October 8, Tuesday

THE RUSTY chain of my borrowed bicycle squeaked in protest as I pedaled into town with a container of eggs in the basket. The crisp autumn air nipped at my cheeks, carrying with it the scent of fallen leaves and woodsmoke.

I pulled up in front of Coleman's Grocery, carefully dismounting to avoid a repeat of last week's egg-tastrophe. As I chained the bike to a nearby rack, I couldn't help but marvel at how quickly this small-town routine had become familiar.

The bell above the door jingled cheerfully as I entered, announcing my arrival to the empty store.

"Morning, Josephine!" Coleman's gravelly voice called. "Got some beauties for me today?"

I made my way to the counter, setting down my basket. "Fresh from the coop."

Coleman's weathered face broke into a grin. "Let's have look-see."

As he inspected the eggs, I found myself studying the older man. Did he know about Rose's empty grave? About curses and vivianite crystals and things that go bump in the night?

"Everything alright?" Coleman asked, catching my stare.

I blinked, forcing a smile. "Just lost in thought."

After completing our transaction, I headed next door to the library, my steps heavy with purpose. The musty smell of old books enveloped me as I entered, a stark contrast to the crisp outdoor air.

Tilda looked up from her desk, her eyes inquisitive. "Josephine. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

I glanced around, making sure we were alone before leaning in close. "The curse," I whispered. "It worked, but things are worse."

Tilda's eyebrows shot up. "How?"

I recounted Curtis's accident and his increased demands for money. Tilda listened intently, her fingers steepled under her chin.

"I see," she said when I finished. "It seems the universe has a sense of humor."

"This isn't funny," I hissed. "What am I supposed to do now?"

She smiled, as if she was enjoying this. "We amplify the spell, of course. Get another vivianite crystal. I'll cast a stronger curse."

I hesitated. "I don't know..."

"Do you want your problem solved or not?" Tilda's voice was sharp.

I sighed. "Fine. I'll get the crystal."

"Good girl," Tilda purred. "You know where to find me when you're ready."

The walk to Sophia's Jewelry felt longer than usual, my feet dragging with each step. A little voice in the back of my head screamed that this was a bad idea, but I silenced it. I was in too deep to back out now.

The bell chimed softly as I entered the shop. To my surprise, Franny was already standing behind the counter, a small velvet box in her hands. It was as if she'd been expecting me.

"Josephine," she said, her voice tinged with sadness. "Back so soon?"

I approached the counter, trying to keep my voice steady. "I need another vivianite crystal."

Franny's eyes narrowed. "I was afraid you'd say that." She opened the box, revealing the shimmering blue-green stone within. "Josephine, I hope you understand what you're getting into. Once done, it can't be undone."

I nodded, pulling out my wallet. "Thank you, Franny."

I carried the crystal back to Tilda at the library, who took it with only a twitch of her nose.

As I left the library, I couldn't shake the feeling that I was being watched. I glanced over my shoulder, half-expecting to see a figure in white darting between the buildings.

But the street was empty, save for a lone crow perched on a nearby lamppost. It cawed once, the sound echoing ominously through the quiet town.

With a shiver, I hurried back to my bike. The sooner I got back to the Whisper House, the better.