Ivy could barely contain her excitement as Reed worked.
This old house had already revealed so many treasures from its past. Letters, artwork, hidden rooms. Each discovery connected her more deeply to its history and Amelia Erickson, who loved this house.
Watching Reed work, Ivy stepped back into an oddly cold spot. Immediately, she shifted out of the way.
Amelia loved her home so much that Ivy still sensed her presence.
Not that she’d ever admit that to Shelly. Her sister would publicize the ghost angle in a heartbeat, and that might be the end of their business. Who would want to sleep in a haunted old inn?
“Any luck yet?” she asked, growing impatient.
9
Fresh from his morning run, Bennett slowed outside Java Beach, taking in the scene. The intricate mural on Libby’s bookmobile shimmered in the morning sun. But that wasn’t what caught his attention.
He wiped his brow with the edge of his “Life is Better in Summer Beach” T-shirt, surprised to find a line of people snaking around the vehicle. The bookmobile hadn’t been there when he left for his run an hour ago.
Word had spread fast.
A festive atmosphere filled the air. Elderly couples with canvas tote bags chatted excitedly while young mothers bounced toddlers on their hips. A group of teenage boys Bennett would have sworn never voluntarily picked up books, leaned against a nearby wall, trying to look cool while waiting their turn.
A group of girls watched them, giggling.
Bennett grinned at the scene. Each time someone emerged from the bookmobile, arms laden with books and faces bright with anticipation, the line would move forward, and the next eager patron stepped inside.
He couldn’t recall ever seeing anything like this in Summer Beach.
Bennett watched as Mrs. Hammons, his former sixth-grade teacher, descended the steps clutching a stack of mystery novels like a treasure.
Spying him, she waved him over. “Have you been inside yet? It’s marvelous. She even had a new book I’ve been dying to read.”
“Not yet.” Bennett nodded toward the line. “Looks like half the town beat me to it.”
“It’s worth the wait, dear. When was the last time you read a book?”
He smiled at the question. “I’m usually reading budgets and resident requests.”
“Then you should check out a book.” Mrs. Hammons spoke as if assigning homework.
“Yes, ma’am. I believe I will. If there are any left.”
Mitch emerged from the open door to Java Beach with a tray of iced coffees. His brother-in-law looked harried but pleased. “Hey, Mr. Mayor. How about one of my new spring specials? It’s on the house.”
Bennett accepted gratefully. “Thanks. Looks like you have a crowd.”
“This bookmobile is the best thing that’s happened to this street in months,” Mitch said, distributing the remaining drinks to waiting customers. “Every table inside is taken. I called in Cassandra for an extra shift.”
Bennett noticed that Jen from Nailed It next door had set up bistro tables and chairs outside her hardware store. Several patrons sat there, engrossed in their books while nursing coffees and pastries. Some had the hardware store’s shopping bags beside them.
Mitch had also followed suit, transforming his side of the sidewalk into an impromptu outdoor cafe.
“Smart move with the seating,” Bennett said. “Did you get city approval for that?”
Mitch’s eyes widened. “Dude, come on. Really?”
Bennett chuckled. “Approved. It creates a nice ambiance.”
“I can’t take the credit,” Mitch said, visibly relieved. “It was Jen’s idea to put out tables and make it a party.”
