Page 45 of Dead End

I glanced at Nana Pratt. “Would you like to join us?”

“No, thank you, dear. I would rather take the opportunity to enjoy a quiet house for a change.”

“Kane is asleep upstairs.”

“Oh, he’s quiet even when he’s awake, except when…” She trailed off, uncomfortable. “Never mind.”

“Will you check on him periodically? I promised him foodwhen he woke up.” I grabbed my purse that hung on the coatrack.

“Of course, dear. Anything for you.”

“Thanks. You’re the best.”

“Good luck, Lorelei. I hope you find what you’re looking for.”

I stifled a sigh. I already had, and now I was in danger of losing it all.

My first stop was to the used bookstore, Leather Bound. I was relieved to see the store was devoid of customers. Only the top of Jessie’s white head was visible behind the counter.

I cleared my throat so as not to frighten her. “Good afternoon,” I said.

Her head popped up. “Welcome back, Lorelei. It’s wonderful to see you again.”

“How are you?”

“Not too bad. My joints are on the achy side today, so forgive me if I don’t stand.”

“No problem. No Helen today?”

“Afraid not. How can I help you today?”

I cast one more furtive glance around the store to confirm the absence of strangers. “I have a favor to ask.”

Curiosity brightened her eyes. “Of course.”

“Would you mind if a friend of mine rattles around your store for a few hours? He’s researching a topic for me.”

“Why on earth would you need to ask if someone can browse my books?”

“Because he’s a ghost.”

“I see.” She struggled to her feet and leaned on the counter for support. “I have the Sight, you know. I should be able to communicate with him.”

“Doesn’t work with ghosts. He’ll hear you, but you won’tbe able to hear his responses. He can write, though, if it’s necessary.”

“He can write,” she repeated, almost trancelike. “Is he a poltergeist?”

“No, no. He’s perfectly harmless, except when you turn off his favorite song in order to have a conversation.” I learned that one the hard way.

“I would be delighted to have a ghost in my store. A haunted bookstore is every owner’s dream.”

I wasn’t sure about every owner, but I was glad Jessie fell into that camp. “His name is Ray Bauer. He’s researching a creature called Unas. I don’t know much beyond the name.”

“I remember Ray.” Jessie’s gaze skimmed my shoulder. “Is he with you now?”

“Not yet. He’s in the truck. I wanted to check with you first before I invited him in.” ‘Invited’ sounded better than ‘commanded.’

“As long as he treats the books with the respect they deserve, I’m happy to have the company.”

---