Chapter 47: Call to Arms

My vanishing spell fits over the farm like a swimming cap. Nice and snug, not very breathable. We let the housekeeper, Virginia, know that we’re on our feet and will be fine for a few weeks without her help. Busy preparing for a giant family Christmas, the relief on Virginia's face is clear.

“Didn’t know you would be here so long. But I’m glad, so glad that the estate is being enjoyed how it should be enjoyed. You folks doing anything for Christmas?”

I’m surprised at the tears that spring to my eyes when she asks.

“We’ll be celebrating with my mom.” I choke.

Virginia gives me a hug around my shoulder.

“I feel the same way, deary. It’s always a wonderful thing to spend the holidays with family.”

After the spell is complete, the house is on lockdown. The wind barely snakes its way through the cracks. A week in, a field of snow covers our little valley. No tire tracks lead in or out. No footprints pepper the yard. The world is quiet, impossibly peaceful.