It wasn’t long before Tom joined them. “Everything’s all set for dinner,” he reported, pouring a generous glass of wine. “ It’s all set up to stay warm until we’re ready”
“I understand you’re quite an expert on the history of these islands. I find them fascinating and would love to learn more,” Neal was enthusiastic.
“Then you’ve come to the right place,” Eloise laughed. “Tom likes nothing better than to talk about ‘his’ Outer Banks. He grew up here, you know, and has written several books about the area. Don’t get him started or we’ll never eat dinner!”
“We’re both interested,” Lin added.
“Maybe, later,” Tom offered, “ let’s eat first—well, I could share a few stories over dinner as well…”
Eloise quickly intervened and hustled them all toward the sumptuous buffet spread on the kitchen island. Tom had outdone himself, it seemed. Talking was not forgotten, merely postponed while they piled their plates high with turkey, stuffing, and all the trimmings.
***
Tom and Neal really seemed to hit it off. Neal’s background in archeology gave them similar interests. They were already making plans to visit some sites together before it was time for dessert. Tom was excited to learn that Neal was going to meet the latest archeological team at Fort Raleigh the next day.
“There’s a whole story there that has never been written,” Tom mused with a distant gleam in his eye. “The Lost Colony rarely merits more than a paragraph in the history texts but someday, someday. I still believe we’re going to learn more about what happened to those people. I’m so glad that it’s finally attracting some attention from the scholars.”
Tom’s major interest was shipwrecks, however; he’d written two books and several major articles about the “Graveyard of the Atlantic.” His work was based both on history and on underwater archeology. Many offshore wrecks attracted divers seeking to learn more about these vessels and the cargoes they carried.
The discussion of shipwrecks reminded Lin of the story the Sheriff had told them concerning Liz Frazier. She claimed to have found valuable jewelry at some sort of wreck site, and that had, apparently, led to her untimely death. Lin was about to ask Tom about such finds when Eloise spoke up suggesting that they take their discussion, along with coffee and dessert, to the porch.
While Eloise poured coffee, Lin sliced the pumpkin pie and took it to the enclosed porch. It was cooler now so Tom turned on the gas fireplace that was built into the exterior wall on the end.
“Best thing I ever did to this house,” Eloise smiled, “ enclosing this porch with glass and adding that fireplace. I practically live out here year round now.”
“We’re enjoying the enclosed porch area at Kate’s also,” Lin responded, adding that they planned to let her grandchildren ‘camp out’ there when they came to visit.
“That will be perfect. They’ll love it,” Eloise responded. “Sometimes I wish I’d left a screened area like Kate did, but then I’m rarely bothered by insects when I use the patio—only when there’s a land breeze.”
The four of them settled in to enjoy their pie. Lin turned to Tom, “Now that you and Neal are occupied with eating, maybe I can get a question in,” she joked.
Lin related what she knew about the murder of Liz Frazier and the story that she’d told about finding jewelry in the sand near an old wreck. She chose not to talk about finding Dorrie’s remains and how she’d come to actually learn the story. That seemed a bit gruesome for such a pleasant evening.
Tom was thoughtful, “ I think I recall reading about that death. That was a long time ago. I read in Sunday’s paper that the body of the prime suspect in that case was found. Sad story all around.”
Lin was, once again, grateful that her name hadn’t been mentioned in the news article. She caught Eloise’s eye, grateful that she seemed to realize Lin wanted to preserve her privacy. It was apparent that she hadn’t mentioned Lin’s involvement to Tom earlier and she remained silent now.
Tom continued, “We have a lot of local folks and tourists who engage in so-called ‘treasure hunting’ using metal detectors along the beach and around those ship skeletons that are sometimes revealed around here after storms. The really serious professional treasure guys use boats equipped with lots of high tech stuff and divers to explore sunken vessels off shore. There’re still a lot of tales about Spanish galleons that sank while hauling gold from South America back to Europe.”
“ Most of the amateurs generally don’t find anything worth very much, sometimes items lost in the sand, occasionally some silverware from a yacht…but it is possible. These islands are always shifting. The sand drifts into huge dunes in places like Jockey’s Ridge, and erodes away in other spots.” Tom reminded them that the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse had been moved further inland several years earlier to save it from falling into the sea.
“ Every major storm brings some changes,” Tom continued, “new inlets are cut and others close. Hwy 12 washes out regularly. The wrecks of vessels are sometime uncovered on shore, only to be reburied when the next big storm arrives. It’s an ever-changing scene. Not every shipwreck involves a large vessel at sea; sometimes smaller craft try to pass through inlets to escape a storm, only to run aground and be battered close to shore.”
Eloise realized that Tom could go on forever with this story. Even though everyone seemed to be enjoying his tale, it was growing late. She interrupted to ask if anyone wanted more coffee.
“ I don’t need to add more caffeine,” Lin said, “It’s getting late and I think we’d best be going. Neal has a busy day tomorrow and I’d like to get an early start. I’ve some errands to take care of.” She began to gather their cups and plates to help Eloise clean up; Neal’s curious look when she mentioned running errands was not lost on her.
“ Tell you what,” Tom offered. “I keep lots of news articles in which folks refer to wrecks, or to finding things around wrecks. I might have something from the time that lady was killed that mentions what she had told people—maybe some description she gave—who knows, maybe nothing. One thing I’m more certain of, I have extensive records related to ships of all sizes lost in this area. Something like jewelry, a personal item, would most likely have come from a private yacht or smaller boat. Anyway, I’d enjoy looking for more information if you are interested.”
“That would be great,” Lin replied. She didn’t really think that such information would help her search for information about Dorrie’s activities, but it might be an interesting story, and she didn’t want to turn down the older man’s offer. He seemed genuinely interested in pursuing the task.
“I’ll give you a call if I find anything,” Tom smiled as he walked with them to the door, “ and Neal, I won’t forget about our plans to visit some of the historic sites soon.”
They thanked their hostess for a perfect evening and headed across the lawn back to Kate’s house. As they climbed the stairs, Neal put his arm around Lin’s shoulders, “May I ask what errands you plan to run tomorrow? I thought you might want to come with me to Fort Raleigh.”
“I would like to go back there and spend more time,” Lin responded, “but you will be busy getting acquainted with the team and learning about their plans. I think I ‘ll try to go by the place where Dorrie stayed, and perhaps talk to some of the folks she might have had contact with while she was here. Maybe I can find some information that would help her parents figure out what she was doing.” She didn’t add that she might learn why she was in Nags Head Woods when she died.
As they reached the kitchen, Neal pulled her close, “Please be careful,” he whispered. “Please don’t forget what I said about a possible killer still on the loose.”
“I won’t,” Lin responded. “I’m not asking questions about Liz Frazier or about Dorrie as a suspect. I promise I won’t mention that case at all. I’m simply trying to learn something about Dorrie’s movements through the area—that’s all.”
Neal didn’t say anyt
hing more about her plans, but his mood remained somber.
It had been a wonderful evening, but it had also been a long day and it was rather late. They were both ready to go to bed. There was a bright moon in the clear sky visible in the window above the bed. It cast a silver glow about the room.
“That’s quite a view,” Neal murmured sleepily as he slipped an arm around Lin and pulled her toward him, fitting the curve of her back against his chest. “Perfect,” Lin added. They were both asleep within seconds.
Chapter 8
Clouds had rolled in overnight, but it wasn’t raining when they awoke.
“I hope we don’t have a wet morning,” Neal said, shifting in bed to get a better view of the sky from the window above, “rain will really limit any surveying the team might be planning to do.”
Lin was more positive, “According to a forecast I heard yesterday, there isn’t much moisture in this front. It’s supposed to be mostly cloudy but dry during the day with, perhaps, some light showers tonight. You should be fine. Supposed to be chilly though so be sure you dress warmly.” She moved to sit up but Neal pulled her back, wrapping his arms around her.
“I’ll do that, for sure,” he grinned, “but I’m not quite ready to get up yet, are you?” he glanced at the clock, “It’s only seven-thirty, I’m not expected in Manteo until ten. I thought we might have breakfast at that retro diner we saw the other day, The Grits Grill…afterward, that is.”
Smiling Lin lifted her eyes to meet his, slipping deeper into his embrace.
***
Lin decided to drive her own car, and Neal took Kate’s Jeep so they wouldn’t have to return to the house following their breakfast. Lin was surprised to find that she was quite hungry after having such a feast the night before, but she had been awake for a while and quite well occupied. I guess making love gives one an appetite she mused—but she didn’t say that aloud. I’ll skip lunch, she thought, I don’t want to start putting on extra holiday pounds. Lin was quite happy that she’d been able to shed a few pounds when she was having physical therapy and maintaining a regular exercise routine. She’d definitely have to get back to that, and soon.
The Grits Grill had a great breakfast menu, and they were soon devouring savory omelets and enjoying warm buttered biscuits. Neal was excited about meeting the archeological team. It had been several months since he’d been involved in any fieldwork, and he hoped the team would welcome him as a volunteer for the time he was here.
After finishing a second cup of coffee, they parted company. “I’ll see you at home sometime this afternoon I guess,” Neal said. “I’m not sure how long I’ll be occupied at the fort. Whichever one of us gets home first should take Sparky for a walk.”
“That’s a good idea,” Lin responded. “I don’t expect to be late, but I’m not sure where my inquiries might lead. I’ll make sure I’m home no later than four.”
She was surprised that Neal didn’t admonish her to be careful once more. She gave his hand a reassuring squeeze as she opened her car door. He leaned over and kissed her lightly on her cheek, “See you whenever,” he smiled as he turned to go.
Neal watched Lin drive away as he started the Jeep. I do want her to be careful, he thought. She’s so persistent and curious, especially when she’s trying to help someone else. He cared so much for her, and he worried that she might put herself in harm’s way getting hurt as she did last spring. In spite of his concerns, he realized that he had to let her go to pursue the things she felt were important. He didn’t want to seem too over-protective. He realized that he shouldn’t try to stop her from doing what she felt she needed to do. He had to let go. In fact, if he were being honest with himself, this independent streak was part of what attracted him to her. Breathing a deep sigh, Neal started the Jeep and headed for his appointment at Fort Raleigh.
***
Lin decided to begin her search at the Holiday Inn in Southern Shores where Dorrie had been staying. Eloise had also mentioned they had an indoor pool and fitness center that they allowed local folks to use for a modest membership fee. Maybe that would be her exercise solution, provided they had short-term memberships. In any case, it would give her a reason to visit and an excuse to talk to someone on the staff. It was several miles north to the hotel. The islands were narrow and the towns stretched out along a north-south route. Mileposts on the main highway, as well as on the beach road, served as guides to locating various places.
Lin pulled into the hotel parking lot. It was a newer property and appeared to be very well appointed. Evidently, Dorrie could afford better accommodations at this point in her life.
It was mid-morning and the lobby was empty. Lin approached the main desk and spoke to the young man on duty. She introduced herself and indicated that she was interested in a possible membership to use the pool and exercise facilities.
“Do you offer, short term memberships?” she queried, “I’ll only be here a few weeks. “
“I think so,” the young man responded, “but I’ve only just started working here a couple of weeks ago so I should probably let you talk to our manager.” He disappeared into an office and returned shortly with a man who looked to be in his early thirties. He was dressed in a coat and tie.
“How may I help you?” he smiled politely. Lin explained her interest in using the exercise facilities on a short-term basis if possible.
“Certainly, we have long term plans, but lots of folks come on a weekly basis,” he responded, “Would you care to see our facilities?”
“Thanks,” Lin responded, following the manager down a hallway. The pool was fairly large, as was the fitness center. Lin was happy that she’d decided to come here. Dorrie’s activities were her main interest, but she had promised herself she would get back into an exercise routine and this might work out well. On a whim, she decided that she would join for two—Neal might enjoy working out also. As they returned to the office so Lin could complete the applications, she decided to ask her questions.
“I understand that the young woman found dead last weekend was a guest of your hotel,” she inquired. The manager didn’t say anything at first.
“I’m afraid so,” he finally responded, “of course she died elsewhere—an allergic reaction, I believe. The police were here and took all her things. Was she a friend of yours?”
Lin followed his train of thought, “No, but her parents are. They’re certainly distraught about all of this.” That seemed reasonable enough to say although “friends” was a bit of a stretch. She had spent time with Dorrie’s parents, and they were definitely upset.
“As a matter of fact, they’ve asked me to try to find out something about her activities here. They’re trying to figure out what might have happened. Why she went hiking, and so on. You can imagine what a shock this has been for them.”
“I’m sure,” the manager replied. They’d arrived at the front desk and he gave Lin two forms to complete, “You don’t have to do this today,” he seemed ready for her to leave, “you can bring them back when you come in.”
“Thanks,” Lin replied, “may I ask if you had any opportunity to talk to Dorrie Johnson while she was a guest here? Did she mention anything she was doing or anyone she was seeing, perhaps?” She was determined not to leave without, at least, asking.
“No, my only contact with Ms. Johnson was checking her in. I didn’t speak with her otherwise. Listen, my district manager is quite concerned that we might get negative publicity about this, even though the death occurred elsewhere—because of, you know, the criminal connection to that old case,” the manager spoke in a low voice.
Lin sought to reassure him. “Please don’t be concerned. I ‘ve no interest at all in that connection, and I won’t be talking to anyone about any of this beyond Dorrie’s parents. They’re simply trying to find some closure for themselves. The entire experience has been a shock to them.”
The manager seemed to relax a bit. He thanked Lin for her interest in the fitness center saying he hope
d she’d be back soon.
As she exited the building, Lin felt someone touch her arm. It was the young man she’d seen at the desk when she first arrived.
“I heard you talking to the manager about that girl, Dorrie,” he said. “I don’t really know much about her, but I did talk to her one time. I was on desk duty late one night when she came in. Her key card wouldn’t work, and I had to reprogram it. She mentioned that she’d been out to see some old friends, people she’d known when she lived here years ago, I think she said.”
“Did she mention any names?” Lin asked.
“No, but she said she’d been at Tim’s Bar and Grill, that’s a local place further down the beach toward the south.”
The young man gave her directions. “It’s after eleven,” he said. “They’ll be open for lunch by now.”
Lin thanked him and left, mentally reciting the milepost number on Hwy.158 to commit it to memory. She was excited, her first stop and she was already on track to learning something about Dorrie’s activities. She’d planned to go to Tim’s Bar anyway as the Sheriff had described it as a local hangout, a place Liz had frequented and maybe Dorrie had too. Now she had something more concrete to go on. She looked at the clock, so much for skipping lunch; she needed some excuse to show up at the local restaurant. It was still early; maybe she could get by with coffee.
Tim’s place was located in an area populated by small individual businesses all of which seemed to be older than some of the surrounding commercial establishments. The parking lot was almost empty.
Lin was surprised when she entered the place. She’d expected it to be rather seedy and run down; the exterior was neat but very plain. Inside she found a comfortable dining room with red checked tablecloths and rustic paneling. The bar was in a separate room. Everything looked shiny and new. There were attractive hanging light fixtures with red shades over each booth. The furniture was a rustic style but appeared to be fairly new. There weren’t many customers as yet, an older couple in a corner booth and a couple of workers seated at the bar. A waitress signaled to Lin to sit anywhere she liked and headed toward her with a menu.
Sandrift: A Lin Hanna Mystery Page 9