Santa Claus Surprise (Holiday Cozy Mystery Book 8) by Tonya Kappes

Author:Tonya Kappes [Kappes, Tonya]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Tonya Kappes Books
Published: 2023-12-17T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 10

The Holiday Junction Library was located fairly close to downtown on Main Street but closer to the far end going toward the business district. Instead of waiting for the trolley, I had decided it was a good time to grab a coffee from the Freedom Diner and one of Nate Lustig’s treats to enjoy while I took my time.

My stomach was growling, and it was already getting late in the day. Plus, I always thought better with some food in my stomach. The Freedom Diner was the typical greasy-spoon diner-style restaurant. The Incubator was a test kitchen for anyone who wanted to come and bake, located in the back. Nate Lustig, the owner of the diner, also held cooking classes back there, but today he was seating customers, taking orders, and telling the folks on the waitlist that they'd soon be seated.

“Business is good,” I called out to Nate on my way up to the counter to order my to-go coffee and something to munch on.

Nate flashed a grin my way, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "You've got that right, Violet. You here for the usual?"

I nodded, but then my eyes landed on a display of golden-brown pizza slices, the cheese still slightly bubbling and the crust looking perfectly crispy. The toppings were a delightful combination of roasted vegetables and a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

"Actually, Nate, I'll take one of those pizza slices," I said, pointing at the display.

Nate raised an eyebrow, chuckling. "Switching it up today, huh? Trust me, you won't be disappointed. These are fresh from the Incubator—a new recipe I'm trying out."

He slid a generously sized slice into a box and handed it to me along with my coffee. The pizza’s enticing aroma wafted up, making my mouth water in anticipation.

"Thanks, Nate. This will hit the spot," I said, giving him some dollar bills.

With my coffee and pizza in hand, I exited the Freedom Diner, my footsteps quickening in anticipation of not only sating my hunger but also diving into the mystery waiting for me at the library.

Walking out of the diner, I held the empty pizza box under my arm, the steam from the cheesy delight slightly warming my fingers. The cold was biting, more intense near the waterfront, but I felt invigorated. The Holiday Junction seaside had a unique charm, especially during this festive season.

Children ran around with bright red noses and rosy cheeks, their laughter blending with the sounds of carolers singing familiar tunes as the parents moved from vendor to vendor, looking at what each one had to offer. I took a moment to stand there finishing my pizza and seeing if there was a good photo opportunity for the newspaper. I tossed the box into the trash can and continued to walk toward the path leading up to the park as the iconic silhouette of the lighthouse came into view.

Darren's house.

I smiled, thinking of how he lived in the cool building.

When I looked up, I noticed he’d strung some colorful lights around the very top railing.

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