Beach View Lane by Jan Moran

Author:Jan Moran [Moran, Jan]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Sunny Palms Press

14

April opened the door to the city offices and looked around. With its wooden beams, hardwood floors, and large windows opening onto tropical gardens, the building looked like it was designed in a similar style to the Majestic, although the hotel was in a class by itself.

As long as Junie was returning to work, April decided it was time for her to take the plunge as well. She had no time to lose now.

She stepped up to the front desk. “Hello, I’d like to apply for a business license.”

“I’ll be happy to process that request,” the woman behind the counter said. “What kind of business are you planning to operate?”

“A historical society for Crown Island. A nonprofit organization.”

“Why, you don’t say?” A smile grew on the woman’s face. “You must be the one carrying on the torch of history for Ruth Miller. News travels fast here.”

“I understand Mrs. Miller had an avid interest in preservation. Did you know her?”

The woman nodded. “She was a peach, just the kindest person you’d ever want to know. Her children should have her old papers unless they’ve thrown them out.”

“I’ll contact them right away.” The thought of losing precious documents was disturbing to April. She wished she’d known Ruth Miller better. What a loss to the community.

“I’m Hazel.” The woman took a piece of paper and scribbled a name and phone number. “You tell them I sent you. Now, back to your application.” She began to type on the computer keyboard. “Business name?”

“The Crown Island Historical Society.”

Hazel twisted her mouth to one side. “Not very original, but it gets the point across. Place of business?”

“I’ll work out of my home for now.” April gave her the address.

“I know that address. That’s Nurse Raines, right?”

“Ella is my mother.”

“Well, you tell her hello from Hazel.” She tapped her fingers as if searching for a thought. “You could probably take the space that Ruth made sure was earmarked for the historical society.”

April hadn’t heard anything about this. “There was a physical location?”

“It’s on Orange Avenue next to the library. Backs up to the Majestic. Ruth meant to organize and open the society there, but her health was declining.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.”

“You can confirm the use with the mayor. She or Ruth’s children should have the key. The place is a mess, from what I understand. It’s been boarded up for years, and it needs work. Used to be an old dance hall for smaller parties than those in the large ballroom. Ruth told me people held square-dancing nights, quinceañeras, and wild Prohibition parties.” Hazel chuckled. “Times have sure changed, haven’t they?”

“But I want to make sure they’re not forgotten. I’ll look into the location. Thanks.”

If what Hazel said was true, this was an unusual turn of events. April would investigate; that’s what she did, after all. Her heart quickened with excitement. This was the opportunity she needed to change her life.

Her idea was taking shape, and she could hardly wait.

On the way back to the house, April took a detour by the address Hazel had mentioned.

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