Pumpkins in Paradise (Tj Jensen Paradise Lake Mystery Book 1) Read Online Free PDF Page A

the cheek, completely ignoring her question . “I spoke to Dotty Harris earlier and she told me you turned down her offer to fix you up with David for the ball. I really think you should reconsider.” Helen lowered her voice. “Between you and me, David’s a real catch compared to most of the eligible men in this town.”
    Tj loved Helen . She really did. After her own mother left town when she was only three, Helen had stepped in to ensure that Tj wouldn’t suffer from the lack of a woman’s touch. She’d treated Tj like one of her own daughters, but, unfortunately, part of Helen’s mothering package included constant interference in all parts of her daughters’ lives.
    “I appreciate the fact that you’re trying to look out for me,” Tj began diplomatically, “and you know I value your opinion, but I’d really rather find a date for the ball on my own . I hope you understand.”
    “Of course, dear. I have to remember that you’re growing up.”
    Growing up ? I’m twenty-six.
    “I’m sure a smart and pretty girl like you will have many men to choose from . Although,” Helen paused, “the very least I can do is help you with your costume. I promise that when I’m done with you, the men in this town will be left speechless.”
    Speechless? Tj had a feeling she was going to regret agreeing to Helen’s plan, but she found that she was curious to see what Helen had in mind. Besides, Tj had to admit that one of her secret fantasies had been to have her mom help her dress for the prom or some other special night, a secret wish she knew would never be granted by her own mother.
    “Please?” Helen persuaded.
    “Well, okay. I guess. But nothing pink.”
    “Trust me . You’ll be the bell of the ball.”
    Tj hugged Helen before heading back through the restaurant toward the double doors leading into the kitchen . During the summer visitors from the beach across the street were lined out the door from opening to closing, but during the off season the Antiquery felt a lot like a gathering in someone’s kitchen, where locals congregated in booths sharing a meal and discussing the latest news.
    Tj chatted briefly with several locals as she made her way to the kitchen . Unlike many restaurant kitchens that were sterile in décor, the kitchen in The Antiquery was both functional and homey. Spotlessly clean commercial appliances were coupled with copper pots and colorful accents, giving the room a cozy feel. Large baskets of seasonal produce were arranged around the room, providing a lived-in ambience.
    “Packed house,” Tj commented as Jenna beat together sugar and softened cream cheese with her industrial mixer . Jenna was tall and willowy, with waist-length blond hair twisted into a long braid that trailed down the back of the white cotton blouse she wore atop faded jeans.
    “New deputy in town,” Jenna explained . “Total babe, tragic past, deeply rooted emotional scars, all the elements needed for a perfect storm. The hens have been clucking about it all day.”
    Tj giggled at Jenna’s use of the term hen to describe her mother, mother in law, and the other members of the local gossip hotline, who tended to congregate when there was anything remotely interesting going on in the small town. The juicier the gossip, the busier the restaurant.
    “Total babe, tragic past? ”
    “Nothing but speculation at this point. ” Jenna shrugged. “I can’t complain. I’m sure we’ve served twice as many meals as we normally would have at this time of year.”
    “If I realized you were this busy, I just would have picked up sandwiches for my lunch date with Zachary.”
    “Don’t worry, I can make you something quick,” Jenna assured her. “Besides, I’m glad you stopped by. Greg Remington called and asked if I’d provide double nut brownies and honey pecan bars for the volunteers this afternoon. I have plenty of ingredients, but I’m short on time. Do you think you could pick up all four girls from dance