Read Online Like a Charm by Candace Havens - Free Book Online Page B

rubbed her fingers. “I want you to know how much you are loved, not just by me, but by this whole town.” I sniffled. “You taught half of Sweet how to read and encouraged the rest of them to love books as much as you do. When I was a kid I wanted to be you. I thought librarians were the coolest people in the world.
    â€œWell, until I saw that episode of The Practice and decided I wanted to be a lawyer.” I laughed softly. “I remember the look on your face when I told you I wanted to study law. You were so surprised, and then you went and found some college textbooks on corporate law for me. What they were doing in the library, I have no idea. I thought they were boring at first, but you told me everything must be looked at in context. You were right. Years later, when I could compare those cases to others, I was absolutely fascinated.”
    I sighed. “You did that for everyone you met. Helped them along with their dreams.” I scooted my chair closer.
    â€œOkay, enough with the mushy stuff. You know how much I love you.” I cleared my throat. “I happen to have a copy of Emma in my bag. I know what an Austen fan you are.” I read to her about Emma Woodhouse and her misguided schemes until my voice was a hoarse whisper. When I could read no more, I rested my head on my arm and dozed for a few minutes at a time.
    Around five in the morning, a hand rubbed the middle of my back. Thinking Sam or Margie had come in to check on her, I turned with sleepy eyes to see Mrs. Canard standing beside me.
    I closed my eyes and opened them again. She was still there. Then I looked down at the bed, where she lay looking even paler than before.
    I’m dreaming.
    â€œKira, I’m sorry. I don’t want to frighten you but it’s time for me to go.” She patted my shoulder.
    I shook my head, not really understanding.
    She smiled. “I must pass to the other side. I’ve foisted a huge responsibility onto your shoulders and I want you to know that no matter what you choose to do, I will always love you. You can walk away from it all, and I will never think less of you. But know you are special and your talent can help so many. It will be difficult at first, but you’ll come to love it as much as I did. If you give it a chance.” Mrs. Canard turned her head as if listening for something.
    â€œI’m confused. What responsibility? If you need me to take care of the arrangements I will. Money is not a problem.”
    â€œOh, no. All of that was taken care of months ago. I really must go, dear, but I’ll be back to help you along when I can. These things take time. Remember, you are special. No matter what, never forget it.”
    She faded and an alarm started beeping. Sam and the nurses rushed in and stood beside the bed.
    We all watched as her struggling breaths slowed and then stopped.
    â€œWe’ve lost her,” Margie whispered as she checked the machine.
    Sam looked at me, and then at the clock on the wall. “Time of death, five after five.”

Chapter 7
    Indeed, when I am in really great trouble, as any one who knows me intimately will tell you, I refuse everything except food and drink.
    THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST
    By Wilde, Oscar, 1854–1900
    Call #: F-WIL
    Description: 154 p.; 23cm
    I ’m not sure how I made it back to the house, but I did. I couldn’t stop the tears and my chest felt hollow as I fell back into bed in a fitful sleep. Mrs. Canard’s words about responsibility weighed heavily on me, and I wished I knew what she meant.
    Around two in the afternoon someone buzzed the front door. At first I tried to ignore it, but they wouldn’t go away. I’d never bothered to change, so I stumbled to the door in my wrinkled jeans and sweatshirt.
    Sam and Caleb stood on the other side of the door.
    Sam pushed his way in. “I know you’re upset and you don’t feel like eating, but you’re going to