Sunday morning was wet and humid. If Mildred was here, she'd be bustling around, prepping for lunch and supper, while getting ready for church. He hadn't been to church since the day of her funeral. She wouldn't like that. Perhaps it was time. I'll sit near the back, he thought, and leave if I feel uncomfortable. Without hesitation, he dressed and left the house.
When he arrived, he parked near the parking lot exit... just in case he needed a quick getaway. He knew if he hesitated, he'd change his mind, so he locked the truck and walked up the steps. Rev. Hodges spotted him immediately and came towards him, hand held out in greeting. "Mr. Hogan, how are you? I hear you've been keeping busy since you retired."
Harry grinned as they shook hands. "Can't complain, Reverend, how about you?"
"My doctor - and my wife - both say I need more exercise." He patted his stomach. "So I've started walking. It's recommended for people my age... and it's great for meditation too."
Harry laughed. "I got the same advice not long ago."
"The joys of growing older, I guess. If you're looking for a seat companion, Mr. Blogger is just a few seats up. Enjoy the service and I hope to see you again soon."
"We'll see how it goes." As the Reverend left to get ready for the service, Harry went in and sat beside Silas.
"What brought you out?" Silas whispered.
"Thought it was time," Harry whispered back.
The hour passed quicker than Harry had expected. As the final notes of the last hymn were fading, he slipped out and walked quickly toward the truck. As he put his hand on the door handle, someone called out "Hogan!"
He turned to see Bertie hurrying towards him, choir gown flapping around her legs. "I thought it was you there with Silas, but I couldn't believe my eyes. It's nice to see you here."
Before he could reply, Silas came jogging up to them. "What are you doing for lunch, Hogan?"
"You're coming to my place," Bertie said quickly, "All of you. One of you should go get Joe."
"I will." Silas hurried off towards his van.
"Anything I can do?" Harry asked.
Bertie wrinkled her brow in thought, and then said, "Wait by the back door." And she ran back inside. By the time Harry reached the back door, she was back and holding out a key. "Go out to the house and wait for me. I'll join you as soon as I've put my gown away." She disappeared inside again.
Driving towards Bertie's house, Harry realized this would be a good chance to discuss Aunt Lizzy's ghost. When Bertie arrived, he helped her get lunch on the table.
"Were you expecting company?" Harry asked as they filled their plates with cold meats, salads, sliced fruits. vegetables and dipping sauce.
"Lots of grub," Joe said.
"We're not complaining," Silas added.
Bertie laughed. "My intended guests got called out of town unexpectedly. So you three can save me from living on salads all week."
