Looking For You All My Life Part 82

"ensure growth and development for the entire town." She

didn't want to incite anyone, but rather hoped to raise their

consciousness level. She further expressed her concern about

the spirit of Pine Mountain-how she didn't want to see it

compromised or watch it in essence sell its soul just to attain

what it a.s.sumed would bring financial security. Obviously,

she knew Greg and Rick wouldn't appreciate her views.

When had they ever? But it was the editorial page, and as

editor she was ent.i.tled to strong, well-founded opinions. If

anyone cared to respond, honestly and in writing, she'd be

more than pleased to express their views as well. She also ran

Gavin's letter of apology with a footnote of her own saying

she felt everyone deserved a second chance from time to

- - time. Risky, she knew, but she also felt she owed him one for

accusing him of fathering and then abandoning Leah. Maybe

they were even now.

Just as she was getting ready to go home, Abigail told her

that a Mr. Byers was holding on the line for her.

"You're probably just about to head for home," he said

apologetically, "but I thought I'd try to catch you first-that

is, if you can spare a moment out of your busy schedule."

She laughed. "The Pine Cone isn't exactly what you'd call

busy. It's steady, but nothing like the hectic demands of 130Melody Carlson

working for a big-city paper. What can I do for you, Mr.

Byers?"

"Well, I was wondering if you'd had a chance to think

over my offer to see some of my developments for yourself."

"Actually, I'd been thinking that if you were still inter-

ested, I just might take you up on it."

"Great. And in that case, I wonder if you'd be willing to

meet with me to discuss this further, maybe nail down a date

and some other details." The phone connection grew

scratchy. "As you probably guessed, I'm on my cell phone

right now, and I'm afraid it's almost out of juice."

"Oh, I didn't realize you were still in town."

"Yes, I've been doing a little planning and research out

here at the property site. But I plan to fly home tomorrow

morning. Do you think it would be possible to meet with me

before then?"

"Sure. Would you like to come by the office right now?"

"No, I'm a muddy mess from traipsing around these

fields, but it sure is beautiful out here. How about if we meet

for dinner at the hotel, say around seven. Would that work

for you?"

She considered this for a moment and could see no reason

to decline. "Sure, that sounds just fine. I'll see you then."

Maggie dressed with care before dinner. Not for Cohn

Byers, although she did want to look professional, but for

Jed because she knew he'd be at the hotel for his dinner with

Barbara Harris. Maybe it was silly or even somewhat imma-