CHAPTER SIX HUNDRED and THIRTY

(part three)

“We could go up but the people with the coronavirus sit out there,” Delphie said. “I figure we should just give them some space.”

“Your partner, Sam, is up there,” Quanshay said.

“He is,” Delphie said. She turned to assess her new friend. “You seem to have the measure of everyone.”

“Old habit,” Quanshay said. “I grew up in a tiny little town. I’m always in everyone’s business.”

Delphie nodded. Quanshay felt no judgement from the older woman. She relaxed a little bit.

“You asked if I wanted the truth,” Quanshay said. “I feel like truth is my only true religion. My people have fought against untruths all of our lives. I can always tell when there’s a lie or a half-truth.”

Quanshay snorted.

“It’s hell on my second child,” Quanshay said. “He’s always wanting to slink around.”

“He’s not yet sure of himself,” Delphie said. “He will be. You don’t have to worry about him. There’s something very solid, strong about him.”

“I worry, though,” Quanshay said. “I do. Oh, wait, are you saying I should worry about Kalleyn? That boy she likes?”

“No,” Delphie said. “If I thought you needed to worry, I’d tell you. Kallyn will live a long and happy life.”

“What will they end up doing in their lives?” Quanshay asked.

“Your youngest will work in national politics. I’m not sure where or what, but that’s where he’ll land,” Delphie said. “Kallyn will follow her partner but maintain her own life and profession. And your youngest son will become an artist. I’m not sure whether he will be a painter or writer or something else. You will see it begin to take root in the next year or so.”

Delphie nodded.

“Nothing to worry about,” Delphie said.

Quanshay nodded.

“Why did you ask me about Phillis?” Quanshay asked.

“She’s been hanging around the house,” Delphie said. “I was looking for the person she was connected with.”

Not sure what to say, Quanshay stared out across the grass to the chickens.

“I really hate it when there are random ghosts in the house,” Delphie said. “But I didn’t want to send her away without connecting her with whomever she needed to speak with.”

Quanshay turned to look at Delphie.

“No,” Delphie said. “It doesn’t happen often.”

“Huh,” Quanshay said. She leaned in toward Delphie. “What does she want?”

“Oh,” Delphie chuckled. “I’m sorry. I’m so used to ghosts and other entities that I always forget that everyone isn’t as comfortable as I am.”

“I am not. That’s for sure,” Quanshay nodded. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen a ghost.”

“Ever?” Delphie asked. She laughed. “I’m sorry. I’m not laughing at you. I just can’t imagine it.”

Quanshay laughed along with Delphie. She was surprised that she was starting to feel better overall.

“How does it work?” Quanshay asked.

Denver Cereal continues tomorrow...