Oh, that’s a pretty one!

Stephanie knelt down and picked up the shell, flipping her long curls over her shoulder so they wouldn’t get in the way. It would make a great addition to her ever-growing collection. Aunt Bess had asked her what she planned to do with them all, but she had no idea. Maybe she would just keep them as souvenirs of her time in Whitby after she went back to London to resume her acting career.

She hated to admit it, but she liked it here. It was so calm and serene, unlike the endless hustle and bustle of the city. She could wear simple dresses and walk barefoot along the shore. No longer did she need to be accompanied by a bodyguard when she left the house. She felt so free, although she had felt the same way at the theatre. Maybe she would …

Meow

Stephanie straightened up and looked around her. Was it just her imagination or had she heard a cat? What would a feline be doing on the beach? They hated water. Placing the shell in her basket, she stood still and held her breath.

Meow

There it was again. And again. Slowly and silently, Stephanie began following the sound.