And, Raven thought reluctantly, just slightly irritating.
Chapter Nine
The second fundraiser committee meeting was as wonderfully chaotic as the first, though at least it finished with a vaguely realistic list of plans.
Annabelle had arrived early at Blossom's café, armed with her notebook and pens of various colors. And by the time everyone had settled with their tea, she was chomping at the bit to get started.
"Right!" she said brightly. "Let's hear all your brilliant ideas."
Gloria was the first to speak, naturally. She'd worn what appeared to be a theatrical cape for the occasion and had positioned herself at the head of the table like she was about to deliver a soliloquy.
"I've given this considerable thought," Gloria announced, "and what we need is spectacle. Drama. Theatre!" She swept her arm out dramatically, nearly knocking over Daisy's teacup. "A full musical production! The children can perform scenes from classic literature, keeping to the library theme. Perhaps some Oliver Twist? Then we could do a medley, Shakespeare, Dickens, the Brontës…"
"That sounds lovely," Annabelle said diplomatically, "but maybe a bit ambitious for our timeline?"
"Ambition is what separates mediocrity from magnificence," Gloria declared.
"I’ll put down skits and sketches," Annabelle said, beaming.
"What about a raffle?" Blossom suggested from behind the counter. "Simple, effective. Local businesses could donate prizes."
"A kissing booth!" Daisy said suddenly, her face lighting up.
Everyone turned to stare at her.
"You know," Daisy continued enthusiastically, "like at fairs. People pay a pound for a kiss, and all the money goes to the library."
There was a beat of silence.
"Daisy," Blossom said gently, "that's wildly politically incorrect."
"Is it?" Daisy looked genuinely confused.
"Very much so," Arty confirmed.
"Not to mention an excellent way to catch something," added Gloria.
"Oh." Daisy deflated. "What about a hugging booth?"
"Still problematic."
"Right. Okay then." Daisy brightened again almost immediately. "I’ll handle all the deliveries then."
"That would be wonderful," Annabelle said encouragingly, making a note.
They continued throwing ideas around for another twenty minutes until they had a satisfying list of bake sales, sponsored reading challenges, raffles and entertainment.
Then Daisy said, almost casually, "What about asking our famous neighbor?"
Annabelle's pen stopped mid-word.
"Who?" Gloria asked.
Daisy rolled her eyes. "Raven, of course."
Annabelle felt her entire face light up. "Oh my goodness. That's brilliant."
"Is it?" Arty asked cautiously.
