The soul gave its broad yet serious smile …

“ … every year, they had the old stories … “

Eventually, a compromise was reached …

They gave the tech specs to the government, as requested …

"You have both signed a confidentiality agreement … “

"Who knew that would win the day …”

"We are going to stay right here until everything's done …”

"Once you see a thing, you have a chance …”

“It gives me stately, traditional, Old World …”

"Love and comfort yourself," she hissed …

"You will be found," she whispered …

"First thing coming through ...," she said …

"Game on," she whispered now …

Some moments later, he dropped the rose …

And the little cubby seemed darker the more he looked at it …

The seamstress behind him waved and nodded …

"Mistakes will be made, but it's important to make your abuela proud … “

Audrey stood at the window drinking pithy coffee …

Her phone continued to buzz …

"The pacemaker practice surgery should take only an hour …”