Patrick thought about Kathleen’s home. It sat on a large lot with mature trees that provided some privacy, but the property wasn’t fenced, and the basement windows were easily accessible from the ground level. Anyone determined to explore could find multiple entry points.
“Security-wise, there are a few things we could do,” he said. “Basic door and window alarms are relatively simple to install. Motion sensors around the basement perimeter would alert you if anyone tries to approach those windows. We could also add security cameras at key points around the property.”
Kathleen looked relieved. “That sounds great. How much would it cost?”
“For a basic system with door and window sensors, a few motion detectors, and three or four cameras, we’re probably looking at fifteen hundred to two thousand dollars, plus installation time.”
Kathleen bit her bottom lip. “Could you install it?”
Patrick nodded. “I could handle the basic components. The cameras and central monitoring system might require an electrician, but yes, I could do most of it. The bigger question is whether you want to go down that route or try to address the issue.”
“What do you mean?”
“Right now, people are curious because they don’t know what was found. Their imaginations are running wild, which is making them more persistent. Sometimes the best way to protect a secret is to give people just enough information to satisfy their curiosity without revealing what you really want to keep private.”
“How would I do that?” Kathleen asked.
Patrick leaned against the doorway of the tiny home. “What if you let Percy announce that construction work revealed some Victorian-era artifacts in your basement? Old tools, maybe some household items from the previous owners. Nothing particularly valuable or historically significant, just items that got stored away and forgotten. It would explain the ‘discovery’ everyone’s talking about without mentioning the hidden room.”
Kathleen frowned. “Do you think that would be enough to satisfy their curiosity?”
“It might redirect their attention. Historical societies love cataloging old artifacts, even common ones. Percy could make a presentation about everyday Victorian life in Sapphire Bay, using whatever you’re comfortable sharing. That way, people feel like they got the full story.”
“But what about the hidden room?” Kathleen asked. “Someone could still break into my basement.”
Patrick nodded. “That’s why the security system is still a good idea, regardless of how you handle the publicity. At least you don’t have to worry about the foundation work anymore,” he said. “The building inspectors saw the hidden room during the structural assessment, but they were only concerned with making sure our support work didn’t compromise the integrity of the space.”
Kathleen nodded. “I was so worried they’d make a big deal about it, but they just noted it on their paperwork as ‘existing basement storage area’ and moved on.”
“They’ve probably seen all kinds of unusual architectural features,” Patrick said. “To them, it was just another old basement room that needed to be accounted for in the structural plans. The important thing is that the foundation repairs are complete and your house is safe.”
Kathleen walked over to the tiny home and studied the wooden framing. “When I bought my house, I thought I was getting a fixer-upper with character, not a historically significant property with a target painted on it.”
Patrick joined her. “You were meant to have it. You not only saved the house, but you’re honoring the women who found refuge there.”
Kathleen turned to face him, and he could see the uncertainty in her eyes. “Do you really think I can protect their privacy while still preserving what they left behind?”
“I think you’re the kind of person who will find a way to do both,” Patrick said. “And you don’t have to figure it out alone. Between Percy’s historical expertise, Chloe’s museum experience, and the security measures we can put in place, we can create a plan that protects everyone.”
Kathleen sent him a relieved smile. “When you put it like that, it sounds almost manageable.”
“Most problems can be solved when you break them down into smaller pieces,” Patrick said. “Right now, let’s focus on the immediate concern—keeping unwanted visitors away from your house. I can pick up some basic security equipment tomorrow and start installing it this weekend. That’ll give you peace of mind while we work on the longer-term solution.”
“You’d do that? Even with everything else you have going on?”
Patrick gestured toward the tiny home construction around them. “This project is important, but it’s not urgent. Your safety and peace of mind come first.”
The gratitude in Kathleen’s expression made something warm settle in Patrick’s chest. “Thank you. I don’t know what I’d do without your help.”
“You would have figured it out,” he said. “But now you don’t need to.”
As they walked out of the construction area, Patrick was already thinking about the security system. As long as it was simple, effective, and protected Kathleen and the secrets in her basement, he would be happy.
Chapter 26
Patrick adjusted the motion sensor near the basement window, testing the angle one more time. The security system installation was progressing smoothly. The door and window sensors were already in place, and he was finishing the perimeter motion detectors that would alert Kathleen to anyone visiting the property.
He looked over his shoulder as a vehicle parked in front of the house. For a moment, he thought it was one of the history buffs Kathleen had told him about, but when he saw Natalie get out of the truck, he breathed a sigh of relief.
