Free Case of Imagination by Jane Tesh Page B

there.”
    We climbed the narrow metal stairs to the light booth. The wide window gave us a complete view of the stage and auditorium. I found the light switch that turned off the work lights. The dim blue glow of the lamp in the booth gave us just enough light. I perched on the stool in front of the control panel and looked down into the shadowy auditorium.
    Jerry sat on the floor. “What have you got so far?”
    “I still haven’t ruled out kids. The curtain was just singed, and the scenery easy enough to reassemble. It’s as if someone wants to make a mess, not cause real damage.”
    “Any clues?”
    “Evan’s the only one who smokes, and I doubt he set fire to his own theater. He doesn’t seem the kind of person to burn the one thing he’s crazy about.”
    In the dim light, I thought I saw Jerry wince. “You okay?”
    His expression was odd, but then again, it may have been the faint light. “Yeah, just a twinge. What else do you know?”
    “After a short rehearsal last night, all the contestants were sent home to practice their talent.”
    “That’s what they say.”
    “But all these young women want to win the pageant. Why sabotage it? It’s puzzling.”
    “What about your other case, the one with the haunted house?”
    “I haven’t even started on that one. Maybe Hayden’s ghost is responsible for the pageant mishaps.” I sighed. “I really don’t have much to go on right now.”
    “You’ll figure it out.”
    “Thanks.”
    He leaned back against the wall and gave me a serious look. “I have to tell you I’m jealous of you, Mac. You’ve always known what you wanted to do with your life.”
    “Not really. I knew what I didn’t want to do.”
    “As for me, I have no idea.”
    What brought this on? “That’s never bothered you before.”
    “You know Des has had a hard time composing lately. The last time I talked with him, he said he’d had a real breakthrough. Not only is he writing music like crazy, he’s featured soloist with the Parkland Symphony and has a big tour planned.”
    “So?”
    “Life has finally settled for him. And Tucker’s getting married, did I tell you? He tells me he’s found the girl of his dreams. I’m just wondering.”
    “Wondering what?”
    “Moving here, starting over. Maybe I’m due for a breakthrough, only I don’t have anything to break through.” He yawned. “I know what the answer might be, though.”
    “Figured it out already?”
    He nodded. He smiled at me. “Maybe it’s time I thought about settling down.”
    I didn’t know what to say. “Did you have to fall down the stairs to have this revelation?”
    He feigned a serious expression. “Sometimes it takes a brush with death to realize what life is all about.”
    “Have anyone in mind?”
    “Olivia wouldn’t have come to Celosia if she didn’t care. Maybe she’s the one.”
    Damn. “Is she ready to settle down?”
    “I’ll have to ask her.”
    “Remember how she feels about the Fairweather fortune. Won’t your lack of money be an issue?”
    He thought a moment. “I think she’ll get over that.”
    “Can you really trust her, Jerry?”
    “I’d like to.” He yawned again. “You know, you’re the only one I really trust.”
    That was something, at least. “Thanks.”
    “From the beginning, you were interested in me, not my name or my money. I’ve had plenty of girlfriends, but you’re a true friend. I can’t say that about anyone else.” He slumped down further and closed his eyes. “Wake me if anything exciting happens.”
    As he settled into sleep, I wondered if I was crazy to care this much about him. A true friend. Great. That’s just great, Jerry. Why can’t I be the girl of your dreams?

Chapter Three
     
    Nothing happened. No thrill-seeking teens, no ghosts, nobody returning to the scene of the crime. While Jerry took his nap, I took my flashlight and made the rounds, checking all entrances. I didn’t see any way anyone could get in without breaking a