within minutes of my text, Maggie arrived at my door. I handed her the letter. After reading it, she shared how the intense pain of losing her mom still lingered with her. Heart to heart, we talked, we cried, and simply sat surrounded by the stillness. Long after evening shadows fell, we grieved for our mothers—all three of them.
The letter strengthened my determination to make peace with Anne’s parents. There had to be a way to reach John—there had to be.
Chapter Thirty-four
My mission to reorganize and restructure had officially driven the entire department to the point of rebellion. Thoughts of Sam were a constant companion. My time with her while I recuperated had intensified my feelings for her. I revealed my darkest fears—she still saw me as a hero. With a plan, I sent Sam a text to let her know I was on my way.
When she opened the door, there I stood with a group of reinforcements. I’d rounded up the three teens from the night of Sam’s accident. “We’re here to help.” The look of surprise on her face as I made the introductions and explained the role the teens had played in her rescue was priceless.
She animatedly delivered a hug to each of them. “Thank you so much—you saved my life.” She looked at me. “I can’t have them here cleaning after what they did for me.”
“Ma’am, we want to help.” Gary spoke for the group as Harrison and Tommy joined with a nod.
“Okay.” Her eyes roved the shop and back to me.
“You’re in charge.” Once she settled Anne’s affairs—maybe I could persuade her to stay in Serenity Cove.
“The shelves all need to be emptied and cleaned. Then the books dusted and replaced. It’ll be more appealing to a prospective buyer.” Sam pointed at the floor-to-ceiling book display units.
Gary pulled his hands out of his pockets. “Where’s the vacuum? I can start on the floors while Harrison and Tommy clean the shelves.”
She worked on the files while the guys buzzed around with dust cloths. I relieved Gary on the vacuum and bumped her with the hose a few times. She smacked my arm and threatened my injured leg.
Julia and Maggie showed up. “Getting ready to reopen?” Maggie clapped to give her jest the full force. Would Sam consider keeping the bookshop?
Julia smiled, giving the impression she was in cahoots with Maggie. “I’m going to go get us some pastries.”
Sam and I locked eyes, motioned with our heads. “Hey, guys, break time.” I waved for them to follow us. We formed a parade, and Maggie joined us as we shoved into a couple of booths inside Julia’s shop.
The teens downed pastries, making it seem like they’d never tasted Julia’s legendary sweets before. Sam moved and slid into the booth where they were sitting. “It’s a real honor meeting my heroes.” They blushed and stammered a bit. After Sam had finished chatting with them, I followed the trio outside and handed them a few bucks for gas.
I returned to find Sam with a faraway gaze. She suddenly looked as though she had solved an equation. “I’m going to drive out to John and Elizabeth’s. Want to go?”
“I’m in. Heard the definition of insanity?”
“Thanks, Einstein. I’m hoping—not necessarily expecting different results.” She rolled her eyes.
We swung into John’s driveway, the truck tires spitting gravel. Evidently, John heard us arrive. He called the dogs and stood his ground, grasping a porch rail with his hand. Sam gave Goldie a stay command.
“Hey, John, I brought Samantha to visit.” I took Sam’s hand and boldly moved to the foot of the steps.
John glanced at her. “I’ve only known one other person with eyes the color of yours.” He stared at her harder. “I should’ve followed my instincts—can’t turn back th
e years.” His voice muffled with remorse. He disappeared inside and slammed the door, as though in doing so he could succeed in shutting out the past.
We rushed to the truck. I had no desire to tangle with John’s security force. “He acknowledged you. He’ll come around, you’ll see.”
“The drape moved while you talked to John. I turned toward the window so my grandmother could see me. I wasn’t close enough to see her face.”
She twirled the ends of her hair through her fingertips, and sadness settled in her eyes. As much as I wanted to take the hurt away, I felt helpless. “Woody’s for dinner?”
“Goldie loves Woody’s.” She glanced in the back seat.
I reached for her hand. “I’m ready for a rib-eye with all the trimmings.”
“We skipped lunch today. Unless you count the pastries we ate at Julia’s.” Her mouth curved and when the smile reached her eyes, the hammer returned—my heart pounding in my chest.
We followed the curves on Shoreview Drive for a few miles and made the turn in to the restaurant’s parking lot. Inside, we were seated on the top deck with a view of the sea spread out before us.
Over dinner, Sam told me about a letter she’d found from Anne.
“She didn’t hint at who your father was?”
“Not really, it was more like she wanted to protect him. It makes me curious if she even told him about the pregnancy—or me?”
“That’s a good question.” I signaled the waiter for the check.
Weaving our way through the tables, we acknowledged several hellos. In a close-knit community like Serenity Cove, dinner can often feel more like a block party. I noticed Mark and his wife Carrie and introduced them to Sam.
“You guys have time to join us for a drink?” Mark stood and shook hands with Sam.
“A rain check?” I slapped him on the shoulder. “Maybe the four of us can get together for dinner?”
