Page 62 of Proof

“Oh, my. I am not sure what that means. What kind of mission?” Chi-Chi scrunched up her face, waiting for a Luna-lunatic type of reply.

“Remember I said I was considering a makeover?”

“Yes?” It was more of a question than a statement.

“And that ombre hairstyle I liked?”

“Yes?”

“I made an appointment for two o’clock.”

“Today?”

“Yes. Today. I don’t want to chicken out.”

“I see. What time do you want to leave?”

“Well, I was also thinking about buying a few new items for my wardrobe.”

“You are going for many changes, I see.”

“Well, an update, if nothing else.”

“So you want to do some shopping.” That was more of a statement than a question.

“I was looking online, and there’s a shop in Asheville called Natural Elements. I’d like to check it out before I go to the salon.”

“You mean before we go to the salon.” Another statement.

“So you’ll go with me?”

“I cannot let Luna Bodman experiment without adult supervision. What time shall we leave?”

“You are the best! How about in an hour? We can grab some lunch.”

After saying goodbye to Chi-Chi, Luna dashed into Cullen’s workshop. “Can you take Wylie for me?”

“Sure. What’s up?” He wiped his hands on a shop towel.

“I have a few errands to run.” She wasn’t telling him what she had in mind. He’d either try to talk some sense into her or be indifferent. And she wasn’t in the mood for anyone to throw another bucket of water on her.

Soon, the two women got into Luna’s car and drove twenty minutes to Asheville. During the drive, Luna relayed her unnerving information about Brendan.

“I am so sorry to hear this,” Chi-Chi said with deep affection. “I know it must be hard for you to absorb such disturbing news, especially when there is no explanation.”

Luna let out a huge sigh. “You got that right. It’s all a little spooky, even for me. I tried to talk to Cullen about it. You know, the dresser, the mementos, then this news. He said not everything is connected, that it’s just a strange coincidence.”

“Perhaps he is right on this particular occasion.” After Chi-Chi’s attempts at squelching Luna’s concern, she changed the subject. “Tell me. What kind of wardrobe are you thinking about?” she asked.

“I saw some cute capri leggings. There’s a blue tie-dyed pair and a floral pair, and one chambray.”

“The tie-dye suits your existing wardrobe.”

“True. I don’t want my legs to go into shock with too abrupt a change in clothing.” Luna laughed. “My plan is to pair them with tank tops, a short-sleeved cropped jacket, and a kimono. This way, I can have multiple outfits without going completely crazy.”

“Oh, girl, you went completely crazy many years ago.” Chi-Chi kept a straight face.

“Why does everyone always pick on me?” Luna put on a fake frown.

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