Текст книги "Terror on Tybee Island"

Автор книги: Deborah Malone

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Текущая страница: 1 (всего у книги 11 страниц)

Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?

Matthew 6:26 (NIV)

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Thank you to all of the readers of the Trixie Montgomery Cozy Mystery series who continue to encourage me to keep writing about Trixie, Dee Dee and Nana. To all the book clubs who have had me as a guest, especially Moulton, Alabama.

A special thank you to Beverly Nault, editor extraordinaire, who keeps the girls out of too much trouble.

Dedication

Terror on Tybee Island is dedicated to my family and friends who continue to encourage me.

A special dedication to Travis Williams – your encouragement and

support are the wind beneath my wings.

CHAPTER ONE

Oh – My – Goodness! There she is!” Dee Dee tugged on my arm.

Dee Dee, who some considered Rubenesque, did not tug gently. I sent up a silent prayer the affronted limb would stay attached. “Who? Where?”

“It’s her. Paula Deen.” Dee Dee stopped in her tracks and pointed to a stylish woman exiting a limo. “Paula. Yoo Hoo. Over here, Paula.” Dee Dee’s arm gyrated like a helicopter blade.

Nana hopped up and down. “Paula. I’m your biggest fan!”

Sure, I liked Paula, too. But I didn’t plan on making a fool of myself. Okay, I admit I’ve made a fool of myself several times without planning, but this wouldn’t be one of them. Mama must have noticed the panicked look on my face.

“Don’t worry sweetie. I’m sure she’s used to fans vying for her attention.” Mama, the quietest of the bunch, threw up her arm and waved wildly to Paula.

I couldn’t believe my eyes – Paula waved back. Then she walked toward us. As she approached, I labored to breathe.

“Hey, y’all,” Paula said. “How ya’ doin’ today? I just love and appreciate all my fans.” Dressed in a matching watermelon-colored ensemble, and not one of her stunning white hairs out of place, she was beautiful. “Why don’t y’all come and eat with me? I’m having a special taping tomorrow and would love for you to be in the audience. ‘Bye now.” She wiggled her fingers in a princess wave as she maneuvered through the throng of fans and into her famous restaurant, The Lady and Sons, located in downtown Savannah. A young lady accompanying Paula handed us tickets while instructing us to arrive by two the next afternoon.

“Did you see that, Missy?” Nana’s pet name for me, reserved for occasions when she wants to make a point.

“Yes I did, Nana. I’m impressed.” I gave her a little squeeze.

“What do you think, Trix?” Dee Dee laid her hand on my shoulder. “How about we come back tomorrow for the taping? This would be great research for your article.” Dee Dee was right. Harv, my editor and mentor at Georgia by the Way, wanted me to write about Savannah’s landmarks as well as her rich history. I made a mental note to research the building that housed Paula’s restaurant. Attending a live show could give my story a unique slant.

“Sure. I say let’s go for it. Mama, are you in?”

Mama’s eyes widened. “Oh, I’d love to attend a live show.”

Nana squealed. “I’m going to see Paula. I’m going to see Paula,” she trilled.

I went inside and made reservations while the girls window shopped. They hadn’t gone far when I returned. We walked up and down the busy sidewalks keeping pace with the other tourists. A bus, the color of a bluebird, with advertisements of tours brightly painted on the sides, drove past. I jotted down the name splashed across the back. We were still oohing and aahing at the sights when Mama noted the time. Reservations awaited us at Seaside Cottage, a bed and breakfast located on the beach.

A wood-carved sign hung by the doorway inviting guests to “Come On In.” I stepped into an open, airy room furnished with bright, colorful pieces. I especially admired the hand-tatted doilies and antique seabird collection.

“Hello! Anybody home?”

Red wing-backed chairs scattered around gave the large area a homey feel. An off-white couch faced a huge rock fireplace with a hand-hewn wooden mantel. Built-in bookshelves filled with sailor pipes flanked each side.

A Tiffany lamp provided light for an antique roll-top desk placed in the corner. It was a cozy little area. Pictures of seascapes and other nature themed paintings adorned the walls. Colorful throw rugs covered the shiny hardwood floors.

Dee Dee, Mama, and Nana were gushing over the motif, when a lady Mama’s age decked out in white capris, a bright orange shirt, and the cutest matching flip-flops entered the room. “Hi. Sorry I wasn’t here to meet you. I was out back talking to my neighbor.”

Mama hesitantly approached her. “Laura?”

“Betty Jo?” They giggled like schoolgirls and ran toward each other with open arms.

“Oh, I’m so excited to see you.” After a prolonged hug, Laura stepped back and gave Mama a long look. “You haven’t changed a bit since high school.”

“Your nose is growing, Laura.” They hugged again. “Please let me introduce my sidekicks.” Mama turned toward us.

She pulled me close. “This is my daughter, Trixie, and this is her friend, Dee Dee.”

While I offered a hand to shake, Dee Dee stepped up and gave Laura a hug like she was her long lost cousin. Bless her heart, that’s the kind of person she is. Without a doubt, I’m blessed to have her in my life.

“And I’m Belle, Betty Jo’s aunt.” Nana didn’t wait for introductions. “Please call me Nana, everyone does.”

“I’m so pleased all of you could spend your vacation with me.” Three Heinz 57 dogs entered the room. Their barking drowned out any further conversation.

“Hush, boys,” Laura scolded, but they only barked louder. She raised her voice. “Please excuse me for a minute. I have a friend involved in dog rescue and I volunteered to help while she’s sick. Let me put ‘em in the outside pen.” Laura held out a treat and the dogs tagged along like she was their mama.

The dogs’ barking subsided, replaced by angry voices. Several minutes passed and we were beginning to worry when Laura stomped back in, red-faced, nostrils flaring.

“I could just strangle her.” She shook her head.

Eyes wide, Mama asked, “Who?”

“That woman next door, Grace Watkins. I could just strangle her. I’m sorry. Since I took in the dogs the old snoot has complained to anybody who’d listen. She’s so afraid they’re going to dig up her precious turtle eggs.” She stopped her tirade. “Oh my goodness, y’all don’t want to hear all this. Let me get you settled, then come on down for some refreshments.”

As Laura led the way upstairs to our bedrooms, we regarded each other with a deer in the head-light look, wondering what had just happened. My leg was still a little sore from recent knee replacement surgery, so I brought up the rear. Laura showed Mama and Nana their room first. I stuck my head in and eyed a comfy room painted deep coral, accented with a seashell border, and two antique iron sleigh beds. I knew they’d love staying in this gorgeous room.

While they unpacked, Laura showed me and Dee Dee where we’d sleep. Walls the color of the sea greeted us. Dropped shelves around the top of the walls displayed every size and shape of shell imaginable.

The double canopies reminded me of my childhood home. White beds accented with white spreads made the room a little girl’s dream come true.

“Oh, Laura, how beautiful!” I turned around to take in the whole room. “Thank you for opening your home to us. Mama’s been ecstatic since you invited us to stay.”

“I second everything she said.” Dee Dee claimed the bed nearest the bathroom. In the past she’d been plagued with frequent nature calls, but when she began to wear one of those new patches, she was able to go a few hours without making a potty stop. But she still automatically parked herself nearest the facilities.

“Okay, ladies. When you get through, come down and help yourselves to the snacks in the dining area.” She left us to unpack.

I couldn’t wait to freshen up, I felt like a wilted sunflower.

Dee Dee looked out the window. “Wow. What a view, Trix.” She held the curtain open and pointed. I could only glimpse a bit of the beach from where I stood across the room. She swiveled back around to soak in more of the panorama. “Oh no!”

“Oh no, what?” I stuck my head next to Dee Dee’s, wondering what she’d seen. Down below, Laura, feet apart and hands on hips, was arguing with someone.

CHAPTER TWO

Would you look at that?” Dee Dee motioned toward the women.

“Laura looks like she’s about to blow a gasket.”

“Yeah, she does. But look at the other woman. I’ve never seen arms move so fast. She’s going to levitate if she doesn’t slow those limbs down.” Dee Dee imitated the woman’s gesturing and bonked me in the arm.

“Ow!” I rubbed the bruised limb. “What do you think they’re arguing about?”

“It’s a mystery. Remember, she mentioned her neighbor earlier. And not so complimentary.

“I spotted another bed and breakfast, Ocean View Inn, right next door. I imagine the competition promotes some hard feelings.”

Dee Dee shoved me over for a better glance. The neighbor lady gazed at our window. Then Laura looked, too. “Quick, duck. They’re looking this way.” We stumbled more than ducked.

“Maybe Laura will tell us about it later,” Dee Dee said. She took an armload of clothes from her suitcase and neatly arranged them in the dresser drawer.

“You’re right. There’s a chance she’ll confide in Mama since they’re friends.” I claimed a drawer of my own.

“Yoo Hoo. What ya’ thinking about, Trixie?” Dee Dee plopped her suitcase on the floor startling me.

“So glad we’re friends and you could come with me.”

“Well, I feel the same way.” Dee Dee walked over and gave me a quick hug. “Isn’t this room just the cat’s meow?”

Laughter bubbled up my throat and flowed over. I wasn’t surprised at Dee Dee’s description of our room. Her five cats have the privilege of being treated like her offspring. Since her children, Stephanie and Trey, had moved out of the house she’d projected her motherly love on her fur babies.

“The room is lovely. A great place to rest and rejuvenate. I wish I didn’t have to work, but Harv wants me to write on Savannah and Tybee Island while we’re here. He promised not to call since I’m on a working vacation.” Harv harbored a soft spot in that heart of his, but when it came to his magazine he was serious as a rookie breaking his first big story.

“Come on, let’s go see what Mama and Nana are up to.” I switched off the lamp and noted the clear base filled with seashells. What a unique idea! Observing the display of shells dispersed around the room, I mentally named this the “seashell room.” I couldn’t wait to get my feet in the sand and water and hunt for my own shells.

We exited our room the same time as Mama and Nana. Dee Dee grabbed Nana’s arm. “Come on, ladies. Let’s see what kind of trouble we can get into.”

“Bite your tongue, girl.” Dee Dee and I’d had our fill of adventures. I didn’t want any more for a while.

“Mama, how’s your room?”

“Oh, Trixie. I couldn’t be more pleased. Thank you again for letting us tag along. I’m so grateful Laura offered us her home.”

“Yeah. Did you see the view out your window? The ocean’s beautiful. It reminds me of a sparkling jewel.”

Dee Dee glanced my way with raised eyebrows. I knew she was remembering the argument between Laura and the unidentified woman.

“Hey there. I see y’all made it back down,” our hostess greeted. “How about some crackers and cheese? I try to have snacks in the afternoon and evening. The sea air can sure make a body hungry, and I want my guests to be able to eat whenever they feel the need.” Laura had laid out a large spread of snacks. Crackers, cheese, olives, chips, tiny sandwiches, and desserts covered the table.

We grabbed plates and filled them with goodies. I could see it wasn’t going to be easy to avoid gaining weight on this vacation. Looking around, I suspected I wouldn’t be alone.

I glanced around for other guests. A beautiful, red-headed woman walked in the dining area. A creamy, smooth porcelain complexion and a figure to kill for completed the package.

She sauntered over and extended her hand. “Hi y’all. I’m Ellie Sloan.” We shook hands and introduced ourselves. “My, look at this feast. Laura really knows how to take care of her guests.”

“Ellie, it’s nice to meet you.” I was dying to find out what she did for a living. “I write for Georgia by the Way, a historic magazine. We’re here on vacation, and a little work.”

“I’m here for the Save the Turtles Convention. We meet once a year on different coasts to promote protection for the sea turtles’ nesting. Did you know that Tybee Island is home to the Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles, as well as the rare Diamondback terrapin? This makes it a great place to have the convention.” She flipped back her long red hair.

“Save the turtles? My land, who ever heard of anybody meeting to save turtles? I didn’t know they needed any help from people.” Nana shook her head.

“Nana. Is it all right to call you that?” She nodded and Ellie continued. “The sea turtles lay their eggs on the beach and then abandon the nest. It takes months for the eggs to hatch and there are so many hazards and predators, including the human kind, that can damage or destroy the eggs.”

I’d heard about the sea turtles and their plight, but knew little about the movement to save them.

“Think this would be a good subject for your story, Trixie?” Dee Dee filled her plate with seconds. As Dee Dee loved to eat, I didn’t believe it’d be her last.

“Sure. I want to write on a variety of topics.”

“I’ve gathered a lot of material on the sea turtles. You’re welcome to read it,” Ellie offered.

Laura replenished the table with little pimento cheese and cucumber cream cheese sandwiches. “There’s a big initiative on Tybee to protect the turtles. Between May and October, the nesting season, outside lights directed toward the beach must be turned off. The hatchlings will go toward the lights instead of the ocean, and be stranded inland, or worse, run over by cars as they are attracted to the headlights. There’s a hefty fine for people who don’t adhere to the lighting restrictions.”

“Who would have thought?” Mama refilled her plate with sandwiches and chips then settled on an overstuffed loveseat. “Back home we let our turtles fend for themselves.”

“Well, you better not say that around here. I’m sure the sea turtles are a worthy cause, but we have some fanatics like my next door neighbor.” Laura filled a plate and sat next to Mama. It was good to see Mama’s face bright with excitement. She was thrilled when she found out about the trip and getting reacquainted with her friend.

“I for one think it’s a great cause.” Ellie shook a chip toward Laura making her point. “And I know for a fact that other guests attending the convention will be staying on the island. You have to admit it’s good for business.”

“I’m sorry, Ellie.” Laura looked sheepish as she apologized. “Grace Watkins is about to drive me crazy.”

“Why?” Dee Dee was never one to worry about subtlety.

“The dogs. I can’t help they got out and started digging up one of the nests. Grace didn’t hesitate to report me, and believe me I paid for their little escapade.”

“Is that who you were arguing with outside a while ago?” I nudged Dee Dee, but it didn’t faze her. She plowed right on. “We looked out the window to admire the ocean view and saw y’all on the beach. You certainly didn’t look like you were best friends.”

“Yeah, that’s her. Grace threatened to report me if the dogs got out again. They told me if I had another citation I’d have to go to court. I’m sure they’d make me give up the dogs. She’s an old busy body. There’s not a person on this island she hasn’t angered at one time or another.”

CHAPTER THREE

I understand why she might get under your skin.” Dee Dee said around a mouth full.

“Well, I don’t want any of this ruining your stay. It’s my problem.” Laura replenished our drinks and sat back down beside Mama. The doorbell rang.

“Must be more guests.” Laura jumped up from the couch and fast footed her way to the front door. “Hello, come on in. Welcome to Seaside Cottage. I’m so glad you’ve chosen to stay with us.”

“We didn’t have much choice,” a gravelly voice announced. “Most of the hotels were full because of some doggone turtle festival or some-such nonsense.” The red-faced man was as big around as he was tall. He sported a comb-over and a missing tooth. Not exactly Adonis.

Laura, a pained look on her face, led the couple into the sitting room.

“Now, Harold. Be nice.” It seemed Harold got the better end of the deal. An attractive, sixty-something lady, decked out in a brightly flowered sundress, patted him on the arm.

She glanced in our direction. “I’m so sorry. Harold’s a little on edge, with the long travel and all. I’m Cassie Daniels and this is my husband.” She pointed toward the rude man. “We’re thrilled to be staying here. I’ve always wanted to vacation on the beach.”

“Humph.” Harold surveyed the room with a sneer on his lips.

“We were just having a few snacks and socializing. Why don’t you leave your luggage in the foyer and I’ll show you to your room later.” Laura introduced us and handed them each a plate. “Please help yourself.”

Harold might not have been impressed with his accommodations, but he piled his dish to overflowing.

We relaxed and ate while Laura puttered around. Another knock had Laura scurrying to the door.

A gray-haired, older gentleman stood nobly in the doorway. “Name’s George Knight. I just stopped by to introduce myself. I’m a guest at Ocean View Inn.” The distinctive English accent suited him well.

Laura tripped over her words. “Please, please come in.” She stuck out her hand as did George. The two outstretched hands culminated in a hearty handshake. George appeared to be in his late seventies or early eighties. Dressed in khakis, a dark blue polo, and a tweed jacket thrown over his arm, he posed a dashing figure. Gray hair, blue eyes the color of his shirt, and a wide white smile accentuated his handsomeness.

This did not go unnoticed by Nana, who jumped up to insinuate herself into the conversation.

“Hi, I’m Belle. This is my niece Betty Jo, my great-niece Trixie, and her friend Dee Dee.” Her hand shot out and grabbed George’s hand faster than a duck on a June Bug. She didn’t even mention her nickname. “We’re here on vacation.”

Dee Dee poked me in the side and stage whispered in my ear, “Nana’s got her eye on him.”

“Hello, Belle. It’s my pleasure to meet you.” He held her hand a little longer than necessary. It was good to see Nana flirting with someone her own age. Lately, Nana had taken to making eyes at much younger men.

“Mr. Knight, we were just having a snack. Would you like to stay a while and visit?” Laura thrust a plate and napkin toward George.

“Well,” his gaze lingered on Nana, “I do believe I would like that very much.” Laura finished the introductions while George filled his plate with goodies. He told us about his travels around the world and his fellow guests at the Ocean View Inn.

He stood to leave.

“Mr. Knight, we’re so glad you came by. Please, visit any time.”

“Thank you so much, Laura. I sure wish I’d known about this place before I made my reservations.”

My ears perked up and I shot a quick glance at Dee Dee.

“Not that I like to talk about anyone, especially my hostess, but that lady could take some lessons from you. She possesses no social skills.” He directed his comments to Laura.

A trace of a smile appeared on Laura’s face. “Well, Mr. Knight. Please know that you’re welcome here anytime.”

“Oh, call me George. And I thank you for the invitation. I suppose I’ve just about worn out my welcome, so I’ll be on my way. I enjoyed the snacks and I enjoyed the company even more.” He bowed in Nana’s direction. Her face turned radish-red.

After George left, our little band dispersed. Nana, Mama, Dee Dee and I opted to take a nap before supper. I awoke to the smell of fried chicken. Fried chicken? By the time Dee Dee and I ambled downstairs, we found Mama and Nana settled in the sitting room looking at magazines.

“Is that fried chicken I smell?” Dee Dee raised her nose in the air and sniffed.

“It sure is.” Nana scooted over on the loveseat and patted the cushion. I sat down beside her. “Laura’s cooking up a good ole southern meal just for us.” Nana knows a southern meal when she smells one.

I found it ironic we’d traveled to the best seafood area in the south and we feasted on a meal of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans and all the trimmings. It would have been rude to go into town on our first night, but I was looking forward to sampling some of the local dishes. We ate until we thought we couldn’t eat another bite and then stuffed ourselves on fresh strawberry shortcake. No use in offending our hostess, after all.

Feeling guilty over the calorie laden meal, Dee Dee and I decided to take a walk on the beach. “Oh-my-goodness. If we eat like this all week long, I’m going to gain ten pounds. Or more.” Dee Dee patted her rotund stomach.

“You and me both.” We laughed at our dilemma.

“Let me grab my camera.”

Dee Dee headed outside to wait on me.

On the beach, I gazed at the beautiful landscape God had painted – the dark blue ocean against the soft blue of the sky, surrounded by the white sand. I snapped shot after shot, but a photograph would fall short of capturing this beauty. I reveled in the decision to spend my vacation on Tybee Island. A peace settled over me. If I’d only known what lay in store I wouldn’t have felt so peaceful.

“Look!” Dee Dee pointed toward a gray and black cat walking along the edge of the ocean.

“I wonder if he’s a stray. Look, his ear’s clipped. Means he’s had his shots.” I’d heard of beach cats, but had never seen one. Roaming the shores, they fed off fish and the food people gave them. Beach cats claimed no permanent home. “He’s a little scraggy, but he’s a beautiful color.” Dee Dee knelt down and called to the kitty.

“Here kitty, kitty.” I couldn’t believe my eyes. With deliberate steps he cautiously moved toward Dee Dee. “I wish I had something to give him.” The cat crouched, looked at her, then slinked a few steps forward. He repeated this until he was within inches of her. When she reached out to pet him he darted away.

I picked up a shell and studied the patterns of gray, brown, and white, similar to the cat’s coloring. God’s hand was everywhere. Father, thank you for giving us this beautiful world to live in. Help me to take the time to stop and enjoy it.

“Come on, Trix. Let’s go back in.” Dee Dee interrupted my thoughts. “It’s been a long day and we need to rest up for some sightseeing.” She grabbed my arm and we walked back to Laura’s arm and arm. Thank you, God, for my best friend.

Later that evening, we sat around with Ellie, Cassie, Harold, and Laura. Everyone chatted about their day and plans for the week. Dusk arrived and our group broke up. Ellie went out on the town and the Daniels left for a nighttime drive. We decided to turn in for the night, and get an early start in the morning.

I didn’t know if it was excitement or if I’d gone to bed too early, but I couldn’t sleep. I tossed and turned most of the night. I threw back the covers and grabbed the clock. When the bright red numerals glared four o’clock, I knew it was useless to stay in bed. I thought a walk on the beach might relax me, so I quietly donned my capris and a t-shirt and stealthily snuck down the stairs.

I grabbed a flashlight that sat by the door. Outside, the brightness of a full moon greeted me. The rounded orb appeared so close I wanted to reach out and touch it. The moon’s reflection on the ocean shone like sparkling jewels.

“Meow. Meow.” It was the beach cat. When we had come in from our walk, Laura told us the locals had named him Captain Jack. He was digging at something in the sand. I tiptoed closer expecting him to run. He didn’t right away, but when I encroached on his territory he fled. My flashlight beam reflected on something shiny dangling from his mouth as he escaped.

I directed the light back to where he’d been digging. I noticed a big lump in the sand. Had someone thrown a pile of trash on the beach? Boy, were they in for a hefty fine if caught.

I walked closer and shined the light to get a better look. Then I realized it wasn’t trash. It wasn’t seaweed and it wasn’t driftwood. These wouldn’t be covered in blood. A body with a smashed in head would.

My body shook and I wanted to run, but my legs wouldn’t move. A morbid curiosity drew my eyes to the ghoulish sight. The peaceful sounds of the ocean were shattered by a scream. Mine.