“Lauren, dear, we just walked through the door. Dad’s warming milk for the kitties, as a treat. And they’re all doing just fine; Daisy too. Looks like they’re satisfied with their place in the den. I think they like the fireplace, but don’t worry, you know how careful we are.”

Lauren laughed. “I trust the kitties are fine. I can’t wait to see them. How was the tree-lighting ceremony?”

“Heavenly, as always. This year the city used all purple LED lights. Different from what they’ve done in the past, but the purple is for the Alzheimer’s Awareness Association, which I thought was a wonderful way to bring awareness to this sad illness.”

“I didn’t realize they were doing that. No one mentioned anything at the last chamber meeting.” That was the place where this type of thing was discussed.

“Seems it was last-minute. Mayor Thurman’s father was just diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.”

“How are you faring in Seattle?”

“Mom, I’m staying in Mr. Giampalo’s penthouse apartment. I have a perfect view of the Space Needle and the city. It’s way more amazing than I’d imagined.”

“Sounds pretty fancy to me, but I bet you’ll enjoy being in a new city. I’m kind of jealous,” her mother said.

“Mom, stop! It’s not like you and Dad can’t hop on a plane and visit Seattle, or anywhere else for that matter.”

“I know, and I do want to plan a trip after the holidays.”

“Mom, real quick”—her mother could get very long-winded if she let her—“how were sales at Razzle Dazzle today?”

“Not very good. I sold one of those hand-painted sweatshirts.”

“Ugh, that’s not good. Listen, Mom, and I’m serious, when I come home, I want to talk to you and Dad about creating an online version of Razzle Dazzle. Promise me you’ll keep an open mind. You can’t imagine what I’ve learned about online sales today. Shops like yours too. They still have their stores, but with the online sales, they’re able to do so much more. Promise me you’ll talk to Dad, and we’ll discuss this? This is really important to me.”

“All right, I give you my word.”

“Good, I’ll try to check in tomorrow. I’m not exactly sure how many more days I’ll be here yet, so don’t worry. Just love the kitties and talk to Dad.”

“Good night, dear.”

“Night,” she said.

Lauren was beyond tired but couldn’t wait to ride in the helicopter at night. She looked at her watch. It was after 7:00. She left the blinds open but turned the lights off so she could admire the view. She was about to drift off when her cell phone dinged with a text message.

HEADING YOUR WAY. I’LL SEND FOR YOU.

OK.