“That’s certainly true in our market,” she murmured.

“Yes. Does Reynolds understand that I cater to a particular kind of collector?”

“No. As far as he’s concerned, he’s just chasing a stolen camera.”

“All right, give me a minute here,” Gwendolyn said.

She did not have to do much searching. A plan had sprung to mind. She knew exactly where she was going to send John Reynolds, insurance investigator.

“Here we go,” she said. “The camera and the other items in the box that I picked up came from the estate of Blake Sefton. Classic eccentric collector, I’m told. Lived outside a small community called Cedric Valley. I think it’s in the foothills of the Cascades.”

“There are lots of tiny towns and communities tucked away in those mountains,” Olivia said.

“True.” Gwendolyn looked up from her computer. “I’m afraid that’s all I can tell you.”

Reynolds lost interest in the radio and came back to the counter. “You said you picked up the camera at an estate sale. Who handled the Sefton estate?”

“According to my records, Sefton left the house and the contents to a local historical society,” Gwendolyn said. “The society sold off Sefton’s collection of antiques and collectibles to raise cash. I don’t think they were ever able to unload the house. If you think you can hold me responsible for selling stolen goods, Mr. Reynolds, you can forget it. My financial records are in perfect order. If Ms. LeClair has any complaints, I will, of course, be happy to refund her money.”

“No, that’s fine,” Olivia said quickly. “Everyone knows you run a legitimate business. As far as I’m concerned, Mr. Reynolds is going to have to prove this camera was stolen before I hand it over to him.”

“I’ll let you and Mr. Reynolds sort it out,” Gwendolyn said. “I do not want to get involved in anything shady. In my business, reputation is everything.”

“Yeah, dealers of art and antiques tell me that all the time,” Reynolds said. “You’d be amazed how many of them don’t ask too many questions when it comes to their business dealings.”

“Goodbye, Mr. Reynolds,” Gwendolyn said.

“Appreciate the cooperation,” he said.

He was already halfway to the door.

Olivia gave Gwendolyn another apologetic look.

“Sorry about this,” she whispered.

“Forget it,” Gwendolyn said. “I understand, believe me. There are reasons why nobody loves insurance companies.”

CHAPTER 16

Gwendolyn waited until the door closed behind Olivia and John Reynolds. She went to the window and watched the pair walk the length of the alley and disappear around the corner.

The Closed sign was still in the window. She locked the door, hurried back to the sales counter and picked up her phone.

Eloisa answered on the first ring.

“Is this about the camera?” she asked, her voice sharp with anxiety.