Page 97 of Smuggler's Cove
They sat in silence for several minutes, soaking up the atmosphere. Viggo was the first to speak. “You are wonderful hosts. This was an exceptional evening. I am certain everyone will be talking about it for weeks to come.” He raised his glass.
“Thank you. I am very happy we were able to do it, and that you and Diogo were able to attend.” After a few minutes, Lincoln gave Olivia a look that said,Let’s leave these two alone.They got up and bid everyone a good night.
Again, silence. But it was a comfortable silence. Viggo took Madison’s hand. “You’ve been a bright light in my otherwise boring life.” Diogowoofed in agreement. “I hope we can see each other again. Maybe without a crowd?”
“I would love that.”
More silence, and then a heavy sigh from Madison.
“I should let you get some sleep. You have had one very busy day.” Viggo got up from his seat.
“I suppose you’re right.” Madison slipped her arm through the crook of his elbow as they walked up to the front door. “I am really happy you came tonight.”
“Me too.” He pecked her on the cheek and opened the truck door for Diogo. “Sweet dreams.” He smiled at the stunning woman in the doorway.
She watched him pull out of the driveway. “Sweet dreams, for sure.”
* * *
The miles of traffic heading to the beaches signaled the official start of the summer. It was Thursday, and people were coming in droves. Burton and his crew had their hands full rerouting vehicles around the town square. As much as the people in town enjoyed the revenue from the festival, it was fraught with logistical nightmares. Food trucks, amusement rides, vendors, and the like, had to drop off their booths and wares, and then move their vehicles down to a parking lot assigned to them. Viggo was already contemplating the number of calls he was going to receive regarding bozos on the waterways. He made sure his shift was covered so he could attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday morning, and the award on Saturday night. He would have to be in and out, but such was the nature of his job. He’d take an hour for each event and then go back to work. He knew Madison wouldn’t mind him showing up in his uniform. Even though they hadn’t seen each other in a few weeks, they kept in touch over the phone, checking in every few days, updating each other on the impending activities.
Madison knew Viggo would be less available during the season, but she planned to spend more time at the house, making herself flexible to his schedule. She supposed she was being presumptuous, but she had a good feeling about it. For a change.
Over a hundred people showed up for the ribbon cutting, including an officially dressed Captain Eriksson. Madison, Lincoln, and Olivia were stunned at the size of the crowd. The mayor, town council, and Detective Burton stood together on one side. Hannah, Charlie, and Crusty stood on the other, proudly wearing their Kirby merch.
The mayor said a few words of praise and then handed the microphone to Lincoln.
“When we first heard of Uncle Kirby’s passing and leaving his legacy in our hands, we weren’t sure what to do. Neither my sister nor I know a darn thing about marinas. Charlie can attest to that.” He paused for the chuckles. “Most people would have balked at taking on a challenge like this, but not Charlie or Crusty, or any of the fine folks who lent a hand. To all of you, you have our deepest appreciation.”
Madison was next. “I shall never forget my first visit here. I was wearing the most inappropriate outfit. My high heels—yes, I was wearing them—got caught in between the planks, and I made the most ungraceful face-plant on to the dock.” More chuckles. “As you can imagine, I was covered in bait and a few clamshells. But thanks to Hannah, she rescued me with some fresh clothes so I could go home and not smell like a bucket of chum.” Again, chuckles. “Thank you, Hannah, for your kindness, and thanks to all of you for making this day possible.” Madison’s eyes began to well up with tears. She took a deep breath. “As most of you may have guessed, we changed the name, and we now dub thee, Kirby’s Marina.” She and Lincoln took the giant scissors and cut the ribbon that was fastened between two pilings. Applause and cheers filled the air. Lincoln took the microphone. “I believe there is a festival you should be attending.” More cheers, and the crowd began to disperse.
Viggo made his way over to where they were standing. He shook Lincoln’s hand and kissed Madison on the cheek. “Congratulations.”
Madison spotted Hannah wiping tears from her face and giving Madison a thumbs-up.
The following night was the award ceremony, which was met with the same enthusiasm and applause. Madison was proud of what they were able to accomplish, and again welled up with tears. She spotted Detective Burton approaching her. He had a serious look on his face.
“I have some bad news,” he addressed the three of them.
“What is it?” Madison asked with great concern.
“The shed was robbed,” Burton announced.
“Robbed?” Lincoln looked incredulous. “What on earth could they take?”
“The map,” Burton replied.