Welcome to Tuesday Tales, powered by a small group of authors, where word prompts inspire passages in the books we’re writing. Today’s word is scared. You may remember a previous version of this scene. Sections of the book are being edited and revised, including the initial gathering that introduced the various ringleaders in this cozy mystery set in fictional Glisten, Georgia. When you finish reading, make sure to visit all the talented authors of Tuesday Tales.
Skip offered his opinion “Actually, it will be a load off our minds, since city services decided not to assign staff to the job.” The latter part of his sentence trailed off into a whisper, as Vonna visibly stiffened beside him.
Vance Wardlow objected. “It’s not that the city didn’t assign staff, Skip. They agreed to a crew for street cleanup. Janitorial is the weak cog. Ed Compton said they have a scarcity of manpower in that department. The city is doing their fair share, and the boys club will help with loading and unloading where needed before and after.”
The red-haired woman who had mentioned Goldies and Old Fashioneds spoke up. “I’m sure everyone appreciates Twinkle Cleaning stepping forward to help. Kitty does a fine job over at the Golden Meadows Retirement Home. Thank you, Kitty.”
“You are welcome, Mrs. Higgins,” Kitty replied, with a self-satisfied smile.
The faces of some still reflected surprise and others, displeasure, before settling back into placid masks. I also noticed how Vonna Lacey’s lips were mashed so tightly together they had practically disappeared. She sat beside Skip and stared straight ahead, not looking at Monroe or Kitty. Waves of consternation seemed to emanate from all directions. The twinkly cleaner sure knew how to scare up some fun.
A few minutes of discussion about the festival ensued. I focused and tried my best to keep straight who was who and who was doing what for the festival, hoping all the while that Robin and her notes would save my bacon in that regard. Thank goodness for my friend and her flying thumbs. For the overall picture, the best I could make out was that festivities would begin on Friday night with pumpkin lanterns, spooky decorations, a costume parade, and a whiskey tasting at the Sidecar Tavern. Saturday plans included children’s activities, highlighted by costumes and the pumpkin races in Ledbetter Field. General events included costume competitions, dignitary speeches, an antique car show, and music on the Square. Heritage members would facilitate logistics while strolling around in historical costumes.
Saturday evening was the time I had to worry most about– the adult scavenger hunt culminating in refreshments and prizes at Tea Thyme. It would be our chance to shine. The hope was that we’d bring in folks, and business, from all over the county and beyond.
Thanks for stopping by. I hope you enjoyed the piece inspired by the word scared. If you haven’t done so already, check out the other excerpts at Tuesday Tales.
Cheers & Happy Reading!
Flossie Benton Rogers, Conjuring the Magic with Spirited Stories
All rights reserved, copyright @ 2024 Flossie Benton Rogers
Interesting reaction to Kitty. Vonna is not a happy camper. Well done.
So true. Thanks, Susanne.
Love how you used the prompt. I tend to agree with her on that. LOL! AND the events for the first night sound fun. The scavenger hunt sounds like a recipe for some sort of disaster. LOL! Jillian
I have certainly seen disastrous scavenger hunt’s in my time, too!
Love the reactions of everyone in the room over the news about the cleaner. Someone isn’t popular with the whole group. Great job!
Wonder how she got all their dander up!
I think Vonna knows exactly what Kitty is up to. Great description of her reaction. I can see her in my mind’s eye. And great use of the word prompt! The festival sounds wonderful. And almost real. I’d love to attend. Much planning is going on and it sounds like it will be a success. Love this little town and its citizens. You weaving a wonderful tale.
Thanks! It is an interesting community to get to know.