Page 32 of A Little Luck

“It’s true.” I nod, trying to think. “Are you working with Aiden?”

I’m a little miffed I don’t know about this guy, considering I’m friends with Britt and publisher of the newspaper of record. Of course, if he is working with Aiden, that’s probably why I don’t know about it. Aiden is more tight-lipped than a politician.What kind of secrets are they keeping?

“I don’t know Sheriff Stone. I’m here on a private matter.”

My eyebrow arches, and I study him closer. “I don’t suppose you’d mind showing me some identification—so I know you’re really who you say you are.”

His eyes narrow, but he walks to the couch, picking up his tan coat and pulling out a wallet. He shows me a card that looks like a driver’s license, only with “Private Investigator State of Florida” across the top.

“What brings you here from Florida, Marshall Gregg?” I glance up at him.

“That’s none of your business, Miss… And you are?”

“Piper Jackson.” I stick out my hand. “Publisher of theEureka Gazette.”

“Oh, yeah. I’ve seen it around. Didn’t know they still had local papers.”

“Most places don’t.” I walk to the door and pick up my bags. “I’ve worked hard to keep ours alive. You’d be surprised how much is lost when the only news outlets are run by national corporations.”

“I wouldn’t be surprised.” He watches me, and with all the short sentences, I feel like I’m in one of those old movies. “Where will you stay?”

“I’ll figure it out.” Before I close the door, I hesitate. “Would you be interested in talking to me? I’d like to hear more about what you do.”

“Got any back issues of that paper?” I nod, and he mirrors my action. “I’ll drop by.”

When I reach the bottom of the stairs, I put the spare key above the Star Parlor door. Then I pull out my phone and shoot Britt a text.

Surprise—a strange man is renting your apt.

Britt

What the hell? Who?

Marshall Gregg, PI.

Britt

PI!?

A few seconds pass, and I walk out to my waiting car trying to decide what to do. I could stay with my mother, but if there’s any way to avoid that setup, I’ll do it. I’d even be willing to sleep at my place with no water.

My phone lights up, and Britt’s back.

Britt

Aiden verified he’s legit, but no idea why he’s here.

Maybe he’s after Drake.

I think about what he said about Drake running a dog for mayor.

She replies with a laughing emoji, then,

Britt

Aiden said to crash at Adam’s place. He’s not due back til the wedding. Do you know the code for the door?

My breath catches, and I stare at my phone trying to get my heartbeat to calm.