Holidays and Dreamy Nights - Book 3
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.â Ralphy said, going back through the window and over to the Fludge house.
Sara answered a knock at the Davisâ kitchen door. âCarol Jean?â Sara said, surprised to see her.
âHi, Mrs. Davis.â
âWell, come on in. Julie and the baby are sleeping, so we need to be quiet.â
âUm, not really,â Carol Jean answered, sitting down in a kitchen chair.
âWhat do you mean, not really?â Skye broke in, coming to sit down by her friend.
âJake, 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 heâs a really great guy, so no one will know or find out. Okay?â Carol Jean said breathlessly.
âYouâre not making sense,â Skye said, getting up to go check on them in the living room.
But Sara had already checked. âYes, theyâre gone.â
âNo,â Skye said with tears in her eyes. âNo, they canât be. I needed to say goodbye.â
âI know, but this is the only way we could do it, donât you see? You two had nothing to do with it and you can say that with a clear conscience.â
âYeah, okay. Youâre right,â Skye finally agreed. âIt was very brave of you, Carol Jean, but do you think Marabelle saw anything?â
âOh, no, she must have seen Jakeâs truck. Sheâs probably on the phone right now calling Justin,â Sara said in a panic.
âNo, Marabelle doesnât know a thing, I promise,â Carol Jean assured them. âLook, I have to go; before my mother finds out Iâm missing. Sorry we couldnât 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.â Carol Jean waved as she rushed out the door.
âOkay, thanks,â Skye said half-heartedly.
From the Davisâ house, Carol Jean glanced over at Marabelleâs upper window. Ralphy was still having fun scaring Marabelle and her mother.
âRalphy, stop it!â Carol Jean yelled.
âK.â Ralphy sped back to the glen and into Mishaâs house.
âEverything okay?â Misha asked, not looking at the little guy who was wearing a huge grin.
âYesh!â 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,â No!â 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 couldnât see a thing outside. She tried to open one, and then thought better of it. She didnât really need a red and white striped face at this point. She looked back at a still sleeping Cassie, who spent the night.
âCassie, wake up! Somethingâs happening to the windows!â
Cassie slowly opened her eyes, rubbing them to try to focus on an excited Skye, standing pointing at the nearest window.
âWhat time is it?â Cassie said, looking bewildered, as she tried to sit up. âWhatâs going on and why did you scream?â
âSorry, I had a bad dream, but look at the windows. We need to find whatâs happening!â 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.
âAunt Sara, our windows are being painted with red and white stripes!â
âOkay, okay, but I hoped this year theyâd be pink and white. Go back to sleep, dear,â Sara muttered and then turned over.
Skye ran downstairs to the kitchen but all the windows were the same. She couldnât see a thing outside and she just had to know what was going on, running back upstairs and bumping into an excited Cassie.
âWait a minute. When I was raking leaves with Chris, he mentioned the deckers. Do you think itâs the deckerâs whoâs decorating the town for Christmas? What else could it be?â Cassie than started to whisper, âWe have to go up to your attic and see if we can get out.â
Skye started leading the way up the attic stairs. âHold it, these slippers and robes arenât enough. We need blankets and boots. That roof is going to be very slippery,â Skye warned.
The girls quickly went back to Skyeâs 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 Skyeâs blanket and pulled her back.
âCarol Jean! Where on earth did you come from,â Cassie asked, a little shocked?
Without answering, Carol Jean pointed and said, âLook out there! Man, I always said this would be the best roof to see everything.â
âBut, Carol Jean, how did you get up here,â Skye asked.
âItâs not important, just look at the town!â 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 girlsâ faces gave way to panic, when one of the deckers popped up to put lights along the roof of Saraâs 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.
âNO! You are in much tribble!â he squealed.
âWe just wanted to see you, thatâs all. You are the most beautiful people in the whole world and you are great artists!â Skye fawned.
âYes, here I am. You see me now!â The decker growled, a little embarrassed.
âWhatâs your name?â Cassie asked.
âTrimpet,â he said eyeing Carol Jean.
Two other pink fingers suddenly were gripping the edge of the roof next to Trimpet.
âTrimpet! What are you ding?â
the other decker said, when he appeared. Then he spotted the two girls.
âRalphy canât finish house now,â Trimpet said.
âUh oh,â Ralphy sighed.
âAs I was seeing, you two girls in big tribble!â Trimpet continued.
âUm, there are three of us,â Cassie corrected Trimpet.
âOh, she always up here. She allowed,â he said.
Turning to the other decker, who was looking at the girls with a big smile, Trimpet said, âWe cannot fix house now. They are rules! Go back in window, no spray . . . now!â he shouted.
Both deckers jumped up on the roof and walked over to where the girls were sitting.
âNo, we canât let this happen to Aunt Sara! We didnât mean anything by it, we were just curious,â Skye pleaded.
âLook, please? If we promise to go back into the house right now, will you forget you saw us?â At that point Skye touched Trimpetâs hand.
There was an intake of breath and his eyes rolled back into his head. âShe touch me!â He then stared at Skye, while his blue eyes grew illuminated. âYou are one of . . .â he started.
âOh, Trimpet, for Peteys sake, you always make biggest deal,â Ralphy laughed. With a smile, he reached over and pushed him off the roof. âSee, she touch you hand, I push you off roof, that funny.â
Carol Jean started to laugh, sheâd 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, âNo biggest deal, we like you Aunt Sara, she nicest nicest. We finish house.â
âYou have to hairy back into window now, hairy hairy,â Trimpet shouted.
The girls turned and tried to scamper back to the unpainted window, when the decker suddenly shouted, âdeck, deck!â
A whoosh of paint sailed over their heads and onto the last window.
The two girls looked horrified and Cassie turned back to Trimpet. âWhat do we do now?â
âDinât know, you problem, not me.â
Ralphy looked at the girls and then whispered something to Trimpet.
âOkay, we hilp this one time.â
They both looked from side to side, making sure the other deckers werenât 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.
âYou want them see how you got up?â 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, whoâd helped them once they were on the ground. âDo you know her,â she asked?
âYesh.â
âHow on earth do you know her?â
He gave her a shy smile and said, âFimly.â Then he was off like lightening.
Cassie and Skye couldnât believe their eyes, as they stood alone.
âDid you see how fast Carol Jean ran away?â Skye said, not believing her eyes.
âYeah, and that explains a few things Iâve 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.â
âYouâre right,â Cassie, âI even got a little chill when I saw her next to you, but I thought it was my imagination.â
âDid you hear what he said, sheâs family, itâs all starting to make sense now. âYou know, youâre 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. âMmm . . . minty!
Sleigh Bells and Wishing Wells
âWell, youâre finally up,â Sara said, walking into the kitchen. Iâm sure you noticed the windows are now painted and locked down, as if we are prisoners.â
âOh, itâs gorgeous out there! I love all of this and canât 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.
âSo, I imagine you met Ralphy. Heâs a cutie and one of the nicest decker of them all,â Sara said.
âYes,â Cassie started, âthere were two deckers. One was little, and his name was Ralphy, and the bigger one was Trimpet.
âWas Carol Jean out there with you two?â
âYes, Mrs. Davis, she was already out there, when we showed up. Are you angry with us?â
Absolutely not, of course you wanted to see them. Iâm just used to them.â Sara smiled. âSo, you met Ralphy, Carol Jeanâs brother?â
âCarol Jean has a brother?â both girls said together.
âYes, her father carries the decker gene. Each one has different abilities. Jay, Carol Jean, and Ralphyâs father has the ability to camouflage himself. He doesnât leave home very much, he works at home: heâs 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.â
âBut Iâve seen Mr. Myers, he looks perfectly normal,â Skye said puzzled.
âWas he sitting down, when you met him?â Sara asked.
Yes, heâs always reading something, when I go over there.â
âWell, heâs a bit shy about meeting new people. Heâs only about 5â3â.
âSo, why didnât Carol Jean tell us?â Sky asked.
âShe 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 letâs have some fun.â
Skye and Cassie were eating their breakfast, when they heard a tiny bumping on the back door.
âWas that a knock or something else?â Skye asked.
âI think it was something else, but let's see,â 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.
âOh, 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.â
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.
âWhat do the others look like? Are they all green with red and white dots?â Skye asked.
âHeaven'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.â
âShe's lovely,â Skye said.
âOh, sheâs more than that, sheâs amazing,â 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.
âI just don't believe this place,â Skye said, âEveryday there's another surprise or revelation to enjoy. This whole town is absolutely enchanted.â
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.
âThat was wonderful!â Cassie said, as she started peeling off a monkey roll and smiled at Skye.
âWell, girls, we need to get going. We donât want to keep everyone waiting on us.
âHow are we going to shop, since thereâs so much snow out there?â Cassie asked, looking innocently at Sara. This is our first Christmas here and we donât know what to expect. Of course, it was such a surprise this morning and we canât figure out how all of this happened. Did the deckers decorate the whole town?â
âYes, everything is decorated before breakfast. I just wish they would do something different, one of these years,â Sara said, walking to the sink. She could see the girlâs faces in the mirrored window and had to laugh to herself.
âOkay, letâs get going. We have some Christmas shopping to do and our sleigh will be here in an hour,â Sara said, putting another log on the fire in the kitchen. She was in a very good mood.
âWhat sleigh? Are we really going to ride in a sleigh to go shopping,â Skye said excitedly.
âOh, this is just too cool,â Cassie, added.
âYes, 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?â
âYes, that sounds like a lot of fun, but do you know how to drive a sleigh?â Cassie asked.
âOf 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 donât get in front of Marabelle. Sheâll try to run you over,â Sara laughed. âOkay, letâs get ready. Youâre gonna want to dress warmly.â
âI only brought a jacket,â Cassie complained, âI didnât know we were going to be out in the snow.â
âDonât worry, sweetie, Marion is on her way here with the sleigh. She has a new coat for you.â
âOh, thanks, Iâd better go up and get dressed. I canât wait to ride in a real sleigh,â Cassie couldnât stop smiling.
A knock at the back door presented Carol Jean, dressed in her winter coat and a white fur hat.
âCan I get a ride?â she laughed. âIâve been ready for about three hours and Iâm so excited. Mom never wanted to drive a sleigh and she never really enjoys holidays, but I love this time of year.â She then started rubbing her hands together to get them warm.
âCan I get a ride?â she asked coming into the big warm kitchen. âIâve been ready for about three hours and Iâm so excited. Mom never wanted to drive a sleigh and she never really enjoys holidays, but I love this time of year.â Then she started rubbing her hands together to get them warm.
"We had some beautiful unique visitors a little while ago."Â 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?"Â 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.
âWell, this is a first for me, too, and Iâm going to make the most of it. Hey, where are your gloves?â Skye asked.
âOh, Momâs borrowing them, she has to walk to her friendâs house and itâs cold out there. Donât worry, Iâll be fine,â she said, walking over to the fireplace. âThis house always smells so wonderful,â 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, âOh, Skye, youâre so lucky.â
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.
âPut your boots on,â 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.
âBut I donât want to wear boots; Iâm wearing my black Mary Janeâs,â Skye argued.
âPut your boots on!â 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.
âAnd you, missy, put these on.â Sara presented Carol Jean with a pair of white wool gloves.
Carol Jean took them shyly and thanked Sara.
âOkay, I hear the sleigh bells, so letâs get going, girls.â
Out the door they went to meet up with the other women in their sleighs.
âAnd where on earth did those beautiful horses come from? My goodness they look like Clydesdales?â Skye gushed.
âThey are Clydesdales, and we keep them in a very special place.â
âOy, move yer bums. We don't 'ave all dye.â The large white horse on the left turned to snicker at the Davisâ clan, as they trudged down the driveway to the sleigh.
âBumble, one more word out of you and you go back to the stable. I've had just about enough of your grumbling this morning,â Marion reprimanded the big white horse.
âWhy do we get him every year?"Â Sara muttered to Marion.
âJust lucky, I guess,â Bumble snorted.
âDon't tell me, let me guess. The same guy who created Cinder, created that big buffoon.â Skye laughed as she started to climb into the sleigh. Just then, Bumble moved forward and Skye fell back in the snow.
âAve' a wet bum, do we?â Bumble reared his head up and down as if to laugh.
âDon't worry, Mrs. Keaton, I'll make him behave.â The horse on the right said.
âDobbin, youâre the best,â Sara said acknowledging the proud stallion.
"Skye, we've all learned not to insult Bumble, just ignore him.â Geri laughed, offering a hand up from the back seat.
âYes, thank you, Dobbin.â 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.
âOh, I love them. How did you know?â
âWell, sweetie, Iâm beginning to know you all too well.â 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.
âGo!â Marion demanded.
âNo!â Bumble uttered.
âDobbin?â Sara asked, questioning.
âHe's in one of his moods, Miss, I'll just try to pull the sleigh without his assistance,â 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.
âMove!â 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. âYou wouldn't dare!â he glared a
t her.
âI would,â 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 Bumbleâs 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.
âHave fun!â they called after to the girls, as they turned and waved to the boys.
âThanks!â 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.
âHey, where are we going?â Cassie spoke up. âArenât we shopping in the square?â
âHeavenâs know, dear, we are going to Christmas Time. Youâll see,â Marion said.
After passing the square, they came to a beautiful English village.
âOkay, everyone, weâre here.â Marion climbed out of the front seat, directing the girls to follow.
âAve yourselves a dye,â Bumble snickered.
âYeah, you too, Bumble, and now give someone else a treat,â Skye called out.
âFirst off,â Sara started, âlet 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.     Donât 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.â
Sara folded her list and put it into her purse. âWell, now, I think I've covered everything, but be sure to watch the time and have fun. Are there any questions?â
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 didnât 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 couldnât 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.
âNow here sits a lass, so tired and so cold.
She is so young and yet so old.
Iâm 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.â
The strange man leaned down close to her. âShall I tell you more or have I said too much?â
âYes, you have. Now get out of here!â Sara's voice came from behind the moon-singer and she sounded very angry.
âIndeed madam, I shall be going, but have you a dime you wonât be spending?â
"No, not for you, now leave this minute or I'll call for a Keeper!â
âGood grief, Aunt Sara, what on earth is wrong? I didnât understand a word he was saying. Why so mad?â Skye said, getting up from the bench, questioning her.
âHey, what did we miss?â Cassie said coming out of the drug store.
Carol Jean snickered as she watched the moon-singer dance away. âYou got to meet a moon-singer? Well, donât take them too seriously. They never make any sense.â
âYouâre absolutely right, Carol Jean, they never make sense, but theyâll take your last dime if you let them.â Sara narrowed her eyes at him as he continued up the sidewalk.
âOkay, well, Iâve met the moon-singer and Iâll be sure to stay away from any others who come my way. So whatâs next?â Skye smiled.
âI have to meet Marion at her favorite boutique, so Iâll be leaving you two in Carol Jeanâs care. Itâs ten oâclock, so donât forget weâre meeting at noon for lunch. Carol Jean knows where the restaurant is. Please donât be late, girls.â 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.
âHey, letâs go in. Itâs got a lot of old stuff in there and I love old stuff.â
âSorry, not my style,â Cassie said, âbut you can go in, Carol Jean?â
âNo, thank you, our house is already filled with old stuff and thereâs nothing in there I would want to buy.âÂ
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?
âI would and I did,â a voice came from behind a stuffed chair.
âOh, excuse me?â Skye said, taken aback. âI didnât think I spoke out loud.â
âYou didnât, but everyone says that, when they come face to face with him.â A circle of smoke rose from the back of the chair.
âUmm, smells like cherries.â Skye sniffed.
âCherry tobacco, actually . . . my favorite,â the voice returned.
âOh, Iâm sorry, sir, but could you tell me how much the jewelry box in the window would be?â
âSir? What do you mean by sir?â The voice stood up.
Sky
e was surprised at the lady who stood up from the chair and approached her.
âWhat on earth made you think I was a man, little woman?â
âWell, Iâve only known men to smoke pipes.âÂ
âWell, meet Elvira Moon.â 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, âOh no,â she starting to laugh.
Cassie looked up at Carol Jean and started laughing, too.
Carol Jeanâs lips had two thin lines of red and white. She kept pursing her lips together, to meld the two colors, but it didnât change.
âWhat can we do, Carol Jean? You canât go around with striped lips.â
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.
âNow, what about the jewelry box?â Elvira asked.
âOh, the one in the front window with the pretty rose.â Skye started to walk to the front part of the store.
âTwo dollars and fifty cents, please,â Elvira said.
âOh, thatâs a good price. I think Iâll take it.â
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. âGood grief, Iâve never seen a coin roll that far before in my life,â 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.
âGive it a spin,â Elvira said to Skye, walking back to the wheel.
âI wonât break it or anything, will I? I mean, I couldnât afford to pay for something like this,â Skye said, mesmerized by the wheel.
âYou couldnât break her, not in a million years. Go ahead give her a spin.â
âOkay, now do I need to sit down?â
âNo, no, donât sit on her. Just spin her from where you are.â
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.
âThatâs just remarkable. One little turn and it looks like new,â Skye said, surprised and delighted.
âNo, donât call her an it, she doesnât like that. Her name is Miss Spinpast.â
âWhy did you tell me not to sit on her, if sheâs so sturdy?âÂ
âWell, unless youâre figuring on going somewhere, why would you bother to sit down?â Elvira answered, with a mischievous grin on her face.
âGo somewhere?â
âYep, if you sit on Miss Spin past, you can go into the past whenever you want, but only into the past. She doesnât do future and there is the chance you may not get back.â
âOkay, well, I think Iâll go ahead and buy the jewelry box. It was so nice talking to you and spinning your wheel, Miss Spin past.â
Skye started back to the cash register, noticing there were spinning wheels throughout the shop in all sizes up against the wooden walls. âWhat a strange room,â 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.
âI think you're missing some photos,â Skye mused.
âNo, they are just waiting to be filled,â Elvira said, walking to one of the frames, straightening it. âSilly me,â she said. âThey 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.â At that point she turned and smiled at Skye expectantly.
âWell, 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.â 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.
âWell, Merry Christmas!â 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. âWhere did you get these lipsticks? I love them! I want to get these for Amyâs Christmas present.â
âJust go into the drug store. They have lots of colors and flavors.â
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, âWhy do you have black dots on red lips?â
âItâs a new fad. Everyone will be wearing them and they come in all kinds of flavors and colors,â Geri said, with a devilish smile.
Skye still had a shocked look on her face, when she spoke up, âHey, can I try one?â
âSure, what flavor would you like to try?â Cassie said, grabbing some lipsticks out of her bag. âHow about the strawberry?â
âOh, I love strawberry.â Skye put some on her lips and tasted the creamy flavor. âThese are great!âÂ
Cassie handed her the mirror and Skye nearly lost it, seeing the tiny seeds on her lips. âYeah, who wouldnât love this?â
Carol Jean handed her the tissue. âJust blot your lips and the seeds will disappear.â
âWow, I can definitely see this being a great stocking stuffer. How did they do that?â
âHow does anything here make any sense,â Cassie laughed.
Geri saw Amy and her mother, so Marion excused themselves and joined up with them.
âSo what did you find?â Carol Jean looked anxiously at Skyeâs bag.
âIâm not telling, but you two should come back in with me. The shop has the neatest things,â Skye started, then lowered her voice. âShe has a big old spinning wheel that goes back in time.âÂ
âOh, really?â Cassie said amused.
âYeah, sheâs really sweet, but I think sheâs a penny shy of a nickel,â 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.
âHey, thereâs the Penny Mart. Want to go in and browse around?â Cassie asked.
âSure,â 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. âI swear, Bernadette, these went out when mother was a young woman.â
Skye laughed and went over to her. âRose, these are petty pants and theyâre really in now. I love them and I wear them all the time.â Skye offered lifting her coat and skirt.
âOh, my goodness, dear, drop that at once,â Rose blushed, looking around her.
âNo, not at all, Rose, weâll have all the handsome men so excited with such a display,â Bernadette nodded. âIt could be fun.â
âOh no, no, I just thought you wanted to see them,â Skye said, a little embarrassed, dropping her coat and skirt.
âWell, motherâs bloomers came below the knee, while yours above the knee and not quite as baggy, if you know what I mean,â Bernadette said, with a little shy giggle.
âI wear them too,â Cassie offered.
âYes, dear, of course we believe you would, but in motherâs time they called them bloomers,â Rose interjected, âand no respectable girl would ever allow the men to see them.â
âWell, I think its fine, Rose,â Bernadette broke in. âIâm thinking these petty pants are the new bloomers.â
The girls laughed at the sisters, realizing they hadnât 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.
âHi, sweetie, having a good time?â Sara asked cautiously.
âYes, weâre having a wonderful time, how about you?â Skye asked.
âOh, itâs 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?â
âYes, I did. I bought a very pretty something, but Iâm not sure who I will give it to.â Skye grinned.
âWell, I bought some Christmas shopping bags for you and the girls.â
âOh, thanks, Aunt Sara, theyâre perfect! We can get a lot of things in this bag.â
âYouâre very welcome, sweetie. Uh, I just wanted to mention something to you. Now, please donât take this the wrong way, like you always do, but I hope you donât go back to that antique shop. I hope youâre finished in there.â
âWhy would you be concerned about that? The lady that runs that shop is just a little off in her head and I think sheâs a little eccentric, to tell the truth.â
âJust donât go back there, please. I donât trust that lady, and like you said, sheâs a little off at times. Now, weâll be meeting in an hour and a half at Carmellaâs Sin, so donât be late.â Sara walked over to Marion, leaving Skye to ponder the conversation she just had with her aunt.
Somethingâs up, Skye thought to herself. Why did she make such a big deal about that store? âUnless,â she said out loud. Oh, no way, she rejected the whole idea. Itâs 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 wasnât a child any longer.
âOh, Skye, sheâs just beautiful!â Cassie said, admiring the doll.
âYes, but weâre here to get presents for others. Iâm just glad I donât have to buy anything for Marabelle.Â
âDid I hear my name mentioned?â Marabelle came up behind them. âHi, girls, itâs so nice to see you. Iâve been hoping Iâd run into you.â
âWith what, a shopping cart or a sleigh?â Skye narrowed her eyes at her.
âOh, you know what I mean. Iâd love to join you girls, but Iâm with my mother. Oh, but Iâm sure I could lose her, if you want me to come with you?â
âNo! Weâre fine,â all three girls said at once.
Marabelle looked hurt at this response.
âItâs just that . . . well,â Carol Jean began, âwe donât want anyone to know what weâre buying. Itâs supposed to be a surprise.
âOh?â Marabelleâs eyes sparkled at the thought.
âOkay, Iâll be off with my mom, and I promise I wonât peak.â
âWhoa, that was close. Why was she so . . . nice?â Cassie asked.
âSheâs always like this around Christmas,â Carol Jean grimaced. âShe thinks everyone is going to buy her a gift.â
Skye found a beautiful leather wallet in her search for gifts. She was about to take it to the cashier, when she couldnât 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.
âGirls, Iâll be back in ten minutes. Iâve got to find my wallet.â
Skye hurried outside and started back to the antique store. She walked quickly, and with every step she took, an idea came to her.
Itâs just too ridiculous. It couldnât possibly happen, but if it could . . . I mean, if I could actually go back to that time, that exact time. âOh, gosh, what am I thinking? That could never happen, no, not in a million years,â Skye said out loud.
âHey, whatâs the hurry?â A familiar voice rang out.
âChad! Where did you come from?â Skye was a little frazzled. âHow did you know Iâd be here and how did you get in?â
âWell, Iâm glad to see you, too.â
âIâm sorry; I just didnât know you would be here.â
âWell, I have my ways. So, whatâs going on?â 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.
âYou think Iâm crazy donât you?â Skye said, looking down at her boots.
âNope, anything you want to do, or think you can do, Iâm in on it.âÂ
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.
âSkye has always loved dolls,â 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 Saraâs back yard, from my window. Mom wouldnât let me play with her, since she was an outsider, but I was so jealous back then.â
âHey, Carol Jean,â one of her classmates called out. âCome over here, I want your opinion on something.â
âShe wants my opinion? Thatâs a first. Iâll be right back.â
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 sheâll love this one. Then she went to one of the salesgirls.
âHow can I get these dolls home without anyone knowing?â
âWell, 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?â
Cassie just stared for a moment. âYou can do that?â
âOf 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?â
âYeah, I guess, but I need to tell you who they are for.â
âNo problem, here are some blank cards, just write the gift and then the personâs name. Theyâll be delivered to your house in no time at all.â The cashier said.
âWell, that sounds pretty easy.â 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.
 âWell, hello, again.â
âHello, Miss Moon, Iâm afraid I might have left my wallet here.â
âWell now, letâs see.â Elvira went around to the counter to search near the cash register. âI donât see it.â
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.
âDid you see that?â Skye asked Chad.
âI didnât see anything, but wow, this is the biggest spinning wheel Iâve ever seen.â He remarked, looking her over. âMy grandmother had one, but nothing like this. So is this what you were talking about?â he paused. âGee, Skye, I wouldnât put too much stock in what she told you. I know how much you want . . .â Chad was stopped by the appearance of Elvira, at the entrance to the back room.
 âAny luck finding your wallet, dear? I hardly believe it would be back here, since you paid at the counter when you left the store,â she said sarcastically.
 âNo, of course not, I had other reasons for coming back,â Skye replied sheepishly.
 âYes . . . Iâll bet you did. Well, the game is over and Iâm a busy woman, so I must ask you both to leave now.â
 âWait a minute,â Chad said. âShe wanted to ask you something and itâs very important to her, so why canât you just listen for a minute.âÂ
âChad, itâs okay, but Miss Moon, you told me this spinning wheel can take a person into the past. Were you just pulling my leg?â
âLook, itâs just a part of the stories I tell from time to time. This is an antique shop, for heavenâs sake. I try to make it more interesting . . . thatâs all.â
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 wasnât right and Skye knew it. She and Chad both approached Elvira.
âWas my aunt in to visit you today?â Skye asked.
âHow would I know your aunt? I donât even know you, young lady. Now, would you both please leave, there is nothing here that could interest you.â Elvira went back into the front of the shop to attend her new customers.
 âCome on,â Chad whispered, âletâs try anyway.â He took her hand and went back to the spinning wheel.
âBut, Chad, she told me if you go back in time, you might not come back.â
âOh, come on. You donât really believe that, do you?â
âNo, Iâm sure itâs just something to make it more interesting.
âOkay, Iâll sit here and you sit in front of me. Itâs just for laughs, but hopefully it will get the old girlâs goat.â
 Skye was taking it very seriously. She sat down nervously in front of Chad. The seat was long and narrow, and wasnât very comfortable, but with Chadâs arms around her it felt almost cozy.
 âGo for it,â 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.
 âDear God in heaven,â Chad said, blinking his eyes at the sights before him. âI never in a million years dreamed it would work.â
 âSomething told me it would, but is this the right place and the right moment?â 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.
âHey, Cassie,â Carol Jean said beaming. âShe knew my name! I couldnât believe it. I donât remember even talking to her before, but she knew who I was.â
âSo, who is she? She doesnât look familiar to me.â
âYeah, she didnât look familiar to me, either. Good grief, I didnât even know her name.â
âBut itâs okay; you helped her, so thatâs all that matters . . . right?â
âI 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.â
âSure, Iâd love to see some other stores, but shouldnât we wait for Skye? I donât think sheâll be very long.
âWell, to tell the truth, I saw her with some blond guy. I saw them walking together through the window.â
âUm, yes, that must be Chad, but I thought this was a girlâs day out.â
âHeâs not from Parkerville, so I donât know how he even got here.â
âI have no idea, but they probably wonât be back for a while, so letâs go shopping.â
***
 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.
 âI know that car. Itâs my momâs car,â 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.
 âMama,â Skye whispered, nearly choking on the loving memory of that name.
 âWow, thatâs your mom?â Chad said softly. âI forgot how beautiful she was.â
 Skye flung herself off the wheel and started running toward the woman.
âSkye no,â Chad yelled, but she wasnât listening.
 âMama! Mama! Mommy, please?â 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 motherâs neck. âDonât ever leave me again. Donât ever! I wonât let you leave me,â she sobbed.
 âSweetheart, who are you?â 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. âSkye! Skye please come back!â Chad hollered at her.
 âNO!â She screamed in desperation.
 âWait a minute, now calm down, sweetheart.â Dottie looked into the tee
nagerâs face. âI love the name, Skye. My little girl has the same name. In fact, Iâm on my way home to see her.â
 âIâm Skye! Iâm your Skye. Itâs been six years. Donât you understand? You disappeared six years ago. I live with Aunt Sara now. Mama, donât you know me?â
 Dottie looked deep into Skyeâs teary eyes, and then she fainted. Skye slowly dropped to the ground, protecting her mother.
 âLook, kid, I donât know whatâs going on here, but you need to get away from this woman. And I mean it! Iâve been planning this for a long time and you ainât 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 didnât want her to be hurt by this horrible man.
 The man leaned down to gather Dottie up in his arms.
 âLeave her alone, donât touch her!â Chad narrowed his eyes.
 âGet away, kid. I donât want to hurt you, but, believe me I will.â
 âTake your hands off my mother!â Skye said, in a deep threatening voice.
 âYour what?â The man looked at her amazed.
 âMy mother!â Skye nearly spit at him. But this time the iris of her eyes had turned black.
 âThis is her mother who disappeared six years ago. This is Skye Mackenna, her daughter. I suspect you had something to do with her disappearance,â 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. âMama, wake up. Itâs okay . . . Iâm here.â Skye said soothingly.
âMrs. Mackenna, itâs going to be all right. Please wake up,â Chad pleaded.
 While all of Skyeâs concentration was on her mother, the man took something out of his pocket and quickly plunged it into Skyeâs arm. But before she lost consciousness, she reached up and scratched him across the face.
Blood dripped from the manâs face, running down his neck, while small drops appeared on Dottieâs dress. He narrowed his eyes at the unconscious daughter. âYouâre lucky youâre still alive, little girl,â he hissed.
 âStay away from her, you son . . . of . . . a . . .â 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. âI donât know what you did, but youâre going to be so damn sorry,â Chad said, shouting.
 âYou mean, sheâs really my . . .â Dottie started, and then the man plunged a needle into her arm, and she passed out again.
 âLook, kid, I donât know where you came from, or who you really are, but I only had enough for her and the girl. Itâs your lucky day, kid.â
 âDid you kill them?â Chad said, with tears in his eyes.
 âHell, no, itâs just a memory drug. She wonât remember a thing, neither will her mother,â he said, looking down at Dottie.
 The man walked over to the girl and looked down at her face. âDamn! Sheâs Dottieâs kid all right. I donât know how or whatâs going on, but sheâs a knockout . . . pardon the pun,â he laughed. âIâd take her too, but sheâs too much trouble. Keep hold of that one, kid, there arenât many around like her and her mom. This one belongs to me now, and you canât do anything about it. Youâve got to keep all of this to yourself, unless you want to lose her.â He then picked up Dottie and started to walk away with her.
 âWhere are you taking her?â Chad yelled.
 âBack where she came from, kid, where she belongs . . . with me.â
 âBut where?â 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?â
 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 Skyeâs 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 wouldnât 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 Chadâs warm arms around her. She felt a little uneasy and her arm was hurting.
 âOh my, what happened? Did we go anywhere?â
 âNope,â Chad said, helping a dizzy Skye off the wheel. âItâs just like the lady said, itâs all a part of the stories she tells. Nothing really happened. Letâs get out of this place.
As they walked past Elvira, she looked at Chad.
âSomething happened, right? I knew it.â Elvira stood with her hands on her hips, glaring at the two.
âNothing happened at all. Iâm glad you donât charge for sitting on a spinning wheel, going nowhere,â he said, as they walked out the front door.
 âOh really?â Elvira said not believing a word of it. âItâs such a shame I canât put their picture up.â 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.
âHey, Iâve got to catch up with my friends. Why are we just sitting here?â She said, looking around a little confused. âI guess the spinning wheel was a hoax, huh? But thanks for putting up with my wild ideas. Iâll always love you for that.â Skye looked around. âSo, 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.
âIâll always protect you, Skye.â 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.
âWhoa, you got problems, man?â 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. âYeah, more than you could possibly understand.â
âWell, Iâm a pretty good listener . . . give me a try.â
âI canât tell you, youâll call the Keepers on me and theyâd put me away.â
âNo way! So what did you do, steal something?â Joshua laughed.
âNo, itâs a little more complicated than that.â 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. âWhoâs that?â
Joshua turned toward Todd and nodded, then turned back to Chad. âThatâs Todd Kane . . . your rival.â
Chad laughed. âHim? Heck no, Iâm not worried. Skye and I have a history that goes way back. Heâs no problem.â He lowered his head and let out a sigh. âLook, Josh, Iâm really not in any mood for small talk. Iâve got way too much on my mind right now and Iâm just not sure what Iâm going to doâ
âOkay, now youâve got my attention. My curiosity is up and there is absolutely nothinâ about this town thatâll surprise me.â
âI just canât,â Chad sighed.
âCome on, man, spill. Get it off your chest.â
Chad turned toward Joshua and looked him straight in the eyes. âIf I tell you, you have to promise you wonât tell another living soul . . . on your honor.â
âYou got it,â Joshua assured him.
âWell, I ran i
nto 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.â From there, Chad told Joshua the most amazing story.
âWhoa, this is the first time in my life I donât know what to say. Iâve heard some crazy stories about our town, but that has to be one the craziest.â
âYeah, well, I knew you wouldnât believe it,â Chad said, dropping his head back into his hands.
âOh no, pal, I believe every word of it. No kiddinâ . . . I do. But what are you gonna to do now? How youâre 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. Whatâll you do then?â
âOh, God, I didnât even think about that. Do you really think sheâll remember one of these days?â Chad was stricken with the realization that heâs got more to worry about.
âYeah, Iâm thinkinâ youâve got your hands full, pal,â Joshua said, shaking his head.
***
 âPlease tell me why we volunteered to put this stupid well together this year?â Todd asked Chris, while struggling with the directions.
âHey, my dad roped me into this and I knew Iâd regret it. Letâs just get this thing together, so we can go get something warm to drink,â Chris said, his white breath steaming up the snowy atmosphere around him.
 âHey, guys, want something hot to drink?â Skye called out as she, Cassie, and Carol Jean made their way down the sidewalk, with warm pastries and hot chocolate.
 âSounds good to me,â Todd said, throwing down the directions and meeting the girls on the sidewalk.
âMe, too! You girls are angels. How did you know?â 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.
âOh, man, I feel like I died and went to heaven. These are so good. We canât thank you enough,â Chris said, diving into a cream filled pastry.
 âNo problem.â Cassie smiled, as she walked across to the bench to offer the same to Joshua and Chad. âHey, Iâll bet you guys could use a hot cup of chocolate and a donut.â
Skye held out the drinks as Chad and Joshua helped themselves.
 âWell, gee, some people are just lucky, I guess,â Will said, walking by with a pout on his face.
 âOh, here,â 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 Jeanâs generosity; he didnât know quite what to say. âWell thanks, I mean, you didnât have to. I was just kind of jealous, I guess. Itâs really cold.â
 âNo big deal,â she said, and turned back to her friends.
 âHey, um, next Saturday, would you want to go see a movie?â Will asked her before she could get away.
 Carol Jean turned back around. âWhy, whatâs playing?â
 âOh, theyâre showing that White Christmas movie again. Want to go?â
 âMaybe,â 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.
âLetâs sit down and enjoy them before they get cold.â 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.
âThereâs a little stand farther up the sidewalk selling them. I realized you gave up your hot chocolate so I bought you some cider.
 Will couldnât tell if the cold was tearing up Carol Jeanâs 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.
 âWell,â Will spoke up, âyou didnât really give me an answer.âÂ
 âOh, all right, if itâs okay with my mom and dad.â
 Willâs heart leaped, but he made no big deal of it in front of her.
âThatâs great. Iâll meet you at the bus around 7 oâclock. Okay?â
âYeah, okay, but like I said, it has to be okay with my mom.â
Women were now starting to hurry by. It was nearly lunchtime and they would have to leave to meet the others at Carlottaâs.
Joshua tried to think of a way to get Cassie alone. âHey, why donât we take a little walk and watch the kids skating on Penny Creek?â
 âI wish I could, but we have to go meet the other ladies, including your mom, at Carlottaâs for lunch,â Cassie replied.â
 Chad got up from the bench and took their cups, throwing them into the trash can near the benches. âThat was really sweet of you girls. Thanks for thinking of us.â 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.
 âHey, you gotta let me go. I have to meet my aunt and your mom at the restaurant.â 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, âCome on girls, we have to go. This has been the happiest day I can remember.â 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. âWho was that guy, and why was he kissing Skye?â
âOh, yeah, that was Chad Cavanaugh,â Chris replied. âGeri told me about him. The girls went to see a movie and this guy shows up. Donât know much about him, but Iâve heard his family might be coming to live here. Wait, how are they connected to our town? I havenât heard anything about them. Oh, is his dadâs a banker or something? I do think Dad mentioned them, but I wasnât really paying attention.â
âGreat! Is that the guy she was talking about at the sleepover, that guy who danced with her in the barn?â
âYeah, I think it is,â Chris began to laugh.
âWhy are you laughing? Cassieâs through your fingers and I doubt if you can get her back from that pea-brained farmer.â
Both guys heaved a heavy sigh and got out the plans for the wishing well.
âOkay, letâs get back to work. I donât want to freeze out here all day.â
âHey, boys, need some help?â A couple of farm hands yelled out.
âYeah, that would be great,â both boys, yelled in sync. âDo you know how this thing is supposed to be put together?â Chris asked.
âDonât worry, weâve done this before. You guys can go on, if you like.â
***
There were two restaurants side by side. One was Carlottaâs Sin and the other was Clairâs 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.
âOh, how wonderful, Amy, we donât 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?â Geri gushed.
âWell, Iâm so glad you finally graduated to the teen scene,â Marion laughed.
A moon singer began to play a gui
tar, 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.
âI wish I could get my floor this bright and beautiful,â Marion chided.
âI almost feel like sliding on it,â Sara laughed.
âYou know, Iâd pay to see that.â Marion laughed.
Cookie Edwards, Margie Kane and Debra Cavanaugh, Chadâs 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.
 âWelcome, Ladies,â one of the maids replied. âTo your right is a cloak room, where you may hang your coats and there is a shelf above for your hats.â
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.
âIâm speechless,â Marion said, gleefully trying on a purple satin hat, rich with pale lavender plumes and ribbons looped into intricate shapes.
 âIâve never felt so feminine in my life.â Sara smiled, as the milliner tried a pink velvet hat atop her dark auburn hair.
âDo you have anything with reds and greens? I want to feel festive for the season.â Cookie laughed.
âDonât forget me! I want something sexy and red, with lots of feathers,â Margie said, giggling.â
âOh, Sara, Iâm so glad you invited me,â Debra said, giving Sara a hug. âAll of you have made me feel so welcome. This is a day I will never forget.â
âItâs our pleasure, dear. Now you need to pick out a wonderful hat.â
âOh, yes, blue and white, with a hint of yellow will suit me just fine,â Debra said to the milliner, when it was her turn to choose a hat.
 âWe really havenât had this much fun in a very long time,â Cookie said. âI would say itâs about time.â
âYes, it has been such a long time, Cookie. We all need to get together at least once a month and have some fun,â Marion said, giving Cookie a hug. âWhat do you think about this? Should we invite Carlottaâs Sin to stay in Parkerville and have it our getaway when we need it? Who agrees?â
Everyone nodded their heads and waited to order, until the girls arrived and had fun catching up.
âHoly smoke, this sure beats Hâour Burgers, doesnât it?â Carol Jean said wide-eyed, seated between Margie and Sara.
 âYouâre right, thereâs no comparison,â 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.
âI absolutely love this place, but why is it called Carlottaâs Sin?â Skye asked.
âI can answer that, young lady.â A low velvety voice said, approaching their table. âI 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.â
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.Â
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.
âThis was so wonderful and thanks so much, but I havenât really hit many of the little shops and need to finish my shopping.â
âOh, me too,â Skye and Carol Jean chimed in.
âOkay, girls, get going, but remember the sleighs will be going back around seven. It will start snowing again around eightish, to refresh the decorations,â Sara said.
Make sure you catch your sleigh, girls!â
âDonât worry, Aunt Sara, weâll be back way before it snows.â
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. âAre they the three stooges or our three musketeers?â
âIâm going for my musketeer, who sometimes acts like one of the stooges.â Skye said, walking towards Chad.
Cassie looked at Carol Jean. âSo what are you going to do? Are you sure about Will?â
âNot really, but we seem to have been cut from the same fabric. Yeah, heâs a little older, but for some reason, he makes me laugh. Am I crazy?â
âNo, you need to take a leap of faith and see what happens. He may just turn out to be your hero.â
Will stood up and slipped a little on the ice, but found his balance. His face went a little red, but he wasnât going to miss his chance to be with Carol Jean.
âHey, Carol Jean, do you have any more shopping to do?â
âAre you kidding, I havenât even started. Why donât we go down that lane and see what shops are there.â
âGreat!â he blushed again. âSo, letâs go.â Then he turned toward the bench. âNice talking to you guys.â
Once the twosome was far enough away, Joshua and Chad broke up laughing.
âJoshua, itâs not funny,â Cassie said. âHe may be a great guy for Carol Jean.â
âOh, yeah, what will they do . . . go fishin'?â
âWhatâs wrong with fishing? I love fishing, especially in a boat out in the middle of a pond. It can be very romantic,â Skye glared at Chad.
âOh, well yeah. It can be fun and romantic.â Chad said remembering a time on a pond with Skye back in Bright Springs.
The girls didnât laugh.
âOkay, donât get all prissy, ladies. Itâs just the scene in my mind thatâs cracking me up. Once the ice melts out on the pond, weâll see how good you are at catchinâ dinner,â Joshua added.
âYouâre lucky I have a sense of humor, farm boy. Now letâs get out of here and go shopping.â Cassie grabbed Joshuaâs hand and they took off. âSo, 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.â
âJoshua grinned, âOh, yeah, letâs start with Ch
ris. How about one of those brand new G.I. Joe dolls? Heâd really like that, donât you think? Oh, and polka dots are in right now. How about a new tie or a vest? Iâd really like to see him in a red and yellow polka dot vest. Wouldnât you?â
âWell, I was thinking about getting him a golden comb. Something durable that wonât break, since heâs always combing his hair.â
âSounds great. Come on, letâs go. I have a big surprise for you.â
***
Skye took Chadâs hand and started walking down the sidewalk.
âOkay, we need to talk, since there has to be some rules. First of all you canât 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 Iâm some sort of toy. I am not a toy! Is that clear?â
 Skye stopped in her tracks, looked at Chad, grabbed him and kissed him. âNo, that is not clear,â she said with a big grin on her face.
âGood, because I know you always do the opposite of what youâre told,â Chad laughed, grabbing her and swinging her around. âOkay, letâs go shopping. Whoâs next on the list?â
 âWell, it doesnât really matter. I just go into the shops, and if I see something I think someone will like, I buy it . . . easy enough.â
 Next, they came to a five and ten cent store. They went inside and got a bag of fun things to put in stockings.
 âMy 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 . . .â
âI know, perfume, right?â Chad surmised.
âHeavens no, that is way too personal. Every woman has her own scent. Never buy a woman perfume unless you know what she wears.â
âWell, 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 sheâs been there. It sounds kind of silly, but it made me feel safe and secure in some way, when I was a kid.â
 âAunt Sara wears two different kinds, so itâs better to let her get her own. She told me it depends on how sheâs feeling on a particular day. Now, that sounds silly to me. But the way you describe your mom is so sweet.â
 âOkay, where should we go next?â Chad asked, with his arm around Skyeâs waist.
âOh, and I need to go into a bath shop, and get some bubble bath and pretty soaps.â
 âWould you mind if I waited outside for you? That kind of shop always makes me sneeze.â Chad said, giving his nose a rub.
 âYes, I understand, my dad was the same way. Laundry soaps always made him sneeze.â
 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.
 âIâm so glad they just take your money and send your gifts to your house. That is so thoughtful.â Skye collapsed on the bench next to Chad.
 âWell, whatâs next?â
 âIâm a little tired of shopping right now. Gee, I never thought Iâd say that, not in this life time,â Skye laughed.
 âOkay, letâs go down to Penny Creek and watch the kidâs ice skate. Someone said they have a bon fire going, so it should be warm and cozy.â
 âSounds like fun, letâs go.â Skye grabbed Chadâs 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 theyâve ever seen.
âWhy would someone want to buy a real miniature dragon?â Cassie mused. âItâs so real and that fire breath seems a little too much . . . donât you think?â 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?â
âOh, thereâs some really rich people in this town. You canât even imagine, but that electric thingamajig you got Marion was pretty cool.â
âYeah, I canât wait to use it. Iâve never seen so many ways to cut a potato and I think the high and mighty Justin should like his new shoe polisher,â Cassie paused for a moment. âDo you really think heâll like it?â
âDonât know why he wouldnât. Heâll be able to see the mean expressions on his enemyâs faces, just by looking down at his shoes.â
Cassie had to laugh, but then looked around for a camera. âDo you really know Justinâs a Keeper?â she whispered, covering her mouth.
âYes, I do,â he whispered back, then smiled.
âWhy didnât you tell me? I thought Marion almost gave it away, but I wasnât sure until my grandmother hinted about it. How did you know?â she kept whispering.
âDarlinâ, I know just about everyone and everything that goes on in this town.â
âJoshua, please whisper or youâre going to get in a lot of trouble.â
âCassie,â he whispered. âThere arenât any cameras in Christmas Time.â
âOh, thanks a lot! You do seem to get a little kick out of embarrassing me.â
âNo, not really, I just like to hear you whisper. Itâs kind of sexy.â
Cassie couldnât help but blush. âSo, are you going to buy some gifts for your family? I want to buy something for them, too?â 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. Heâd 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. Joshuaâs 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 didnât have to wait for long.
âMichael, donât make me laugh,â Gina pushed him away. I canât draw any attention,â as she pulled on her knit cap and readjusted her sunglasses.
âI hope that doesnât apply to me, since I canât take my eyes off of you.â
Gina pulled him close and kissed him. âWhere do you want to go now?â
âHow about my place?â Michael grinned.
âNO! 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! Youâre my four-leaf clover.â
Michael had to laugh. âYou mean . . . Iâm your lucky charm. You say the funniest things sometime, but I love it.â
âSo, are you going to buy me something for Christmas?â
âI want to, but you canât follow me. It has to be a secret.â
âOkay, Iâll just sit over there by the church and try to keep warm.â
âGina, the benches are already warm, you wonât freeze.â
âShhh, donât say my real name out loud. I donât want anyone to know who I am . . . remember? Try to call me Ginger or just Gin.â
âOkay, okay, Iâll try a little harder, but I still donât know why.â
Gina pulled him close and kissed him again. âThis is why, honey.â
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. âWow, it is warm and dry. This place is unbelievableâ.
The Royals were walking by, covered in fur, with their obedient male followers.
âGinger? Lin
da called out. âThat is you, right? You shouldnât be shopping all by yourself. Come join with us. Weâre checking out all the new shops this year and we did see few things worth buying.â
âOh, I canât. Iâm waiting for Michael. We want to have some one-on-one time, if you know what I mean.â
Linda seems a little miffed. âWell, if youâd rather be with a fading quarterback, thatâs your business. Youâre never going to be popular here, hanging around a deadbeat.â
Gina smiled and pressed her ring, flashing a light into their faces. âAll of you should go away and have fun building a huge snowman in the meadow, at the end of the road.â
The group starting running down the street, as Gina laughed.
Joey smiled at himself and thought, Oh, yeah, thatâs my little sister.
***
âYou know, this has been so much fun, but are you sure Zach wanted a new football and cleats?â
âAre you kidding, thatâs all heâs been crying about for the last few months. His cleats are too small and you canât have enough footballs, right?â
âBut what if your dad buys him cleats, too?â
âNot going to happen, sweetheart. My dadâs a little cheap, and if he gives him a Christmas present, itâs gonna be clothes that mom picked out for him.â
âOkay, that makes me feel better. I just want him to be happy.â
âWell, if Geri would just give him a little kiss, he would be a very happy boy.â
Cassie had to laugh. âYou do know that would start a war in Parkerville.â
âYeah! Wouldnât that be fun? Come on, I have a surprise for you.â
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.
âWhat was that?â Cassie stopped, as she looked up at Joshua. âWhatâs around this curve?â
âSomething nice.â
When they rounded the curve, Cassie saw a beautiful sleigh with real horses. The sleigh was beautifully decorated with ribbons and bells.
âIs this my surprise?â Cassie walked over to the two horses and patted their noses. âHow are you Jimbo? Do you remember me? I visited your farm, and remember you and your momma, Mabel.â Jimbo seemed to know what she was saying and rubbed his nose on her shoulder. âOh, Joshua, this is wonderful!â
âCome 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. Thereâs lots of magic in the air right now, so donât get too close to the moon-singers and keep your purse hidden.â
***
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.
 âOh, my gosh, so thatâs where they ended up,â Chad said, pointing to a clumsy guy out on the ice.
 âWow, I didnât know Will could skate.âÂ
 âHe canât,â 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.
 âMaybe we should give them some help. What do you say?â
âYeah, sounds like fun . . . letâs go.â
 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.
 âOh, thank goodness.â Carol Jean was relieved.
 âCome on, Will, up you go,â Chad said, giving him a hand up.
 âHey, Skye, how come you can skate so good?â Will said, a little flustered.
 âWe used to skate on Hoganâs pond, back home in Bright Springs.âÂ
 âCome on, letâs show them.â Chad took Skyeâs hand and they skated off.
 Soon they were doing figure eights and skating backwards together. They were having so much fun they didnât 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.
 âCan you do that?â A little girl, no more than six, skated up to Will.
 âNo, but Iâm going to practice.â
 Carol Jean felt sorry for Will, so she broke the small chain of hands and skated back to him. âCome on, letâs try again. Give me your hand.â
 âWhoa . . .â Will said, as he clumsily made his way back out on the ice.
 âJust do something simple. Just try skating leaning left and right, taking your time and work on a rhythm. Thatâs how I learned.â
 Skye and Chad were off doing their own thing, skating around the children and just enjoying their time together.
***
âDo you really think we will see a moon-singer?â Cassie asked a little excited. âAre they dangerous?
âNot really. Theyâre related to the gypsies, but they only dress up for Christmas Time. They can read minds and thatâs 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 donât be surprised if he shows up. We wonât be giving him any more dimes.â
âBut are they so poor they have to beg for dimes?
âNo, the dimes are magical to them. Donât know why, but if you feel sorry for them, just give them a dollar and theyâll be happy to go away.
âGosh, Joshua, you know a lot about this town.â
âDarlinâ I grew up here and I make it my business to know just about everything I can. Especially now you and Skye are here.â
âJoshua, does everyone in town know about the deckers?â
âOf course, we do. Why are you asking?â
âWell, Skye, Carol Jean, and I were on Mrs. Davisâ roof, early this morning; when all the windows were painted and all the other decorations around the town.â
âDonât feel bad, darlinâ, all of us have climbed up on the roof, but I havenât done that in years. Were you and Skye surprised?â
âAre 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 wouldnât decorate Saraâs house, but they did.â
âOh, you met Ralphy? Heâs my favorite.â
âYes, he was just so loveable. Do you know Carol Jean is his sister?â
âEveryone one knows about Carol Jeanâs family. They are a very important family in this town. Of course, her mom gives me the chills at times. Come on; letâs go for a ride. I think youâll see some other strange, but amazing stuff.â
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.
âOh, this is so beautiful, with all the snow and the green and blue spruce trees. Do you come here very often?â
âSometimes, Iâll ride Jimbo up to this spot and breathe in the beauty of this place. Iâve traveled a lot in my life, but I never want to leave my home here in Parkerville.â Joshua gave each horse an apple and got back into the sleigh. âI have something for you, too.â
âNo, itâs not Christmas yet. I can wait for my present.â
Joshua laughed, âWhat makes you think itâs a Christmas present? Itâs just something Iâve been wantinâ to give you and this is the perfect time, but you have to close your eyes.â
Cassie obeyed and Joshua put a small box in her hand. She felt the box in her hand and was a little worried. âJoshua, no, itâs wa
y too soon.â
âJust open your eyes, Princess, and open the box.â
Cassie opened her eyes and glared at him. âNo, this is too soon and you have to take it back.â
âAlright, Iâll take it back, if you want, but I want you to see what it is . . . okay?â
Cassie nodded.
There was no wrapping, so he lifted the lid and he began to pull out a silver chain.
âJoshua, 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.
âCassie, will you go steady with me?â
                          Siblings
Joey came out of the chapel and sat down next to Gina.
âHey, Iâm sitting here,â Gina said, irritated. âYou can go sit on that bench farther down, and take that nasty cigarette with you.â
âWell, Ginger, or should I say . . . Gina? Iâve been looking for you.â
Gina jumped up from the bench and faced him. âWho are you?â
âDonât ya see a family resemblance here, kiddo?â
âWho the hell are you? Tell me or Iâm gonna scream bloody murder. The people here are really protective of each other and Iâm one of them. So get lost, creep.â
She started to press her ring, when Joey grabbed her hand, slipping the ring off her finger.
âNow, now, little sister, thatâs not really fair, donât ya think? Iâll put the sig away, but you need to keep your big yap shut. Now sit down.â
âOh, yeah . . .â
Joey hit the button and a flash of red light hit her face. âGina, sit down and please stop talking.â 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 Saraâs hand.
âOh, Sara, can you take the girls with you for a little while? I need to go into a little shop without them.â
âSure, take your time. Iâll keep them busy. Come on, girls, I think you will like this next shop.â
âOnce 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, Willâs cousin, Freddie, was not amused by the sight of the twosome.
âHaving a date, Will?
âYeah, if itâs any of your business.â Will got up to leave, but Freddie wouldnât back down.
 âIt is my business, since youâre always sayinâ you hate her.â
 âWell, I donât, and to be honest, I never did. So leave me alone.â
 Will started to walk away, but Freddie just followed him, mocking him and laughing at him. âYou gotta be pretty hard up to want to date dumb oleâ Carol Jean. Whatâd you do? Just give up on all the other girls in town, to go after skanky oleâ Carol Jean?âÂ
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. âIf you get up and start bad mouthing her, Iâll knock you on your ass again. Just leave her alone and stay far away from me.â
Freddie stared up at Will, with a disbelieving look on his face, rubbing his jaw.
 âOkay, Iâll leave you both alone from now on . . . you big fat liar.â
Will walked away, satisfied with Freddieâs answer.
 Chad and Skye came upon Freddie, getting up and brushing snow off his coat.
 âHey, whatâs going on?â Skye asked innocently.
 âThe two of you, Will, and that skinny girlfriend of his. Thatâs whatâs wrong.â
Then he stomped off into the snow and was gone.
âOh, well, I guess weâll find out sooner or later. Got any more shopping to do?â Chad asked.
 âNo, 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.â Skye grinned.
 âOkay, so I guess Iâll go see what my mom is up to. She was so excited to be here and meet everyone. Want to come along?â
 âSure, letâs 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.â
 âSo what did you get Julie and Stan? Are they coming for Christmas?â
âI donât think so, after the calamity on Thanksgiving. I think weâll 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, itâs basically for both of them.â
***
Marion made sure no one was watching, as she walked toward her brother and sister, tears running down her face.
âHow long have you been here? And why didnât you tell me?â
Joey stood up, while Gina was still in a trance. He walked over to Marion and hugged her tight, with his own tears flowing.
âJoe, whatâs wrong with Gina?â
âI flashed her with her own ring,â he smiled. âMare, she gonna to be a problem.â
âYeah, Iâm expecting that, but it was all my fault. She tricked me.â Marion continued to cry. âShe pushed me into the teleport and locked the door behind. We were all supposed to go to the same timeframe. Now, weâre all spread apart.â
Joey hugged her again. âI knew what was going down. Gina was living with thugs. I tried to take her away, but I couldnât 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.
Iâm sorry, Mare, it wasnât supposed to be like this. I watched her grow up from a distance, but they gave me an ultimatum . . . back off or sheâs dead! Now sheâs finally here, but we gotta be smart, or sheâll ruin everything. We gotta keep an eye on her.â
Marion walked over to Gina and stroked her cheek. âYou need to mark her.â
âAlready done. I slipped it under the flasher on her ring. Weâll be able to track her and even listen to her. Donât worry, Mare, Iâve got nothinâ but time. Iâll keep in touch. Iâve already found your earphone number. Those Keepers arenât as smart as they think they are.â
âTell me about it. I live with one,â Marion laughed. âDonât get me wrong, Justinâs a dream, but we have to step up and foil their plans.â
âItâs in the works, kiddo, and Jim Edwards on board. That man knows everything. Heâs with us, you know, but his family doesnât know anything. Heâs playing dumb.â
âWhat about Joshua? Heâs never far away from Cassie. It worries me.â
âHeâs a good kid, but heâs got the hots for her. Canât blame him, sheâs . . .â
âOkay, I got it. Sheâs very smart and cunning . . . kind of like me. Iâm also thinking she found her grandmothers in Marshall City, but Iâm not sure.â
Joey smiled, giving it away. âAinât sheâs a peach?â
âYeah, Iâve discovered that, but I need to catch up with my friends and my daughter, Geri. I canât wait for you to meet my kids, but I donât want to bring too much attention, right now.â Marion kissed Gina on her forehead and gave Joey another hug. âIâm so glad youâre finally here. I feel a little safer now.â
âWeâll keep in touch, Sis, but you need to scram. Donât want too much attention on me, either.â
Marion walked across the street and disappeared into the shop.
Joey turned to his younger sister
. âGina, stick out your ring finger.â She obeyed and Joey slipped the ring back on. âWeâll meet again, doll face. So, you can wake up now.â
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.
âWell, darlinâ, itâs about time to take you back.â
âAlready? The village was so much fun and thanks for bringing me here.â
âIt was all for my pleasure, darlinâ. I hardly ever get to see you, and this was a dream come true.â
Cassie smiled, but was sad to leave. âOkay, weâd better go. Iâm really trying hard not to get into any more trouble. I really canât afford itâ
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 theyâd 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.
 âGive it back, Iâm freezing,â the man yelled trying to catch up to them.
 âNo, no, no! You wonât get it back, you canât have it!â Rose and Bernadette were yelling as the man started to gain on them.
âHurry, Rose, hurry . . . heâs gaining on us,â 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.
 âMaâam, why would you do that?â he asked, looking up at the two younger women.
âYouâre chasing two friends of ours and what do you think youâre doing chasing after two older ladies?â Marion demanded.
 Sara glared down at the man waiting for an answer.
 âThey stole my coat, I laid it down for a minute to get my wallet out, and they took it. And Iâm freezing out here. Why on earth would they steal a manâs coat?â 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.
 âCome along, weâll get to the bottom of this,â 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.
 âAlright, ladies, what is this all about and why did you steal this manâs coat?â Marion asked.
 âItâs not his coat and he cannot have it back!â Rose said adamantly.
 âHe stole it from our father, thatâs 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,â Bernadette added.
 âIâve had that coat for many years. Itâs mine and I canât go through winter without it.â The man said, reaching for it.
 Rose turned away from him and Bernadette tried to push him away from the sleigh.
âAlright, where did you get the coat to begin with?â Marion asked.
 âI can hardly remember, itâs 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 menâs clothing into the Memory Hall. They were having a jumbo sale and I think I paid a quarter for it.â
Rose turned to look at Bernadette.
 âThe sale at Memory Hall?â Bernadette asked.
 âYes, 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 wasnât the nicest person Iâve ever met, but I needed a coat,â he said sadly.
 âOh, dear, I think weâve made a big mistake, Rose. I think that was mother giving away Dadâs clothes,â 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.
 âThank you, ladies, I can see why it was so important to you, but it is to me, too.â
 âLook, weâre so very sorry,â Bernadette, offered. âYou must come to our house Christmas eve. Weâre having some friends over for hot chocolate and sweets. Please would you come?â
 Roseâs eyes grew so big and she nudged her sister sharply. âAre you out of your mind?â she whispered to her.
 âNo, I think we truly owe this man a warm cup of chocolate and some sweets. I insist.â Bernadette replied.
 âYes, Iâd be very happy to come to your house. Iâll be there, I promise.â
 âWhat is your name, sir?â Bernadette called after him as he started to leave.
âJust call me Cal,â he said, focusing on Rose.
âCal?â Rose said staring into his eyes.
He put his coat back on and turned and walked away.
âOh that name sounds so familiar, now where have I heard it before?â Bernadette stretched her mind to try to remember the man.
âCal.â Rose whispered with tears in her eyes as their sleigh started to move.
 "All right, the excitements over, letâs 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.
âThere she is!â Geri announced, as Joshuaâs sleigh came around the corner.
âOh, thank goodness,â Cookie said, in a quiet voice. She said her goodbyes to her old friends, as her eyes teared up. âIâve had the time of my life. Thanks for inviting me. Iâll never forget this.â
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 Joshuaâs 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.
âThose are real horses, arenât they,â Amy gushed. âWow that must have been so romantic.â
All the woman watched as Joshua drove away and let out a sigh.
âOkay, girls, we need to get home. Itâs starting to snow, so bundle up,â Sara called out, as the sleigh started for the square.
âOh, look, the snow is pink,â Cassie, pointed out. âAll of this is unbelievable, but so wonderful. Iâm used to seeing gray snow in the city and there arenât any sleighs rides. It was just wet and cold.â
Carol Jean was seated next to Cassie and gave her a hug. âIâm so glad youâre here now. You belong here.â
***
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 Marionâs crew first, and then Sara took off
with Skye and Carol Jean.
The sidewalks were dry, but the tinted snow in the yard was at least a foot deep. Once Saraâs 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.
âDid Mr. Keaton put up the tree?â
Geri ran in front of Cassie and stopped her. âNo, donât tell her, Mom. Let her see for herself.â
âOkay, Geri, but itâs getting really cold out here. Letâs go in the front door.â
When the door opened, an aroma of pinecones and cinnamon filled the air.
âOh, that smells wonderful!â 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.
âOkay, girls,â Marion said. âWe have some decorating to do, but it can wait until tomorrow. Iâm exhausted!â
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 Cassieâs door.
âCassie, Mom made a light dinner, and dad and Chris are home. Weâre going to do some decorating, if you want to help.â
Cassie opened her door with a smile. âYeah, 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?â
âNo, just keep them in your room for now. Dad and Chris brought them up.â
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 wasnât 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 hadnât heard.
Bud, Todd, and Teddy were ready for the shopping; however, they were more excited about the big lunch at the special manâs 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 someoneâs face. By 2 oâclock in the afternoon, they were tired and hungry, and ready for lunch.
The Powerâs 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.
âWelcome, welcome everyone,â 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.
âNow this is a manâs place,â Bud Keaton said, taking in the ambiance of the rustic bar, stools, and hunterâs 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.
âMy nameâs Henry Powers and I am the owner of this establishment, and you are all very welcome.â 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.
âDad, I just want to live here,â Homer said, taking in the entire room.
âYeah, wouldnât we all,â 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?
âDo you serve alcohol here?â Justin asked, cautiously.
âI 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?â
âIâll certainly try the near-beer, Bud said, and my boys here might want to try it themselves.â
âYep, Iâll try it too,â Todd, said, still looking over the menu.
âI would like to try your light wine, sir. I enjoy a dry, white wine if you have it?â Justin asked.
âYes, sir,â Henry replied, writing it down.
âGot any root beer?â Teddy asked.
âI sure do, young man. Iâll bring your drinks out presently, while you decide on the menu.â 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 theyâd 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.
âHow do women do it, Dad?â Todd laughed, âI mean, they shop all day and theyâre still not tired. Itâs really unbelievable the stamina they have.â
âThatâs just the way theyâre made, son. Me, Iâm ready for a long winterâs 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. Itâs not a chore the way it is for us,â Bud laughed.
Justin was talking to Henry regarding the delicious fare they all enjoyed, not to mention the atmosphere.
âHenry, I have to talk to the other members, but Iâm certain weâll be offering you a permanent place here in this part of the town.â
âThatâs music to my ears. Thank you so much.â
Justin shook his hand and left with Chris, who was waiting at the door.
âOkay, guys like it or not, weâd better hit some of these shops,â Justin said, walking toward the group.
âI was afraid you were going to bring that up,â Bud said, nodding to his boys. âLetâs get going and get it done.â
After a couple of hours of shopping, they met up with the rest of the group and all the men headed for home.
âTomorrow is the Wishing Well and that will be the last day to come back here for this year,â Bud said, with a heavy sigh.
âAw, are you gonna cry?â Justin frowned.
âHell, no! I canât wait for this to be over. This time of year just wears me out.â
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.
âMy 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 dadâs good at hiding things.â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
âWhy would you want to ruin your Christmas surprises?â Skye said amazed.
âWell, I guess I just hoped he got me something I really wanted. You donât
know my dad; he used to buy the craziest things for us.â
âWait!â A loud voice shouted behind them. Marabelle Fludge trudged up the sidewalk, as fast as she could to join them.
âI donât believe it!â Carol Jean rolled her eyes.
âHey, my mom told me to catch up with you guys and go to church with you. Sheâs not in a very good mood, so I said I would,â Marabelle floundered, trying to be nice about her intrusion. âBetween 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,â Marabelle chuckled.
âOh, and you donât sneak around trying to find your presents?â Carol Jean chided.
âNope, I learned my lesson years ago. Iâd rather be surprised, so they can see the real look on my face, if I donât like it or thinks itâs dumb.â
Sara tried hard to hide the smile on her face, as she listened to the girls.
âYeah, Iâll bet Homer will never forget the Christmas he gave you a baseball bat,â Carol Jean smirked.
âOh, youâre right, heâll 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.â
Under her breath, Skye was whispering over and over again, âPlease donât let me get Marabelleâs name . . . please, please, please.â
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.
âI canât wait to see it all decorated and pretty. Chris and Todd were still building it, when we were shopping last week,â Skye said.
âI hope those awful dogs arenât there this year,â Marabelle hissed. âI promised I wouldnât do that again.â
Skye looked at Sara, about to ask a question, when Sara simply said, âDonât ask.â
Standing at the top of the church steps were Cassie, Chris, and Geri, all waiting for their friends.
âSee you inside,â Sara said, nodding to them. âGood luck to everyone, but of course, if you donât want to participate, you donât have to put in your name.