Lucky 13

If we count last July as month 1, then this is month 13 since patrons to my Patreon were introduced to my story Lucky 13. So it seems appropriate to release it from the paywall.

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Lucky 13

“You invited thirteen guests to the dinner party.” Ellen frowned at her husband.

“We invited thirteen guests – if you include ourselves,” Chris replied, understanding as he closed his mouth that he was not helping himself.

“We agreed to dinner for twelve, as many as can get comfortably around the tables when they’re pushed together in the garden,” said Ellen. She looked about the kitchen. They would have to bring this argument to a halt, if not a conclusion, soon. The crisps and bubbles were running out. “It was you who invited your boss at the last minute to make thirteen.”

“I, ah, well, it was awkward. And I invited Brian and his partner to make fourteen but, well.” Awkward again. Chris decided, unwisely, to go on the offensive. “It wouldn’t matter if we hadn’t bought, well. You know.” He looked about and reflexively knocked on the wooden stool.

“An unhaunted house was out of our price range,” said Ellen. “Or we would have been in a worse school catchment area and further from your mother. Who has been very helpful with the children, especially tonight. Not that I object to ghosts of course.” Her eyes flicked to the horseshoe prominently above the door. There was a whisper of air, just enough to make the steam from the food waver for a moment.

The sounds outside were clearly impatient. Chris and Ellen exchanged a look and agreed to pause the discussion, seizing serving dishes and heading outside.

“Who is this handsome chap?” said Laura, pointing at the seat next to her.

“Oh, Mr Cuddles,” said Chris, nodding at the teddy bear. “It’s tradition, the fourteenth guest.” He frowned further over at the empty seat.

“Oh dear,” said Laura. “Bob got called into the hospital while you were inside. I hope it’s not a problem.”

“Pass the potatoes darlin’” growled Mr Cuddles, eyes glowing bright, bow tie bristling. “I’m ‘ank Marvin, I ‘ain’t eaten nothin’ for ages.”

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 Hank Marvin