The Key in the Attic(24)

Mary Beth smiled, but shook her head. “I don’t know about that.”

“I think I do. You’re the one who’s always been there for her. You’re the one who wants her to be happy as she is without trying to make her into something she’s not.”

“Annie—”

“I’m not saying she doesn’t love her mother. I’m sure she does. And I’m sure Melanie loves her. But you and Amy have a special relationship, and I think that’s why Melanie gets jealous.”

Mary Beth didn’t say anything for a moment.

“I guess I’ve pretty much thought the same thing.” She leaned her elbow on the armrest, propped her chin on her hand and looked out the window. “There wasn’t much friction between us when we were growing up. I didn’t even try to get into her spotlight, so we were OK. Mother groomed her for the high life, and I never really fit in there. That was OK, too, until Amy came along. She’s just never been the society type either, so we always clicked. I haven’t tried to take Melanie’s place with her. It just sort of … happened.”

“You know, instead of resenting you, Melanie could always try to work on her relationship with Amy.”

Mary Beth snorted. “That would involve cutting down on the cocktail parties and Broadway premieres and trips to Cannes.”

“So what does she expect you to do? Pull away from Amy? And where would that leave Amy? She would be left without either of you.”

“I know. But it’s hard sometimes. I don’t like conflict, especially in the family.” She exhaled heavily. “Melanie called me the other day. I told Amy that I might have to sell out, and evidently she suggested that her mother could buy the building and rent it to me at what I’m paying now.”

“That sounds reasonable. Can’t she afford it?”

“I’m sure she could, but she told me in no uncertain terms that she wouldn’t even consider it. I told her in no uncertain terms that I wouldn’t ever expect her to. And then she hung up on me.”

“Oh dear.”

Annie didn’t know what else to say. Mary Beth asked so little of anyone. Would it have killed her sister to at least be nice to her?

“I just always thought I was an embarrassment to her, you know? Not stylish enough. Too middle class.” There was a little catch in Mary Beth’s voice. “I guess I’ve always known it was about Amy too.”

“You know, it’s not your fault if Melanie doesn’t make time for her own child.”

Mary Beth sniffed. “I suppose not.”

She was quiet for a long time, and then she looked over at Annie.

“But if you want to know the ugly truth, I guess I’ve always liked knowing there’s something special between Amy and me. I didn’t plan on spending my life alone.”

If she hadn’t been driving, Annie would have reached over and hugged her. “You know you’re not alone, Mary Beth. What would Stony Point be without you? I thought Peggy was going to start crying right there at the club meeting when you told us you might lose the shop. You don’t think she was that upset just because she was afraid she wouldn’t have someplace close to shop for quilting supplies, do you?”

Mary Beth only shrugged, but she smiled too.

“Whatever happens,” Annie assured her, “we’re behind you. Oh, and I just missed my exit.”

This time Mary Beth laughed. “Don’t worry. That antique shop isn’t going anywhere.”

“I know, but maybe our next clue will be there. I’m dying to find out.”

“Just don’t get too excited. Getting there a few minutes sooner or later isn’t going to make any difference, and it’s sure not worth a speeding ticket.”

“I’m not speeding.” Annie gave her a mischievous grin. “But my mind and heart are racing.”

Mary Beth’s eyes sparkled. “Mine too. I can’t wait to find out if that key fits.”





8

Park Cambridge Antique Shoppe was one of a row of fashionable antique stores. Annie couldn’t help smiling when she walked into it. Everything was set up as if the store was actually a home from the distant past. Antique kitchens were fully stocked. Antique bedrooms contained beds that were covered with delicate linens, perfectly preserved, and washstands with pitchers, and shaving brushes and mugs, and dressing tables with fine crocheted doilies and grand old perfume bottles and old costume jewelry. She could have spent hours exploring. Unfortunately, the visit lasted only as long as it took for them to talk to the manager, a girl who looked as if she was too young to be doing more than taking orders at the local Burly Boy’s. But she was friendly and professional, and she seemed to know her business.