Unveiled Treasures Read Online Free PDF Page B

it was right there on his face if anyone cared to look close enough. It showed around his eyes most of all. Everyone in the small canyon community was looking to him to stop this person and it weighed heavily on his shoulders. “So what did you really end up telling them?” she giggled, trying to lighten his mood and change the subject at the same time.
    “What? Oh, I told them that you were studying late at the library with some friends. I don’t know if they bought it or not.”
    “Nope, I burned that one up in high school. Dad caught on when I didn’t get home until after eleven one night. He knew the library closed up at eight o’clock. But thanks anyway. I appreciate the attempt.”
    “Figures,” he grunted. “I’m surprised we didn’t have bars on the windows or an electric fence around the perimeter of the property when you were a teenager. I told them I would have you call them back when you had a chance.”
    “Hey! I resent that remark. I wasn’t any worse than you were. And yes, I will call them as soon as I get off work this afternoon, scout’s honor,” she said, holding up two fingers. “I don’t have any classes today, so I don’t have to be back in Flag until ten tomorrow morning.” She smiled smugly. “As for this burglar, you’ll catch him. I have faith in you and your yummy Deputy Mike.”
    “I’ll ignore that comment about my deputy, thank you very much. Have you talked to Josie from Canyon Grocery yet today?” he said as the crooked little grin returned to his face.
    “No. What piece of gossip is she spreading now? Which celebrity or famous person did she see in the store this time?” she laughed, rolling her eyes.
    Todd just grinned wider. Finally, he knew something that happened in this town that didn’t directly relate to police work before Jessica did. He leaned over the counter and tapped on her book sitting by the register.
    “What are you trying to tell me, Todd? If you’ve got something to say, then say it. I don’t have the time or patience for games.” She snapped. She couldn’t stand it when he held things back from her and she knew that was why he did it.
    He grabbed the book and flipped it over to the back cover. Rachel’s picture leapt off the page at him, holding him with those blue eyes. Once again, he tapped on the book. “She’s our newest resident in Oak Creek Canyon.”
    Jessica just stood there with her mouth hanging open. “Get out of here! You can’t be serious. You’re telling me that Rachel Hardy, my all time favorite author, lives here, in Oak Creek? How do you know this? Did you see her? Did you talk to Josie? Did Josie really see her?” She did a little dance behind the counter and squealed. “If you’ve already met her, you have to introduce me, Todd. Please oh please oh please?” she begged.
    Shaking his head no, he said, “Although she didn’t say so, I think the lady came up here for some privacy, Jess. She’s moved in to and is working on the old Hardy Cabin. I didn’t recognize the name until I saw her and remembered your books. I’m sure she’ll be in eventually for supplies.”
    “The Hardy cabin? Oh,” she gasped. “Hardy is a pretty common name. I had no idea it was her family. Remember when we were kids and we thought that place was haunted? Man, I hope I’m on shift when she comes in.”
    “Yeah I remember. Mike and I threatened to leave you out there one night. Dad about had my head for that one. Now, getting back on the subject of our new resident. From what I saw of the place, no one has been up there in years, she’s going to be busy for awhile.” Todd grinned. “Well, kiddo, I gotta run, don’t forget to check in with Mom and Dad. You could also let me know where you are just for grins. Unless, of course, you like the idea of being followed.”
    He turned and walked out the door greeting customers he passed without looking back. He was sure if he did, he would see her sticking her tongue out at