Holidays and Dreamy Nights - Book 3

Holidays and Dreamy Nights - Book 3 Page 1

by Nancy C. Wilson & Harriet Trevathan



 

  Holidays and Dreamy Nights

  The Secrets of Parkerville Series

  Book 3

  Written by Harriet Trevathan and Nancy C. Wilson

  Copyright © 2014 by Harriet Trevathan and Nancy C. Wilson

  All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the Publisher, excepting brief quotes used in reviews.

  Any similarity to actual persons or events is purely coincidental 

  Copyright Pending

 

   

  Julie Goes Home

  All over Parkerville everyone was getting ready for the holidays, except for Cassie and Skye, who were getting a little melancholy. This was their first Christmas away from home.

  Cassie was hit the hardest, after losing her parents just over four months ago, but she was also grateful for finding her lost grandmothers. She now felt she belonged here and wasn’t alone.

  Skye was beside herself, when her little nieces had to go home with their dad, but at least she still had Julie and little Stan. It was such a relief when the baby was finally brought back and no one had a clue who had stolen him. The Keepers were doing their own investigation, but kept coming up empty handed. It seemed as though they would never realize what happened.

  As for Julie, she was more than grateful having her baby back in her arms, whenever she had a chance. Skye couldn’t keep her hands off of him. She loved singing lullabies and rushing to change him, before Julie could get to him

  But in Moore’s Glen, Ralphy sat by Misha’s fireplace with his hands holding up his chin. He was in a very gloomy mood and no one could make him feel better. He did a very bad thing stealing Julie’s baby. No one really knew, or so he thought. The problem before him was getting the baby and his mama out of town . . . and back where they belonged.

  “Beebie don’t belong here, Meesha,” Ralphy said, still holding his chin up with his little hands.

  “You’re right.”

  “Beebie, he go home.”

  “Yes,” Misha agreed while stirring the herbal soup on her stove.

  “I meek it bedder,” he said, finally getting up from his stool near the fireplace.

  Misha smiled at him. “After it gets dark, Ralphy, find a way to get baby and mama out of town . . . okay?”

  Ralphy said goodbye and sped out the door. He was sneaking around Jake’s garage, peaking in the windows, and watching Jake’s every move. He was so fast, Jake never saw him come in.

  “Need halp!” Ralphy shouted, surprising Jake.

  “What?” Jake asked.

  “Need halp, Jeek. It’s me, Ralphy.”

  “I know who you are, son; I just wasn’t expecting you,” Jake said, a little shook up.

  “Mama and beebie Stan need go home, Jeek. We sneak em out, pleesh?”

  “That won’t be easy, son, not easy at all. That Fludge girl watches everything that goes on in the Davis’ house. She’ll know and she’ll report it to the Keepers.”

  Ralphy thought for a moment. What he was thinking was very dangerous, but he had to make it up to the mama and baby.

  “K. Make big meanie gurl beesy. You get mama and beebie out town?”

  “What did you have in mind, Ralphy? She’ll see and hear the truck in the Davis’ driveway.”

  “You go house wit empy truck and go up hill. I get mama and beebie. I trick big mean gurl . . . K?”

  “When?” Jake asked, scratching his head.

  “One owl.” Then Ralphy gave Jake a confused look. “When one owl?”

  “That would be about nine o’clock.”

  “Guud. Do, pleesh?”

  “You got it little guy.” Jake smiled.

  Forty-five minutes later, Jake’s truck rattled down Honeysuckle and continued on up the hill.

  “I wonder where he’s going,” Marabelle said, watching out the window.

  At that split second, a very angry looking face appeared in her window, glaring back at her. It had huge green eyes and a mouth full of sharp teeth.

  Marabelle screamed and pulled down her shade as fast as she could. She put her hand to her chest and gasped for air. Finally calming down, she went to her side window where she could still make out the Davis’ house. Once again, the angry face appeared, but this time the eyes were even bigger and now they were blue. Down came the shade and another scream burst out of Marabelle, causing her mother to run up the stairs to her room.

  “Monsters! Monsters are after me, Mommy,” Marabelle said, clinging to her mother, as she pointed her finger at the rear window of her room.

  “Watch this, you’ll see.” Both Marabelle and her mother went to the window and looked out.

  Ralphy was there with penetrating brown eyes, but this time they seemed to be emitting hypnotizing spirals of bright yellow. Both mother and daughter remained at the window without moving an inch.

  Ralphy sped over to the Davis’ house, where his friend Moody was waiting outside the kitchen door. They both entered, as Moody proceeded into the living room, Ralphy stood in front of Skye and Sara in the kitchen, and gave them the same penetrating stare. Both stopped immediately and stood transfixed.

  Moody grabbed a sleeping Julie and was out the door like lightening. Ralphy grabbed the baby and blankets, and followed his friend down the street and up the hill. Moments later they were safely in Jake’s warm truck.

  “Okay, that’s great boys, but what about baby clothes, Julie’s suitcase, and most important, the baby’s bottles?”

  “Oh, spunk!” Ralphy squealed. With unheard speed, he and Moody were back down the hill and into the house. Just as fast, they were out again with everything Jake mentioned.

  Jake only saw a blur, which were Ralphy and Moody, putting all the items in the truck, as Moody stared wide-eyed at the human behind the wheel.

  “So, what’s your name?” Jake asked.

  “Moody,” a shy little voice answered.

  “Good work, boys, I’m very proud of you,” Jake said, putting his truck in gear.

  Both boys gave Jake a huge smile and then took off in a whirlwind.

  Jake shook his head and smiled as Julie started to wake up.

  “What on earth? What’s happening?” A bewildered Julie asked Jake.

  “You’re going home, Miss Julie, and little Stan is going with you. Nobody knows about this, not even Marabelle, I’m pretty sure.”

  “Thank you, Jake. I don’t know how I can ever repay you, but I’ll think of a way.”

  Moody went back to the Glen, as Ralphy contemplated what he had done. He rushed back into the kitchen and quickly unhypnotized Sara and Skye. Only a few seconds had passed, but they never knew what happened.

  He then rushed over to his parent’s house and knocked on his sister’s window.

  “What now, Ralphy?” Carol Jean asked impatiently.

  “Beebie and Mama go home with Jeek now,” Ralphy said, with tears in his eyes.

  Carol Jean raised the window and had him come in. He told her everything that happened.

  “So, Jake helped you?”

  “Yesh.”

  “And Marabelle is still in a trance?” she giggled.

  “Yesh,” Ralphy said, giggling.

  “Okay, I’ll think of something to tell Skye and her aunt.” She put her coat on and rushed downstairs.

  “Go do something about Marabelle,” she yelled up the stairs.

 
“K.” Ralphy said, going back through the window and over to the Fludge house.

  Sara answered a knock at the Davis’ kitchen door. “Carol Jean?” Sara said, surprised to see her.

  “Hi, Mrs. Davis.”

  “Well, come on in. Julie and the baby are sleeping, so we need to be quiet.”

  “Um, not really,” Carol Jean answered, sitting down in a kitchen chair.

  “What do you mean, not really?” Skye broke in, coming to sit down by her friend.

  “Jake, Julie, and the baby are on their way home to Bright Springs. It was a plan and Julie thought it would be better if neither one of you knew about it. Jake was in on it and he’s a really great guy, so no one will know or find out. Okay?” Carol Jean said breathlessly.

  “You’re not making sense,” Skye said, getting up to go check on them in the living room.

  But Sara had already checked. “Yes, they’re gone.”

 

  “No,” Skye said with tears in her eyes. “No, they can’t be. I needed to say goodbye.”

  “I know, but this is the only way we could do it, don’t you see? You two had nothing to do with it and you can say that with a clear conscience.”

  “Yeah, okay. You’re right,” Skye finally agreed. “It was very brave of you, Carol Jean, but do you think Marabelle saw anything?”

 

  “Oh, no, she must have seen Jake’s truck. She’s probably on the phone right now calling Justin,” Sara said in a panic.

  “No, Marabelle doesn’t know a thing, I promise,” Carol Jean assured them. “Look, I have to go; before my mother finds out I’m missing. Sorry we couldn’t let you in on it, but just think; now Julie and the baby are safe and no one can take him from his family. I better go.” Carol Jean waved as she rushed out the door.

  “Okay, thanks,” Skye said half-heartedly.

  From the Davis’ house, Carol Jean glanced over at Marabelle’s upper window. Ralphy was still having fun scaring Marabelle and her mother.

  “Ralphy, stop it!” Carol Jean yelled.

  “K.” Ralphy sped back to the glen and into Misha’s house.

  “Everything okay?” Misha asked, not looking at the little guy who was wearing a huge grin.

  “Yesh!” Ralphy answered.

  Window Pains and Candy Canes

  At one minute past midnight on December 1st, Skye was dreaming. She was sitting on a big pink, marshmallow-like sofa. She was wearing a beautiful fluffy, pink gown made of silks and satins, with a billowing skirt of pink crinoline puffed out all around her. Her hair was piled high on her head, with pink ribbons intertwined through her curls, with spiraling tendrils touching her brow and bouncing around her cheeks.

  To her left was Chad. He was kissing her hand, moving up her arm with his warm tender lips. To her right was Todd. He was whispering in her ear how much he loved her and then he started kissing her on the neck, working his way down to her shoulder.

  Skye laid her head back and heaved a gentle sigh of contentment. There was music playing in the background, it sounded far away, but it was getting closer and closer. All of a sudden, the Supremes appeared before her, singing Baby Love. They were all wearing red and white polka-dotted baby doll pajamas. Skye smiled as they were performing just for her, but when she looked around, the guys were gone. Now she was wearing a pink, baby doll top with matching pink Capri pants . . . but she had huge thighs. Now she was sitting on the sofa, eating a turkey leg, and the Supremes had all turned into huge women with thighs as big as hers. They were smiling at her, shaking their fingers at her. She tried to get up off the sofa but she was too big to move.

  Skye screamed,” No!” And woke up.

  She sat up in bed trying to catch her breath. She was staring straight ahead when she heard it. Something was splattering against her windows. She turned her head, thinking it was rain, but to her surprise, red and white stripes were running down all of her windows. She ran to a window, but couldn’t see a thing outside. She tried to open one, and then thought better of it. She didn’t really need a red and white striped face at this point. She looked back at a still sleeping Cassie, who spent the night.

  “Cassie, wake up! Something’s happening to the windows!”

  Cassie slowly opened her eyes, rubbing them to try to focus on an excited Skye, standing pointing at the nearest window.

  “What time is it?” Cassie said, looking bewildered, as she tried to sit up. “What’s going on and why did you scream?”

  “Sorry, I had a bad dream, but look at the windows. We need to find what’s happening!” She pulled on her slippers and robe, and rushed out into the hallway. First she checked the other rooms and the windows were the same in each room. She finally woke up a sleeping Sara, to see if she could explain this latest mystery.

  “Aunt Sara, our windows are being painted with red and white stripes!”

  “Okay, okay, but I hoped this year they’d be pink and white. Go back to sleep, dear,” Sara muttered and then turned over.

  Skye ran downstairs to the kitchen but all the windows were the same. She couldn’t see a thing outside and she just had to know what was going on, running back upstairs and bumping into an excited Cassie.

  “Wait a minute. When I was raking leaves with Chris, he mentioned the deckers. Do you think it’s the decker’s who’s decorating the town for Christmas? What else could it be?” Cassie than started to whisper, “We have to go up to your attic and see if we can get out.”

  Skye started leading the way up the attic stairs. “Hold it, these slippers and robes aren’t enough. We need blankets and boots. That roof is going to be very slippery,” Skye warned.

  The girls quickly went back to Skye’s room and slipped off their slippers and pulled on their boots. They each grabbed a blanket and then headed back out into the hallway and back to the attic door.

  As they climbed the stairs to the attic, they could feel a cold breeze. They reached the top step and noticed one of the small windows had not been painted. Skye went through the window and turned to help Cassie. They both cautiously made their way down to the first gable and Skye started to slip on some icy shingles. Cassie reached out and grabbed Skye’s blanket and pulled her back.

  “Carol Jean! Where on earth did you come from,” Cassie asked, a little shocked?

  Without answering, Carol Jean pointed and said, “Look out there! Man, I always said this would be the best roof to see everything.”

  “But, Carol Jean, how did you get up here,” Skye asked.

  “It’s not important, just look at the town!” Carol Jean smiled.

  Below them, Parkerville had turned into a sparkling blanket of snow with pink and white lights on some houses, red and green on others, and also blue and silver. Trees, shrubs, and even flower planters, left over from summer, were brightly lit.

  The girls tried to make out one of the deckers, but they were unbelievable fast. There had to be hundreds of them in all sizes. Some could even stretch up to the tallest peak of a house. The deckers became streaks of colors, dashing everywhere putting up lights and decorations . . . so fast it was mind-boggling.

  The broad smiles on the girls’ faces gave way to panic, when one of the deckers popped up to put lights along the roof of Sara’s house.

  Here were three young girls huddled under blankets, staring at a large blue-eyed decker. He was just as surprised to see them. He almost screamed, but covered his mouth.

  “NO! You are in much tribble!” he squealed.

  “We just wanted to see you, that’s all. You are the most beautiful people in the whole world and you are great artists!” Skye fawned.

  “Yes, here I am. You see me now!” The decker growled, a little embarrassed.

  “What’s your name?” Cassie asked.

  “Trimpet,” he said eyeing Carol Jean.

  Two other pink fingers suddenly were gripping the edge of the roof next to Trimpet.

  “Trimpet! What are you ding
?” the other decker said, when he appeared. Then he spotted the two girls.

  “Ralphy can’t finish house now,” Trimpet said.

  “Uh oh,” Ralphy sighed.

  “As I was seeing, you two girls in big tribble!” Trimpet continued.

  “Um, there are three of us,” Cassie corrected Trimpet.

  “Oh, she always up here. She allowed,” he said.

  Turning to the other decker, who was looking at the girls with a big smile, Trimpet said, “We cannot fix house now. They are rules! Go back in window, no spray . . . now!” he shouted.

  Both deckers jumped up on the roof and walked over to where the girls were sitting.

  “No, we can’t let this happen to Aunt Sara! We didn’t mean anything by it, we were just curious,” Skye pleaded.

  “Look, please? If we promise to go back into the house right now, will you forget you saw us?” At that point Skye touched Trimpet’s hand.

  There was an intake of breath and his eyes rolled back into his head. “She touch me!” He then stared at Skye, while his blue eyes grew illuminated. “You are one of . . .” he started.

  “Oh, Trimpet, for Peteys sake, you always make biggest deal,” Ralphy laughed. With a smile, he reached over and pushed him off the roof. “See, she touch you hand, I push you off roof, that funny.”

  Carol Jean started to laugh, she’d been ignoring their shenanigans so far, but this made her laugh.

  Trimpet came back up and glowered at Ralphy, then just sighed.

  Ralphy looked at the girls and said, “No biggest deal, we like you Aunt Sara, she nicest nicest. We finish house.”

  “You have to hairy back into window now, hairy hairy,” Trimpet shouted.

  The girls turned and tried to scamper back to the unpainted window, when the decker suddenly shouted, “deck, deck!”

  A whoosh of paint sailed over their heads and onto the last window.

  The two girls looked horrified and Cassie turned back to Trimpet. “What do we do now?”

  “Din’t know, you problem, not me.”

  Ralphy looked at the girls and then whispered something to Trimpet.

  “Okay, we hilp this one time.”

  They both looked from side to side, making sure the other deckers weren’t watching. They were relieved to see that the other deckers had moved on to another street to paint windows.

  Ralphy put his hand out for Carol Jean to be first, but she frowned at him.

  “You want them see how you got up?” he asked her. She shrugged and then let him slide her down to the ground below. His arm was extended to an unbelievable length. She said something to him, then took off.

  He then turned to the other two girls and lifted them down the same way.

  Skye looked puzzled as she called after Carol Jean to wait for them. Carol Jean took a couple of steps in the snow and then she was gone.

  Skye turned to Ralphy, who’d helped them once they were on the ground. “Do you know her,” she asked?

  “Yesh.”

  “How on earth do you know her?”

  He gave her a shy smile and said, “Fimly.” Then he was off like lightening.

  Cassie and Skye couldn’t believe their eyes, as they stood alone.

  “Did you see how fast Carol Jean ran away?” Skye said, not believing her eyes.

  “Yeah, and that explains a few things I’ve noticed about her, especially when we were at the bonfire. I saw her talking to Marabelle near the gym, and then she suddenly was standing behind us.”

  “You’re right,” Cassie, “I even got a little chill when I saw her next to you, but I thought it was my imagination.”

  “Did you hear what he said, she’s family, it’s all starting to make sense now. “You know, you’re right; they both ran in the same direction. I think we need to talk to my Aunt.

  Cassie agreed and lifted her face to the sky, before she went back into the house. She closed her eyes to breath in the smells all around her. Then she opened her mouth, sticking out her tongue. “Mmm . . . minty!

  Sleigh Bells and Wishing Wells

  “Well, you’re finally up,” Sara said, walking into the kitchen. I’m sure you noticed the windows are now painted and locked down, as if we are prisoners.”

  “Oh, it’s gorgeous out there! I love all of this and can’t wait to see what else is going to happen. I have to admit we saw the deckers last night. We went out on the roof to watch all the colors flying . . . it was like magic, Skye said.

  “So, I imagine you met Ralphy. He’s a cutie and one of the nicest decker of them all,” Sara said.

  “Yes,” Cassie started, “there were two deckers. One was little, and his name was Ralphy, and the bigger one was Trimpet.

  “Was Carol Jean out there with you two?”

  “Yes, Mrs. Davis, she was already out there, when we showed up. Are you angry with us?”

  Absolutely not, of course you wanted to see them. I’m just used to them.” Sara smiled. “So, you met Ralphy, Carol Jean’s brother?”

  “Carol Jean has a brother?” both girls said together.

  “Yes, her father carries the decker gene. Each one has different abilities. Jay, Carol Jean, and Ralphy’s father has the ability to camouflage himself. He doesn’t leave home very much, he works at home: he’s a designer and very important to our town. As for Ralphy, he inherited most of the decker genes. Carol Jean only inherited a few genes.”

  “But I’ve seen Mr. Myers, he looks perfectly normal,” Skye said puzzled.

  “Was he sitting down, when you met him?” Sara asked.

  Yes, he’s always reading something, when I go over there.”

  “Well, he’s a bit shy about meeting new people. He’s only about 5’3”.

  “So, why didn’t Carol Jean tell us?” Sky asked.

  “She feels a little shame of who she is, but I believe she will come out one day. Now, we have the whole day to ourselves, so let’s have some fun.”

  Skye and Cassie were eating their breakfast, when they heard a tiny bumping on the back door.

  “Was that a knock or something else?” Skye asked.

  “I think it was something else, but let's see,” Sara smiled.

  Skye opened the kitchen door and got quite a shock. A huge, beautiful butterfly flew in and went straight to the fireplace, saying a tiny thanks.

  Cassie and Skye watched the butterfly, as she flapped her wings around the warmth of the fire.

  “Oh, girls, don't be so surprised. We have lovely winter butterflies. They aren't as shy as our summer butterflies and they are very appreciative of our warm homes. They only come in when their wings get a little heavy from the snow. She'll dry out soon and be on her way.”

  Sara went back to preparing scrambled eggs on the stove, as Skye and Cassie walked over to this brilliant, winter wonder. She was green with tiny red and white specks on her velvety wings. Then she looked at the girls and said, cold, in a squeaky voice.

  Both girls smiled back and walked over to Sara.

  “What do the others look like? Are they all green with red and white dots?” Skye asked.

  “Heaven's no, some are silver, some are pink and white, and blue and white. But let me tell you, if you ever see a pure white one, with the snow coming down, you can wish on it and your wish will come true. Of course, they are extremely rare and hard to see. I had a white one come into the kitchen years ago. She was so happy to get warm. I wished on her, just a little wish, but it came true the next day. Anyway, as you can see her wings are much thicker than regular butterflies. Please be gracious and kind to them, since they are a gift to us this time of year, when we're missing summer.”

  “She's lovely,” Skye said.

  “Oh, she’s more than that, she’s amazing,” Cassie added.

  The butterfly flew over to Skye and kissed her on the cheek, and then flew over to Cassie. Sara smiled and winked at the girls, while the butterfly continued to hover over the fire.

 
; “I just don't believe this place,” Skye said, “Everyday there's another surprise or revelation to enjoy. This whole town is absolutely enchanted.”

  After a while, the butterfly flew to the door and looked back at the girls. Sara opened the door and the beautiful butterfly flew out the door.

  “That was wonderful!” Cassie said, as she started peeling off a monkey roll and smiled at Skye.

  “Well, girls, we need to get going. We don’t want to keep everyone waiting on us.

  “How are we going to shop, since there’s so much snow out there?” Cassie asked, looking innocently at Sara. This is our first Christmas here and we don’t know what to expect. Of course, it was such a surprise this morning and we can’t figure out how all of this happened. Did the deckers decorate the whole town?”

  “Yes, everything is decorated before breakfast. I just wish they would do something different, one of these years,” Sara said, walking to the sink. She could see the girl’s faces in the mirrored window and had to laugh to herself.

  “Okay, let’s get going. We have some Christmas shopping to do and our sleigh will be here in an hour,” Sara said, putting another log on the fire in the kitchen. She was in a very good mood.

  “What sleigh? Are we really going to ride in a sleigh to go shopping,” Skye said excitedly.

  “Oh, this is just too cool,” Cassie, added.

  “Yes, we do this every year and we take Christmas Time very serious. Every second must not be wasted, since it comes and goes so fast. The sleighs will take us to Christmas Time past the square. Only women can drive the sleighs, of course. There is a nice area for the horses and sleighs to wait and take us back home. We women have the whole day to play and shop. Sounds like fun . . . huh?”

  “Yes, that sounds like a lot of fun, but do you know how to drive a sleigh?” Cassie asked.

  “Of course, I do. All the women know how to drive a sleigh, but Marion and Geri are picking us up. Marion is driving this year . . . darn it! You girls will learn, too, but don’t get in front of Marabelle. She’ll try to run you over,” Sara laughed. “Okay, let’s get ready. You’re gonna want to dress warmly.”

  “I only brought a jacket,” Cassie complained, “I didn’t know we were going to be out in the snow.”

  “Don’t worry, sweetie, Marion is on her way here with the sleigh. She has a new coat for you.”

  “Oh, thanks, I’d better go up and get dressed. I can’t wait to ride in a real sleigh,” Cassie couldn’t stop smiling.

  A knock at the back door presented Carol Jean, dressed in her winter coat and a white fur hat.

  “Can I get a ride?” she laughed. “I’ve been ready for about three hours and I’m so excited. Mom never wanted to drive a sleigh and she never really enjoys holidays, but I love this time of year.” She then started rubbing her hands together to get them warm.

  “Can I get a ride?” she asked coming into the big warm kitchen. “I’ve been ready for about three hours and I’m so excited. Mom never wanted to drive a sleigh and she never really enjoys holidays, but I love this time of year.” Then she started rubbing her hands together to get them warm.

  "We had some beautiful unique visitors a little while ago."  Skye said with her eyes lighting up.

  "Oh yeah, the winter butterflies.  My mom doesn't care too much for them but my dad always lets them in."  Carol Jean said warming her hands by the fire.

  "How can your mom not love them and their beautiful little ways?"  Cassie asked.

  "Look, my mom never really gets excited over anything.  But I do, I can't wait to go shopping with everyone.  Dad told me to go and enjoy myself, so that's just what I'm gonna do."  Carol Jean said with a smile.

  “Well, this is a first for me, too, and I’m going to make the most of it. Hey, where are your gloves?” Skye asked.

  “Oh, Mom’s borrowing them, she has to walk to her friend’s house and it’s cold out there. Don’t worry, I’ll be fine,” she said, walking over to the fireplace. “This house always smells so wonderful,” Carol Jean paused, closing her eyes and inhaling the aroma of the monkey bread and the smell of wood burning in the kitchen fireplace. Under her breath she murmured, “Oh, Skye, you’re so lucky.”

  Stuffing a piece of the bread in her mouth, Skye told Carol Jean to help herself to tea and bread, while she raced upstairs to get ready. Half an hour later, she appeared wearing a teal wool coat, with matching gloves and a white fur hat, enveloping her head with wefts of long hair curled around her shoulders.

  “Put your boots on,” Sara said coming up behind her in a red wool coat, reaching just below her knees. Her hair was encircled with a white beret and she was just putting her gloves on.

  “But I don’t want to wear boots; I’m wearing my black Mary Jane’s,” Skye argued.

  “Put your boots on!” Sara emphasized each word and dropped them in front of her niece.

  Skye grabbed the white boots and sat down on one of the kitchen chairs, heaving a loud groan.

  “And you, missy, put these on.” Sara presented Carol Jean with a pair of white wool gloves.

  Carol Jean took them shyly and thanked Sara.

  “Okay, I hear the sleigh bells, so let’s get going, girls.”

  Out the door they went to meet up with the other women in their sleighs.

  “And where on earth did those beautiful horses come from? My goodness they look like Clydesdales?” Skye gushed.

  “They are Clydesdales, and we keep them in a very special place.”

  “Oy, move yer bums. We don't 'ave all dye.” The large white horse on the left turned to snicker at the Davis’ clan, as they trudged down the driveway to the sleigh.

  “Bumble, one more word out of you and you go back to the stable. I've had just about enough of your grumbling this morning,” Marion reprimanded the big white horse.

  “Why do we get him every year?" Sara muttered to Marion.

  “Just lucky, I guess,” Bumble snorted.

  “Don't tell me, let me guess. The same guy who created Cinder, created that big buffoon.” Skye laughed as she started to climb into the sleigh. Just then, Bumble moved forward and Skye fell back in the snow.

  “Ave' a wet bum, do we?” Bumble reared his head up and down as if to laugh.

  “Don't worry, Mrs. Keaton, I'll make him behave.” The horse on the right said.

  “Dobbin, you’re the best,” Sara said acknowledging the proud stallion.

  "Skye, we've all learned not to insult Bumble, just ignore him.” Geri laughed, offering a hand up from the back seat.

  “Yes, thank you, Dobbin.” Mrs. Keaton nodded her head to the gallant horse. She then pulled out a coat, hat, gloves, and boots; and showed them to Cassie, who was still waiting inside.

  Geri ran the items to Cassie, so she could get ready for some fun. She had a big smile on her face, as she put on the white boots, soft powdered blue coat, with matching gloves, and a matching cozy hat.  She and Geri hurried back out to the sleigh.

    Cassie then let out a squeal.

  “Oh, I love them. How did you know?”

  “Well, sweetie, I’m beginning to know you all too well.” Marion smiled.

  Sara helped each girl climb into the sleigh. They pulled heavy blankets over their laps and were ready to take off. With that, Marion asked them to carry on, but Bumble wouldn't move.

  “Go!” Marion demanded.

  “No!” Bumble uttered.

  “Dobbin?” Sara asked, questioning.

  “He's in one of his moods, Miss, I'll just try to pull the sleigh without his assistance,” Dobbin replied. The horse moved forward, but the sleigh was now sideways, blocking the lane. The women standing out in front of their homes were getting impatient for their turn.

  “Move!” The six of them shouted at the stubborn horse.

  Without any notice, Marion grabbed the whip and cracked it in the air at the truculent horse.

  Bumble turned his head toward her. “You wouldn't dare!” he glared
at her.

  “I would,” Chris said coming up behind the sleigh. He grabbed the whip from his mother's hand and brought it up high in the air, ready to bring it down on Bumble’s rump.

  Todd stood laughing, as the horses took off down the street their manes flying in the breeze. The boys had just brought back two sleighs, ready to pick up the next occupants.

  “Have fun!” they called after to the girls, as they turned and waved to the boys.

  “Thanks!” Cassie yelled at Chris, as the sleigh moved swiftly down Honeysuckle.

  Both Bumble and Dobbin picked up their hooves and pranced at a proud gate. Bumble behaved himself after the threat of a whip. He was a bit sullen at the prospect of prancing, but he gave it his all. They were practically dancing when they past the square.

  “Hey, where are we going?” Cassie spoke up. “Aren’t we shopping in the square?”

  “Heaven’s know, dear, we are going to Christmas Time. You’ll see,” Marion said.

  After passing the square, they came to a beautiful English village.

  “Okay, everyone, we’re here.” Marion climbed out of the front seat, directing the girls to follow.

  “Ave yourselves a dye,” Bumble snickered.

  “Yeah, you too, Bumble, and now give someone else a treat,” Skye called out.

  “First off,” Sara started, “let me say I've truly looked forward to this day. We have a nice crisp, cold day to put ourselves into the spirit of Christmas. So let's all have fun and enjoy ourselves. Now, here are the rules

  1.      Please don't shop alone. At least two people should be together.

  2.      Remember, all these shops are just temporary. So if you find something you want to give as a present, it cannot be taken back after Christmas.

  3.      Please, at all times stay clear of street peddlers. They can never be trusted. I realize that most of you know this; however, we have two newcomers who might not be aware.

  4.      Choose gifts that are practical, but also fun. Something the person won't expect.

  5.      We will all meet at noon for lunch at Carlotta's Sin. Wonderful food; and delicious desserts. Can't wait!

  6.      Oh, and of course, stay clear of the moon-singers. We all know what that can be like. They are extremely diverting, but not to be trusted.

  7.      Don’t worry about money. When you buy an item, the cost will go against your family funds. The clerks are all ready to help you. You should have no problems.”

  Sara folded her list and put it into her purse. “Well, now, I think I've covered everything, but be sure to watch the time and have fun. Are there any questions?”

  The girls were giggling among themselves and too busy talking to have any questions. Cassie did ask what moon-singers were. Everyone laughed and Geri promised to point them out if she could tag along with Skye and Cassie.

  Skye got out her list and started to circle certain items she had to find. Cassie looked over her gift list and snickered a little at Chris' name. She had an idea what she wanted to get him, but Joshua was another story

  The girls were enchanted with the little village ablaze with every colored light imaginable. Large green cellophane wreaths hung from all the lampposts with large red bows in the center of each. Every shop was decorated to the owners taste and there were twinkling lights everywhere. Some shops were lit with silver tinsel lights, surrounded by pink garland and clear icicles. Everything was just beautiful and amazing, and the artistic endeavors were a wonder to be hold.

  Everyone hurried off on their own, while Skye and Cassie felt a little lost. Carol Jean laughed and told them she knew everything about this part of the town, so they began their search of the perfect gifts. Much to Geri's dismay, Marion didn’t let her join the older girls. Carol Jean and Cassie decided to go into a cute little drugstore to see if they had some lipstick. Cassie wanted something new, as she was tired of the colors she already had, and Carol Jean wanted to go with her. Skye decided not to go with them and sat down on a corner bench. She wanted to enjoy the beautiful decorations and listen to the Christmas music playing.

 

  As Skye took her gloves off and rubbed her hands together, a strange person approached her. She looked up in amazement, not knowing whether the person was male or female. She couldn’t tell at first glance, as there was a shimmering, yellow half-moon painted on their face. Their clothes were equally bright, with yellow pants and a billowy shirt, with a green bowtie and a red top hat. She assumed this person was a male now, as he proceeded to sing to her.

  “Now here sits a lass, so tired and so cold.

  She is so young and yet so old.

  I’m singing her a song now, so let her story be told.

  She's from far far away, from a place she'll be going,

  And where is this place . . . not even herself is knowing.”

  The strange man leaned down close to her. “Shall I tell you more or have I said too much?”

  “Yes, you have. Now get out of here!” Sara's voice came from behind the moon-singer and she sounded very angry.

  “Indeed madam, I shall be going, but have you a dime you won’t be spending?”

  "No, not for you, now leave this minute or I'll call for a Keeper!”

  “Good grief, Aunt Sara, what on earth is wrong? I didn’t understand a word he was saying. Why so mad?” Skye said, getting up from the bench, questioning her.

  “Hey, what did we miss?” Cassie said coming out of the drug store.

  Carol Jean snickered as she watched the moon-singer dance away. “You got to meet a moon-singer? Well, don’t take them too seriously. They never make any sense.”

  “You’re absolutely right, Carol Jean, they never make sense, but they’ll take your last dime if you let them.” Sara narrowed her eyes at him as he continued up the sidewalk.

  “Okay, well, I’ve met the moon-singer and I’ll be sure to stay away from any others who come my way. So what’s next?” Skye smiled.

  “I have to meet Marion at her favorite boutique, so I’ll be leaving you two in Carol Jean’s care. It’s ten o’clock, so don’t forget we’re meeting at noon for lunch. Carol Jean knows where the restaurant is. Please don’t be late, girls.” Sara then hurried away.

  The three girls started down the sidewalk to some pretty little shops. One shop looked particularly nostalgic to Skye. In particular, there was a white porcelain jewelry box with roses on it.

  “Hey, let’s go in. It’s got a lot of old stuff in there and I love old stuff.”

  “Sorry, not my style,” Cassie said, “but you can go in, Carol Jean?”

  “No, thank you, our house is already filled with old stuff and there’s nothing in there I would want to buy.” 

  Skye pulled open the door to the shop and was immediately surrounded with the smells of the past. She started walking around, looking at all the wonderful things. An old stuffed owl, hand knitted bed spreads, and other homemade items. She came upon a portrait of a lady dressed in a beautiful pink gown, with tiny white flowers in her hair. She seemed to smile lovingly at Skye. She walked on and came to a six-foot statue of a jolly looking man dressed in black and white striped pants, with a round, ocular black eye glass in his right eye. He was looking dapper in his red vest and red shirt beneath it, but what a sight! Who on earth would want to buy him?

  “I would and I did,” a voice came from behind a stuffed chair.

  “Oh, excuse me?” Skye said, taken aback. “I didn’t think I spoke out loud.”

  “You didn’t, but everyone says that, when they come face to face with him.” A circle of smoke rose from the back of the chair.

  “Umm, smells like cherries.” Skye sniffed.

  “Cherry tobacco, actually . . . my favorite,” the voice returned.

  “Oh, I’m sorry, sir, but could you tell me how much the jewelry box in the window would be?”

  “Sir? What do you mean by sir?” The voice stood up.

  S
kye was surprised at the lady who stood up from the chair and approached her.

  “What on earth made you think I was a man, little woman?”

  “Well, I’ve only known men to smoke pipes.” 

  “Well, meet Elvira Moon.” The lady in the shop held out her hand.

  ***

  Cassie and Carol Jean sat on the bench to try on their new lipsticks. Cassie bought two different packages of six new colors each, with flavors.

  Carol Jean chose the flavor she liked, pulling out the peppermint stick lipstick. It was striped red and white, and she could smell the wonderful peppermint. She then glided the lipstick over her lips. She opened her compact to see how she looked, “Oh no,” she starting to laugh.

  Cassie looked up at Carol Jean and started laughing, too.

  Carol Jean’s lips had two thin lines of red and white. She kept pursing her lips together, to meld the two colors, but it didn’t change.

  “What can we do, Carol Jean? You can’t go around with striped lips.”

  Cassie looked through the package of lipsticks and found a little package of moist tissues. Cassie handed her one, as she bent over laughing.

  Carol Jean blotted her lips and the lines disappeared, leaving a beautiful shade of red on her lips, with the taste of peppermint.

  Cassie picked up the jellybean flavor and smiled. Of course, Cassie had multiple colors of tiny jellybeans on her lips. Now they were both laughing and having some fun.

  ***

  Skye shook the hand of the lady who owned the shop. She was dressed in a black and white pin striped shirt tucked into a pair of black baggy pants and wearing a gray felt hat to cover an abundance of red hair. Her cheeks were rosy and she had bright blue eyes.

  “Now, what about the jewelry box?” Elvira asked.

  “Oh, the one in the front window with the pretty rose.” Skye started to walk to the front part of the store.

  “Two dollars and fifty cents, please,” Elvira said.

  “Oh, that’s a good price. I think I’ll take it.”

  She reached for her change purse, but it slipped out of her hands and a quarter started to roll to the back of the store.

  Skye chased after it, but it kept on rolling and rolling until it reached something round and wooden. “Good grief, I’ve never seen a coin roll that far before in my life,” Skye said, grabbing the quarter. What on earth? She whispered.

  There, where the quarter stopped, was an old spinning wheel . . . a very large one and a very old one, judging from the dust that seemed to cover it.

  “Give it a spin,” Elvira said to Skye, walking back to the wheel.

  “I won’t break it or anything, will I? I mean, I couldn’t afford to pay for something like this,” Skye said, mesmerized by the wheel.

  “You couldn’t break her, not in a million years. Go ahead give her a spin.”

  “Okay, now do I need to sit down?”

  “No, no, don’t sit on her. Just spin her from where you are.”

  Skye grabbed the wheel and gave it a turn. In seconds, the old spinning wheel started to release the dust that had dressed her down for years. In no time at all she was looking bright and new.

  “That’s just remarkable. One little turn and it looks like new,” Skye said, surprised and delighted.

  “No, don’t call her an it, she doesn’t like that. Her name is Miss Spinpast.”

  “Why did you tell me not to sit on her, if she’s so sturdy?” 

  “Well, unless you’re figuring on going somewhere, why would you bother to sit down?” Elvira answered, with a mischievous grin on her face.

  “Go somewhere?”

  “Yep, if you sit on Miss Spin past, you can go into the past whenever you want, but only into the past. She doesn’t do future and there is the chance you may not get back.”

  “Okay, well, I think I’ll go ahead and buy the jewelry box. It was so nice talking to you and spinning your wheel, Miss Spin past.”

  Skye started back to the cash register, noticing there were spinning wheels throughout the shop in all sizes up against the wooden walls. “What a strange room,” Skye said, turning and taking in all of the oddities. There were little wooden wagons, dolls, toys, a large hoop with a stick attached to it. All seemed to be from different eras in the past.

  There were large frames on the walls, all mounted evenly, displaying photos of men and women sitting at a spinning wheel, but some frames were empty.

  “I think you're missing some photos,” Skye mused.

  “No, they are just waiting to be filled,” Elvira said, walking to one of the frames, straightening it. “Silly me,” she said. “They don't really need straightening. I'm a Virgo and need everything to be precise. I don't like anything amiss. I absolutely cannot tolerate a crooked picture on the wall.” At that point she turned and smiled at Skye expectantly.

  “Well, my friends are waiting and I really need to be going, so I'll just take that jewelry box and be on my way. Thank you so much for your time. I really enjoyed your shop.” Skye said backing out of the spinning wheel room, which fascinated her. She couldn't wait to tell the girls.

  Elvira followed her to the register and took the money Skye offered. Cha-ching, the register sounded as the money was deposited into the wooden drawer. She wrapped the jewelry box carefully in tissue paper and put it in a small shopping bag.

  “Well, Merry Christmas!” Skye said cheerfully and left the shop.

  ***

  Marion and Geri stopped to see what all the fun was about, as Cassie put watermelon lipstick on Geri. Marion laughed out loud at the sight of black, seed-like dots over the watermelon color. Geri snatched the mirror and let out a little scream, but then started to grin at everyone. “Where did you get these lipsticks? I love them! I want to get these for Amy’s Christmas present.”

  “Just go into the drug store. They have lots of colors and flavors.”

  Skye was walking across the street, with her new gift bag, and Geri asked her if she liked her new lipstick.

  Skye stopped in her tracks, “Why do you have black dots on red lips?”

  “It’s a new fad. Everyone will be wearing them and they come in all kinds of flavors and colors,” Geri said, with a devilish smile.

  Skye still had a shocked look on her face, when she spoke up, “Hey, can I try one?”

  “Sure, what flavor would you like to try?” Cassie said, grabbing some lipsticks out of her bag. “How about the strawberry?”

  “Oh, I love strawberry.” Skye put some on her lips and tasted the creamy flavor. “These are great!” 

  Cassie handed her the mirror and Skye nearly lost it, seeing the tiny seeds on her lips. “Yeah, who wouldn’t love this?”

  Carol Jean handed her the tissue. “Just blot your lips and the seeds will disappear.”

  “Wow, I can definitely see this being a great stocking stuffer. How did they do that?”

  “How does anything here make any sense,” Cassie laughed.

  Geri saw Amy and her mother, so Marion excused themselves and joined up with them.

  “So what did you find?” Carol Jean looked anxiously at Skye’s bag.

  “I’m not telling, but you two should come back in with me. The shop has the neatest things,” Skye started, then lowered her voice. “She has a big old spinning wheel that goes back in time.” 

  “Oh, really?” Cassie said amused.

  “Yeah, she’s really sweet, but I think she’s a penny shy of a nickel,” Skye added.

  The three girls burst into laughter and walked on up the street looking for more exciting fun shops to buy gifts for their loved ones.

  “Hey, there’s the Penny Mart. Want to go in and browse around?” Cassie asked.

  “Sure,” Carol Jean said and ventured into the mart with Cassie and Skye.
/>   There were quite a few women from Parkerville rummaging through the store. Even the Baker sisters were there picking up garments and shaking their heads.

  Rose was examining a pair of lacey underwear from a table, turning it this way and that. “I swear, Bernadette, these went out when mother was a young woman.”

  Skye laughed and went over to her. “Rose, these are petty pants and they’re really in now. I love them and I wear them all the time.” Skye offered lifting her coat and skirt.

  “Oh, my goodness, dear, drop that at once,” Rose blushed, looking around her.

  “No, not at all, Rose, we’ll have all the handsome men so excited with such a display,” Bernadette nodded. “It could be fun.”

  “Oh no, no, I just thought you wanted to see them,” Skye said, a little embarrassed, dropping her coat and skirt.

  “Well, mother’s bloomers came below the knee, while yours above the knee and not quite as baggy, if you know what I mean,” Bernadette said, with a little shy giggle.

  “I wear them too,” Cassie offered.

  “Yes, dear, of course we believe you would, but in mother’s time they called them bloomers,” Rose interjected, “and no respectable girl would ever allow the men to see them.”

  “Well, I think its fine, Rose,” Bernadette broke in. “I’m thinking these petty pants are the new bloomers.”

  The girls laughed at the sisters, realizing they hadn’t been on a Christmas shopping excursion trip in a few years. All the latest fashions and appliances mesmerized the women.

  Skye saw her aunt entering the store, with Marion, and her aunt motioned for her to come to her. She excused herself from the Baker sisters and went over to her aunt.

  “Hi, sweetie, having a good time?” Sara asked cautiously.

  “Yes, we’re having a wonderful time, how about you?” Skye asked.

  “Oh, it’s been so much fun, with lots of sales and lots of things we need. Oh, and by the way, I saw you coming out of that little antique store. Did you find anything interesting?”

  “Yes, I did. I bought a very pretty something, but I’m not sure who I will give it to.” Skye grinned.

  “Well, I bought some Christmas shopping bags for you and the girls.”

  “Oh, thanks, Aunt Sara, they’re perfect! We can get a lot of things in this bag.”

  “You’re very welcome, sweetie. Uh, I just wanted to mention something to you. Now, please don’t take this the wrong way, like you always do, but I hope you don’t go back to that antique shop. I hope you’re finished in there.”

  “Why would you be concerned about that? The lady that runs that shop is just a little off in her head and I think she’s a little eccentric, to tell the truth.”

  “Just don’t go back there, please. I don’t trust that lady, and like you said, she’s a little off at times. Now, we’ll be meeting in an hour and a half at Carmella’s Sin, so don’t be late.” Sara walked over to Marion, leaving Skye to ponder the conversation she just had with her aunt.

  Something’s up, Skye thought to herself. Why did she make such a big deal about that store? “Unless,” she said out loud. Oh, no way, she rejected the whole idea. It’s just an old spinning wheel.

  Skye casually looked around the store with her friends. She picked up a doll and hugged it. It was such a pretty doll, with long dark hair, wearing an old fashioned bonnet on her head and old-fashioned bloomers. She was wearing a lacy blue dress with puffed sleeves and dainty little kid slippers. She looked her over longingly and then put her down, remembering she wasn’t a child any longer.

  “Oh, Skye, she’s just beautiful!” Cassie said, admiring the doll.

  “Yes, but we’re here to get presents for others. I’m just glad I don’t have to buy anything for Marabelle. 

  “Did I hear my name mentioned?” Marabelle came up behind them. “Hi, girls, it’s so nice to see you. I’ve been hoping I’d run into you.”

  “With what, a shopping cart or a sleigh?” Skye narrowed her eyes at her.

  “Oh, you know what I mean. I’d love to join you girls, but I’m with my mother. Oh, but I’m sure I could lose her, if you want me to come with you?”

  “No! We’re fine,” all three girls said at once.

  Marabelle looked hurt at this response.

  “It’s just that . . . well,” Carol Jean began, “we don’t want anyone to know what we’re buying. It’s supposed to be a surprise.

  “Oh?” Marabelle’s eyes sparkled at the thought.

  “Okay, I’ll be off with my mom, and I promise I won’t peak.”

  “Whoa, that was close. Why was she so . . . nice?” Cassie asked.

  “She’s always like this around Christmas,” Carol Jean grimaced. “She thinks everyone is going to buy her a gift.”

  Skye found a beautiful leather wallet in her search for gifts. She was about to take it to the cashier, when she couldn’t find her own wallet. She went back and traced her steps all through the store, but it was nowhere to be found. She watched Marion and Sara leave the store with Geri, and decided she must have left it in the antique store.

  “Girls, I’ll be back in ten minutes. I’ve got to find my wallet.”

  Skye hurried outside and started back to the antique store. She walked quickly, and with every step she took, an idea came to her.

  It’s just too ridiculous. It couldn’t possibly happen, but if it could . . . I mean, if I could actually go back to that time, that exact time. “Oh, gosh, what am I thinking? That could never happen, no, not in a million years,” Skye said out loud.

  “Hey, what’s the hurry?” A familiar voice rang out.

  “Chad! Where did you come from?” Skye was a little frazzled. “How did you know I’d be here and how did you get in?”

  “Well, I’m glad to see you, too.”

  “I’m sorry; I just didn’t know you would be here.”

  “Well, I have my ways. So, what’s going on?” he said, putting his arm around her.

  Skye shook her head and smiled. She then explained her situation to him, about the spinning wheel, Mrs. Moons, and finally told him what she was planning to do.

  “You think I’m crazy don’t you?” Skye said, looking down at her boots.

  “Nope, anything you want to do, or think you can do, I’m in on it.” 

  They continued on and finally came to the shop. Skye took a deep breath and they entered the shop together.

  ***

  This is great, Cassie thought to herself, as she walked toward the doll Skye was holding. I have to get it get for her. She seemed a little sad to put her down. I had no idea what to give her for Christmas, so this is just perfect.

  “Skye has always loved dolls,” Carol Jean said, walking toward Cassie. I never forgot the two beautiful dolls she brought with her when she came to visit her aunt. I would watch her playing in Sara’s back yard, from my window. Mom wouldn’t let me play with her, since she was an outsider, but I was so jealous back then.”

  “Hey, Carol Jean,” one of her classmates called out. “Come over here, I want your opinion on something.”

  “She wants my opinion? That’s a first. I’ll be right back.”

  Cassie watched as her shy friend pranced across the store, feeling very important. Now I need to pick up another doll. She decided on a cute, blond doll with a pink dress and a lacy apron. I think she’ll love this one. Then she went to one of the salesgirls.

  “How can I get these dolls home without anyone knowing?”

  “Well, we can deliver your purchases to your home. Would it be best to have them delivered to your bedroom or under each of their trees on Christmas morning?”

  Cassie just stared for a moment. “You can do that?”

  “Of course we can. We know how important these gifts are to you. No one will even know we were there. Should I gift wrap your purchases?”

  “Yeah, I guess, but I need to tell you who they are for.�
��

  “No problem, here are some blank cards, just write the gift and then the person’s name. They’ll be delivered to your house in no time at all.” The cashier said.

  “Well, that sounds pretty easy.” Cassie said filling out the names on the cards.

  Suddenly, she took the dolls from Cassie and disappeared into a back room.

  The Spinning Wheel

  As Elvira walked to the front, to welcome her customers, she stopped short when she saw Skye and Chad.

   “Well, hello, again.”

  “Hello, Miss Moon, I’m afraid I might have left my wallet here.”

  “Well now, let’s see.” Elvira went around to the counter to search near the cash register. “I don’t see it.”

  Skye searched around on the floor, walking toward the back of the store. She finally stood looking at the spinning wheel, as Chad came up behind her. For just one second, she thought she saw the wheel move, just an inch or so.

  “Did you see that?” Skye asked Chad.

  “I didn’t see anything, but wow, this is the biggest spinning wheel I’ve ever seen.” He remarked, looking her over. “My grandmother had one, but nothing like this. So is this what you were talking about?” he paused. “Gee, Skye, I wouldn’t put too much stock in what she told you. I know how much you want . . .” Chad was stopped by the appearance of Elvira, at the entrance to the back room.

   “Any luck finding your wallet, dear? I hardly believe it would be back here, since you paid at the counter when you left the store,” she said sarcastically.

   “No, of course not, I had other reasons for coming back,” Skye replied sheepishly.

   “Yes . . . I’ll bet you did. Well, the game is over and I’m a busy woman, so I must ask you both to leave now.”

   “Wait a minute,” Chad said. “She wanted to ask you something and it’s very important to her, so why can’t you just listen for a minute.” 

  “Chad, it’s okay, but Miss Moon, you told me this spinning wheel can take a person into the past. Were you just pulling my leg?”

  “Look, it’s just a part of the stories I tell from time to time. This is an antique shop, for heaven’s sake. I try to make it more interesting . . . that’s all.”

  Elvira was walking away from the two, hoping they would follow her, but Skye stayed right by the spinning wheel.

  Just then the shop bell rang and Elvira nearly jumped out of her shoes. It was just an older couple coming in to browse.

  Something wasn’t right and Skye knew it. She and Chad both approached Elvira.

  “Was my aunt in to visit you today?” Skye asked.

  “How would I know your aunt? I don’t even know you, young lady. Now, would you both please leave, there is nothing here that could interest you.” Elvira went back into the front of the shop to attend her new customers.

   “Come on,” Chad whispered, “let’s try anyway.” He took her hand and went back to the spinning wheel.

  “But, Chad, she told me if you go back in time, you might not come back.”

  “Oh, come on. You don’t really believe that, do you?”

  “No, I’m sure it’s just something to make it more interesting.

  “Okay, I’ll sit here and you sit in front of me. It’s just for laughs, but hopefully it will get the old girl’s goat.”

   Skye was taking it very seriously. She sat down nervously in front of Chad. The seat was long and narrow, and wasn’t very comfortable, but with Chad’s arms around her it felt almost cozy.

   “Go for it,” Chad laughed.

   Skye bit her lip and then slowly reached for the dial, to calculate the time and place she wanted to visit, but the wheel suddenly started to spin on its own.

  There was a flash of light and a cold, clean wind was hitting them in the face. Skye braced herself, keeping her head down, while Chad buried his face at the back of her head. The wind was so intense at first, but then it gave way to a warm breeze. Skye and Chad looked up, realizing it was summer all around them. Trees; rose bushes, lilac bushes, and flowers were all in bloom. It was a breathtaking scene and the wheel started to slow down.

   “Dear God in heaven,” Chad said, blinking his eyes at the sights before him. “I never in a million years dreamed it would work.”

   “Something told me it would, but is this the right place and the right moment?” Skye said softly.

  ***

  Cassie walked around the store, trying to decide what to buy for Geri. It was really hard, since the kid had just about everything a twelve-year-old would want.

  “Hey, Cassie,” Carol Jean said beaming. “She knew my name! I couldn’t believe it. I don’t remember even talking to her before, but she knew who I was.”

  “So, who is she? She doesn’t look familiar to me.”

  “Yeah, she didn’t look familiar to me, either. Good grief, I didn’t even know her name.”

  “But it’s okay; you helped her, so that’s all that matters . . . right?”

  “I guess so, but for some reason, I always get a little confused in this store. There are too many things to look through. Maybe we should shop somewhere else for a while.”

  “Sure, I’d love to see some other stores, but shouldn’t we wait for Skye? I don’t think she’ll be very long.

  “Well, to tell the truth, I saw her with some blond guy. I saw them walking together through the window.”

  “Um, yes, that must be Chad, but I thought this was a girl’s day out.”

  “He’s not from Parkerville, so I don’t know how he even got here.”

  “I have no idea, but they probably won’t be back for a while, so let’s go shopping.”

  ***

   Skye and Chad were still on the spinning wheel, which stopped on the side of a road facing a wooden bridge. On the other side of the bridge was an obstruction. A log had been placed so traffic would be stopped, with only enough room to exit the bridge from that side.

   A blue car was approaching slowly and started over the bridge, apparently not seeing the obstruction ahead.

   “I know that car. It’s my mom’s car,” Skye said softly, like in a daze.

   Skye started to get off the wheel, but Chad reminded her of the rule, where they may never be able to get back.

   The car was slowing, as it approached the log. A woman got out to inspect the situation. She was a beautiful woman, with long dark hair and wearing a shirtwaist, blue silk dress. She turned for a moment, looking back the way she came, then back at the log blocking her exit to the bridge.

   “Mama,” Skye whispered, nearly choking on the loving memory of that name.

   “Wow, that’s your mom?” Chad said softly. “I forgot how beautiful she was.”

   Skye flung herself off the wheel and started running toward the woman.

  “Skye no,” Chad yelled, but she wasn’t listening.

   “Mama! Mama! Mommy, please?” Skye ran toward the woman, tears nearly blinding her.

   The woman suddenly turned to see a teenage girl running toward her. She looked at the girl questioningly and started to walk toward her.

   A man came out of the woods near the log and put his hands on his hips. He watched the woman, who he planned to kidnap, walking toward a complete stranger. He waited to see what would happen.

  Skye ran and flung her arms around her mother’s neck. “Don’t ever leave me again. Don’t ever! I won’t let you leave me,” she sobbed.

   “Sweetheart, who are you?” Dottie said, as she held the trembling girl.

   Chad got off the wheel trying to catch Skye, before she changed history or lost herself in this timeframe. “Skye! Skye please come back!” Chad hollered at her.

   “NO!” She screamed in desperation.

   “Wait a minute, now calm down, sweetheart.” Dottie looked into the t
eenager’s face. “I love the name, Skye. My little girl has the same name. In fact, I’m on my way home to see her.”

   “I’m Skye! I’m your Skye. It’s been six years. Don’t you understand? You disappeared six years ago. I live with Aunt Sara now. Mama, don’t you know me?”

   Dottie looked deep into Skye’s teary eyes, and then she fainted. Skye slowly dropped to the ground, protecting her mother.

   “Look, kid, I don’t know what’s going on here, but you need to get away from this woman. And I mean it! I’ve been planning this for a long time and you ain’t gonna mess it up . . . so scram. He shoved Skye away from her mother, just as Chad caught up with them.

  Chad put his hands on her shoulders to protect her. He didn’t want her to be hurt by this horrible man.

   The man leaned down to gather Dottie up in his arms.

   “Leave her alone, don’t touch her!” Chad narrowed his eyes.

   “Get away, kid. I don’t want to hurt you, but, believe me I will.”

   “Take your hands off my mother!” Skye said, in a deep threatening voice.

   “Your what?” The man looked at her amazed.

   “My mother!” Skye nearly spit at him. But this time the iris of her eyes had turned black.

   “This is her mother who disappeared six years ago. This is Skye Mackenna, her daughter. I suspect you had something to do with her disappearance,” Chad said, gritting his teeth.

   The man backed away, trying to figure this whole thing out. He was scared, but he was also very determined.

  Skye bent down to try to revive her mother. “Mama, wake up. It’s okay . . . I’m here.” Skye said soothingly.

  “Mrs. Mackenna, it’s going to be all right. Please wake up,” Chad pleaded.

   While all of Skye’s concentration was on her mother, the man took something out of his pocket and quickly plunged it into Skye’s arm. But before she lost consciousness, she reached up and scratched him across the face.

  Blood dripped from the man’s face, running down his neck, while small drops appeared on Dottie’s dress. He narrowed his eyes at the unconscious daughter. “You’re lucky you’re still alive, little girl,” he hissed.

   “Stay away from her, you son . . . of . . . a . . .” Chad started.

   Dottie slowly came to, seeing the strange man with bloody scratches on his face and her beautiful daughter, lying on the ground.

  Chad picked Skye up in his arms. “I don’t know what you did, but you’re going to be so damn sorry,” Chad said, shouting.

   “You mean, she’s really my . . .” Dottie started, and then the man plunged a needle into her arm, and she passed out again.

   “Look, kid, I don’t know where you came from, or who you really are, but I only had enough for her and the girl. It’s your lucky day, kid.”

   “Did you kill them?” Chad said, with tears in his eyes.

   “Hell, no, it’s just a memory drug. She won’t remember a thing, neither will her mother,” he said, looking down at Dottie.

   The man walked over to the girl and looked down at her face. “Damn! She’s Dottie’s kid all right. I don’t know how or what’s going on, but she’s a knockout . . . pardon the pun,” he laughed. “I’d take her too, but she’s too much trouble. Keep hold of that one, kid, there aren’t many around like her and her mom. This one belongs to me now, and you can’t do anything about it. You’ve got to keep all of this to yourself, unless you want to lose her.” He then picked up Dottie and started to walk away with her.

   “Where are you taking her?” Chad yelled.

   “Back where she came from, kid, where she belongs . . . with me.”

   “But where?” Chad started after him, but it was too late. He had to get back to the spinning wheel before it disappeared, so he walked across the bridge, with tears in his eyes. Why did you have to do this to me, Skye? How am I supposed to live with this?”

   The spinning wheel sat where they had left it, on the side of the road, just before the bridge. He sat for a moment on the wheel; as he watched the man step over the log, then disappear through the forest. Then he saw a blast of light and knew he was gone, along with Skye’s mother.

  After a while of holding Skye and crushing her hair in his hands, he felt the wheel moving again, but backwards. He held onto her as the cold wind hit the back of his head, hovering over her so she wouldn’t feel the cold.

  He closed his eyes and they were back in the shop. He took out his handkerchief, dabbing at his eyes.

  Skye was coming around and felt Chad’s warm arms around her. She felt a little uneasy and her arm was hurting.

   “Oh my, what happened? Did we go anywhere?”

   “Nope,” Chad said, helping a dizzy Skye off the wheel. “It’s just like the lady said, it’s all a part of the stories she tells. Nothing really happened. Let’s get out of this place.

  As they walked past Elvira, she looked at Chad.

  “Something happened, right? I knew it.” Elvira stood with her hands on her hips, glaring at the two.

  “Nothing happened at all. I’m glad you don’t charge for sitting on a spinning wheel, going nowhere,” he said, as they walked out the front door.

   “Oh really?” Elvira said not believing a word of it. “It’s such a shame I can’t put their picture up.” She shook her head and went back to her customers.

  The Conversation

   Once they left the shop, Chad led Skye to a bench, to wait until she was herself again.

  After a few minutes, Skye sat up straight.

  “Hey, I’ve got to catch up with my friends. Why are we just sitting here?” She said, looking around a little confused. “I guess the spinning wheel was a hoax, huh? But thanks for putting up with my wild ideas. I’ll always love you for that.” Skye looked around. “So, how did we get out here?

  Chad looked into her eyes, and before she knew it, Chad had taken her into his arms, kissing her passionately.

  “I’ll always protect you, Skye.” Then he turned and walked down the sidewalk toward the center of the village. He found a bench and collapsed into it. He was surprised the bench was warm and dry, with no snow. He then stared at the young men who were putting together what looked to be a well. Then he dropped his head in his hands and just stared at the cement.

  “Whoa, you got problems, man?” A familiar voice said to him, as he felt the presence of someone sitting down beside him.

  Chad looked up for a second, seeing the smiling face of Joshua. “Yeah, more than you could possibly understand.”

  “Well, I’m a pretty good listener . . . give me a try.”

  “I can’t tell you, you’ll call the Keepers on me and they’d put me away.”

  “No way! So what did you do, steal something?” Joshua laughed.

  “No, it’s a little more complicated than that.” Chad glanced over at the guys building the well.

  Todd looked up, from working on the wishing well, stretching his back and staring at the guy sitting with Joshua. “Who’s that?”

  Joshua turned toward Todd and nodded, then turned back to Chad. “That’s Todd Kane . . . your rival.”

  Chad laughed. “Him? Heck no, I’m not worried. Skye and I have a history that goes way back. He’s no problem.” He lowered his head and let out a sigh. “Look, Josh, I’m really not in any mood for small talk. I’ve got way too much on my mind right now and I’m just not sure what I’m going to do”

  “Okay, now you’ve got my attention. My curiosity is up and there is absolutely nothin’ about this town that’ll surprise me.”

  “I just can’t,” Chad sighed.

  “Come on, man, spill. Get it off your chest.”

  Chad turned toward Joshua and looked him straight in the eyes. “If I tell you, you have to promise you won’t tell another living soul . . . on your honor.”

  “You got it,” Joshua assured him.

  “Well, I ran
into Skye on the sidewalk, while she was on her way back to an antique store. She said she lost her wallet, but then she had this wild idea about a spinning wheel that takes you back in time.” From there, Chad told Joshua the most amazing story.

  “Whoa, this is the first time in my life I don’t know what to say. I’ve heard some crazy stories about our town, but that has to be one the craziest.”

  “Yeah, well, I knew you wouldn’t believe it,” Chad said, dropping his head back into his hands.

  “Oh no, pal, I believe every word of it. No kiddin’ . . . I do. But what are you gonna to do now? How you’re gonna to keep all of this from Skye? You know, that shot he gave her may not last forever, or she may wake up and remember everything. What’ll you do then?”

  “Oh, God, I didn’t even think about that. Do you really think she’ll remember one of these days?” Chad was stricken with the realization that he’s got more to worry about.

  “Yeah, I’m thinkin’ you’ve got your hands full, pal,” Joshua said, shaking his head.

  ***

   “Please tell me why we volunteered to put this stupid well together this year?” Todd asked Chris, while struggling with the directions.

  “Hey, my dad roped me into this and I knew I’d regret it. Let’s just get this thing together, so we can go get something warm to drink,” Chris said, his white breath steaming up the snowy atmosphere around him.

   “Hey, guys, want something hot to drink?” Skye called out as she, Cassie, and Carol Jean made their way down the sidewalk, with warm pastries and hot chocolate.

   “Sounds good to me,” Todd said, throwing down the directions and meeting the girls on the sidewalk.

  “Me, too! You girls are angels. How did you know?” Chris said, taking his gloves off and grabbing the proffered cup of hot chocolate, while Cassie and Carol Jean offered fresh warm donuts and pastries.

  “Oh, man, I feel like I died and went to heaven. These are so good. We can’t thank you enough,” Chris said, diving into a cream filled pastry.

   “No problem.” Cassie smiled, as she walked across to the bench to offer the same to Joshua and Chad. “Hey, I’ll bet you guys could use a hot cup of chocolate and a donut.”

  Skye held out the drinks as Chad and Joshua helped themselves.

   “Well, gee, some people are just lucky, I guess,” Will said, walking by with a pout on his face.

   “Oh, here,” Carol Jean said, walking back out to the sidewalk and offering a donut and her own cup of hot chocolate.

   Will gratefully took the treats. He was so stunned by Carol Jean’s generosity; he didn’t know quite what to say. “Well thanks, I mean, you didn’t have to. I was just kind of jealous, I guess. It’s really cold.”

   “No big deal,” she said, and turned back to her friends.

   “Hey, um, next Saturday, would you want to go see a movie?” Will asked her before she could get away.

   Carol Jean turned back around. “Why, what’s playing?”

   “Oh, they’re showing that White Christmas movie again. Want to go?”

   “Maybe,” she said, and then quickly walked back over to her friends.

   Will, could not believe his ears. He walked on down the sidewalk, eating his donut and drinking his hot drink. He was so elated with her answer; he could have been walking on air and not have known it.

  “Let’s sit down and enjoy them before they get cold.” Skye said snuggling up against Chad, and for a second, put her head on his soft warm shoulder.

  Cassie and Joshua moved to a nearby bench, enjoying their warm snack and a cuddle. Joshua was always ready to get close to Cassie.

   Just as Carol Jean was feeling a little awkward, Will came hurrying back to her and handed her a cup of hot cider.

  “There’s a little stand farther up the sidewalk selling them. I realized you gave up your hot chocolate so I bought you some cider.

   Will couldn’t tell if the cold was tearing up Carol Jean’s eyes, or she was just overcome with his thoughtfulness. Either way, he was happy with the result. They sat down together on a bench closer to the sidewalk.

   “Well,” Will spoke up, “you didn’t really give me an answer.” 

   “Oh, all right, if it’s okay with my mom and dad.”

   Will’s heart leaped, but he made no big deal of it in front of her.

  “That’s great. I’ll meet you at the bus around 7 o’clock. Okay?”

  “Yeah, okay, but like I said, it has to be okay with my mom.”

  Women were now starting to hurry by. It was nearly lunchtime and they would have to leave to meet the others at Carlotta’s.

  Joshua tried to think of a way to get Cassie alone. “Hey, why don’t we take a little walk and watch the kids skating on Penny Creek?”

   “I wish I could, but we have to go meet the other ladies, including your mom, at Carlotta’s for lunch,” Cassie replied.”

   Chad got up from the bench and took their cups, throwing them into the trash can near the benches. “That was really sweet of you girls. Thanks for thinking of us.” Chad walked back to the bench, giving Skye a hug. He then kissed her with all the love he felt for her just then. He always wanted to keep her safe and as happy as she seemed right now.

   “Hey, you gotta let me go. I have to meet my aunt and your mom at the restaurant.” She started to walk away, then turned and went back to him, kissing him again. She took a deep breath watching her breath come out in a puff and cold air and said, “Come on girls, we have to go. This has been the happiest day I can remember.” Then the three of them were off, leaving the guys smiling in their wake.

  Chris and Todd were warmly sated by the generosity and thoughtfulness of the girls, but nothing was lost by the display of affection between the two couples across from them.

  Will had no complaints, as he waved good-bye to Carol Jean, he got up from the bench and whistled all the way down the sidewalk.

  Finally, Todd asked a little miffed. “Who was that guy, and why was he kissing Skye?”

  “Oh, yeah, that was Chad Cavanaugh,” Chris replied. “Geri told me about him. The girls went to see a movie and this guy shows up. Don’t know much about him, but I’ve heard his family might be coming to live here. Wait, how are they connected to our town? I haven’t heard anything about them. Oh, is his dad’s a banker or something? I do think Dad mentioned them, but I wasn’t really paying attention.”

  “Great! Is that the guy she was talking about at the sleepover, that guy who danced with her in the barn?”

  “Yeah, I think it is,” Chris began to laugh.

  “Why are you laughing? Cassie’s through your fingers and I doubt if you can get her back from that pea-brained farmer.”

  Both guys heaved a heavy sigh and got out the plans for the wishing well.

  “Okay, let’s get back to work. I don’t want to freeze out here all day.”

  “Hey, boys, need some help?” A couple of farm hands yelled out.

  “Yeah, that would be great,” both boys, yelled in sync. “Do you know how this thing is supposed to be put together?” Chris asked.

  “Don’t worry, we’ve done this before. You guys can go on, if you like.”

  ***

  There were two restaurants side by side. One was Carlotta’s Sin and the other was Clair’s Fantasy Palace. All the girls under sixteen had a room for themselves. It was set up more like a teen dance party with popular music, while the younger children had little tables and fun things to play on in a different room.

  “Oh, how wonderful, Amy, we don’t have to play in the baby area this year. I heard there would be holograms of Frankie Avalon and Paul Anka performing, and Annette and Sandra Dee. How cool is that?” Geri gushed.

  “Well, I’m so glad you finally graduated to the teen scene,” Marion laughed.

  A moon singer began to play a g
uitar, singing nursery rhymes, as the children and their mothers sang along toward the palace. The older children walked behind them, anxious for their party.

  The ladies said goodbye to their siblings and entered the adult restaurant.

  Marion and Sara were not disappointed in the opulence of the restaurant they had chosen for the luncheon. The pediment above the doorway was of two swans beautifully intertwined.

  As they proceeded through the doors, ladies in long black dresses with crisp white aprons greeted them. The black and white marble entrance was typical of the finer restaurants at the turn of the century.

  “I wish I could get my floor this bright and beautiful,” Marion chided.

  “I almost feel like sliding on it,” Sara laughed.

  “You know, I’d pay to see that.” Marion laughed.

  Cookie Edwards, Margie Kane and Debra Cavanaugh, Chad’s mother, were speechless of the exquisitely adorned windows. At each window, voile pink curtains, with sheer white background tiers hung beautifully; each tied back with golden filigree angel brackets.

   “Welcome, Ladies,” one of the maids replied. “To your right is a cloak room, where you may hang your coats and there is a shelf above for your hats.”

  Next, the ladies were introduced to a room enhanced by hundreds of hats from the turn of the century. A milliner was standing by, to assist any lady who wished to adorn herself with a flamboyant hat, rich with ostrich feathers, satin ribbons, and plumes of the period. Velvets, satins, and silks were available to try on also and wear into the dining room.

  “I’m speechless,” Marion said, gleefully trying on a purple satin hat, rich with pale lavender plumes and ribbons looped into intricate shapes.

   “I’ve never felt so feminine in my life.” Sara smiled, as the milliner tried a pink velvet hat atop her dark auburn hair.

  “Do you have anything with reds and greens? I want to feel festive for the season.” Cookie laughed.

  “Don’t forget me! I want something sexy and red, with lots of feathers,” Margie said, giggling.”

  “Oh, Sara, I’m so glad you invited me,” Debra said, giving Sara a hug. “All of you have made me feel so welcome. This is a day I will never forget.”

  “It’s our pleasure, dear. Now you need to pick out a wonderful hat.”

  “Oh, yes, blue and white, with a hint of yellow will suit me just fine,” Debra said to the milliner, when it was her turn to choose a hat.

   “We really haven’t had this much fun in a very long time,” Cookie said. “I would say it’s about time.”

  “Yes, it has been such a long time, Cookie. We all need to get together at least once a month and have some fun,” Marion said, giving Cookie a hug. “What do you think about this? Should we invite Carlotta’s Sin to stay in Parkerville and have it our getaway when we need it? Who agrees?”

  Everyone nodded their heads and waited to order, until the girls arrived and had fun catching up.

  “Holy smoke, this sure beats H’our Burgers, doesn’t it?” Carol Jean said wide-eyed, seated between Margie and Sara.

   “You’re right, there’s no comparison,” Cassie said, as she took her seat between Marion and Cookie.

  Skye took the last seat between Sara and Debra. All three girls were wearing large feathery hats and elbow length gloves, all available to enhance their visit.

  “I absolutely love this place, but why is it called Carlotta’s Sin?” Skye asked.

  “I can answer that, young lady.” A low velvety voice said, approaching their table. “I am Carlotta and I own this restaurant. Our food is delicious and there is no comparison to it; however, the desserts are so rich and chocolaty that it is almost a sin to serve them. I am a great admirer of the pastry chefs of France and their rich chocolates and fondants are a sin to me. But, alas, I shall never stop indulging in them.”

  Carlotta was an abundant lady, dressed in a long blue satin dress with a pink silk sash. She was wearing a matching flamboyant hat adorned with ostrich feathers, silks and satin ribbons, and a large white plume, which bounced when she walked. This was of great advantage to the servers, for they always knew when she was coming their way. She smiled at the ladies and girls at the table, and hustled off to greet her other guests.

  The three girls giggled happily at this sweet lady, who seemed to float around to all the tables. 

  The Baker sisters were seated a few tables away, enjoying their appetizers and aperitifs with abandonment. Blue and Pink plumes were bouncing on their heads as they ate and laughed together.

  Everyone looked around at the white linen covered tables, with white and gold filigree trimmed dishes sitting on pink and gold chargers. Marion and Sara looked extremely pleased and happy with their surroundings. They looked at each other and smiled. They had chosen the perfect place to eat and relax for everyone.

  ***

  Cassie was getting a little restless, once lunch was over. The older women chatted away, as Cassie finally excused herself.

  “This was so wonderful and thanks so much, but I haven’t really hit many of the little shops and need to finish my shopping.”

  “Oh, me too,” Skye and Carol Jean chimed in.

  “Okay, girls, get going, but remember the sleighs will be going back around seven. It will start snowing again around eightish, to refresh the decorations,” Sara said.

  Make sure you catch your sleigh, girls!”

  “Don’t worry, Aunt Sara, we’ll be back way before it snows.”

  All three girls stood up and replaced the elaborate hats for their warmer hats and gloves before leaving. They could hear other girls laughing and running toward the coatroom, as they left the restaurant.

  As they walked out the door, three young men were sitting patiently, waiting on a bench across the street. They started toward them and Cassie laughed. “Are they the three stooges or our three musketeers?”

  “I’m going for my musketeer, who sometimes acts like one of the stooges.” Skye said, walking towards Chad.

  Cassie looked at Carol Jean. “So what are you going to do? Are you sure about Will?”

  “Not really, but we seem to have been cut from the same fabric. Yeah, he’s a little older, but for some reason, he makes me laugh. Am I crazy?”

  “No, you need to take a leap of faith and see what happens. He may just turn out to be your hero.”

  Will stood up and slipped a little on the ice, but found his balance. His face went a little red, but he wasn’t going to miss his chance to be with Carol Jean.

  “Hey, Carol Jean, do you have any more shopping to do?”

  “Are you kidding, I haven’t even started. Why don’t we go down that lane and see what shops are there.”

  “Great!” he blushed again. “So, let’s go.” Then he turned toward the bench. “Nice talking to you guys.”

  Once the twosome was far enough away, Joshua and Chad broke up laughing.

  “Joshua, it’s not funny,” Cassie said. “He may be a great guy for Carol Jean.”

  “Oh, yeah, what will they do . . . go fishin'?”

  “What’s wrong with fishing? I love fishing, especially in a boat out in the middle of a pond. It can be very romantic,” Skye glared at Chad.

  “Oh, well yeah. It can be fun and romantic.” Chad said remembering a time on a pond with Skye back in Bright Springs.

  The girls didn’t laugh.

  “Okay, don’t get all prissy, ladies. It’s just the scene in my mind that’s cracking me up. Once the ice melts out on the pond, we’ll see how good you are at catchin’ dinner,” Joshua added.

  “You’re lucky I have a sense of humor, farm boy. Now let’s get out of here and go shopping.” Cassie grabbed Joshua’s hand and they took off. “So, where do you want to start? I only have a gift for Skye, Carol Jean, and Geri, but I have to get something for the rest of my new little family.”

  “Joshua grinned, “Oh, yeah, let’s start with
Chris. How about one of those brand new G.I. Joe dolls? He’d really like that, don’t you think? Oh, and polka dots are in right now. How about a new tie or a vest? I’d really like to see him in a red and yellow polka dot vest. Wouldn’t you?”

  “Well, I was thinking about getting him a golden comb. Something durable that won’t break, since he’s always combing his hair.”

  “Sounds great. Come on, let’s go. I have a big surprise for you.”

  ***

  Skye took Chad’s hand and started walking down the sidewalk.

  “Okay, we need to talk, since there has to be some rules. First of all you can’t just come up to me, grab me, and start kissing me. We need a little propriety here. You just have to try to control yourself a little and not grab me all the time, like I’m some sort of toy. I am not a toy! Is that clear?”

   Skye stopped in her tracks, looked at Chad, grabbed him and kissed him. “No, that is not clear,” she said with a big grin on her face.

  “Good, because I know you always do the opposite of what you’re told,” Chad laughed, grabbing her and swinging her around. “Okay, let’s go shopping. Who’s next on the list?”

   “Well, it doesn’t really matter. I just go into the shops, and if I see something I think someone will like, I buy it . . . easy enough.”

   Next, they came to a five and ten cent store. They went inside and got a bag of fun things to put in stockings.

   “My aunt will love this stuff. She likes little knick-knacks and whatchamacallits. I also got her some hand creams, eye shadows, a box of different colored lipsticks, a beautiful night gown, and . . .”

  “I know, perfume, right?” Chad surmised.

  “Heavens no, that is way too personal. Every woman has her own scent. Never buy a woman perfume unless you know what she wears.”

  “Well, I got my mom some perfume. She always wears Chanel No. 5 and I love the way she smells. When she leaves a room, you always know she’s been there. It sounds kind of silly, but it made me feel safe and secure in some way, when I was a kid.”

   “Aunt Sara wears two different kinds, so it’s better to let her get her own. She told me it depends on how she’s feeling on a particular day. Now, that sounds silly to me. But the way you describe your mom is so sweet.”

   “Okay, where should we go next?” Chad asked, with his arm around Skye’s waist.

  “Oh, and I need to go into a bath shop, and get some bubble bath and pretty soaps.”

   “Would you mind if I waited outside for you? That kind of shop always makes me sneeze.” Chad said, giving his nose a rub.

   “Yes, I understand, my dad was the same way. Laundry soaps always made him sneeze.”

   They came to a shop named Bath and Pretty Things. Skye left Chad on a bench and went inside the store. Ten minutes later she came out and was ready for a break.

   “I’m so glad they just take your money and send your gifts to your house. That is so thoughtful.” Skye collapsed on the bench next to Chad.

   “Well, what’s next?”

   “I’m a little tired of shopping right now. Gee, I never thought I’d say that, not in this life time,” Skye laughed.

   “Okay, let’s go down to Penny Creek and watch the kid’s ice skate. Someone said they have a bon fire going, so it should be warm and cozy.”

   “Sounds like fun, let’s go.” Skye grabbed Chad’s hand and off they went.

  ***

                Cassie and Joshua took a different path from the others. They were having a lot of fun; going into the strangest, but interesting shops they’ve ever seen.

  “Why would someone want to buy a real miniature dragon?” Cassie mused. “It’s so real and that fire breath seems a little too much . . . don’t you think?” I hope no one buys one for their kids. That was a little scary. I do have to say that robot, vacuum cleaner was great, but who can afford that?”

  “Oh, there’s some really rich people in this town. You can’t even imagine, but that electric thingamajig you got Marion was pretty cool.”

  “Yeah, I can’t wait to use it. I’ve never seen so many ways to cut a potato and I think the high and mighty Justin should like his new shoe polisher,” Cassie paused for a moment. “Do you really think he’ll like it?”

  “Don’t know why he wouldn’t. He’ll be able to see the mean expressions on his enemy’s faces, just by looking down at his shoes.”

  Cassie had to laugh, but then looked around for a camera. “Do you really know Justin’s a Keeper?” she whispered, covering her mouth.

  “Yes, I do,” he whispered back, then smiled.

  “Why didn’t you tell me? I thought Marion almost gave it away, but I wasn’t sure until my grandmother hinted about it. How did you know?” she kept whispering.

  “Darlin’, I know just about everyone and everything that goes on in this town.”

  “Joshua, please whisper or you’re going to get in a lot of trouble.”

  “Cassie,” he whispered. “There aren’t any cameras in Christmas Time.”

  “Oh, thanks a lot! You do seem to get a little kick out of embarrassing me.”

  “No, not really, I just like to hear you whisper. It’s kind of sexy.”

  Cassie couldn’t help but blush. “So, are you going to buy some gifts for your family? I want to buy something for them, too?” She was trying to change the subject.

  ***

  Joey Cheats found a nice advantage point in the steeple of the little chapel in the village, to see what was going on. He’d never seen anything like this in his whole life and was amazed at all the snow appearing suddenly at nightfall. He rode in with Joshua and his family, in their personal sleigh. Joey was amazed at the painted windows, all the decorations, and the Christmas Time village. Joshua’s family was fond of Joey, thinking he was a writer and included him into their little family outing.

  He went off on his own, commenting he wanted to capture the beauty of the village, but he mostly wanted to contact his long lost sister, Gina. He was sitting comfortably in the steeple with his new binoculars, which also allowed him to hear whomever he was spying on. He didn’t have to wait for long.

  “Michael, don’t make me laugh,” Gina pushed him away. I can’t draw any attention,” as she pulled on her knit cap and readjusted her sunglasses.

  “I hope that doesn’t apply to me, since I can’t take my eyes off of you.”

  Gina pulled him close and kissed him. “Where do you want to go now?”

  “How about my place?” Michael grinned.

  “NO! This is my first Christmas Time and I want to enjoy all of it. You were so clever to steal one of the sleighs, but it was even better that someone needed to leave. That worked out really great! You’re my four-leaf clover.”

  Michael had to laugh. “You mean . . . I’m your lucky charm. You say the funniest things sometime, but I love it.”

  “So, are you going to buy me something for Christmas?”

  “I want to, but you can’t follow me. It has to be a secret.”

  “Okay, I’ll just sit over there by the church and try to keep warm.”

  “Gina, the benches are already warm, you won’t freeze.”

  “Shhh, don’t say my real name out loud. I don’t want anyone to know who I am . . . remember? Try to call me Ginger or just Gin.”

  “Okay, okay, I’ll try a little harder, but I still don’t know why.”

  Gina pulled him close and kissed him again. “This is why, honey.”

  Michael walked backwards for a few steps, not wanting to leave her, but he then turned and ran toward the shop, as Gina walked over to the chapel and sat down. “Wow, it is warm and dry. This place is unbelievable”.

  The Royals were walking by, covered in fur, with their obedient male followers.

  “Ginger? L
inda called out. “That is you, right? You shouldn’t be shopping all by yourself. Come join with us. We’re checking out all the new shops this year and we did see few things worth buying.”

  “Oh, I can’t. I’m waiting for Michael. We want to have some one-on-one time, if you know what I mean.”

  Linda seems a little miffed. “Well, if you’d rather be with a fading quarterback, that’s your business. You’re never going to be popular here, hanging around a deadbeat.”

  Gina smiled and pressed her ring, flashing a light into their faces. “All of you should go away and have fun building a huge snowman in the meadow, at the end of the road.”

  The group starting running down the street, as Gina laughed.

  Joey smiled at himself and thought, Oh, yeah, that’s my little sister.

  ***

  “You know, this has been so much fun, but are you sure Zach wanted a new football and cleats?”

  “Are you kidding, that’s all he’s been crying about for the last few months. His cleats are too small and you can’t have enough footballs, right?”

  “But what if your dad buys him cleats, too?”

  “Not going to happen, sweetheart. My dad’s a little cheap, and if he gives him a Christmas present, it’s gonna be clothes that mom picked out for him.”

  “Okay, that makes me feel better. I just want him to be happy.”

  “Well, if Geri would just give him a little kiss, he would be a very happy boy.”

  Cassie had to laugh. “You do know that would start a war in Parkerville.”

  “Yeah! Wouldn’t that be fun? Come on, I have a surprise for you.”

  Joshua put his arm around her shoulders and they walked down a narrow snowy path. After a few turns in the path, Cassie could hear some horses.

  “What was that?” Cassie stopped, as she looked up at Joshua. “What’s around this curve?”

  “Something nice.”

  When they rounded the curve, Cassie saw a beautiful sleigh with real horses. The sleigh was beautifully decorated with ribbons and bells.

  “Is this my surprise?” Cassie walked over to the two horses and patted their noses. “How are you Jimbo? Do you remember me? I visited your farm, and remember you and your momma, Mabel.” Jimbo seemed to know what she was saying and rubbed his nose on her shoulder. “Oh, Joshua, this is wonderful!”

  “Come on, get in and pull that blanket over your legs. It could get a little nippy. I wanted you to see how beautiful this part of the town is for Christmas. Puddington Village is just over that hill. There’s lots of magic in the air right now, so don’t get too close to the moon-singers and keep your purse hidden.”

  ***

  Skye and Chad found a bench not too far from the bon fire. Parents were trying to teach their little ones how to skate and the two had so much fun laughing and pointing to some of them. All of a sudden, they recognized two of the skaters out on the ice.

   “Oh, my gosh, so that’s where they ended up,” Chad said, pointing to a clumsy guy out on the ice.

   “Wow, I didn’t know Will could skate.” 

   “He can’t,” Chad said, getting up from the bench to take a closer look.

  Carol Jean was doing fine, skating around him, and trying to pull him up.

   “Maybe we should give them some help. What do you say?”

  “Yeah, sounds like fun . . . let’s go.”

   The two headed for the skate counter to rent some skates. In no time they were out on the ice, skating toward Will and Carol Jean.

   “Oh, thank goodness.” Carol Jean was relieved.

   “Come on, Will, up you go,” Chad said, giving him a hand up.

   “Hey, Skye, how come you can skate so good?” Will said, a little flustered.

   “We used to skate on Hogan’s pond, back home in Bright Springs.” 

   “Come on, let’s show them.” Chad took Skye’s hand and they skated off.

   Soon they were doing figure eights and skating backwards together. They were having so much fun they didn’t see others standing on the side of the ice watching them.

   Carol Jean joined them and together they skated hand in hand, laughing and having a ball together.

   Will made it over to the edge of the pond to the bon fire and watched them.

   “Can you do that?” A little girl, no more than six, skated up to Will.

   “No, but I’m going to practice.”

   Carol Jean felt sorry for Will, so she broke the small chain of hands and skated back to him. “Come on, let’s try again. Give me your hand.”

   “Whoa . . .” Will said, as he clumsily made his way back out on the ice.

   “Just do something simple. Just try skating leaning left and right, taking your time and work on a rhythm. That’s how I learned.”

   Skye and Chad were off doing their own thing, skating around the children and just enjoying their time together.

  ***

  “Do you really think we will see a moon-singer?” Cassie asked a little excited. “Are they dangerous?

  “Not really. They’re related to the gypsies, but they only dress up for Christmas Time. They can read minds and that’s why they can sing songs about you. Believe me, very personal stuff, and it can be a little embarrassing. I gave one of them a dime, when I was young, and he implanted his mind into mine. Now, he always finds me, so don’t be surprised if he shows up. We won’t be giving him any more dimes.”

  “But are they so poor they have to beg for dimes?

  “No, the dimes are magical to them. Don’t know why, but if you feel sorry for them, just give them a dollar and they’ll be happy to go away.

  “Gosh, Joshua, you know a lot about this town.”

  “Darlin’ I grew up here and I make it my business to know just about everything I can. Especially now you and Skye are here.”

  “Joshua, does everyone in town know about the deckers?”

  “Of course, we do. Why are you asking?”

  “Well, Skye, Carol Jean, and I were on Mrs. Davis’ roof, early this morning; when all the windows were painted and all the other decorations around the town.”

  “Don’t feel bad, darlin’, all of us have climbed up on the roof, but I haven’t done that in years. Were you and Skye surprised?”

  “Are you kidding? It was so magical, but just a little slippery and cold. There were two deckers hanging on the roof, one was little and the other was much bigger. I was so afraid they wouldn’t decorate Sara’s house, but they did.”

  “Oh, you met Ralphy? He’s my favorite.”

  “Yes, he was just so loveable. Do you know Carol Jean is his sister?”

  “Everyone one knows about Carol Jean’s family. They are a very important family in this town. Of course, her mom gives me the chills at times. Come on; let’s go for a ride. I think you’ll see some other strange, but amazing stuff.”

  Jimbo and Mabel were trotting along, when they came to a waterfall above a little creek. The horses seemed to know where they were going and slowed down.

  “Oh, this is so beautiful, with all the snow and the green and blue spruce trees. Do you come here very often?”

  “Sometimes, I’ll ride Jimbo up to this spot and breathe in the beauty of this place. I’ve traveled a lot in my life, but I never want to leave my home here in Parkerville.” Joshua gave each horse an apple and got back into the sleigh. “I have something for you, too.”

  “No, it’s not Christmas yet. I can wait for my present.”

  Joshua laughed, “What makes you think it’s a Christmas present? It’s just something I’ve been wantin’ to give you and this is the perfect time, but you have to close your eyes.”

  Cassie obeyed and Joshua put a small box in her hand. She felt the box in her hand and was a little worried. “Joshua, no, it’s
way too soon.”

  “Just open your eyes, Princess, and open the box.”

  Cassie opened her eyes and glared at him. “No, this is too soon and you have to take it back.”

  “Alright, I’ll take it back, if you want, but I want you to see what it is . . . okay?”

  Cassie nodded.

  There was no wrapping, so he lifted the lid and he began to pull out a silver chain.

  “Joshua, I said no. You have to wait until Christmas . . . please!

  But Joshua kept pulling the chain out of the box. At the end of the chain, there was a little pearl ring.

  “Cassie, will you go steady with me?”

                              Siblings

  Joey came out of the chapel and sat down next to Gina.

  “Hey, I’m sitting here,” Gina said, irritated. “You can go sit on that bench farther down, and take that nasty cigarette with you.”

  “Well, Ginger, or should I say . . . Gina? I’ve been looking for you.”

  Gina jumped up from the bench and faced him. “Who are you?”

  “Don’t ya see a family resemblance here, kiddo?”

  “Who the hell are you? Tell me or I’m gonna scream bloody murder. The people here are really protective of each other and I’m one of them. So get lost, creep.”

  She started to press her ring, when Joey grabbed her hand, slipping the ring off her finger.

  “Now, now, little sister, that’s not really fair, don’t ya think? I’ll put the sig away, but you need to keep your big yap shut. Now sit down.”

  “Oh, yeah . . .”

  Joey hit the button and a flash of red light hit her face. “Gina, sit down and please stop talking.” She obeyed, staring straight ahead.

  Marion and her friends came around the corner, laughing and having a wonderful time. Geri and Amy were walking behind. Marion stopped suddenly and grabbed Sara’s hand.

  “Oh, Sara, can you take the girls with you for a little while? I need to go into a little shop without them.”

  “Sure, take your time. I’ll keep them busy. Come on, girls, I think you will like this next shop.”

  “Once they were gone, Marion slowly walked toward her siblings.

  ***

  Will was finally getting the hand of skating, taking it slow and staying close to Carol Jean. All of a sudden, he got a little closer than she was expecting and he kissed her. It was a shock to both of them, but she just smiled and continued to help him get around the ice.

  Standing against the little building, that housed the rental skates, Will’s cousin, Freddie, was not amused by the sight of the twosome.

  “Having a date, Will?

  “Yeah, if it’s any of your business.” Will got up to leave, but Freddie wouldn’t back down.

   “It is my business, since you’re always sayin’ you hate her.”

   “Well, I don’t, and to be honest, I never did. So leave me alone.”

   Will started to walk away, but Freddie just followed him, mocking him and laughing at him. “You gotta be pretty hard up to want to date dumb ole’ Carol Jean. What’d you do? Just give up on all the other girls in town, to go after skanky ole’ Carol Jean?” 

  WHAM! Will gave Freddie a punch right in the jaw, so hard it knocked him down and out for just a second.

  Freddie shook his head and tried to get up, but Will put his foot on him. “If you get up and start bad mouthing her, I’ll knock you on your ass again. Just leave her alone and stay far away from me.”

  Freddie stared up at Will, with a disbelieving look on his face, rubbing his jaw.

   “Okay, I’ll leave you both alone from now on . . . you big fat liar.”

  Will walked away, satisfied with Freddie’s answer.

   Chad and Skye came upon Freddie, getting up and brushing snow off his coat.

   “Hey, what’s going on?” Skye asked innocently.

   “The two of you, Will, and that skinny girlfriend of his. That’s what’s wrong.”

  Then he stomped off into the snow and was gone.

  “Oh, well, I guess we’ll find out sooner or later. Got any more shopping to do?” Chad asked.

   “No, I think I can finish up later. This was just such a special day. Kind of like the first day of hunting season for the men.” Skye grinned.

   “Okay, so I guess I’ll go see what my mom is up to. She was so excited to be here and meet everyone. Want to come along?”

   “Sure, let’s go back to Christmas Time. There still might be something that catches my eye. I still need toys for my nieces and my baby nephew.”

   “So what did you get Julie and Stan? Are they coming for Christmas?”

  “I don’t think so, after the calamity on Thanksgiving. I think we’ll just take a ride out there after Christmas and surprise them. Anyway, I got Julie and Stan a handy dandy, fixer mixer. Stan loves that sort of thing. After he puts it together, Julie can use it. So, it’s basically for both of them.”

  ***

  Marion made sure no one was watching, as she walked toward her brother and sister, tears running down her face.

  “How long have you been here? And why didn’t you tell me?”

  Joey stood up, while Gina was still in a trance. He walked over to Marion and hugged her tight, with his own tears flowing.

  “Joe, what’s wrong with Gina?”

  “I flashed her with her own ring,” he smiled. “Mare, she gonna to be a problem.”

  “Yeah, I’m expecting that, but it was all my fault. She tricked me.” Marion continued to cry. “She pushed me into the teleport and locked the door behind. We were all supposed to go to the same timeframe. Now, we’re all spread apart.”

  Joey hugged her again. “I knew what was going down. Gina was living with thugs. I tried to take her away, but I couldn’t even get close. She was their pet, and there was a guy named Rafe Lopez, who took care of her. He was about 20-years-old back then, when you went through the portal.

  I’m sorry, Mare, it wasn’t supposed to be like this. I watched her grow up from a distance, but they gave me an ultimatum . . . back off or she’s dead! Now she’s finally here, but we gotta be smart, or she’ll ruin everything. We gotta keep an eye on her.”

  Marion walked over to Gina and stroked her cheek. “You need to mark her.”

  “Already done. I slipped it under the flasher on her ring. We’ll be able to track her and even listen to her. Don’t worry, Mare, I’ve got nothin’ but time. I’ll keep in touch. I’ve already found your earphone number. Those Keepers aren’t as smart as they think they are.”

  “Tell me about it. I live with one,” Marion laughed. “Don’t get me wrong, Justin’s a dream, but we have to step up and foil their plans.”

  “It’s in the works, kiddo, and Jim Edwards on board. That man knows everything. He’s with us, you know, but his family doesn’t know anything. He’s playing dumb.”

  “What about Joshua? He’s never far away from Cassie. It worries me.”

  “He’s a good kid, but he’s got the hots for her. Can’t blame him, she’s . . .”

  “Okay, I got it. She’s very smart and cunning . . . kind of like me. I’m also thinking she found her grandmothers in Marshall City, but I’m not sure.”

  Joey smiled, giving it away. “Ain’t she’s a peach?”

  “Yeah, I’ve discovered that, but I need to catch up with my friends and my daughter, Geri. I can’t wait for you to meet my kids, but I don’t want to bring too much attention, right now.” Marion kissed Gina on her forehead and gave Joey another hug. “I’m so glad you’re finally here. I feel a little safer now.”

  “We’ll keep in touch, Sis, but you need to scram. Don’t want too much attention on me, either.”

  Marion walked across the street and disappeared into the shop.

  Joey turned to his younger sist
er. “Gina, stick out your ring finger.” She obeyed and Joey slipped the ring back on. “We’ll meet again, doll face. So, you can wake up now.”

  Gina blinked her eyes and looked around. She turned and watched a strange man walking down the sidewalk.

  ***

   Joshua and Cassie were sharing a kiss, but it was getting late and the sleighs would be returning to the square.

  “Well, darlin’, it’s about time to take you back.”

  “Already? The village was so much fun and thanks for bringing me here.”

  “It was all for my pleasure, darlin’. I hardly ever get to see you, and this was a dream come true.”

  Cassie smiled, but was sad to leave. “Okay, we’d better go. I’m really trying hard not to get into any more trouble. I really can’t afford it”

  Joshua nodded and turned the sleigh back toward the square.

  The Stolen Coat and The Stolen Life

  Skye and Chad walked back up the sidewalk, laughing together and holding hands. Skye was just feeling warm and happy. Up ahead of them, a bit of a commotion was taking place. It was the strangest sight they’d seen yet. The Baker sisters were in a tizzy. They were both hurrying up the sidewalk to the sleighs, but someone strangely dressed was following them, trying to get their attention.

   An older man, dressed in gray striped pants and black suspenders, wearing a flannel shirt, was chasing after them trying to retrieve a heavy red and black checked coat Rose was clutching. She was practically running from him and Bernadette was urging her on, all the while turning and threatening the man with her umbrella.

   “Give it back, I’m freezing,” the man yelled trying to catch up to them.

   “No, no, no! You won’t get it back, you can’t have it!” Rose and Bernadette were yelling as the man started to gain on them.

  “Hurry, Rose, hurry . . . he’s gaining on us,” Bernadette cried.

   Sara and Marion were just coming out of a nearby shop when the two women ran by. Sara instinctively put her foot out and tripped the man before he could grab hold of Rose.

   “Ma’am, why would you do that?” he asked, looking up at the two younger women.

  “You’re chasing two friends of ours and what do you think you’re doing chasing after two older ladies?” Marion demanded.

   Sara glared down at the man waiting for an answer.

   “They stole my coat, I laid it down for a minute to get my wallet out, and they took it. And I’m freezing out here. Why on earth would they steal a man’s coat?” The man looked up at them, with frost on his eyebrows.

   Chad and Skye reached the scene, just in time to hear the man complain about the Baker sisters. Chad helped the man up, brushing off his cold flannel shirt. He stood shivering, as Marion and Sara looked at each other, not knowing what to say.

   “Come along, we’ll get to the bottom of this,” Sara said.

   Marion got on the other side of the poor man and grabbed his elbow, as Sara took his other arm. The threesome marched up the sidewalk toward the waiting sleigh where the Baker sisters huddled together on the seat, still clutching the coat.

   “Alright, ladies, what is this all about and why did you steal this man’s coat?” Marion asked.

   “It’s not his coat and he cannot have it back!” Rose said adamantly.

   “He stole it from our father, that’s what he did. This coat belonged to our dear departed father. His initials are on the inside collar, RB, for Randall Baker. So, he has no right to be wearing it,” Bernadette added.

   “I’ve had that coat for many years. It’s mine and I can’t go through winter without it.” The man said, reaching for it.

   Rose turned away from him and Bernadette tried to push him away from the sleigh.

  “Alright, where did you get the coat to begin with?” Marion asked.

   “I can hardly remember, it’s been so long, but I think it was in the box for the poor many years ago. Yes, I remember now, some old lady with a cane had a young man carry a big box of men’s clothing into the Memory Hall. They were having a jumbo sale and I think I paid a quarter for it.”

  Rose turned to look at Bernadette.

   “The sale at Memory Hall?” Bernadette asked.

   “Yes, I live down in the Glen and I came to the sale. I saw that coat and it was a perfect fit, and in really good condition. The old lady told me to just take it, but I gave her a quarter for it. She wasn’t the nicest person I’ve ever met, but I needed a coat,” he said sadly.

   “Oh, dear, I think we’ve made a big mistake, Rose. I think that was mother giving away Dad’s clothes,” Bernadette spoke up.

   Rose, still clutching the coat, brushed her cheek against it and then slowly relinquished the treasured coat to the man. He gently took it from the ladies and hurriedly put it on.

   “Thank you, ladies, I can see why it was so important to you, but it is to me, too.”

   “Look, we’re so very sorry,” Bernadette, offered. “You must come to our house Christmas eve. We’re having some friends over for hot chocolate and sweets. Please would you come?”

   Rose’s eyes grew so big and she nudged her sister sharply. “Are you out of your mind?” she whispered to her.

   “No, I think we truly owe this man a warm cup of chocolate and some sweets. I insist.” Bernadette replied.

   “Yes, I’d be very happy to come to your house. I’ll be there, I promise.”

   “What is your name, sir?” Bernadette called after him as he started to leave.

  “Just call me Cal,” he said, focusing on Rose.

  “Cal?” Rose said staring into his eyes.

  He put his coat back on and turned and walked away.

  “Oh that name sounds so familiar, now where have I heard it before?” Bernadette stretched her mind to try to remember the man.

  “Cal.” Rose whispered with tears in her eyes as their sleigh started to move.

   "All right, the excitements over, let’s gather ourselves together, everyone. Here comes our sleigh. Are we all here?" Marion asked, looking around.

   "Skye? Where is Cassie?" Marion asked, tapping her foot.

  “There she is!” Geri announced, as Joshua’s sleigh came around the corner.

  “Oh, thank goodness,” Cookie said, in a quiet voice. She said her goodbyes to her old friends, as her eyes teared up. “I’ve had the time of my life. Thanks for inviting me. I’ll never forget this.”

  Joshua stopped next to the other sleighs and jumped down into the snow, to help Cassie down. He held her hand as he returned his sweetheart to Marion.

  Even Marion blushed a little at Joshua’s gentle caring of Cassie.

  Cookie walked toward Cassie and gave her a hug, as she said goodbye to everyone, and her son helped her into the sleigh.

  “Those are real horses, aren’t they,” Amy gushed. “Wow that must have been so romantic.”

  All the woman watched as Joshua drove away and let out a sigh.

  “Okay, girls, we need to get home. It’s starting to snow, so bundle up,” Sara called out, as the sleigh started for the square.

  “Oh, look, the snow is pink,” Cassie, pointed out. “All of this is unbelievable, but so wonderful. I’m used to seeing gray snow in the city and there aren’t any sleighs rides. It was just wet and cold.”

  Carol Jean was seated next to Cassie and gave her a hug. “I’m so glad you’re here now. You belong here.”

  ***

  Christmas shopping in the village was over for the ladies. They talked about it all the way home and their faces were bright and happy with the gifts they chose.

  It was a fun afternoon and the girls were anxious to see, when and if, their purchases would be delivered to their rooms. They were a little skeptical, but deep down; they hoped it was real. Sara took Marion’s crew first, and then Sara took o
ff with Skye and Carol Jean.

  The sidewalks were dry, but the tinted snow in the yard was at least a foot deep. Once Sara’s sleigh was gone, the snow on the road began to melt behind her. Amy and her mother said goodbye and walked toward their home, as Cassie noticed colored lights were glowing through the front windows.

  “Did Mr. Keaton put up the tree?”

  Geri ran in front of Cassie and stopped her. “No, don’t tell her, Mom. Let her see for herself.”

  “Okay, Geri, but it’s getting really cold out here. Let’s go in the front door.”

  When the door opened, an aroma of pinecones and cinnamon filled the air.

  “Oh, that smells wonderful!” Cassie said breathing it all in, as she walked in the front door. The girls ran to the living room and the most beautiful Christmas tree was standing in the corner next to the bay window. The rest of the room seemed bare, compared to the tree.

  “Okay, girls,” Marion said. “We have some decorating to do, but it can wait until tomorrow. I’m exhausted!”

  The girls hung up their coats and hats in the kitchen, and pulled off their boots, before running up the stairs. When they got to the top, they ran to their rooms.

  After a couple of hours, Geri knocked on Cassie’s door.

  “Cassie, Mom made a light dinner, and dad and Chris are home. We’re going to do some decorating, if you want to help.”

  Cassie opened her door with a smile. “Yeah, I want to help. This is so crazy! Every gift I bought was in a box, with a description on top, and there were bundles of wrapping paper and ribbons. Should we bring down the presents?”

  “No, just keep them in your room for now. Dad and Chris brought them up.”

  Everyone was in the living room, with Christmas music surrounding the room, making homemade decorations and stringing popcorn. After dark, they went out on the porch to look at the lights. The Parker house was glowing with lights outside and in. The colors rose in beautiful ribbons, streaming across the full moon.

  ***

  The following Saturday, came a little too fast for the men of Parkerville. It wasn’t the joyous event the women experienced. Most of the men in town were not looking forward to shopping.

  Homer and his father were the exception. A shopping trip away from Marabelle and his mother was the biggest day of the year for the Fludge men and they waited with anticipation for this special day.

  Justin and Chris took it all in stride with good humor, with Marion hinting for the last couple of weeks for that special gift, in a special shop, with the men pretending they hadn’t heard.

  Bud, Todd, and Teddy were ready for the shopping; however, they were more excited about the big lunch at the special man’s grill where all the men would gather, laugh, and share ideas for gifts from one another.

  So all the men gathered at Christmas Time and spread out to search for a gift that would put a smile on someone’s face. By 2 o’clock in the afternoon, they were tired and hungry, and ready for lunch.

  The Power’s Grill was also a new diner opened for the men this year. The owner was hoping if all went well, they would invite him back the following year, or the holy grail of being invited to stay permanently all year long.

  “Welcome, welcome everyone,” Henry said, as the men slowly gathered in the grill.

  The rich smells of the dark mahogany flavored the walls and tables, and coupled with the smell of the warm grill ready for steaks, hamburgers, and onions nearly had the men on their knees when they came through the doors.

  “Now this is a man’s place,” Bud Keaton said, taking in the ambiance of the rustic bar, stools, and hunter’s paintings, which adorned the dark stained walls.

  At each table, lanterns were flickering and beckoning for a man to take a seat and relax in the warm soft glow of the large brownstone fireplace, which was the essence of the grill.

  “My name’s Henry Powers and I am the owner of this establishment, and you are all very welcome.” Henry was a great Irishman, with a ruddy complexion, sparkling eyes, and a genuine ready smile for everyone. His hair was black, slicked back, and parted down the middle. He had ready menus in his hands and started passing them out to the hungry company of men.

  “Dad, I just want to live here,” Homer said, taking in the entire room.

  “Yeah, wouldn’t we all,” his father agreed.

  The men all sat down at the tables and started perusing the menus.

  Justin was especially impressed with the grill and pleased with the way the men seemed to enjoy themselves. Henry came over to Justin and asked if there was anything he could get him . . . a drink perhaps?

  “Do you serve alcohol here?” Justin asked, cautiously.

  “I serve a light wine and a drink called nearly beer. Nearly beer tastes like the real thing, but there is no alcohol in it. So, the only thing in this establishment that will intoxicate is the atmosphere. What can I get you?”

  “I’ll certainly try the near-beer, Bud said, and my boys here might want to try it themselves.”

  “Yep, I’ll try it too,” Todd, said, still looking over the menu.

  “I would like to try your light wine, sir. I enjoy a dry, white wine if you have it?” Justin asked.

  “Yes, sir,” Henry replied, writing it down.

  “Got any root beer?” Teddy asked.

  “I sure do, young man. I’ll bring your drinks out presently, while you decide on the menu.” Henry smiled.

  Another waiter appeared to take down the orders of the group of men and a young lady returned with drinks. After a couple of hours, laughing and talking, the men decided they’d better get started for home. They walked out of the Grill feeling totally sated, patting their full stomachs with some of them ready for nap.

  “How do women do it, Dad?” Todd laughed, “I mean, they shop all day and they’re still not tired. It’s really unbelievable the stamina they have.”

  “That’s just the way they’re made, son. Me, I’m ready for a long winter’s nap after all we just put away. But you know, although your mom is reluctant to say it, I think her feet take a beating sometimes in the shoes she wears. And you know something else; I think most women love to shop. It’s not a chore the way it is for us,” Bud laughed.

  Justin was talking to Henry regarding the delicious fare they all enjoyed, not to mention the atmosphere.

  “Henry, I have to talk to the other members, but I’m certain we’ll be offering you a permanent place here in this part of the town.”

  “That’s music to my ears. Thank you so much.”

  Justin shook his hand and left with Chris, who was waiting at the door.

  “Okay, guys like it or not, we’d better hit some of these shops,” Justin said, walking toward the group.

  “I was afraid you were going to bring that up,” Bud said, nodding to his boys. “Let’s get going and get it done.”

  After a couple of hours of shopping, they met up with the rest of the group and all the men headed for home.

  “Tomorrow is the Wishing Well and that will be the last day to come back here for this year,” Bud said, with a heavy sigh.

  “Aw, are you gonna cry?” Justin frowned.

  “Hell, no! I can’t wait for this to be over. This time of year just wears me out.”

  The Wishing Well

  Sunday morning came with a cold brisk wind. Sara and Skye bundled up in their warmest hats and coats, and started for church.

  Carol Jean hurried to catch up with them, as they walked up the sidewalk.

  “My dad went out yesterday with the rest of the men. I have no idea what he bought. I used to sneak around and try to find out where his hiding places were, but dad’s good at hiding things.”              

  “Why would you want to ruin your Christmas surprises?” Skye said amazed.

  “Well, I guess I just hoped he got me something I really wanted. You don�
�t know my dad; he used to buy the craziest things for us.”

  “Wait!” A loud voice shouted behind them. Marabelle Fludge trudged up the sidewalk, as fast as she could to join them.

  “I don’t believe it!” Carol Jean rolled her eyes.

  “Hey, my mom told me to catch up with you guys and go to church with you. She’s not in a very good mood, so I said I would,” Marabelle floundered, trying to be nice about her intrusion. “Between you and me, guys, I think mom might have seen what my dad got her for Christmas. She does it every year. She sneaks around and looks for her presents. Not very smart,” Marabelle chuckled.

  “Oh, and you don’t sneak around trying to find your presents?” Carol Jean chided.

  “Nope, I learned my lesson years ago. I’d rather be surprised, so they can see the real look on my face, if I don’t like it or thinks it’s dumb.”

  Sara tried hard to hide the smile on her face, as she listened to the girls.

  “Yeah, I’ll bet Homer will never forget the Christmas he gave you a baseball bat,” Carol Jean smirked.

  “Oh, you’re right, he’ll never forget that! Boy, did he have a knot on his head. I thought it was dumb for my mom and dad to go on and on so much. Okay, a little concussion, but he was fine after a week.”

  Under her breath, Skye was whispering over and over again, “Please don’t let me get Marabelle’s name . . . please, please, please.”

  They arrived at the church, just as everyone was walking and talking excitedly about the Wishing Well. It was always so beautiful, with bright lights and garland.

  “I can’t wait to see it all decorated and pretty. Chris and Todd were still building it, when we were shopping last week,” Skye said.

  “I hope those awful dogs aren’t there this year,” Marabelle hissed. “I promised I wouldn’t do that again.”

  Skye looked at Sara, about to ask a question, when Sara simply said, “Don’t ask.”

  Standing at the top of the church steps were Cassie, Chris, and Geri, all waiting for their friends.

  “See you inside,” Sara said, nodding to them. “Good luck to everyone, but of course, if you don’t want to participate, you don’t have to put in your name.

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