Searching for Treasure

By Mildred Colvin

Why would anyone kill Grandma? That's what Kate Wood wants to know. The police say Grandma accidentally fell and hit her head, but Kate believes otherwise. Kate's mystery-loving grandmother has left her a treasure hunt contained right inside the old farmhouse Grandma may have given her life to save for Kate. Thankfully, Kate has a detective friend to help her untangle Grandma's death and her last message to Kate.

Vince Rosenbaum hadn't forgotten the dates he and Kate shared the summer after his first year of college, but he wasn't about to get emotionally involved with any woman. Loving and losing seemed to be the curse of his life, and he'd had enough pain for one lifetime. Still, he couldn't say no when Kate needed his help. Finding the messages Grandma left is fun, but when Kate ends up in the hands of the killer, Vince realizes how much she's come to mean to him. Once more, he's faced with losing someone he loves. Only this time, he's determined to save Kate then make her his forever.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mildred Colvin
• Release date: Mar 27, 2015
• ISBN: 9781310186653

Mildred Colvin

Mildred Colvin is a wife, mother of three, and grandmother to three beautiful girls. She started writing when her children were young as they asked for stories. Not from a book. No! They were only satisfied when she made up stories. As the stories grew, she wrote some down and sent them off to magazines. Eight were published before her imagination turned toward love stories, which is what she enjoys reading.She has been writing Christian or clean and wholesome romance since 2001. Over the years several readers from pre-teens to older kids in their eighties and nineties have written expressing their interest in her books. She always loves to hear about one of her stories touching someone's heart. Her purpose in writing is to encourage, entertain, and bless someone else.She lives in the United States and sets her characters in the middle states from Texas to Nebraska and Iowa and reaching across Illinois to Colorado. She also has an Oregon Trail series, but the Great Plains states are her favorite setting.She is active in a very special critique group and has written and published over 60 books in both historical and contemporary themes, and plans to continue writing as long as God allows. He has been good in giving her many ideas for stories. Maybe more than she will be able to finish, but she enjoys each one.Please take a moment to visit her website at www.mildredcolvin.weebly.com, and sign up for her Romantic Reflections Newsletter to learn when new books are released. Also learn of promotions and free books through her newsletter.And take a look at her books. You might find something you don't want to put down.

Book preview

Searching for

Treasure

Mildred Colvin

Contemporary Christian Romance

Searching for Treasure

Copyright ©2015 by Mildred Colvin

All Rights Reserved

Cover photo copyright © Konradbak|Dreamstime.com

Smashwords Edition

Scripture portions are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or to events is entirely coincidental.

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means without permission in writing from its author except for brief quotations in printed reviews. Thank you for respecting the author’s work.

DEDICATION

To Tammy Reaves for sharing the poem she wrote years ago when her little girl slipped home to live with Jesus and play on the streets of gold. Thanks, Tammy, and for being one of my best supporters as I write stories to touch hearts for the Kingdom of God.

Also in memory of my mother who told some great stories and I hope passed her gift of storytelling on to me.

Chapter One

Kate Wood guided her car down the highway heading into the town of Pleasant Spring. Her father’s blue sedan, coming from the other direction, turned into the drive leading to the home she shared with her grandmother. Kate slammed her brake and veered into the right lane, cringing at the warning honk from the car behind her.

Her impulsive nature could be a problem sometimes, but Dad and Mom were bringing Grandma home from the doctor, and Kate had to know if she was all right. Kate followed the long drive to the two-story house and stopped her forest green compact behind her father’s car as her parents stepped from the front and back seats.

Kate barely let her engine die before running around to the passenger side. Hi, Mom. Dad.

Their responses became lost as she opened the front door and smiled at the one person who had been her friend, mentor, and soul mate for as long as she could remember.

Hi, Grandma.

The old woman smiled at Kate, deepening the wrinkles that covered her face. Hi to you too. Did you stop working just to walk me to the door?

Kate laughed, brushing a long strand of hair out of her eye. Looks like it, doesn’t it? Actually, I’m on my way to list a house and saw Dad’s car. How’d the doctor visit go?

Grandma grasped the edge of the door on both sides and pulled herself to a standing position. She wrinkled her nose. Just peachy keen if you can call being poked and prodded and told you’re old fun.

Kate took the cane her father handed her and passed it to her grandmother, making sure the older woman’s footing was secure before she stepped back. So did he find anything wrong?

Nothing I didn’t already know. The twinkle in Grandma’s faded blue eyes indicated she didn’t intend to go into detail.

Kate frowned. What’s that supposed to mean?

Grandmother never complained, but she’d changed in her the last couple of months. While still sharp in her mind, Grandma had started taking naps in the afternoon, something she’d never been caught doing before. Kate sighed. Worry indicated a lack of trust in God. But sometimes she failed—like now.

The crunch of gravel on the drive and an unladylike snort from Grandma caught Kate’s attention. She turned as a late model black pickup truck pulled in and stopped behind Kate’s small car. Who’s that?

Kate’s father glanced toward the truck. Is that someone you know, Mom?

Someone I’d just as soon not know, you mean. Grandma raised her cane as if she might use it on the man getting out. It’s that fellow who wants to buy my home.

I’ll get rid of him. Kate’s dad took a step forward.

Her mom grabbed his arm. You go on with your mother. I’ll see that he doesn’t bother her. Mom was one year Dad’s junior, but easily looked ten years younger. Trim, petite, and proper, she seemed to thrive on conflict.

Kate took a deep breath. I’ll help Mom. She patted her grandmother’s shoulder. Don’t worry, Grandma, we won’t let him stay.

Kate and her mom walked back to the driveway as the truck door opened and a man near Mom’s age stepped from his truck.

Good afternoon, ladies. He greeted them with a warm smile, reaching out to shake Mom’s hand. I don’t believe we’ve met. I’m Larry Poe. No kin to Edgar Allen as far as I know. He laughed like someone from Poe’s stories before assuming a normal laugh.

A shiver traced down Kate’s back.

Mom smiled as if he’d done something smart. I’m Bridgette Wood. This is my daughter, Kate.

Larry looked from one woman to the other as he clasped their hands in turn. I would have guessed you were sisters.

Mom seemed to soak up his flattery while Kate resisted the urge to roll her eyes.

Mr. Poe’s smile spread across his face. I’m representing a group of doctors who want to build in the area. Right now, a medical team is interested in constructing a research center here in Pleasant Spring. I think that’s pretty exciting and a very worthy cause, don’t you agree?

Yes, of course. Mom glanced toward the house. However, my mother-in-law isn’t able to see anyone today. She’s just returned from the doctor and isn’t feeling well.

Oh, I’m terribly sorry. His expression registered what appeared to be genuine concern. Nothing serious, I hope?

No, I don’t think so. Mom shook her head. Just a checkup, but at her age any outing can be draining.

Well, I hope she gets along fine. Larry leaned against his truck. Could I take just a minute of your time to tell you what we have in mind? Maybe you can pass the word to your mother-in-law for me.

I can listen, but I assure you I don’t have much influence with her. Mom laughed. She can be a very stubborn old lady.

Larry nodded. That isn’t always a bad character trait. However, in this case, she might want to consider what I’m offering. I won’t insult your intelligence by saying this land is anything but prime. You and I both know better. Even at that, the amount I’m able to offer for the ten acres may surprise you.

When Larry quoted a figure higher than Kate’s liberal guess, her mother gasped. Is it worth that much?

A sly smile stole over Larry’s face as he nodded. To the right person it is. Let me write that down on one of my cards so later you won’t think you’ve dreamed it up.

He slipped a couple of fingers in his shirt pocket and came up empty. Oops! Fresh out.

Kate shared a look with her mother and saw determination spark to life in her eyes. No doubt she intended to talk Dad into making Grandma sell the house. Kate sighed.

Larry opened his truck door. Let me get a card from my briefcase.

Kate waited beside her mother while he reached across the driver’s seat knocking a small wooden box to the floorboard.

Mom gasped when the lid fell off revealing a handgun snuggled in a bed of red velvet. Oh, my! She slapped her hand over her mouth. I hope that’s legal.

Larry picked up the box and closed the lid, laughing as he did so. He backed out with several business cards in his hand then turned a smile from one woman to the other. It’s perfectly legal. I was on my way to the shooting range when I saw your cars here and decided to stop. Some men play golf for a hobby. I collect guns, and as often as I can I enjoy target practice.

Well, of course. Mom released a breath and fanned her face. It startled me for a moment. After all, it isn’t every day you see a gun.

Kate searched the man’s expression for the truth. He seemed open and honest, but what kind of person was Larry Poe? By his appearance, he was quite successful. As he pulled a gold fountain pen from his shirt pocket, her eyes widened. She’d seen pens like that on the Internet and in exclusive stores, but never in an individual’s possession. Surely, the cost of the pen he was using to scribble on the back of his business card could have paid Grandma’s utility bill for a month. Definitely a luxury item.

Talk this over with your husband and your mother-in-law right away. I know this sounds like a gimmick to sway you to my way of thinking, but I’ll need a decision before long. This deal won’t last forever. These men mean business and are getting antsy to see some action. I will say this. Your location is their first choice, but it isn’t the only one. If they can’t get it in the next few weeks, they’ll have to go with a second choice.

I understand. Mom stared at the card as if she couldn’t believe what was written on it.

Larry held his hand out to again shake hers. You can reach me at the number on the back of the card. Thank you for your time. I’ve enjoyed visiting with you.

When he reached for Kate’s hand, her mother said, Kate is in real estate, too.

Is that so? Larry’s gaze sharpened as if he hadn’t noticed her before. You must enjoy it. I understand selling houses can be quite fulfilling.

Meeting people is always interesting.

He released her hand and opened his door. Yes, it is, and I’ve enjoyed meeting you two fine ladies. See if you can come to a decision soon, and let me know. You won’t regret it.

As he backed his truck out and drove the circle drive to the highway, Kate turned and walked to the house with her mom. Grandma would never change her mind. Not after fifty years of memories in this house. Mr. Poe might as well buy the other property, but she didn’t feel it was her place to tell him.

I’ll be in after a while. Mom took her cell phone from her pocket. I need to return a call.

All right, Mom. Kate ran up the porch steps and went inside. An entrance hall ran straight back for twenty or so feet ending at the door to the dining room. To the left near the front door, stairs led up to the floor above. On Kate’s right, a door opened into Grandma’s bedroom which extended beyond the front of the house ending even with the front porch. Near the dining room door at the end of the hall on the right were French doors now standing open. Kate walked toward them and entered the living room.

Grandma sat in her favorite chair beside the fireplace looking out the window that faced the smaller two-lane street running past the side of the house.

So, what did that man have to say? Grandma frowned.

Kate gave a soft laugh. I don’t think he’s so bad, Grandma. He’s only doing his job.

Grandma’s lips pursed, and her brows drew down. He wants to put me out on the street. And you too.

I don’t know, Grandma. Kate took a chair across from her father on the sofa. With what he’s offering, you could buy two nice houses over in town.

Grandma looked around the living room with a sad expression on her face. And leave the home my George built for me? Her gaze stopped on Kate’s father who sat silently watching them. The home where we raised our son? She looked at Kate. I have too many memories here to give them up that easily. I wouldn’t fall in with that man if I were you. I don’t trust him any farther than I could throw him.

Kate’s father leaned forward with his arms resting on his knees, his hands clasped in front. Don’t worry, Mom. No one can make you sell your house. We’ll plan on you staying here for as long as you wish.

Grandma’s smile seemed to hold a secret. That’s in God’s hands, Alan. He alone knows how much longer any of us have to walk on this earth. Attached as I am to this earthly home, I sometimes get a little homesick to see the new one that’s waiting for me over yonder.

Dad shifted and looked at his hands. Let’s not worry about that now, Mom. I’m not ready to see you go.

Grandma’s face sagged, chasing her smile away. If you don’t remember anything else I’ve ever told you, son, remember this. To each of us is a time to be born and a time to die and after that, the judgment. What is forgiven now will be forgiven then. God is waiting—

I know, Mom. Dad sprang to his feet and paced a short distance away. His voice softened as he ran his hand over his face. I know I need to change. And I will, I promise. When I have more time. Right now it’s all I can do to keep up with my job.

Grandma opened her mouth, but snapped it shut when the front door closed. Dad swung toward the French doors leading into the hall as his wife walked in.

Well, Alan, are you ready to go home? I’m sure Kate needs to return to work, and Grandma needs her rest.

Dad strode toward her. Yes, you’re right. Mom, we’ll check on you later.

As the front door closed on her parents, Kate gave her Grandmother a reassuring hug. Our prayers will bring them in, Grandma. Dad wouldn’t act the way he just did if he didn’t feel drawn to salvation.

I hope you’re right, Kate. I pray you’re right.

Kate’s heart twisted at her grandmother’s drawn expression. She held Grandma’s hand in a gentle squeeze and smiled to brighten her spirits. I am. So tell me, where is Janice?

Grandma shrugged. I gave her the day off. There’s no need for her to come in and clean when I’m not here. I’ve already eaten so I don’t need anyone to fix a meal. No sense in wasting money on nothing.

Kate pulled a book from her handbag and handed it to her grandmother. I picked up a new mystery at the library for you.

Oh, you know exactly what I like, don’t you, Katie? Grandma’s pale blue eyes shone with pleasure as she tilted the book toward the light from the window.

You finished the other one, didn’t you? Kate stood and crossed the room. Is it still in your bedroom?

Yes, yes, I’m through with it. Grandma didn’t look up from reading the back cover of the book in her hand.

Kate chuckled as she went through the hall to her grandmother’s room. The book lay on the bed near the side table. She picked it up and went back into the living room.

I’ve got to get back to work, Grandma, but I’ll be home in time to fix supper. Kate stuck the book inside her bag.

Grandma gave her a tender smile. You’re a good girl, Katie.

~*~

That evening Kate washed the few dishes from their supper and put them away while Grandma cleaned off the table in the dining room. You do remember that I’ll be helping chaperone the youth group tomorrow night, don’t you?

Grandma set the casserole dish on the counter and rummaged through a drawer before pulling a wrinkled section of aluminum foil out and smoothed it over the dish. How many times had that same piece of foil been used? Grandma saved everything that could be washed and reused until it fell apart. Janice often commented on Grandma’s miserly ways.

When she had the casserole covered, she spoke. Yes, I remember, and I don’t want you to worry about me. Alan said he’d stop by and see if I need anything. You go on and have fun.

Kate laughed. I wonder how much fun it will be to ride herd on twenty teenagers in a bus. Don’t get me wrong. They’re good kids, but if they act like the kids did back in my day, I’m in for a noisy ride.

Grandma waved her hand in front of her face as if brushing Kate’s words away. Long as they’re healthy, kids will make noise. That’s one thing you can count on no matter whose day it’s in.

I guess so. Kate draped the dishcloth over the edge of the sink so it would dry. "Would you mind if I run over to