Free Witch of Christmas Past by Kendra Ashe

was like an episode of the Twilight Zone . Something is wrong with the people on the island.”
    “I guess the first thing we need to look at is your Uncle, although I’m not sure how his broadcast could have caused the people to become brainwashed.”
    “Me either, but it’s a start. Skeet told me that Aaron wasn’t home and that he wasn’t at the station, so I’m not sure where to find him.”
    “Don’t worry about it. I’ll see what I can find out. Just make sure you’re at Founder’s Park tonight.”
    “Will do,” I promised.
    After ending the call, I left the Sea Spray Condos and headed toward home.
    I had no idea how exactly my uncle could have used the radio to brainwash the citizens of Mystique Island, but I did know I wouldn’t be listening to any of his programs in the near future.
     

 
10.
     
    I was surprised to see a new porch light. There was a note from Stony, informing me that he’d changed out the light and added a motion sensor. Stapled to the note was an invoice.
    He’d come early, which was okay by me. At least I wouldn’t have to come home after the tree lighting ceremony to a dark house.
    Before going into the house, I checked the mail. The mailman had left me a stack of mail, consisting of mostly bills and junk. There really should be a law against the mailman sneaking bills and junk mail into your box when you’re not looking.
    Tossing the stack of envelopes on the kitchen table, I made a beeline for the refrigerator. I might not have any coffee on hand, but I knew I had a cold soda.
    Taking my soda to the bedroom, I search my closet for something nice to wear. Since I had to be put on the auction block, blue jeans and a t-shirt probably wouldn’t be the most appropriate clothing.
    After several minutes of pulling clothes off hangers, and then tossing them aside, I finally found the perfect outfit. My white skirt with a matching cashmere sweater would be perfect. I even had a pair of high top boots with fur trim that would go great with the outfit.
    Laying my clothes out on the bed, I went into the bathroom to run a hot bath. I needed some time to relax before putting myself in front of hundreds of people. Besides, I figured a candlelight bath would give me some time to think.
    Even submerged in a tub full of hot water and bubbles, it was difficult to clear my head and distress. I just couldn’t that image of Annabelle out of my head.
    Not even Granny had been able to tame the bad girl of Mystique Island, so how could she have changed so dramatically overnight?
    There had to be some brainwashing going on. It was the only logical answer.
    And then there was Muriel.
    I was now convinced she was haunting me because of our blood connection. What better way to get your murder solved than by haunting your sister’s granddaughter, who just happened to specialize in weird crimes?
    At some point, I was going to have to explore the caves beneath the lighthouse. The answer to Muriel’s demise could very well be hidden in the caves.
    Giving up on the relaxing idea, I pulled the plug and turned on the shower to wash my hair.
    I hated to admit it, even to myself, but the real reason I was taking so much care with my appearance was because I knew it was a possibility that Zane Dupree would be at the Tree Lighting.
    Since the sea monster incident, he hadn’t been in town much, and he hadn’t called either.
    Not seeing him stung, but I couldn’t really blame Zane. I’d been cool toward him too, but I did have my reasons.
    How could I get involved with a vampire, or anyone really? I was a fallen angel. At anytime my number could be up and the devil would come to collect his due.
    Besides, the last time I’d given my heart away, the jerk had stomped on it and tossed it back to me. Not literally, but that’s how it felt.
    I still couldn’t believe the nerve of my ex-fiancé. Not only did he have an affair before our wedding, but he’d had an affair with the wedding planner. Just thinking