He raised an eyebrow, turning the vase over in his hand. “Is it really good?” he asked. “And what does it have to do with a play?”
“We’re going to use them in _Angel Street_,” Peggy explained. She liked this friendly young man who somehow made her feel as if she’d known him for years. Was he another interesting resident, she wondered. “I’m Peggy Lane from the Summer Theater,” she said, “and next week’s play is _Angel Street_.”
“Oh,” he said slowly, and Peggy was surprised to see him frown slightly. But then he smiled again, handing back the vase. “How are you going to manage all this?” he asked, still holding on to the lamp. “I don’t think you can carry them all without breaking something. Can I drop you somewhere?”
Peggy noticed a car parked a few feet away and shook her head, declining, “No, thank you—”
“I realize we haven’t met formally,” he said, bowing a little, “but in Lake Kenabeek we’re not very formal. I’d be glad to drive you to the theater.”
He hadn’t introduced himself, Peggy realized suddenly, but he seemed so well-mannered that she imagined it was just a slip. “No, thanks again, but the jeep is coming back for me. I’d better wait.”
He gave her a regretful glance and put the lamp carefully on the ground. “Well, I’m sorry,” he said. “It would be a pleasure to help you. A real pleasure,” he added softly, almost under his breath. “But perhaps we’ll meet again sometime.” He looked at her as if about to add something, but then, apparently changing his mind, gave her a peculiar smile and walked to his car. “Good luck,” he called as he got in, leaving Peggy thoroughly puzzled.
The little blue jeep was coming back just as the young man drove away, and they passed each other on the road. Michael turned and pulled up in front of Peggy, exclaiming when he saw the lamp and vases.
“Success! They look wonderful, Peggy, and look what we have!”
The back of the jeep was crammed with chairs and tables. “Mrs. Hopkins has taken care of the table and chair department, and all we have left now of any real importance is that couch. Can’t seem to find one,” Danny said.
“I’ve found it!” Peggy declared. “And wait until you see it! But we have to come back for it later. Oh, I have such a lot to tell you!” She handed Danny the lamp and climbed into the front seat, carefully holding the vases.