Page 26 of Trick or Stalk

“Positive.”

I wave at her, then Penny and I head toward the door.

The cool air hits my face when I push it open. I tug my coat tighter, still looking around like someone’s watching me.

Penny trots beside me as I head toward my car.

I look across the street again.

No shadow moves between buildings.

No stranger stares at me.

There’s nothing out of the ordinary.

I shake my head. “Great. Now the horror movie has followed me into daylight.”

Penny looks up at me.

“At least you didn’t growl this time.”

Her tail wags.

“Exactly. Case closed.”

I put her in the car, climb behind the wheel, and pull out of the parking lot.

Even though I tell myself I’m being ridiculous, I still check the rearview mirror twice before turning toward home.

The attic smells like dust, old wood, and cardboard.

I stand at the top of the narrow stairs with my hands on my hips.

“This was a terrible idea.”

Penny stands three steps below me.

Smart dog.

Sunlight streams through a small window near the peak of the roof, illuminating stacks of boxes, old furniture, trunks, and enough Christmas decorations to qualify Grandma for some kind of holiday intervention.

I step farther inside. “Okay. Looking for Halloween decorations.”

Penny remains on the stairs.

“You’re very helpful.”

She pants.

I roll my eyes and start reading labels.

CHRISTMAS.

CHRISTMAS.

MORE CHRISTMAS.

I snort. “Of course.”