Page 16 of Kissing the Sheriff

Cassie laughed. “Like that will ever happen.”

“Why not? At least we’d have someone to dance with.” She came around the counter and went to the fabric display. “No one’s buying my fabric because no one’s had a reason to make anything new for themselves.” She ran a hand down her faded red calico day dress. “Me included. Face it, Cassie, we need something.”

Alma was right. Apple Blossom was slowly sinking into an abyss of sorrow. Maybe a dance was just the thing. “What kind of dance?”

Alma shrugged. “A harvest dance?”

“That’s a good idea.” Cassie eyed some blue velvet. “We haven’t had a dance since before the incident. Long before.”

“True. And it was for the Smythes’ barn raising.” She pulled the blue velvet off the table and held it against Cassie. “This would look good.”

“It’s too fancy for me.” She pushed the bolt of fabric away. “I need something more practical.”

“Pretty is practical,” Alma argued. “Besides, don’t you want to look pretty at the dance?”

She waved the suggestion away. “If we’re going to do this, we need to start planning. When should we hold one?”

Alma returned the bolt to the table. “I’m not sure. A few weeks?” She shook her head. “No, it would have to be sooner, while we have men in town.”

Cassie laughed. “You’re right. I can’t picture myself dancing with you, Dora or Jean half the night.”

“What about Saturday after next?” Alma suggested.

Cassie nodded, her mind racing over the details. “We need to speak to Dora. She’s the best planner in town.”

“Then go talk to her. She’s just across the street.”

“How can you be sure she’s there?”

Alma sighed impatiently.

“Oh, right. You can see everything from in here.”

Alma smiled and nodded. “Now go, see what she says. I’m sure she’ll think it’s a good idea.”

“I hope so. Because if a dance doesn’t lift everyone’s spirits around here. I don’t know what will.” Cassie left the general store and crossed the street to the hotel. Inside, Dora was behind the counter speaking with Phileas. “Cassie,” Dora said when she entered. “What brings you here?”

“Alma came up with an idea for a dance.”

“A dance?” Phileas said, eyes bright. Then he frowned. “What sort of dance?” He made a show of glancing around the lobby. “And where would you hold it?”

“We could have it outside,” Dora suggested.

“Alma suggested a harvest dance.” Cassie leaned against the counter. “I think it’s a good idea. Everyone around here hasn’t been themselves lately.”

“Is it any wonder?” Phileas said quietly.

Cassie nodded. “It’s time we pushed forward.”

Dora nodded. “I agree.”

Cassie smiled at her. “So, you’ll help?”

Dora laughed. “You have to ask?”

“I knew I could count on you.” Cassie gave Phileas a pointed look. “And you can help her.” Before he could protest, she turned on her heel and left the hotel.

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