A Candle for Imbolc

"Good evening, Detective," said Mother as she waved off Samuel. The poor man hurried out of her path. "I am Gloria Collins, Natalie's mother. Pray tell what brings you to our home on such a frightful night?"

"I did not mean to alarm the entire family. I apologize."

"No alarm. Please, do not apologize. I owe you an apology, as obviously my servant did not offer you any refreshments. Would you like a drink?"

"Ah ... .no ... I am on duty. But thank you."

"Perhaps another time when you are not on duty."

"Mother ... " said Natalie.

Detective Harper looked between Mother and Natalie for a moment and realized the situation at hand. He quickly began buttoning his overcoat.

"To answer your question as to why I am here, a colleague of your daughter's was found dead in his office this afternoon. At his desk, we found a partially completed letter addressed to Professor Collins. I was hoping she could shed some light on the matter. Now, if you will excuse me, I must be going."

Samuel escorted the detective to the front door. As he left, Tabitha let herself in. She passed through Samuel, causing him to shake slightly from the chill.

"Who was that?" she asked.

"A detective," I thought to her. "Someone Natalie knows died under peculiar circumstances."