Friends? Mel felt a bit surprised by this, for some reason viewing the photographer as a brooding recluse. She wondered who the friends were and how many lived with him. A girl friend, possibly, since Josh obviously thought she might be last year’s rejected love interest.
While she wasn’t pleased with the assumption that she was a discarded girlfriend, at least it let her know that Taylor was probably under fifty and not totally unappealing to look at. The idea perked up her spirits a bit.
The woman had abandoned her computer, now possibly thinking that a newcomer was more interesting than whatever article she was writing. As she approached the counter, Mel decided she was a perfect match for her co-worker; both average height and weight with grey sprinkled throughout their hair. She had the same friendly, inquiring smile as the man did, too. “Who’s this, Josh?”
“Melody Greene. She’s looking for young Taylor.”
“Ryne?” She laughed softly, shaking her head. “You and how many others.”
“Pardon?” Mel wasn’t quite sure what the woman meant. Were other people trying to do research on him as well?
“Every single female below seventy, and a few who aren’t, have tried to catch Ryne’s attention.” She grinned mischievously. “He’s a looker, I’ll say that. And he knows how to charm the ladies.”
“Beth.” Josh gave the woman a warning glare and she responded by hitting him lightly on the arm.
“Josh, you know I’m still smitten with you even after twenty-five years. I just look at the man. It’s strictly hands off.” The two exchanged a look, and Josh pulled Beth into a one armed hug. Mel felt uncomfortable, as if she was intruding on a private moment. She turned to study a poster on the wall, trying to ignore the emotions zinging through the air between the two.
Josh cleared his throat and Mel shifted her gaze back towards him. Beth, who must be his wife or at least a long-time companion, was returning to her desk. It was easy to see that she had a light blush on her cheeks and her eyes sparkled.
Mel felt a twinge of envy over their relationship, but forced herself to focus on the matter at hand. “If you could draw me a map to his house, I’d really appreciate it.”
“No problem, Ms. Greene. If you just watch carefully for the names on the mailboxes, you should find Ryne’s place without too much trouble.” Josh pulled out a piece of paper and began to sketch a simple map, pointing out landmarks along the way. By time he was done, Mel felt she’d be able to find Ryne’s house easily.
“Thanks.” She folded the paper and carefully tucked it into her purse. “I was also wondering if anyone had rooms to rent. I’m planning on staying in the area for at least a week and was hoping I wouldn’t have to do the two hour commute from Timmins every day.” Timmins was the nearest community of any size that offered much in the way of accommodation.
“Actually, we have a few cabins we rent out in the summer. They’re not fancy, but since it’s off-season we can give you a good deal.” Josh looked over his shoulder and spoke to Beth. “We could open up a cabin for this girl, couldn’t we?”
Beth looked up from her work. “Sure. I could take her out there right now. There’s no rush on this article.”
Mel grinned, pleased at her good fortune. “I’d really appreciate it. Is there a grocery store where I could buy some supplies?”
“Brown’s General Store probably has everything you need. I’ll show you where it is on the way to the cabin.” Beth grabbed her purse and coat, and soon they were on their way.
The Kennedys’ cabins were about five miles outside of town, located at the back of their property, but secluded from view by a thick woodlot and backing onto a forest. There were three of them; each set a nice distance from the others. Made from logs, they sported a stone fireplace located in a cozy open-plan kitchen and living-room, a small bathroom, and a bedroom.
“The fireplaces are safe to use and there’s wood stacked beside the cabin. I’ll turn on the electricity for you, but I’m afraid there’s no phone hooked up.” Beth explained as she dug out a set of keys for her guest.
Mel peered into the small bath area, pleased to note a refurbished claw-foot tub, complete with a rainforest shower head. The kitchen had a microwave, stove and fridge and the bed appeared to be comfortable. “This will be perfect. Thank you so much.”
“I should be thanking you. These cabins sit empty for a good part of the year. We get a few vacationers in the summer, some spring fishermen, and some hunters in the fall, but that’s about it. You’re a bonus. Because of you, I might be able to convince Josh that we can afford that new dishwasher I’ve been eyeing up in the catalogue.”