Apparently she had misgivings concerning Peter’s ability as a cook. It was early for them to be home. Why, it couldn’t have been an hour since they left the police station in Parkville and there would be shopping for them to do besides.
As they turned down the corridor that led to Pauline’s room Judy heard a familiar yowl. Could it be Blackberry asking to be let out?
“But he wasn’t in,” Pauline said. “Don’t you remember? We left him on the roof garden.”
“Maybe the boys let him in. But it’s queer they’re not making any noise. You open the door, Pauline,” Judy whispered. “I have the strangest feeling that something is about to happen.”
Pauline hesitated, glanced at Judy and caught her hand as the door swung open. Neither of the girls had touched it!
CHAPTER XXV
THE HAPPY ENDING
Pauline stood transfixed while Judy gathered Irene in her arms. If people fainted for joy she would have done it then. At first there were no explanations. Neither Judy nor Pauline expected any. The supreme realization that Irene was there—alive, safe—sufficed. Kisses were mingled with tears as Pauline, too, pressed closer to the golden-haired girl. If they had ever doubted Irene’s sincerity, suspected her of anything, it was all forgotten at the moment.
“It’s so good to see you again,” Irene said at last. “There was nobody but Blackberry here to welcome me when I came in. It was almost as quiet as the house in Parkville after my grandmother died.”