Lucky Charm by Carly Phillips Page B

Gabrielle’s mother would call sensible heels. The outfit complemented her conservative style. Her granddaughter was a younger version of the mayor. Her brown bob wasn’t as chic as it was conservative. Utilitarian, even, along with her clothes. They’d both greeted Gabrielle with a welcoming smile—even though the subject of Gabrielle’s speech tonight went against everything the Perkins family stood for.
    â€œCongratulations on your success. I understand you’re a fixture on the bestseller lists,” Mary said.
    â€œThank you. I feel very fortunate.” And at the moment, very off balance, Gabrielle thought. She wasn’t sure what Mary wanted or what to make of her friendly overture.
    â€œNonsense. Never sell yourself short. Fortune occurs because of talent.” Mary reached into her purse and pulled out a paperback copy of Gabrielle’s latest book. “I was hoping you would sign this for me.”
    Gabrielle nodded. “Of course.” She accepted the book, opened to the title page and signed it as generically as she could get away with. Best wishes, Gabrielle Donovan.
    She placed the date below her signature and handed the book back to the mayor. “Thank you for asking.”
    The other woman smiled. “My pleasure. I think it’s wonderful that you’re returning to your hometown to speak. Some people become famous and forget where they came from.”
    Gabrielle forced a smile. She hadn’t been back in years, and though she’d had her reasons, this woman’s comment struck a nerve.
    From behind Mary, Gabrielle noticed people were beginning to file into the room, filling the seats. “It was nice to meet you,” Gabrielle said, hoping Mary would take the hint and leave.
    â€œYou, too.” Elizabeth stepped out from her grandmother’s shadow. “I’m looking forward to hearing you speak. It’s fascinating how you debunk popular myths.” Her inflection never changed nor did her expression.
    â€œI just write the facts as I see them, based on research, psychological evaluation. The theories, however, are my own.”
    â€œYes. We all have our own ways of viewing the same phenomenon, don’t we? That’s why so many people from both my town and Stewart are showing up to hear you.”
    Gabrielle glanced toward the rapidly filling room where people—neighbors, friends—congregated. “I suppose you’re right.”
    Mary straightened her shoulders and Elizabeth followed suit. “Yes, we usually are. Well, best of luck.” She lifted the signed book in the air. “Thank you again.” They turned and walked away to find a seat.
    Gabrielle shivered. “That was the strangest thing,” she said aloud.
    â€œWhat did the wicked witch and her mini me want?” Sharon asked as she joined her.
    Gabrielle hadn’t seen her friend come in. “To say hello and have me sign a book for her.”
    â€œThat’s odd.”
    So was the way everyone in the room gave the older woman a wide berth. “For a woman who’s been the uncontested mayor of Perkins for years, she doesn’t have many people wanting to talk to her,” Gabrielle mused.
    â€œThere’s a reason for that. She’s not likable,” Sharon said.
    Yet she had been very pleasant to Gabrielle. “I need to get ready.”
    Sharon nodded. “You’ll be great. And I’m here for support. So is Richard.” She pointed to her fiancé, who was meeting and greeting people in the audience. Since the towns of Stewart and Perkins were so close, their pasts so intertwined, people from both places wanted to hear what Gabrielle had to say.
    All under the watchful eye of Mary Perkins, who was obviously staying for the talk. She and her granddaughter had taken seats in the back.
    By themselves.
    By the time Gabrielle walked up to the podium, the small library was filled to capacity. Chairs had