On Pins and Needles

Chapter One-2

THAT EVENING WAS BLESSEDLY cooler than the afternoon and the heavily humid air was no longer in place. A light breeze was thrown in for good measure as Wyatt and Beatrice picked up Miss Sissy.

Miss Sissy came out clutching her shawl tightly around her as if the temperatures were in the fifties instead of the seventies. She glared at Beatrice and then settled a big grin on Wyatt, who was her favorite town resident.

“Doing well, Miss Sissy?” asked Wyatt politely as he held the car door open for her.

Miss Sissy made a sound that could be taken either for assent or grumbled complaints as she plopped down in the seat.

Beatrice said, remembering past festivals, “Did you remember to bring money for food? June Bug is selling cake there tonight.”

Miss Sissy glowered at her. “Got plenty of money.”

“All right then,” said Beatrice, relieved. Last time, Miss Sissy had wiped her completely out of cash. For a frail-looking woman, Miss Sissy had the appetite of a growing teenage boy.

The art festival was held in a public space with rolling hills and community gardens. The backdrop was a beautiful view of the Blue Ridge Mountains with the sun setting behind them. There was art on display and art for sale. There was even a potter there with a wheel and lessons for anyone interested.

Wyatt said, “Where do you want to go first?”

Miss Sissy’s response to this was to set off with great determination in the direction of June Bug’s cake booth.