My first fanfic. The main characters belong to Martha Williamson/Hallmark Movies & Mysteries and are based on the Signed, Sealed, Delivered television movie series. Any resemblance of other characters that are introduced in this story to any living person are purely coincidental.
Oliver O'Toole carefully slit the envelope and placed the letter opener back in its proper location. He gently removed the contents and unfolded a handwritten letter. With a glance at his colleagues, who were watching him attentively, he began to read.
"Dear Sterling, I'm so sorry for leaving you without an honest explanation. The truth of the matter is that I was scared—I am scared. I just found out some news that changes everything—news that I am sure will be very upsetting to you. First of all, let me say this: I love you and I have loved being Mrs. Sterling Lansford…."
Oliver folded the sheets of paper and placed them back in the envelope.
"Ugh…." Shane groaned.
"Shane." Oliver said, casting his wife a knowing look. "You cannot continue to become personally invested in these letters. As usual, we read only far enough to give us the information we need to conduct our investigation."
Shane nodded and rolled her eyes.
Oliver ignored her expression of disgust. "Let's run a search for a Sterling Lansford in the Denver area. We know that the letter was postmarked only a few months ago and was addressed to something Lane in Denver."
"I'm on it," Shane replied, heading back to her laptop. Oliver followed her, while Norman and Rita resumed their duties.
Oliver watched as she worked, still marveling in Shane's research skills and ability to use the internet to their advantage. No doubt, she was a valuable asset to the team. Within a few moments, Shane had found a couple of Sterling Lansfords in the Denver area, but only one who lived on a lane instead of an avenue, drive, street, etc.
"Here we go," she said proudly, rattling off the address.
"Good work, as always, Mrs. O'Toole," Oliver responded with an approving nod and a smile. "Ready for a drive?"
"Let's go," Shane said, flashing her husband a grin and gathering her things.
"Norman, Rita, we're going to deliver," Oliver announced, heading toward the exit with Shane. "I anticipate that we will return shortly, so please just carry on with business as usual."