Pages and Premonitions, page 10
She considered the problem, her forehead crinkling. "Maybe there's a way to uncover some information without forcing Emily to confront her pain. Maybe you can find some facts from other sources?"
Shelby nodded slowly. Lucy's solution allowed her to keep digging while honoring Emily's need for distance. "You're right. Maybe just learning the murderer's motive could bring some small measure of closure for her."
She smiled at her friend. "Have I mentioned lately how lost I'd be without your insights to balance out my bullheadedness?"
Lucy waved off the praise, but her smile grew wide. "You'd have figured it out. I just want to see that poor ghost find peace." Her expression turned uncharacteristically somber. "And make sure history doesn't repeat itself."
Shelby nodded in understanding. “I know I have to respect the ghost’s wishes, but it seems so wrong for her to linger when she could cross over and be in a better place. She’s stuck here. I think if she crossed, she could find peace and happiness again.”
“Maybe she just needs time.” Lucy checked her watch. “We’d better get to work.”
“Thanks for the delicious breakfast.” Shelby rose to begin another day.
Hours later as dusk settled over the town, the shop bell's merry jingle announced Fiona slipping in with a swirl of her patchouli-scented shawl. Shelby greeted her mentor warmly.
"Tea?" Shelby offered, already moving toward the kettle while Fiona settled gracefully on the plush sofa near the fireplace, nodding with a small smile.
Soon Shelby joined her with two steaming cups. Inhaling the earthy aromas of herbs and flowers usually centered her scattered thoughts, but today her mind couldn’t settle.
Fiona seemed content not to force conversation, allowing the quiet between them to work its magic, but her keen gaze assessed the younger woman over the rim of her teacup.
"Your spirit is uneasy," the psychic remarked after several more minutes of silence. "Tell me what burdens you."
Haltingly, Shelby confessed to wanting to investigate Emily's murder to see if she could find the reason the ghost wouldn’t cross into the next world. She explained that Emily didn’t seem to want anyone to help her cross. She wanted to stay where she was.
Fiona listened, her brow furrowing as Shelby explained her reluctance to cause more harm to Emily's soul.
When she concluded, Fiona set down her empty cup with care. "You have a kind heart, not wanting to distress her," the woman said gently. "Yet looking into the murder won’t harm her as long as you don’t share the details with the spirit. Find out what you can, then decide if telling Emily will help or hurt her. "
Fiona held Shelby's gaze. "In the end, we can’t protect anyone from their pains. What matters is how we walk with them through their troubles toward healing. Be Emily's compassionate witness, and let the rest unfold as it must."
Shelby released a slow breath, feeling that Fiona was right.
"You already sense the way forward." Fiona rose gracefully. "Have faith in your gifts, and you'll do the right thing."
Shelby walked her friend and mentor to the door with a lighter heart. The falling snow had stopped, leaving the street pristine and peaceful in the deepening winter twilight. Shelby tipped her face up to admire the emerging stars and then waved farewell to Fiona as the woman disappeared down the lamp-lit sidewalk.
When she turned to go back inside, a hint of a shadow at the corner of the side street made her pause, but in the blink of an eye, whatever it was, was gone, leaving Shelby to wonder if she had imagined the silhouette that seemed to be watching her.
With a shiver, she quickly slipped into the warmth of the shop, flipped the sign to “Closed,” and locked the door.
14
A festive atmosphere filled Spellbound Books as customers mingled through the cozy space browsing discounted titles, sipping warm beverages, and eating sweets. Twinkling lights and greenery adorned the front counter where an array of baked treats tempted hungry shoppers. Near the fireplace, Patrice and Ron Nelson managed a beverage station, cheerfully doling out steaming mugs of coffee and hot cocoa.
Shelby paused to admire the cheerful scene. She had organized this holiday “Sips, Sweets, and Shop Sale” event to thank the community for its support this past year. Judging by the lively crowd packing the store, her bookshop idea had been a success.
Weaving through the throng with a tray of gingerbread men, Shelby smiled as she caught snippets of conversations about family traditions, favorite seasonal reads, and plans for the impending holiday break. After the recent darkness overshadowing Hamlet, the joy filling the shop warmed Shelby's heart.
A lull in new arrivals gave her a chance to slip behind the front counter. Snagging a snickerdoodle cookie from the platter, Shelby sank gratefully onto the stool next to Lucy.
"Quite the turnout, huh?" Lucy remarked, her cobalt blue eyes twinkling with delight as she scanned the animated room. "Everyone's so excited for the holidays this year. It’s like we all need some extra cheer."
Shelby nodded, swallowing a bite of the cinnamon-dusted treat. "After what’s happened, I think people are determined to really appreciate time with friends and loved ones." She dropped her voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "And to buy lots of gifts from local shops like mine."
Both women giggled at the candid admission. Shelby didn't mind profiting a bit from the surging holiday spirit. She could use the financial cushion entering a new year that was sure to hold fresh surprises and challenges.
Glancing up, Shelby noticed Detective Whitely weaving purposefully through the crowd toward them. Her pulse quickened. She still wasn't entirely accustomed to seeing the normally reserved detective looking casual in faded jeans and a brown leather jacket.
"Hey, Travis," Lucy greeted him cheerfully. "Here for some holiday cheer and gifts?"
"And discounts on any murder mysteries you don't already own?" Shelby added with a playful grin.
Travis's expressive eyes crinkled faintly in that subtle way of his.
"Actually, I came to talk shop for a minute, if you have time," he told Shelby. She nodded, gesturing for one of the employees to mind the counter while she and Travis stepped away for more privacy with Harper following after them.
When they found a quiet corner near the staircase, Shelby leaned against the wall, surprised to realize she was holding her breath. Strange how even a brief interaction with this man could throw her off balance.
"I heard from the police chief over in Sweet Cove," Travis began without preamble. "Chief Martin and I are friends. He called to suggest that it could be useful for us to collaborate more directly."
Shelby's eyebrows shot up. She couldn't imagine why a police chief she didn’t even know and who worked in a town thirty minutes away would take interest in her informal, occasional cooperation with Travis.
Seeing her confusion, Travis explained, "It seems you made an impression on some consultants Chief Martin relies on. A pair of sisters, one named Courtney Roseland, and the other is Angie. They told the chief that you have sharp instincts, you’re insightful, thoughtful, a good researcher, and you pick up on details that other people miss."
Shelby froze as realization hit. This was all because of the zing of electrical energy that passed between her and her friend Courtney at the coffee shop the other day. The sensation was clearly more than some static electricity, but why had Courtney taken such an interest in it? What exactly was that sensation that felt like a current running between them? What did it mean?
Shelby’s eyes went wide. Do the Roseland sisters have abilities like she does?
Harper purred at her.
"Did Chief Martin say anything else about me?" Shelby asked carefully. "Or about these consultants?"
Travis shook his head. "He was just singling you out as someone insightful who could be helpful to investigations around here." He smiled slightly. "I happen to agree."
Shelby's cheeks warmed at the compliment, but her thoughts raced as she considered the new information. She needed to speak with Courtney again soon.
She tuned back in as Travis was saying, "...so I wanted to ask if you're open to collaborating more. I could use those observational skills of yours."
He seemed to hold his breath, watching her face intently.
Despite lingering questions, Shelby managed a shy smile. "I'm glad to help in any way I can."
Relief flickered across Travis's face, but as he tried to return his features to a neutral expression, his eyes still shone with a warm glow. "Great. I'll be in touch."
With a meaningful look Shelby couldn't decipher, the detective turned to retrace his steps through the crowded room. She watched as he left the shop, her heart beating faster than the brief conversation warranted. Shaking herself, she headed to rejoin Lucy.
"So, what did Detective Dreamy want?" her friend whispered, waggling her eyebrows.
Shelby rolled her eyes. "A police chief he knows suggested we collaborate more, actually. But why the chief thinks I can contribute much, I really don’t know…" She trailed off with an uncertain shrug.
Lucy smiled and gave her friend’s arm a reassuring squeeze. "You've got this. Just trust those super senses of yours."
Before Shelby could worry any more about it, the next wave of customers descended on the shop and she lost herself in answering questions about titles and restocking rapidly dwindling selections. By the time the crowd finally thinned near closing time, Shelby was pleasantly exhausted.
She lingered chatting with the few remaining stragglers, including Patrice who was tidying up the drink counter. The bell over the door jingled again around 8:30 pm, and two men walked into the shop.
"Mr. Peacock, it’s so good to see you," she greeted him warmly.
The man smiled, his eyes bright and happy. “This is my son Justin.”
“Nice to meet you, Justin.” Shelby shook his hand.
“You, too. I’ve heard a lot about you.”
“And where is that wonderful cat of yours?” Peacock looked around and then saw Harper trotting over to greet him and receive some pats.
"I hope we haven't missed all the festivities." Peacock’s gaze took in the depleted baked goods tray. "Though I see we’re rather late for the sweets."
"You’re not late at all. We’re open until 10 pm tonight. And not to worry, there are more platters of cookies coming out right now. Hold on and I’ll get them." Shelby retrieved the cookies stored in the workroom off the sales floor.
With a smile, Mr. Peacock reached for a gingerbread cookie. As he enjoyed the treat, Shelby studied him closely. Some of the strain around his eyes had eased recently, though he remained wan and subdued compared to his usual lively self. The shadow cast by his close brush with death and from knowing he was still in danger continued to linger.
"It’s nice your son could join you tonight," she said, recalling that Justin Peacock was also a lawyer.
“Justin rushed right up from Texas after that man was killed in my house. He was the one who suggested I get the security system installed.”
“I thought it was the smart thing to do.” Justin sipped from a mug of cocoa. “After hearing that my father’s life might be in danger, I flew up here as soon as I could.”
Mr. Peacock shook his head, dusting crumbs from his hands. "Justin insisted on coming up, but he can't neglect his law practice forever."
Justin smiled. “I’m doing fine working remotely. The firm can manage without me for a while.”
Peacock smiled wistfully. "We’ve made some nice memories while he’s been here. We’ve played chess, baked pies, and stayed up late reminiscing." His expression clouded. "Of course, I'd prefer if Justin still lived here, but I understand he has his own life."
“I’d love to come back here permanently. I’ll be looking into it in the new year.”
“That would be wonderful.” Shelby smiled. She knew it would be great for Mr. Peacock to have his family close, but for now, at least Justin was only a phone call away.
Mr. Peacock brightened. "Enough chatter about us. Tell me how your holiday preparations are coming along, my dear."
As Shelby enthusiastically described how she and her parents would be decorating a towering Christmas tree soon and enjoying traditional baked treats with her grandparents, she felt Mr. Peacock's spirits lift. He reminded her so much of her own grandfather – kind, playful, and devoted to his family.
Their conversation was interrupted by another customer approaching.
Professor Rundle gave Mr. Peacock a hearty handshake and slap on the back. "Jim, you rascal! I heard chatter you'd been at the historical society gala and gave a reading. I’m so sorry I missed it. Too bad they didn’t invite me to do a reading along with you. Oh, well, their loss."
Mr. Peacock's smile looked slightly forced. He shot Shelby an almost imperceptible eye roll over the professor's shoulder as the portly man laughed uproariously at his own wit.
Oblivious, Professor Rundle continued spraying spittle as he rambled loudly about the upcoming intercollegiate relay race he was sponsoring. Shelby noticed other patrons frowning in annoyance at his loud monologue.
When Rundle nearly exhausted his supply of self-important stories, Mr. Peacock managed to extract himself by pleading an early morning and the professor headed for the checkout counter.
"Quite a windbag, that one," Mr. Peacock muttered once they were alone again. Seeing Shelby's surprise, he chuckled. "Oh yes, many people find Jeffrey's arrogance tiresome, but he’s not a bad bloke ... just full of himself and looking to promote his accomplishments, loudly."
He gave Shelby’s shoulder a paternal pat. "Thank you again for the treats, my dear, and for brightening my spirits with your charming company and lovely shop. Justin and I are going to browse for some gifts now.”
Shelby impulsively hugged the older man, her heart full of fondness. As Mr. Peacock ambled off to look at the books and merchandise, she hoped he would find some peace and joy this holiday season despite the lingering shadows. He deserved it.
When Peacock and his son were ready to leave with their purchases, Shelby slipped them a few extra gingerbread cookies for the walk home.
When the shop closed, the next hour passed quickly as Shelby, Lucy, and two other staff members finished the closing tasks while Patrice counted the till.
Soon Shelby was climbing the stairs to her cozy apartment and warm bed, pleasantly exhausted. With Harper by her side, she fell asleep smiling, replaying images of children excitedly grabbing new books and people lingering to chat over mugs of cocoa.
Simple gifts that meant everything.
15
Shelby gazed out the passenger window as Lucy drove them along the scenic coastal road toward Sweet Cove. Despite the overcast winter sky, glimpses of the glittering ocean through the pines lifted her spirits. She was grateful Lucy had readily agreed to this short impromptu trip.
"Remember freshman year when we came to Sweet Cove for the huge end of summer beach bonfire?" Lucy asked, voicing Shelby's own nostalgic thoughts.
Shelby smiled, visions of a younger Courtney Roseland dancing barefoot by the firelight flashing through her mind. "We laughed so hard we nearly choked on our s'mores. She lived in Boston back then. It’s nice the four sisters moved to Sweet Cove together.”
She leaned back contentedly in her seat. "Courtney was one of the first friends I made at college. We hit it off right away – we were both bookworms and loved the ocean. I was shy around new people, but Courtney was always a ray of sunshine. She introduced me to her other friends and helped me fit in. We were both bursting with big plans and dreams."
Lucy nodded, her eyes warm with fond recollection. "You two were so cute, thick as thieves. The three of us had some great adventures together."
Shelby and Courtney were in some of the same clubs, the photography club, the business club, and the volleyball club. They had so much fun going to dances, meeting for coffee, and hanging out together with other friends. Courtney had a great sense of humor and was always helpful and kind.
They spent the remainder of the half-hour drive reminiscing about their college antics until the sparkling harbor and colorful storefronts of picturesque Sweet Cove came into view. Lucy easily found a parking spot near the charming brick sidewalks threading through downtown. The storefronts of the lovely downtown village were decorated with wreaths, ornaments, greens, and little white lights.
"I'll do some gift shopping so you and Courtney can catch up," Lucy said, waving Shelby toward the impressive Victorian mansion that was her destination. "Meet back in a couple of hours or so? Text me when you’re done."
Shelby walked down Beach Street and hurried up the shoveled walkway, taking in the graceful turret and sprawling wraparound porch dotted with rocking chairs. Garlands of fragrant pine roping wound around the railings, and the decorations made the house resemble an elaborate gingerbread confection. Courtney’s sister Ellie ran a bed and breakfast inn out of part of the huge house.
Before she could even knock, the front door was thrown open. Courtney hurried forward to envelop Shelby in an exuberant hug. Laughing, Shelby returned the embrace, once more feeling that intriguing zap of energy pass between them.
Courtney drew back, her eyes dancing. "I'm so excited you came to visit. Come in, I've got the sunroom all set up for us. Angie is working at her bakery, so she won’t be joining us, but she sends greetings."
Shelby stepped inside the spacious foyer with its gleaming wood floors and crystal chandelier and stared at the enormous Christmas tree soaring into the air.
“That tree is gorgeous.”
“Thanks. You wouldn’t believe how long it took to decorate that thing.” Courtney laughed. “Ellie always wants to do Christmas up big.”
Following her friend to the sunroom at the side of the house, Shelby admired the elegant holiday decorations adorning every surface. She could easily imagine staying in the luxurious home as a pampered guest.
