Page 5 of Yuletide Acres

“I can’t believe you’re playing into this, Mother Jane. We want her to stay, not head off to parts unknown.” Poor Helda. She thought this visit would cement my decision not to leave. Instead, it’s only further piqued my curiosity.

“Helda, dreams are a powerful tool of communication. Let’s read your cards, Poppy. Shall we?”

I nod, although I’ve never fully believed in the tarot's power. Most of the readings I’ve had were too general to be anything but propaganda, fitting anyone with any variety of question.

She shuffles the cards; her gaze intent on me as she spreads them on the low table. “Hmm.”

“Why does everyone always say that when they first look at the cards? Is it a rule in Tarot Reading 101?” I jest my friend, earning a chuckle in response.

“Patience, Poppy. You had a hard life growing up. I see many losses. An almost nomadic life because of these losses.”

I straighten at her words, because she’s hitting closer to home than any reader has in the past. “I lost my parents when I was two. I spent the next fourteen years bouncing around foster homes.”

“A tragic loss indeed, but it is not the worst your heart has suffered.” She taps the three of swords, sitting adjacent to the five of cups. “This loss was much deeper. A child?”

My breath catches. “I don’t want to talk about that. I already know my past, Mother Jane. I’d prefer to know my future, if you can tell that with your cards.”

“But your past is your future, child. It isn’t linear like some. It’s circular and what’s gone will come again.”

I throw up my hands in exasperation. “That’s it? Nothing more as to why I’m being called to move to this Montana town?”

If I’ve upset Mother Jane, she isn’t showing it. Her face is a beacon of calm as she leans forward, grasping my hand. “I just told you. Your past is your future, and you’ll find it in Yuletide Acres.”

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