“We recognized someone in the crowd when the police were here. My husband is quite famous. We’re suspecting maybe a deranged fan followed us up here.”
“Really?” Ginny’s eyes widened. “You think they were after you too? That’s terrifying.”
“I’m pretty scared right now. I think it was a woman. She had thick red hair and carried a sketchbook...” I wanted to continue by adding that she should find the woman on the guest list, but hoped she’d come to that conclusion on her own.
I was in luck.
“Do not tell anyone I checked.” She gave me a stern teacher's look. Then she began clicking away on her keyboard. “Was she alone?”
“I think so.”
“Hmmm.” Ginny glanced between me and her screen several times. “Well, I can’t tell you who’s staying here—or was. So sorry. But completely unrelated... have you seen that new movie with the dragons that everyone’s been talking about? There was an actress, what was her first name again?”
I smiled at her antics. “It was Arleen something, right?”
“That’s right. Arleen York? Or something?” She winked at me.
I smiled, processing her blatant clue. “Arleen Larson was the actress’s name, right?”
“Oh, yes. Larson. I must’ve heard the name Arleen paired withYorkrecently, somewhere else. So strange. Well, sorry I couldn’t, ahem, help. I’d like to have security walk you back to your cabin, honey. I don’t like the idea of your walking around alone out here at night.” She turned away from her computer screen and sighed dramatically, the back of her hand to her forehead.
So the guest was some random person named Arleen York—or at least that was their alias. I’d never heard the name in my life.
“Thank you.” I liked Ginny more than I’d first expected, sweet lady. “That would be very kind.”
Back in my cabin, alone, I couldn’t wait for Wickham to return.ArleenYork. Who on earth couldshe be, and why was she following us? Why the police had to keep Wickham for so long was beyond me. I wanted to drive over to the station, but I’d been ordered not to.
If only I had my mom or sisters with me. We all had a few spells Mom made us memorize for emergencies, but I’d always seen them as more fun than necessary. I needed a revelation spell or a protective spell.
I pulled out my phone and texted Kitty.
Kit, I have a slight problem, and I’m hoping you can help me out.
Uh, yeah you do. Mom’s still freaking out about you taking off with Wickham. Says it makes our family look scandalous. You know how she likes to be dramatic. Are you having fun?
I was... but Wickham got taken in by the police. They’re questioning him about Alex and... something else.
Something else? Are you in danger, Lydia?
No, I’m fine. I think. Tim, he’s in the Grey Doors, was murdered here at theresort, and I need to figure out who did it. We must’ve been followed. Have you done a spell to figure out who owned the red wig we found in the alley?
Lizzy and I tried one, but it didn’t show us much. They must’ve pulled it out of its package and only worn it for a minute or two. I’m worried about you.
Then I need to do what I can here. Will you text me any spells might help? I’ve no idea where to start.
Uh... shouldn’t I ask Mary or Jane or even Lizzy? I’m like the least qualified to help...
No, Kitty! You’re the only one I trust not to tell Mom. Wickham and I... we eloped.
Aaaahhhhh! Are you serious?!? No way!!!
But you can see why I need to prove his innocence.
Okay. Let me think. I’m going to take a bunch of pictures from the spellbook and text them to you. Then you can decide which to use.
Thanks.
Lydia?
