The Missing Road

By Howard W. Cameron

Howard W. Cameron Jr. was born in orient Pennsylvania in March 1927. Born into a coal-mining family, at the age of eight, he and his family moved to Virginville, West Virginia, where he spent the remainder of his youth. At the age of seventeen, his parents signed him up to join the United States Navy, where he served his country during World War ll on a navy minesweeper. Howard is the father of nine children. Howard has always had a passion for God, family, and writing, and it is this combination of passions that inspires the books that he writes. Although he writes fiction books, it is from his life experience and his faith in God and the Bible that inspires the stories that he tells. It is his desire that not only will reading his books bring great enjoyment to all who read them, but also to point people to the God of heaven and His son Jesus Christ. At the age of eighty-three, he is still very active in his church and out in the community and spends time writing every day.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Aug 27, 2010
• ISBN: 9781453528020

Howard W. Cameron

Howard W. Cameron Jr. was born in orient Pennsylvania in March 1927. Born into a coal-mining family, at the age of eight the family moved to Virginville, West Virginia, where he spent the remainder of his youth. At the age of seventeen, his parents signed for him to join the United States Navy were he served his country during World War ll on a navy minesweeper. Howard is the father of nine children. Howard has always had a passion for God, family, and writing, and it is this combination of passions that inspires the books that he writes. Although he writes fiction books, it is from his life experience and his faith in God and the Bible that inspires the stories that he tells. It is his desire that not only will reading his books bring great enjoyment to all who read them, but also to point people to the God of heaven and His son Jesus Christ. At the age of eighty-three, he is still very active in his church and out in the community and spends time writing every day.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

The hustle in everyone’s footsteps increased as the day wore on. Anticipation filled the air with excitement, as Breanna focused her thoughts on the hour about to arrive. Delight such as this had nearly eluded her life. The plans had been made for weeks, now the hour of finalization was electrified with apprehension and negative thoughts. Or was it plain old jitters? It would be her world filled with gala and splendor. Fantasy such as she had never known before. Her beautiful dark eyes seemed to dance as she envisioned the fabulous moments now descending upon her.

The first guests ought to start arriving about six thirty, don’t you think? Breanna asked her friend Kala.

The music makers first, I hope. It will add to the excitement, Kala said as she plucked a canapé from a tray in the refrigerator.

How can you face food, Kala? My stomach is too nervous to eat anything right now, Breanna said.

Oh, I love these! My stomach would simply collapse without food when I am nervous, said Kala. I’m so excited, she concluded as she stuffed the hors d’oeuvre into her mouth.

Do you think everyone got to see the signs we put up? asked Breanna.

Absolutely, girl, they would have to be blind not to!

Where, oh, where did Bobby Jo go? I hope she is not back there with Georgie again. She thinks that he is simply drop-dead gorgeous. All he ever wants to do is play some game or another, you would think she doesn’t even exist the way he treats her, said Breanna.

That’s the way she likes it, Kala said purring the words out slowly. Just touching him thrills her, so why spoil that for her?

Come on, let’s go out, and see if Georgie got the wood ready, said Breanna as they headed toward the door.

Let’s call Caroline when we come back, said Kala. I am anxious to hear what her dad decided about her costume. I’ll bet he said no when he saw the price.

Okay, said Breanna as she twirled about in a crazy pattern, dancing on her toes. Let’s go past the pool, I want to see if the cover is fastened properly.

We don’t want anybody falling in tonight, it’s going to be cold, said Kala.

Oh, good, that will make the fire feel grand. I hate it when the fire feels too hot.

As they stepped out of the family room through the glass doors, the leaves began to rustle noisily under their feet. A slight breeze tossed the leaves about and upward into their hair.

The pool cover is secured tightly, said Breanna.

Let’s look about the wood, that way we can’t blame anybody else if it’s not ready, said Kala.

Where are you two going? asked Bobby Jo as she came out of the door into the leaves.

To check the wood, said Kala.

Georgie assures me that it is ready, said Bobby Jo.

You know how a young man in love is, said Kala.

Do you think he is in love? asked Bobby Jo.

Does a cat have nine lives?

I have a feeling everyone of us is going to remember this night, said Bobby Jo.

Let’s hope so! said Breanna. I have been thinking about something like this for a long time, now at last it is our night!

Kids will talk about this night for generations, said Kala. It will be the best party that anyone from our school ever threw!

Georgie says over one hundred, said Bobby Jo.

More than two hundred! said Kala.

Too many parents will say no, said Bobby Jo.

You girls have got to be dreaming, two hundred kids on game night! Nooooo way! said Kristin as she walked up behind them. It’s Friday night, they can’t use school for an excuse to keep them home, said Breanna Together they examined the logs that were set into place, awaiting the match that would start the wood burning to a glowing ember, fit to satisfy the masses of partygoers. Let’s not talk about this anymore, Breanna said slowly. We don’t want to jinx our party now, do we?

I personally will be glad if fifty come up that road, said Kristin thoughtfully.

Do either of you think that we will have enough pop and food to last the evening? asked Breanna.

We have enough food for the whole school, and Dad says he will go out for more if necessary. We can order in pizza! said Georgie as he walked out of the house.

Too bad we can’t have the pool open, said Kala.

There is no way, girl! said Bobby Jo. It makes me cold just to think about it.

We should have a great fire tonight, those logs will be good till two in the morning, said Georgie.

No way, brother dear! laughed Breanna.

We won’t light them till ten o’clock, that will give everybody roasting rights on their hot dogs, and marshmallows, said Georgie.

Half of them will prefer other food, dance, or play games I would say! said Breanna.

What’s your take on the matter, Kala? Think bless you think! said Kristen as she burst into laughter.

Warning to you all, Dad says we can’t let the party get out of control, or he will have to take charge. You know what that means, any desire to party in the future will be unilaterally derailed before it gains any momentum, said Georgie.

We can’t permit that to happen. If anyone starts to get out of hand, we will turn them over to David, and any parent that happens to come, said Breanna.

I feel confident that all is well, said Kala. I have a gut feeling about it!

If anyone tries to get out of order, we shall promptly invite them to leave, said Bobby Jo.

The jocks won’t get here till late, or perhaps not at all, said Breanna.

Things will start to liven up after the game! said Breanna’s dad as he walked out of the house.

I hope they all take the message to heart: no alcohol, no dope, no intentional foul language, or don’t bother to come, said Bobby Jo.

Oh, they will come, with no other reason they will come out of curiosity, Dad said.

Tonight is the night when the hobgoblins will be out in force, said Grandma as she sauntered out of the house. I haven’t been this dad-burned excited in years, children. I am ready to whip up on all them tonight!

Grandma, you are impossible! said Lola as she walked out of the house to join the others.

I’m ready to defend you all! chuckled Grandma.

The lights are all working well, look at all the shadows, it sure looks spooky to be so early, said Georgie.

Well, what is a Halloween bash without spooks and werewolves to set your blood cold when they howl!

Grandmaaa, said Kristin.

A full moon tonight you know, what more could you ask for? said Dad.

What are you going as, Georgie? asked Kala.

Just going to don a mask and go as myself!

Why? asked Kristin.

I’m reputed to have a face that will stop an eight-day clock. What better disguise should I look for?

Your face could stop me anytime, said Bobby Jo. Just hold out your finger, and I’ll be under it!

Breanna began to laugh heartily. Let’s not reveal our secrets just yet, Dad might not want to hear them all!

On the other hand, confession is good for your soul, Dad said as he began to laugh. Come on over here, and sit on the bench. I will turn my collar around, and hear it all. Just line up, children, I will take you one at a time."

I’ll do better than that, children, said Grandma. I’ll give you a penny for your thoughts, if you reveal all to your wonderful old grandma. I’ll give you a dollar for the good stuff, provided it is good and juicy!

That would take all night! said Lola.

CHAPTER 2

"The telephone rang, and Breanna took the cell phone from her pocket. She brushed away leaves and sat down in the slight wind that was caressing the area.

Hello! she said hesitating a moment. You better not be calling me to say you aren’t coming tonight! Oh, Caroline, we were going to call you earlier. What did your dad say about your costume? No way! That’s all right, girl, yea, yea, I trusted in you, girl friend, and your dad came through. Good. I’ll see you here!

Has anyone called for a lift tonight? asked Dad.

Nobody yet, answered Breanna. Really everyone ought to be all right for their transport, Dad. Between parents, boyfriends, and other girls, I think we are set. We just have to wait for the cars to come rolling in and see the happy faces.

Okay, baby, I’ll consider it stable then.

I thank God that the rain finally stopped last night. Five days of that had me talking to myself. I could just picture the group out here, trying in vain to light that log fire to roast hot dogs, groaned Breanna.

Or perhaps we would see the rain dripping off soggy marshmallows, while we tried hopelessly to toast them to a soft golden brown, said Kala as they reminisced their thoughts of days past.

Come on down to the basement to see the progress we have made, said Grandma as she started toward the house.

You must be about done, said Dad as he held the door open for others to pass through.

If the basement doesn’t scare you in its haunting motif, nothing can. I’ll give you a money back guarantee on that! said David.

Poor Lola, Dad said as he thought about it. Wait until you see her miserable state.

She has a great imagination and is a wonderful sport, said Grandma.

She was a great addition to the family, let’s all face it! quipped Breanna.

I’ll go along with that truth all the way, said Grandma.

I hope all of you do that well in marriage, said Dad.

Thank you all, I am glad you approve of David’s choice, Lola said blushing.

It was never in question in was it?

It’s too late to send you back now, the ninety-day warranty expired, cracked Georgie.

You will have to wait till she gets her face on and makes herself ready, said David.

Just what I thought, they have been hiding something about that girl! chuckled Breanna.

She is one of the walking dead, she asked me not to reveal her secret for five more years! said David.

What did she do about the face? asked Kristin.

It absolutely glows in the dark, Dad said as they moved down the steps into the basement!

Hello down there, am I on time?

State your name and planet! We will check the guest list. I doubt you are on it! retorted Georgie.

I’m sorry if I am late, guys! My mom just had too many things to do to get me here any sooner, said Tamera.

Don’t sweat it, we have everything set up for you, all you have to do is get into your costume, said David.

Don’t let her off that easy, she could have walked, you know! said Georgie.

Easy, never, my girl! I must lob off your head at least a couple of hundred times, before dawn breaks the eastern sky, said David as he handed her the costume.

Later on we will get you good and bloody as all headless people ought to be! said Grandma.

Right now we don’t want to spill your blood, we want to use your blood. Let’s keep her safe till the midnight hour, we can use her then! screeched Lola hideously.

There is nothing like a neighborhood guillotine to give the area some real class, said Grandma as she tied twine over false hair. This ought to give them a good thrill, just to imagine the touch of a spider web in the dark blows my mind!

I can’t thank you enough for this party, Daddy! said Breanna excitedly. It all seems so perfect I feel like howling myself, I don’t need to wait till the bewitching hour, and the cry of the werewolves.

Ooowwwwooowo! shouted Georgie as he helped grandma secure the fine spider web-like hair above the steps. This will give them their first sensation of fright, just as they begin to step into the dark. From that moment they are ours to command!

Ooowwwooowwoo! howled Bobby Jo as she flung her arms about Georgie. I hear you, wild man!

I’m your woman, just make your move. Oowwwwooooo!

Down, girl! said Breanna. The night hasn’t begun yet, so don’t make so many ripples in the water. The full moon will bring in the high tide later!

Hello down there, could you use some more help?

We can always use a little help, where have you been? asked Grandma.

In the little girls’ room, I had to take care of mamma’s little angel, said Kala.

Georgie began to laugh, then he coughed, and spluttered chokingly. That’s a misnomer if I ever heard one! he said as he recovered.

She is spreading it with a knife, chuckled Breanna.

Give us your opinion about the whole walk through. Will it, or won’t it? Give us your best critique unbiased and walking away, said Grandma.

Do I get a salary for this, or is it free gratis?

We don’t do anything free gratis around here, girl, not one free thought. We will pay you in good music and in excellent food, David said.

Hold up! said Lola. I am about to give you your first glimpse of the dead that tell no tales.

Not yet, not so fast! yelled Tamera. I have to get into position too, don’t rush me, guys.

Everybody cool their heels for a few minutes now, let the girls get themselves ready, said Grandma as she looked around. Remember we can’t make any major changes at this late hour. That would be a disaster. Give an honest opinion, however you see it.

We need more of the fine hair that simulates spider webbing first of all, Breanna said as she maneuvered down the steps.

Fine, here is the hair, you create your own illusion. I am sure it will add a lot more anxious moments for everyone, said Grandma. You do that while we get a handle on any other changes needed. We all ought to finish up together!"

Set your sights on this ceiling, Dad, said Bobby Jo as she pulled the rope that maneuvered it up, and down.

It looks great, said Grandma seeing it lowering and rising? Then he stepped under it to experience the full effect.

I made that yesterday, said Georgie as he admired his own handiwork.

What did you make it with? asked Dad.

Papier-mache so it won’t hurt anyone that it sets down on. It’s lightweight and very effective.

Let’s give a great big cheer for Georgie’s work, shouted Bobby Jo. Hip hip hooray! Hip hip hooray!

You are a nut! said Grandma. However since it is for my boy Georgie, I can cheer too. Hooray for Georgie! Hooray for Georgie!"

All right, everybody, we are ready now, you can all come in when you are ready, said Lola.

David held his hands aloft to signal for them to remain stationary, as they moved back quietly. He signaled for them to remain silent. The anticipation began to build within Lola and she called out again.

We finally got ready, guys, you can come in now!

Yes, I can hear all of you breathing out there, said Tamera. Come in and see how pretty we are.

Quietness seemed to prevail within the confines of the basement. The unexpected stillness gave Lola the feeling of abandonment.

Where do you suppose they went? asked Tamera.

I bet you are right, I think I hear them breathing out there!

I don’t know now, said Tamera.

Come on, you guys. This isn’t funny, you know! Lola said as she stirred uneasily in the coffin.

What are you guys waiting for? Tamera asked raising her voice a couple of octaves.

David, if you are doing this on purpose, I will be unhappy for the rest of the night.

Come on, run in here and scare us, said Tamera.

Dad, are you down here. David, where are you? cried Lola.

Grandma, I love you. You wouldn’t scare me, would you? cried Tamera.

That’s it, I love you too, Tamera! said Grandma. I won’t have this a second longer!

Unable to contain their mirth, they all rushed past the furnace, up to the girls yelling surprise!

You spoiled it, all of you! Now I can’t scare any of you! cried Lola.

Don’t cry! said Beanna. You will have plenty of people to scare before this night is over!

With a face that looks like that, you scare me, said Bobby Jo. I can imagine how the others will react.

Move along now, I want to get your opinion on the whole thing, said Grandma.

Better yet, go back upstairs and start anew, Dad said. Let’s get an overview of the whole thing at once, just to be sure we like it. If we all like it the others may feel the same.

Why did you begin to raise your voice, when we didn’t answer you? Dad asked Lola.

I suddenly got the feeling that everyone had deserted me, or you had all disappeared and left me all alone, said Lola.

Left all alone my foot, girl, I was right here with you! said Tamera.

Now you have had your scare for the evening, and I am satisfied. We wouldn’t have wanted you to feel like an unsociable baby skunk for nothing, said Grandma. I hope you are satisfied, because it has to last you through a long grueling evening. Soon it is going to be time for you to be frightening others less susceptible than yourself.

Your stamina is going to be tried and retried to the limit, said Dad.

No problem! said Tamera.

It will seem like a long evening, but it will be one that you will never forget. I guarantee it will be one that you will tell your grandchildren about someday, said Grandma.

Let’s get that line moving down the stairs. Did you get your work finished Breanna? asked Dad.

Yes, sir Daddy.

Are you ready with your ceiling, Georgie?

Yes, sir mein papa!

Are you ready with your noise makers, and your moans, Grandma?

I will give it my best, sir!

Are you ready in your coffin, Lola?

Scared, and waiting, sir.

Are you ready in the guillotine, Tamera?

Yes, sir, daddy man!

Are you ready, David?

Ready to lob off her head, sir!

All right, Kristin, you can move through now, then Kala, Breanna and so forth till the last man David!

When do you go, Dad? asked Bobby Jo.

I lead the pack of course, he chuckled.

I want to thank all of you for doing such a fantastic job for me! said Breanna.

My sentiments exactly, Dad said.

I have to say it is as good as you would pay to see, quipped Georgie with a grin. Even if I am partial to my handiwork.

I am a partial, impartial judge, and what I say comes up from the bottom of my heart. Which is of a necessity in the bottom of my number 8 shoes. I think it to rival those that put an astounding amount of money and effort into their work, said Grandma.

Well, all I got to see was Tamera getting her head lobbed off. I think it was the best beheading I ever saw.

Not to forget it was the only beheading I ever saw! said Lola.

What about you there, missy? Were you able to see anything after the gillotine commenced its horrible free fall, to nip your neck, just below the area of the chin?

I shall have to plead no contest to that charge, sir. I wouldn’t want to lose my head now, or did I? asked Tamera.

All right already! How about you, sir, are you pleading no contest, or need I interrogate you further?

I believe I too shall enter no contest to the charge now pending over me. On the grounds that I might be charged with beheading an innocent woman, said David.

Well, then let me summarize this case thusly. I predict the evening should be a huge success. Furthermore, with the hilarity lasting long past midnight and well into the first of November. After the partygoers are on their way home. Long after the embers of the fire are cold, after the last hot dog is already digested in the stomach of the pig that consumed it. This party shall live in infamy all the days that arise in your coveted life forevermore so help you God!

All right, Dad, enough is enough! yelled Georgie as he began to laugh.

Goodness me! laughed Kristin.

Who got him started? giggled Kala.

Hold him down, Georgie, he may rise again! chuckled Bobby Jo.

That’s my daddy, may he rave on forevermore! said Breanna as she placed her arms about him, and began to laugh heartily.

Gosh, I thought he was going to recite the Gettysburg address! laughed Grandma.

We get your point, Dad, nobody could miss it, giggled Lola.

Now let’s get cracking, there is work to be done! It’s nearly time for those younguns to come rolling in! Grandma shouted.

CHAPTER 3

Less than half a mile away, the high terrain seemed to be whispering softly. A small grunt, perhaps a groan. The area seemed to be awakening from a very long and restful sleep. The multishaded greenery, which seemed to silently lure a vast amount of the multiple species of birds and animals into the trees, suddenly seemed to repel them completely. Several fox squirrels scampered down from their lofty homes, jumping or swinging from one tree to another as they tried desperately to vacate the area. The faint sounds of slurping and gurgling seemed to increase in volume.

A field mouse went scampering along. A large black snake went slithering along furiously. The loud popping of overstressed roots now resounded throughout the immediate area. The still forest air took up the sound of sandstone, chaffing sandstone. A mother fox went running across a widening crack in the surface, her two kits scampering close behind. Down at the base of the hill the ground seemed to tremble slightly. The leaves yet left on the tree began to shake. The birds took full flight away from the immediate area to land again in trees nearby. Skirting the area, as though guided by divine providence for their safety in numbers.

The giant trees remained aloft, but they seemed to vibrate endlessly. The underbrush shook violently while remaining intact. The endless popping of roots seemed to alert every species that had already entered into hibernation. Down near the bottom of the hillside, a fat groundhog went lumbering along, trying his best to scamper with his nose pointed out of the area. Chipmunks scurried out over the ever-widening cracks. More squirrels of every species of the area dropped from the trees in an effort to gain new ground less violently. The rocks seemed to cry out to them, and they were responding. Up near the top of the noisy terrain, the last of the birds took to their wing.

Far down the hollow, children ran about playing in the fleeting moments of daylight. As dusk turned rapidly into night, the western horizon suddenly darkened. While in the eastern sky, the first glimpse of the full harvest moon made known its presence.

A car filled with happy family frolickers drove slowly up the road, past the rapidly escaping animals.

Look, Dad, I see a groundhog, said one little boy.

Must have been something else, I doubt you would see one out in this kind of weather.

I know what they look like, Dad!

Well!

They hibernate till February, their dad laughed.

Strange, I thought I saw a snake at the side of the road, said his wife.

I recon you are both hallucinating, chuckled the husband.

A barn owl screeched somewhere near the area. A hoot owl expounded his mournful cry nearby, perhaps trying to warn others of a change in the natural flow of things. The densely wooded area gave out sounds of the animals of darkness. All seemed well as they headed out for their food, under the watchful care of night. The predators of the day would be asleep, allowing them time to sneak about the areas that would bring sure death by day.

Far up at the head of the hollow, the traffic sped noisily by. All of them seemed but a blur. Eagerly seeking some faraway destination, oblivious to the hour and all the extreme dangers about them.

Here and there the bandits of the night drop out of the trees to go forth foraging for food. A mother fox leaves her babies at the den, as she tries to capture an unsuspecting meal under the blanket of night. Perhaps a roughed grouse under a bush or perhaps an unwary pheasant under a log or a fallen tree. She would have to be very stealthy tonight. The fallen leaves would be a detriment to her quest for food, for herself, and the pups. This may be another night she will be forced to give up the search short of her goal. The dry leaves were a harbinger of family hunger. Around and about the area, other noises seemed routine and normal. A typical evening of foraging and scampering about in the shadows. An ordinary night of seeking food, recreation, and survival.

The shadows seemed to creep unnoticeably along the soft forest floor, elongating themselves swiftly as the minutes ticked by, slowly climbing trees as they nearly reached the top, then dropping swiftly as though they were moving. Indeed it was a hallucinatory evening, as the passing husband had said. Now the shadows cast forth illusionary images, back and forth almost as though the very earth was moving. The shadows seemed to skirt the trees round about, circling them ever so slowly. Entering into each crevice, into every blemish of the natural perfection of the structure. In and out quickly as though the moon itself were being bobbled about as it slowly arose into the sky.

High in the canopy of leaves, far above the bustling activity on the floor below. The birds chattered as they moved about aimlessly, trying to lapse into a restful night’s sleep. The animals of the night continued quietly about their business of stealth, trickery, deceiving, and being deceived by others.

Suddenly, the shadows commenced moving at an accelerated rate. The chattering of the birds became alarmingly upbeat. The scampering of the animals became louder than the changing earth, as it intensified alarmingly fast. It was the last day of October. Many of the animals had begun their early hibernation. Now in an hour uncommon to them, they were awakened and cast into motion again. It seemed like an early spring as they were cast about, trying to summon some common reality.

Far below ground level the excruciating noises seemed to be building. Time fled speedily away, not to be recalled for its fleeting glimpse of God’s good earth, as it sanctioned needed adjustments.

Far to the east, the night sky seemed aglow with stars and celestial bodies. They began to illuminate the vast reaches of the universe with their stabilizing presence. Early fall, early evening, early delight in the far reaches of young minds, about to embark upon an evening of youthful frivolity.

The full harvest moon was emblazoned on the eastern horizon and appeared to be nestled there. It seemed ready to roll away with the slightest breeze. While the light from its golden rays seemed to enhance the entire area. Its softness seemed to call out to the young at heart. That they be captivated by its illusion of peaceful tranquility and loves symbolism.

Suddenly, the racing shadows that had been flitting back and forth in an array of fanatically imposed super choreography stood still. Then the muffled sounds of gurgling and moaning were silent. The sandstone once again held its peace. The animals were silent briefly. The birds settled and were quiet. As though on cue from a masterful conductor, displaying his prowess over the elements of this good earth, the frightened animals and the chattering birds were instantly at rest. The night for them began anew.

CHAPTER 4

Back at the house, six thirty had come and gone uneventfully. Not one guest had arrived as of yet. Breanna walked by the pool area. In the distance, she could hear the howling of a dog, as its mournful cry faded away.

I’m glad to see that someone else is lonely besides us tonight, Breanna said to her good friend Kala. I can’t believe it is seven thirty already, and not one of my friends have had the audacity to call. They could have called and offered their feebleminded excuses for their no-show.

Let’s not get our backs up in the air all ready, they are only an hour late. I have been more than an hour late to your house several times. That didn’t spoil our friendship, did it?

Together they walked along the leaf-strewn pathway, which led them past the pool, to the logs that were ready for the lighting of the match.

You know how parents are on Friday evenings, they always have a lot to do in a hurry.

I know, said Breanna.

Well, let’s not spoil the evening! Kala replied.

I’m sorry, I don’t want to get mad. I realize they must all have a good reason, some of them are our friends. I know Jimmy would have called me by now, said Breanna.

BJ is probably on her way here right now. You are right, they probably have good excuses! said Kala.

Yes, it is parents’ night to eat out. They will all be here soon! said Breanna.

Then you will laugh, girl! said Kala.

Sureeeeaaah, then why am I crying now? Breanna said as she buried her face on Kala’s shoulder.

For the same reason I am crying, how could they be so meanaaaaahah? sniffed Kala.

Let’s talk about the group, they will be here at eight o’clock, said Breanna.

No no no! said Bobby Jo as she walked up behind them. They start playing at eight o’clock!

Well, if that is the case, they should be turning into the driveway right now to get set up! said Kala.

Don’t panic! said Breanna’s dad as he walked up behind them.

Breanna looked around at the empty driveway and laughed lightly. The empty driveway offered silent testimony for her panic. All seemed to look bleak for the moment.

Where are the music makers? yelled Breanna.

Why? asked Dad.

Music will calm the wild beast within me!

I don’t see any need for music if nobody comes, do you?

We are here, said Lola. Let the music begin. David and I will dance the night away. We don’t need a crowd.

That wouldn’t last long, it takes a crowd to make dancing worth while, doesn’t it, Daddy? stated Breanna.

It does for me. There is nothing like a crowded dance floor to build happiness and desire to continue, said Dad.

Rather than quibble, let’s go in and refresh ourselves with something to eat and drink! suggested Bobby Jo.

Who could possibly face food at a time like this? asked Breanna as she turned toward the house with disgust.

I still have my appetite, said Bobby Jo.

I believe you could eat under any extremity, girl! laughed Breanna.

She is an eating machine, snickered Kristin.

I couldn’t eat that much. I never gain any weight, retorted Bobby Jo.

How could you, girl, you are always running! responded Kala.

Now you sound like my mother, chuckled Bobby Jo.

Well, you do! added Kristin.

Every place I go is important to my life!

I hope you don’t try to convince your mother of that! said Breanna.

Why not? laughed Bobby Jo.

You seldom stay at home! said Kala.

Georgie is my man, and I have to protect my interest!

Tell it like it is! quipped Breanna’s dad. A good, caring woman has to protect her man!

Get out the fiddle, and start playing somebody quick! While they take a trip down memory lane, laughed Kristin. Can’t you just feel it pulling at your heart strings?

What are we discussing here? asked Georgie as he walked out of the house.

Did you feel your ears burning? They are having a lively discussion about you, giggled Kala.

Good, people that spend their time talking about me, never hurt other people’s feelings! replied Georgie.

I need to protect my special man, said Bobby Jo.

Protect me from what? asked Georgie as he began to snicker.

From all the other females that might try to get your attention! stated Bobby Jo as she threw her arms about Georgie.

Come on, let’s roll up our pantlegs they are spreading the mustard unbearably deep tonight, laughed Lola.

I stand amazed! snickered Tamera

She does lay it on pretty heavy, said Kristin. But I make them allowance for being my friends.

Yes, friendship is worth pure gold, chuckled Breanna.

Gee, thanks for your liberality! snickered Georgie.

Let’s go in and look things over one last time, Breanna. I feel like there is something missing, something we forgot to do, said Kala.

I think it is quite obvious, we are missing all the guests! Kristin assured them.

Come on, Breanna said as she reached out and put her arm around Kala. I don’t want to get crabby with my best friends in the whole world. Let’s all go in and take a break from the task of watching. You all know the old saying a watched pot never boils, and I for one want it to start cooking like crazy!

The flickering light from the jack-o’-lanterns cast off beautiful patterns of light in the darkness, as Dad led the would-be revelers into the house. The candles in the lanterns wavered with the breeze as they all filed into the house.

Turn on some lights so we can see the food, Kala said.

Try another switch, this one isn’t working, yelled Breanna.

It is probably burned out, Dad said as he flicked another one. Woooo thereeee, this one doesn’t work either! he said astoundedly.

Wait, I’ll try the basement! said Georgie.

Okay, said Breanna.

What more could go wrong? said Georgie, as he came bounding up from the basement.

Call the power company to see who hit a pole, Grandma snickered.

One of the frolicking hobgoblins may have had too much to drink and ran up a pole! laughed Dad.

Perhaps he ran down the pole just to start the evening off with a bang, suggested David.

Look up the number, and I will give them a call, said Dad as he picked up the phone.

Okay, Dad, said Tamera.

Hold the thought on the number, girl, the phone is dead also!

Oh noooo, we are trapped here by the walking dead! shouted Georgie.

I hear the dogs howling, they are closing in on us! screamed Kristin.

Those aren’t dogs. They are the werewolves! whispered Grandma.

Save us, Daddy, save us! Breanna shouted as they all closed in around him.

Please, Daddy, save us! said Tamera as she grasped his hand.

Protect me, my man! chuckled Bobby Jo as she grasped Georgie tightly.

I think it is time to sit down, relax, eat, and take control of our thoughts. You kids eat some hors d’oeuvres, drink some drinks, and relax. It is becoming apparent that some force is strongly opposing the smooth and effectual purpose for this party here tonight! said Grandma.

Let’s relax and let it all catch up to us, said Tamera.

Let God take control, he is the greater of us all, or they all! chuckled Kristin.

Let’s do it, we would be utter fools to let it rattle our brain! said David.

Are you speaking as one that has some gray matter to boast about, or would you be speaking about me, sir?

About you, I guess.

Fat chance, Breanna! retorted Georgie.

Who received the best grades last year? asked Breanna.

I didn’t apply myself one hundred percent, said Georgie.

What happens if you tell that to a Missouri mule?

I don’t know. What would happen, Grandma?

He would kick your head off! she said as she burst into laughter.

Cut him down, Grandma, laughed Breanna.

Who amongst you want to dive into these canapés and pop? asked Dad.

Only if you twist my arm, Kala laughed.

No arm twisting, you must volunteer yourself to be the guinea pig, said Dad.

For an experiment in Grandma’s food, I’ll volunteer! said Tamera.

Now that we are all here let’s begin the festivities, said Dad.

Why not? asked Kristin.

Yeah, why not, the evening is an apparent bust anyway, Breanna moaned soulfully.

We still have hope! said Kala.

God is the overcomer of all things! said Kristin.

Why the band couldn’t get here, I’ll never know, sighed Breanna.

Now think of what you are saying, before you make utterance, cautioned Lola.

I am, and it’s all bad.

The guitars need electric you know, think, think!

My mind, said Breanna.

What mind? asked Georgie.

I had one yesterday.

What a difference a day makes, said David.

One thousand years with God, laughed Georgie. Sorry, sis, I just couldn’t let that one slip by!

Have your fun, groaned Breanna.

It’s at your expense, said Georgie.

My turn next.

It will come, all wrapped up for the best gouge! quipped Lola.

Boy, these hors d’oeuvres are gooood! said Bobby Jo as she stuffed another into her mouth.

I can tell, drooled Breanna.

Pop me! said Bobby Jo.

Don’t tempt me.

Did you hear that, Dad? Breanna is being mean to me.

I’ll chastise her tomorrow, said Breanna’s dad.

Why wait? asked Bobby Jo.

Grandma is here!

Cover that tray so the treats don’t dry out, said Grandma.

After I eat one more.

How could you?

I am hungry, said Bobby Jo.

If they don’t start coming soon, I am going to lose all my appetite, groaned Breanna.

Did you eat anything today?

I’ll survive.

Fat chance, little girl. I haven’t seen you eat one single thing that was good for you! said Georgie.

Oh, now listen to Doctor Georgie, everybody.

Someday! said Georgie.

I can’t wait till that day arrives, you will have grown up, and you won’t be pestering me! laughed Breanna.

He wants to get an early start on his practice, said Bobby Jo.

Let him practice on you.

Anytime, said Bobby Jo.

Girls, girls, girls, let’s not give Georgie an enlargement of the cranium! Dad said.

Let’s not hit the panic button yet, I’m sure there will be a logical reason for all of this, said David.

It will come alive when the game ends! said Tamera.

I have the feeling we ought to use Breanna’s cell phone and see just what the big problem is for ourselves, said Grandma.

I left it outside on the table.

Why? asked Georgie.

Why is the moon full tonight?

Because we are in position to see it in its glory, and there are no clouds to hide it from us, said Georgie.

Right, and I left the phone because I laid it down, and I wasn’t in position to see it when we decided to come indoors. One of you obscured its position from my eyes! laughed Breanna.

I’ll retrieve it for you for that intellectual answer, said Georgie.

I’ll owe you one.

I won’t forget.

Outside, a soft wind was blowing the flames of the lanterns, as their shadows seemed to dance merrily about the area. The distorted light seemed to lend credence, to the wistful notion that there could be others lurking about the premises. A cold chill seemed to settle into his flesh, as Georgie reached for the cell phone. He turned and looked about for a brief moment, as though he expected someone to be there. He started to walk toward the house, then he turned again, stopping as he heard a car coming up the hill behind him.

That’s the same car that I saw going down the hill, the last time we were out here, he said aloud as though it was a clue to the mystery they were a part of. A mystery that held them captive, though not voluntarily, nor by their design.

Did you find it, Georgie? his dad asked as he reentered the house.

Yes, but I saw something that I thought was strange.

What was that? asked David.

The car that went down the hill a while ago just went back up.

I saw the same thing happen a while ago, said Breanna.

What do you suppose that could mean? Grandma said as she mulled the thought over in her mind.

I think it is high time we tuned into the outside world and found out, said