Page 38 of The Lighthouse on Plum Island
Tanith’s eyes narrowed suspiciously. “What does that mean? The part about Daniella relying heavily on me to keep the library running smoothly.”
“We weren’t going to announce it until after Daniella officially started as head librarian,” Caroline told her, watching as the doors to the school bus opened. “But you’re going to be training as head librarian, and we’re hiring another assistant librarian.”
“What?” Tanith’s jaw dropped. “Are you kidding me?” Excitement made her eyes sparkle.
“Nope!” Caroline shook her head. “I signed the paperwork two days ago.”
“Thank you, thank you, thank you,” Tanith squealed, wrapping her arms around Caroline’s neck as a busload of summer schoolers descended on them.
“You’re welcome, and you deserve it,” Caroline grinned. “Now, as your first assignment. Why don’t you assist Miss Kruger?”
“On my own?” Tanith’s brows shot up in disbelief.
“Yes, unless you don’t think you can handle it?” Caroline tilted her as they turned to greet Miss Kruger, the teacher accompanying the high schoolers.
“Oh, no,” Tanith assured Caroline. “I’ve got this.” Tanith took the clipboard Caroline handed her and greeted the teacher. “Hello, Miss Kruger.”
Caroline watched Tanith skillfully guide their guests into the library and felt a swell of pride. Tanith had come a long way since those early days when she first entered the library as a troubled youth on probation. As Tanith ushered the visitors, Caroline stepped back, her gaze lifting to the venerable structure that held decades of history within its walls.
The library, originally an eighteen-hundreds double-story mansion, stood as a living testament to Plum Island’s past. The exterior exuded a timeless charm, with its weathered brick facade and imposing architecture that spoke of a bygone era. Ivy tendrils crept up the sides, adding a touch of nature’s embrace to the stately structure.
Over the years, the mansion had undergone thoughtful renovations and expansions, morphing into a multifaceted haven for literature and community. The amalgamation of styles hinted at the evolving purposes the building had served, from a residence to its current role as a beloved library. The additional wings, seamlessly integrated, bore witness to the library’s commitment to adapt and grow.
Caroline’s eyes traced the lines of the building, noting the Victorian-inspired windows that punctuated the facade, each pane reflecting the changing light. The double-story mansion retained its character by carefully preserving original features like the ornate wooden trim and the imposing entrance door that had welcomed generations of islanders.
As she gazed up, Caroline couldn’t help but feel a connection to the past, to the visionaries who had seen potential in this old mansion and transformed it into a cultural cornerstone. The library’s charm extended beyond its architectural grandeur; it resonated with the stories of countless lives that had intersected within its walls.
The entrance beckoned with a sense of anticipation, and the expansive windows hinted at the treasures held within. The library had become a living organism, with each room and corridor telling a unique tale. Caroline felt a swell of gratitude for the dedicated individuals who had contributed to its legacy, ensuring that it remained not just a repository of books but a vibrant hub for the community.
The library’s interior unfolded like a literary labyrinth, with winding corridors leading to different sections. A grand staircase, resonating with the echoes of countless footsteps, connected the two stories.
With its rich history, architectural grace, and the heartbeat of the community pulsing within, the library stood as a sanctuary for the islanders, a haven where stories intertwined and themagic of literature came alive. Caroline couldn’t help but smile, knowing that although her time here was limited, the library would continue to be a beacon for Plum Island, guiding the way for generations to come.
It had been her haven and the inspiration that drove her to where she was today. Caroline saw the library as an old friend, a keeper of secrets and dreams. As she walked through the familiar corridors, memories flooded her mind like well-worn pages of a cherished book. She could almost hear the echo of her younger self, the aspiring writer who had found solace and inspiration within these walls.
As if thinking of old friends conjured her up, Caroline’s phone rang with a call from Jennifer. She walked into her office, sitting as she hit the accept button on her phone.
“Hello,” Caroline answered the phone enthusiastically. “I was going to call you later today.”
She’d wanted to call Jenny since Caroline had found out who Brad was when he pushed his way into her office earlier that day.
“I would’ve hoped you’d call me whenBradshowed up on Plum Island!” Jennifer hissed through the receiver.
“How did you know about Brad?” Caroline’s brow furrowed.
“It’s a teeny tiny island,Caroline!” Jennifer reminded her, and Caroline knew how upset Jennifer was with her when she used Caroline’s full name. “What is he doing there? Stalking you?”
“What?” Caroline’s confusion grew. “Wait!” Her chin drew back, and her brows creased tighter together. “What were you told about Brad, and who told you about Brad?”
“Does it matter?” Jennifer asked impatiently. “I’m your best friend. I’d have expected you to have called me the minute you bumped into him.”
“I didn’tbumpinto him,” Caroline told her. “Brad found me at the library.”
“Oh!” Jennifer said. “How did he find you?”
“You really don’t know?” Caroline asked, amazed. “Please tell me who told you about Brad.”
“Alright, I promised not to,” Jennifer said. “Finn called me to ask if I knew who Brad was and why the man seemed to upset you.”
