Chapter Six
The next day, when Lila entered the coffee shop, she was greeted by Grandma wearing the biggest pair of eyeglasses she’d ever seen. Not only were they enormous, but the rims were made entirely of rhinestones.
“Did Elton John have a garage sale?” Lila asked.
Grandma beamed. “I thought I’d liven things up a bit, that’s all. Besides, it’s that time of year.”
Lila figured she was referring to Halloween. “Um, yeah. Okay.”
“Oh, don’t be a stick in the mud,” Grandma said. “Customers like it. I’ve had quite a few compliments this morning.”
Lila sighed and headed down the hall for an apron. In the back, Irene was handing one of the hot plates they’d been using to make coffee, to Doc. “Good, you’re getting rid of those things.” Her eyes widened. “Irene! What happened to your hair?”
“Colored it,” Irene shot back. “Like it?” She gave her purple hair a proud pat.
Doc grimaced but wisely stayed silent, skeedaddling into the hall.
“He’s taking those to the inn,” Irene said. “We can handle things while he’s gone.”
Lila gaped. “Why did you color your hair purple?”
“It’s all the rage, isn’t it?” Irene gave her hair another pat and sauntered off.
Lila started after her and heard Irene call down the hall, “Don’t forget your costume when you come back!”
By the time Lila reached the front, Doc was gone. “What costume?”
“We’re dressing up,” Grandma said proudly. “This place needs a little color.”
Irene bent behind the counter, fiddled with something, and stood again.
Lila’s jaw dropped. She was now wearing a pair of purple glasses with round frames. “Oh, good grief. Did you discuss this with Tilly or Jack before they left for Hawaii?”
“It’s all part of the fun for Harvest Festival week,” Grandma said.
Lila gaped some more. “Why was I not informed?”
“Because we just came up with the idea,” Irene barked.
“Wait until you see what Doc and Wilfred are wearing,” Grandma said happily.
Lila squeezed her eyes shut. “I’m not sure I want to.”
When she opened them, both women were giving her expectant looks.
“Come now, child,” Grandma coaxed gently. “Have a little fun. Oh, by the way, TJ will be here soon.”
“Why?” Lila asked. “He told you he was coming for coffee?”
“Yes, and to deliver the cats.” Irene added.
“Cats?” Lila looked between them. Both were smiling. “What cats?”
“Tilly’s cats, of course.” Grandma said. “We heard this place has them.”
Irene crossed her arms. “Apparently, Tilly and Jack are boarding them with Tilly’s aunt.”
“Yes, I know,” Lila said. “Tilly didn’t want me to have to bother with them.”
