Page 56 of Smuggler's Cove

“Next time you’re around, I’ll give you a primer.”

“I’d enjoy that.” She winked at Olivia, who gave Madison a thumbs-up.

“I have a meeting I have to get to but look forward to your next visit,” he said with a smile that she could not see but felt.

“Me, as well. Enjoy your day.” Madison ended the call before she made a total fool of herself.

She threw her arms up in the air and spun herself around in her chair. “Woo-hoo!”

“I think someone likes you.”

Then Madison put on a frowny face. “What if he has a girlfriend?”

“I don’t think so,” Olivia replied. “It sounded like a date to me.”

“But he didn’t exactly ask me out.”

“True. But think about this: why didn’t the detective call you? Technically he is the head of the investigation.” Olivia raised her eyebrows.

“Maybe he was busy.” Madison let out a big huff of air.

“Let’s think positive,” Olivia said. “And let’s think of an excuse to go down there again.”

“That’s going to take some kind of planning.” Madison started drumming her fingers again. “I have to let Lincoln know about poor Mr. Farrell.” She hit the speed-dial button for her brother and put it on speaker.

“Linc, I just got off the phone with Captain Eriksson. The man’s name was Dennis Farrell. From what he told me, he and a few other guys are treasure hunters.”

“Doesn’t look like he found any,” Lincoln said glumly.

“But here is something interesting. Captain Eriksson said there is a rumor, legend, or something that there is a treasure map that marks where Captain Kidd buried a million dollars’ worth of gold somewhere along the riverbanks.”

“I imagine there are a lot of stories like that,” Lincoln said, as he stared at the Excel spreadsheet, wondering when it would be a suitable time to bring up the subject.

“Anyway, he asked if Uncle Kirby ever mentioned a treasure map, and I explained that we hadn’t spoken to him in years.”

“Didn’t you say there were several maps hanging in the shack?”

“Yes, but would it be that obvious? Something with a big X marking the spot?”

“Don’t be daft. But there could be some clues there.” Lincoln was becoming more intrigued with this newfound family business.

“I suppose, but I am not setting foot in that gross place again.” Although, truthfully, she was trying to come up with a reason to go there without stepping inside the mung-box.

“Funny you should mention it,” Lincoln said, finally pulling up some courage.

“What? The shack? What about it?”

“I have an idea I want to float past you and Olivia. No pun intended.”

“How about letting the thing float down the river?” Madison said wryly.

“Such a comedienne,” Lincoln groaned. “But seriously, can we meet for dinner?”

“Tonight?” She looked over at Olivia.

Olivia nodded.

“I don’t have anything in the fridge, so we can do takeout or go out. Your choice,” Madison replied.