Page 111 of The Sasquatch and the Hairdresser

“Twenty-four hours would be better,” Angelica scolds.

“We’ll be sure to keep the noise down,” Hal says. “This street is usually very quiet. And unless we have a magical emergency on our hands, I’ll do my best to make sure no one disturbs your rest.”

“Bless you,” Rowan says in relief.

Hal gives them both a quick tour of the house and I follow along.

“I usually have breakfast ready around seven thirty,” Hal explains. “But if you let me know ahead of time that you’d like it earlier or later, I can arrange that. Do you have any dietary restrictions?”

“Nah, I’m not picky,” Rowan says. “Just so long as I’m getting the necessary vitamins and nutrients, I can eat almost anything.”

Ange rolls her eyes. “Forget about him, Hal. I have more particular preferences.”

She goes into a lengthy speech on the meats she likes best and how she wants them prepared.

All I can say is hellhounds are way less fussy than hellcats.

“Don’t worry,” Rowan adds. “I’ll pay you for the meat for Ange since she needs to consume far more than I do. It’s all part of our contract for the job.”

Hal nods. “That works. I’m friends with Warren, our town butcher, and I’m sure he can help me get my hands on most of what Angelica wants.”

When we arrive at the attic, I take the chance to look around since I haven’t been up here before. Like so much of the B&B, Hal’s turned it into a cozy and welcoming space, one that’s a bit more private than the other rooms in the house. A rocking chair sits in one corner, and there’s a desk and chair in another. The oak-framed bed, complete with a handmade quilt and afghan, is situated under the middle of the attic’s slanted roof and looks plenty big enough for both Rowan and Ange to share if they want.

“This is perfect,” Rowan says. “We can stay out of your hair up here, and I like the extra privacy.”

Hal smiles. “I thought you might feel that way. That’s settled then. We’ll let you two get situated, but you know where I am if you need anything. The Wi-Fi info is on the desk.”

We let them get situated and Hal bustles off to get started on dinner.

This provides me with the perfect opportunity.

While Hal’s occupied, I stealthily retreat to my room and make a few quick calls.

After all, I have to make sure everything is set for my little surprise tomorrow.

I can’t wait to see Hal’s reaction.

CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

Cryptids United in Delightful Dating and Love Encouragement (CUDDLE) Forum

SuperShySasquatch: I may not be on this forum as regularly going forward, everyone. I’ll still check in when I can, but I wanted to give you all a heads-up.

IPutTheBrahInChupacabra: Aw, man, we’re going to miss you. But we get it, you’ve found your true love and this forum has served its purpose.

YetiOrNotHereICome: I, for one, would love updates on how things are going with you and your beau. After all, you are a source of inspiration to us all amidst our lovelorn struggles.

NessieNeedsLoveToo: Agreed. Be sure to come back and share your wisdom with us whenever you can. Some of us need all the help we can get.

MerMagicMan: Not gonna lie, I’m low-key jealous but also seriously happy for you. Send some of your lucky love mojo our way!

LoungeSingerLizardMan: Parting is the sweetest sorrow and all that jazz. Best of luck to you and your true love. Don’t be a stranger!

SuperShySasquatch: Keep the dream alive, friends. I thought I was a hopeless case when it came to love, but the universe saw fit to reward me for not giving up. If love can find me, I know it can find all of you too.

Harvest Festival Closing Day…

Hal