By the Book (A Gracie Andersen Mystery 2) Read Online Free Page B

responding to all of this?” Gracie asked.
    “She’s called a couple of times today. She’s the one who gave me the space heater. It seemed to work okay, but the house was still so cold. I don’t think the furnace was working right.”
    “I’m sure she’s a little concerned about her responsibility in all of this,” Gracie responded.
    “She does seem worried about a lawsuit. I haven’t said anything, but she’s awfully nervous,” Terry paused. “I’ve lost everything though, and the dogs and I nearly died.”
    Gracie grimaced. “It’s awful. I’m glad you’re all safe. I imagine a lawsuit … well … let’s just say Alice Harris has had some financial challenges lately.”
    Terry’s eyes widened. “Really? She led me to believe that her business was pretty successful. Doesn’t she have a lot of rental properties?”
    “That’s true. And she has her own accounting business.” Gracie hesitated. The rest of what she was about to share was gossip straight from Midge’s. What the heck. Terry would hear it from her or from someone else. “Alice has quite a few empty properties and one went into foreclosure not too long ago.”
    “Oh. That’s not quite the same picture Mrs. Harris painted for me. She’s a CPA, so she must do all right with that.”
    “That I’m not sure about. I don’t use her, but I know a couple of the bigger farms do.”
    Gracie turned the TV off and finished the dregs of hot chocolate. The three dogs were stretched out in front of the fireplace, soaking up the warmth. Haley was snoring softly, as usual.
    “Maybe she’ll rent me one of her empty properties then. Although the wiring should be checked out before I move in.”
    “You don’t have to rush into anything, Terry. Give yourself a few days to get things figured out.”
    “I really do want to thank you for taking us in, Gracie. I’m not used to relying on anybody for help and …” Terry’s voice cracked with emotion.
    “It’s not a problem. I know it’s hard to accept help. I’m that way myself. Just ask my mother,” Gracie said lightly in an attempt to put her guest at ease.
    “She did mention something about that today.” A slight smile appeared on her thin face.
    “No doubt.” Gracie now wondered what else she’d told Terry. “So, are you from Wyoming County?” She decided to take the plunge and find out what she could about the new librarian.
    “No,” Terry shook her head slowly as if considering her answer. “I’m a city girl, from New York.”
    “Really? You don’t have that New York City accent.”
    “I went to Long Island University for my undergrad work. I was offered a job at a small university outside of Albany where I got my MLS, so I stayed on. I really enjoyed it there.” Terry looked away from Gracie and gazed at the steadily burning fire.
    “What brought you here, then?” Gracie’s curiosity was awakened by Terry’s sudden change of geography.
    “Just tired of the academic scene, I guess. I saw the opening in a state library newsletter and decided to apply.” Terry looked down and focused on the three sleeping dogs.
    “Deer Creek will be quite a change from a university library. We’re small potatoes compared to that.”
    “That’s OK. It’s a good change for me.” She rubbed Max’s hindquarters with her warmly slippered foot. The big dog stirred, lifted his head, and then went back to sleep. “I’ve never seen my dogs so relaxed. The country air here and Haley must be doing them a world of good, even after last night.”
    “Haley’s a good dog—a great dog in fact. She’s saved my life—literally. How long have you had Max and Sable?”
    “I’ve had them for … awhile. Got them as adults. Max is four and Sable is five.”
    “Don’t care for puppies then?” Gracie queried.
    “Didn’t have the time to train them and I needed the … company. Living by yourself can be a little scary sometimes.” Terry brushed a strand of hair from her face and drew her