The Key in the Attic (16 page)

“Poor old Frank Sanders. He had the treasure in his hands all along.” Ian chuckled as he sat down on the arm of one of the overstuffed chairs. “If he could only see you now.”

“He should be in jail,” Peggy grumbled, but Mary Beth only smiled.

“He really didn’t do anybody much harm but himself, and I probably would never have found the jewels if not for him. And Mandy’s little acting job more than repaid me for that broken window. It seems like everything that was meant to hurt me turned out to be for my good. I can’t complain about that.”

“And I can’t complain about the nice little chat I had with the corporate planner of SLR & FFH, Ms. McMillan.” Ian winked at Annie. “I did have a chance to let her know Mr. Huggins and Stony Point regret that there will not be a new Burly Boy’s Burger Barn on Main Street.”

Alice giggled. “I suppose she wasn’t too happy about that.”

“I think she was more astonished than anything,” Ian said. “She made it pretty clear that she’s used to getting her own way. I guess she’ll get over it.”

Annie smiled at him. “I’m so glad. I love Stony Point just as it is.”

“Me too!” Mary Beth felt like throwing a party or tap-dancing across the front counter of the store. She contented herself with giving Annie a hug. “Me too!” she exclaimed again for emphasis.

Annie returned the hug and then hesitated. “And how was Melanie?”

Mary Beth couldn’t help beaming at her. “We had a nice talk after all the paperwork was done. She and Amy are going to meet me for lunch next week when they’re in Portland. Melanie and I are not best friends yet, but I think we’re heading in the right direction.”

“It’s a miracle.”

Mary Beth gave her friend another big hug. “A miracle that started with a little key in Annie’s attic.”