“It’s not something I can tell you quickly or—or simply,” Vicki said. She also would rather obtain proofs of Lucy’s identity before revealing too much. “Can we talk after Mrs. Heath has gone to bed?”
“I don’t understand why we need to be secretive. Mrs. Heath is my friend—”
“Lucy, I don’t blame you for wondering about me. But your old friend, the Reverend Mr. Hall, knows me and in a way he sent me to you.”
“Mr. Hall! How do you know I know Mr. Hall? I don’t understand this at all!”
“There isn’t anything difficult to understand,” Vicki reassured her. “I’m looking for a girl named Lucy Rowe, that’s all. Her parents were Jack and Eleanor Rowe.” Vicki was careful not to mention the Bryant name—not to give away any leads. “According to the minister, that’s you, isn’t it?”
“Why are you looking for this girl?”
“For a confidential reason. A happy, wonderful reason.”
Lucy did not or could not believe this.
“But I’ve come to you as a friend,” Vicki said. “Mr. Hall can vouch for me—and honestly, I’m bringing you the most wonderful news—”
Lucy swallowed hard. “Of course, if he vouches for you—But at least tell me, who sent you?”