Pages and Premonitions by J A Whiting

Author:J A Whiting [Whiting, J A]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: J A Whiting and Whitemark Publishing
Published: 2024-02-02T00:00:00+00:00

12

Shelby looked around at the elegantly decorated venue, smiling as she took in the twinkling lights, fragrant garlands, vases of roses and greens on the tables, an ice sculpture, and the polished wood dance floor. The annual holiday party to benefit the historical society never failed to impress. This year they’d rented a ballroom in a fancy hotel that usually catered to weddings, and the room had been transformed into a magical wonderland.

Crystal chandeliers cast a soft glow over the formally attired guests chatting and sipping cocktails, and the tables set for dinner gleamed with fine China, silverware, crystal goblets, and candles. An orchestra played softly on a small stage, setting a festive mood.

Shelby turned to Lucy, who was similarly awed by the lavish atmosphere. "Can you believe how gorgeous they made this place look? I'm glad I bought a new dress."

Ross Billings, Lucy’s casual boyfriend said, “This place looks fantastic.” Ross’s father and mother owned the inn where Lucy was employed as the baker.

Lucy grinned at her friend. "I love your dress. You look beautiful. And being here gives us a chance to mingle with some of Hamlet's well-connected citizens." The young woman nodded discreetly toward a group of well-dressed men and women who Shelby recognized as important business owners and town officials.

Self-consciously, Shelby smoothed non-existent wrinkles from her dark green velvet dress. Lucy was right - tonight provided access to influential people who might have insights to help the investigation.

As the friends threaded their way through the growing crowd exchanging holiday greetings, Shelby's nerves began to fade. Despite the formal setting, the atmosphere remained relaxed and jovial and was filled with familiar faces.

Her gaze was drawn to a tall man standing ramrod straight near the orchestra. Detective Travis Whitely cut an impressive figure in a crisp black suit.

Shelby realized she was staring and quickly shifted her focus, hoping no one had noticed, but when she glanced back a moment later, Travis’s dark eyes were watching her through the crowd.

Her face warming, she deliberately turned away to study a display of antique photographs and paintings of the town hanging along one wall. She could almost feel the weight of Travis's gaze still lingering on her back. Strange, unsettled excitement simmered in her veins.

"Oh good, here's Patrice and her husband," Lucy said.

Shelby turned with a genuine smile as their friends approached.

"You both look so nice," Shelby told the older couple warmly.

Patrice smiled, patting her husband Ron's arm.

"I wanted to dress up. It's so nice to have an occasion to wear a pretty dress." Her bright tone faltered slightly. "We nearly didn't attend, after ... everything that’s gone on. But I convinced Ron that staying home would feel too much like giving in to fear."

Shelby nodded somberly, not needing to ask what the woman meant. The shadow cast by Mr. Peacock's close call still lingered for all of them.

As if hearing her thoughts, a familiar lanky figure appeared at Patrice's side. "Good evening, ladies!" Mr. Peacock greeted them jovially. "Don't the

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