Page 21 of Hot Zone

“Work?” I asked.

“Yep. I guess I better get going.”

“Me too. I have a bathroom to work on. At this point, it’ll be Christmas before it’s done.”

Chapter 7

Mars

“Look, I know how much you hate having to reduce the size of the Samhain celebration, but I really think it’s the best choice this year,” Ziva said.

She was right on both counts. I didn’t like it, and it was the best option.

“I know you’re right. And it’s not just because I lost a bunch of supplies for the witch balls I’d been planning as an activity. The truth is, I should’ve scaled back my plans even before that. With it being on a weeknight, attendance probably won’t be great. Last year, when it was on a Friday, everyone was able to take their kids trick-or-treating before coming here. This year, we can’t hold it as late since people have to work the next day.”

“I’m sure it’ll still be well-attended,” she insisted.

“I hope so. I’m going to try to get replacement supplies, but if not, we can still have great food, the drum circle, and a fire in the chiminea.”

“Have you ever thought about having the celebration somewhere other than here?” she asked.

“I mean, sure. My mom suggested multiple times that we have it out at the ranch, but I don’t expect people to travel over an hour to get there.”

“There are a lot of places closer than the Wildflower Ranch. I bet if you put out a message to the community, someone with a farm or ranch just outside the city limits would be willing to let us have it there. We could even have a bonfire.”

“Possibly, but it’s a little late for that this year, so we’ll just have it here like always.”

“We could always—” Ziva’s thought was cut off by the sound of the front door chime.

“We’re in the tea room,” I called out. “If you need any help or have any questions, just let me know.” I turned back to Ziva. “Anyway, what were you saying, Ziva?”

She laughed. “I have no idea. Something about Samhain.”

“I just came to check the place out,” Mika said, stepping into the room.

“Mika! I’m so glad you did.”

“This shop is just as awesome as you said.”

I pushed my chair back and stood. “Well, let me show you around.”

“Oh no, that’s not necessary. I can tell you’re busy, and I don’t want to interrupt.”

“Not at all. Ziva, this is Mika. Mika, Ziva. I met him at that charity softball game I went to with Steven.”

“Nice to meet you, Ziva,” Mika said.

“We’re just making plans for the Samhain event at the end of the month, so you aren’t interrupting anything at all,” I assured him.

“Samhain? That’s like Halloween, right?” Mika asked.

“Yes, Samhain is on the same day as Halloween. We honor all traditions here at The Chrysalis Moon, so whatever you call it is fine. And how you celebrate—or don’t—is fine, too. Now, do you know what it is you’re looking for?” I asked.

Mika shook his head. “I have no clue. I figured if I’m going to be burning a candle, I should choose one that not only smells good but maybe has some other kind of meaning, too. But I wouldn’t even know where to start.”

“No problem. What are some things you’re working on right now? Are you hoping for prosperity, calm, and focus, or maybe you’re looking for a little love?” I grinned at him.

“Well, all the above, I guess. But mostly I think peace and calm would be good. I don’t know if you heard about what happened to Andy’s car or not.”

---