I still can’t believe Beverly left me the theater. The Palace Theater was my refuge. The one place that offered peace during the darkest time in my life. The one place that made me remember why I love movies. I thought Beverly might have left me a few of my favorite reels or something, maybe the vintage projector if I was lucky. That alone was worth braving the snowstorm and getting arrested. Well, fake arrested. But everything?
I can’t even fathom it.
Do I want to stay in Surrender? Indefinitely? Run the theater? I have a lot to learn. But this is what I’ve been waiting for, isn’t it? For something to do instead of hiding from the world?
“I don’t need to wait until morning. I’ll take the letter now. I’ll accept it. And the challenges.” It’s a bit like volunteering as tribute, but I trust Beverly.
“Okay.” He holds out the letter. “Read this, and then I’ll answer any other questions you might have.”
I set my coffee down on the end table and accept the envelope.
“I’ll give you a minute. I’ll be in my office. Holler if you need anything.”
He disappears, and I turn the envelope in my hands, taking in the black ink on the outside in Beverly’s sloping hand.
* * *
Letter #1
* * *
I take a deep breath and break the seal.
* * *
Vivien,
* * *
If you’re reading this, it means I’ve met my ultimate demise. Don’t feel bad for me, I’m sure I’m laughing with Betty White and dancing with Donald O’Connor.
* * *
I press my lips together. The words echo in my head, like she’s sitting beside me, wearing her trademark flared pants and funky tops. She loved ’70s styles, all browns and oranges and wavy lines. Her hair was long and white and usually pulled back in a braid or two. I take a breath and keep reading.
* * *
You might be surprised to find that I’ve left all my earthly assets to you, but you see, no one will appreciate the theater like I do, except you.
You’re the only one who loves films with your whole heart, and I know you’ll do what’s needed to ensure my wishes are met. The Palace needs someone just like you. This town needs you. And, my dear, I think you need them.
But before you start panicking about the work involved in keeping a movie theater operational, have no fear. I’ve written down every last detail you might need to know, and Daphne will help you with whatever you need on that front. Spencer too. He’s as honorable as Atticus Finch. You can trust him (and he has a cute butt too, don’t you think?).
* * *
I turn my head to peek at him over my shoulder.
No comment.
I can’t think about him like that. My life is too complicated for romance, let alone a romance with the person apparently in charge of my inheritance. That whole thing about keeping ethically aboveboard to avoid contestation of the will would probably include not hooking up with the attorney in charge of it. And my priority will always be avoiding my family at all costs. And the press. And anyone else who just wants a piece of me for their own gain. Been there, done that, got the super sad T-shirt that says Living My Okayest Life.
I turn my attention back to the page in my hands.
* * *
He’s been through a hard time, like you have, and I think he will be a good friend if you need one.
As you may be aware, I’ve left you both The Palace and my farmhouse. However, you will need to complete certain tasks before you can take official ownership over both properties, although you’re welcome to inhabit and manage everything until the terms of the will have been satisfied.
