Sunny Side Up (Lake Erie Mysteries Book 1) Read Online Free PDF

He was staring at Inscription Rock, the thirty-two by twenty-one inch limestone rock covered with one of the finest examples of aboriginal art in the Great Lakes region.
    “It’s amazing to think of how long ago those unusual drawings were created, don’t you think?”
    “Well, if you ask me,” answered my husband, “those petroglyphs look more like dollar signs with wings, laughing shoes, and defeated men than the writings of ancient indigenous people.”
    “Hey, man, you dropped this.” A fit man in running attire stood in front of Hammond, holding his lighter. Hammond snapped out of his preoccupied musings to greet the man who now stood in front of us. He was younger than Hamm, probably closer in age to me and June, but his handsome, serious face had the look of someone who had been through some rough times. His biceps made it clear that it would not be a good idea to challenge him to an arm wrestling match, or any other contest of physical prowess for that matter. His running shoes were not meant to be stylish; they had obviously logged some serious hours of pavement pounding.
    “Wow. Thanks. I was just killing time while my wife and her friend go across the street behind the evil red door and do God only knows what to my credit card.”
    “Hi. I’m Francie, Hamm’s wife. I’m not doing any damage just yet, but I can accomplish quite a bit in a very short time.” I flashed him my sweetest smile.
    “I’ve heard of such things,” said the man. He directed his next comment to Hamm. “You’re either keeping close tabs on your ladies, or you’re hungry and they tricked you with the promise of food.”
    “The second option. I’m just passing the time while they do some shopping, plotting some night maneuvers.”
    “Excuse me?”
    “Oh, don’t mind him. Every time we come here, Hamm says the same thing. He’s going to carry out clandestine night maneuvers and burn the place down. That way he won’t have to go into shock every time the credit card bill arrives.”
    The stranger held on to Hamm’s lighter for a long second before extending his hand to return it. “I’m Jack Morgan. I live here on the island. Maybe I’ll see you around. Good luck making it to dinner.”
    “Thanks! That was a gift from my wife.” I smiled sweetly at the handsome stranger so he was sure to understand what a loving thoughtful wife I was.
    “I noticed the inscription. Interesting name. Hammond is it?”
    “Yes, you can call me Hamm though. We come over to the island a lot. This weekend we’re docked right over there at Seaway. Stop down for a drink later if you want. I’d buy you one, but I probably won’t have any money left when they’re through in there. The boat’s name is Lucky Enough.”
    “I just may do that. Nice meeting you both.” After shaking hands with Hamm and nodding in my direction, Jack Morgan got right back into his stride, making it look easy.
    I took one more admiring look at the runner’s physique as he strode off down the road and then remembered why I was here to begin with. “I’ll be right across the street, sweetie. Enjoy your cigar!”

Chapter Six
     
    I pulled open the red door to Ruby’s Treasure Chest and immediately saw that June was already in the back of the store, camera in hand, pencil in mouth, and notebook tucked under her arm. I stood just inside the entrance, taking it all in. The walls were covered with unique sculptures, wall hangings, and decorative art, all with a beachy or nautical theme. The right side of the shop held shelf upon shelf of beautiful items for the home, cottage, or boat. My eye was drawn immediately to a glass serving dish in the shape of a fish sparkling with the colors of the sea. I could picture it on the kitchen table of the condo. I was heading toward it to check out the price tag when June’s voice interrupted my progress.
    “Oh, Ruby, the shop looks wonderful! You’ve really expanded your inventory this year, and that means I’m going to