The Craft

The brown paper bag began to tear as Katerina fumbled for her keys. She hurried to unlock the door before the grocery bag could fall. As she managed to get it open, a wrinkled, silver-haired handsome woman with gun-metal glasses helped her with the weight of the groceries. "Let me help you with that, dear." "Thank you, there is no strength in these bags." She carried the bag to apartment number 12 as Katerina instructed. "Please, won't you please come in for a cup of tea?" "I will enjoy a cup of tea. My name is Eloise Gilbert. I live on the 2nd floor." "Very nice to meet you, Eloise. I am Katerina Velania. Please have a seat. I will brew some tea." "Thank you, Katerina. I see you have many boxes." "Yes, I have just moved in. I began a new job as a photographer for the Dixie Newspaper." "Ah yes, the Dixie, our town's oldest running newspaper. You know they have been in print since the 1800s. The Pyotr family owns it. Well, of course, you know silly me." "I do, however, I haven't met any of them. I was hired by the HR department. They liked my freelance work and a recruiter reached out to me." "What do you like to photograph?" "Well, it's a strange one, but graveyards, old buildings, anything that has a history to it." "You're in the right place then. Our city is rich in culture and history. Of course, with history there are scandals." "I will learn about it as I go along. Here is your tea, Eloise." "It looks delicious. Have you all that you need? I do have many dishes, home decor, and even vintage clothing if you are interested. They have just been sitting up in my apartment being unused. An older lady like myself doesn't need many items anymore." "I would appreciate it. As you can see, I am just starting. I only have one set of teacups, plates, and minimal cooking tools." "Come on Thursday night after work. I will make us dinner and you can take a look at what may interest you." "I can't wait, Eloise. You have no idea how much I appreciate meeting your acquaintance today. Everyone in Villington has treated me with such kindness." "Good to hear. Villington is not like most towns, we are quite distinct, which you will have to experience. Well, my dear, I am going to be running along. I will see you on Thursday." Katerina walked to the mailbox to find a regal-looking envelope stamped in red ink. She opened it and she began to read. Dearest Katerina Velania: I, Ralph Augustine, the mayor of Villington town, cordially invite you to the Annual Halloween Pumpkin Ball. This year's theme is the 18th century. Please dress in costume as the winner will be announced at the end of the evening. Great food, entertainment, refreshments, and a spook awaits you. Please RSVP before October 10th and we look forward to seeing you there. Sincerely, RA "This place is really perfect. I love costume parties." She was nervous when she first took that job having to move away from her family and friends. However, she felt welcome in her new environment. As the apartment seemed quite stuffy, she decided to open the window. In front of the glass was a crow that was pecking at the window. "Shoo, go away. Get away from there." She didn't understand why the bird wouldn't fly away. She decided to leave it closed. Perhaps the crow will leave on its own. However, she decided to take her camera and take pictures of it. She didn't usually take photos of animals, but this crow had some character. It almost seemed as if the crow was familiar with her and it was trying to go inside. Nevertheless, she snapped a few shots and went back to unpacking her things.