Silent Prayer (A Sheila Stone Suspense Thriller—Book Eight) by Blake Pierce

Author:Blake Pierce [Pierce, Blake]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: UNKNOWN
Published: 2024-10-02T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

"I know Coldwater pretty well, but I have to say this is one place I've never visited," Sheila said.

The sun was setting as she and Finn pulled up to the Sanctuary of the Celestial Path. The store was tucked away in a quiet corner of Coldwater's historic district, its weathered brick facade adorned with intricate celestial designs. A neon sign in the window flickered weakly, casting an eerie blue glow over the sidewalk.

"Not exactly your scene?" Finn asked as they exited the car.

"I'm a little more…scientifically-minded," Sheila said, her eyes scanning the storefront. The display window was filled with an eclectic mix of crystals, tarot cards, and astrological charts. A sense of unease settled in her stomach as they approached the entrance.

A bell chimed softly as they pushed open the heavy wooden door. The interior was scented with a heady mix of incense and herbs. Shelves lined the walls, packed with books, candles, and various mystical paraphernalia.

Behind the counter stood a woman in her fifties, her silver hair pulled back in a tight bun. She wore flowing robes covered in astrological symbols, and her neck was adorned with multiple crystal pendants.

"Welcome to the Sanctuary," she said, her voice low and melodious. "How may I assist you on your spiritual journey today?"

Sheila approached the counter, subtly flashing her badge. "Good evening. I'm Deputy Stone, and this is Deputy Mercer. We'd like to ask you a few questions about a product you sell here."

The woman's serene expression faltered for a moment before she regained her composure. "Of course, Deputies. I'm Celeste, the owner. What would you like to know?"

Finn produced a photo of the seal from the killer's letter. "We're interested in this custom seal. Our sources tell us it was purchased here."

Celeste's eyes widened as she looked at the photo. "Yes, I remember this design. It's quite unique. But I'm afraid I can't disclose information about our customers without a warrant."

Sheila leaned in, her voice low and urgent. "Celeste, this is part of an ongoing murder investigation. Any information you provide could save lives."

Celeste's eyes darted nervously around. "I...I'm sorry, but I really don't know anything about who bought that seal. We have many customers, and I can't remember them all."

Sheila was about to press further when she heard a muffled noise from the back of the store. Her eyes narrowed. "Is someone else here?"

Celeste's posture stiffened, her hands fidgeting with the crystals around her neck. "Oh, that's just…someone I hired for part-time help. To organize the stockroom."

There was no mistaking the hesitation in Celeste's voice. Sheila exchanged a quick glance with Finn, seeing her own suspicion mirrored in his eyes.

"Mind if we talk to this helper?" Sheila asked, her tone making it clear it wasn't really a question.

"I...I don't think that's necessary," Celeste stammered. "He's very shy, you see, and—"

Sheila cut her off. "Celeste, I get the feeling you're not being entirely truthful with us. Who's really back there?"

Before Celeste could answer, the beaded curtain separating the main shop from the back room parted.

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