The Girl is Mine

“We could use your help, dear," Tara provided. "We're a bit short on supplies and I need someone to run to the market."

Phew!

That sent Relief gushing into River. She had thought something bad had happened again. A simple errand sounded perfect right now. It would give her a chance to clear her head and process the unsettling encounter with Gonzalo.

"Of course," River agreed readily. "What do you need?"

Tara rattled off a list of ingredients – herbs, spices, groceries, a new jar of honey, and something called "moonflower petals." River recognized most of the items, but the moonflower petals piqued her curiosity.

"Moonflower petals?" she asked. "What are those for?"

Tara smiled mysteriously. "Just a little something we're working on," she said. "It's a surprise. But trust me, they're important."

“Sounds good," River agreed, nodding. With a final hug for Rain, they both followed Tara out of the room.

In the living room, Annemarie sat at a large table, with a pen scratching busily