"HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY AT THE REC CENTER" is what the ad said in the local newspaper. Diane was thrilled! She'd known Dave for years and he'd talked about having a party of this type to bring the neighborhood together. It would be a time for everyone to see the remodeling work that had just been done at the center and he might even get a few people to sign up as new members.
Should she go? Of course! How could she not support her friend? Wait a minute...this just might be a perfect opportunity to have a little fun. A night to dress up and be someone else. Her choice of costume was easy. He'd never figure it out. This was going to be fun!
The place was packed when she arrived. She chuckled to herself as she saw Dave, dressed as a cowboy, busy playing host to everyone. From over in the corner, she watched as he worked the room. He was refilling punch and snack bowls, answering questions about the recent work, and seeing to it that everyone had a good time. One by one he tried to greet everyone. As he moved toward Diane, she got in position. He came up to her and asked if she was having a good time. "And who might you be?", he asked. She only cocked her head and batted her eyes at him through her mask without saying a word and only meowed. "Cat got your tongue?" No answer. "Well, little lady, I might have to check back with you later." Great! He had no idea it was her under that mask. Or did he?
An hour later, the party was wrapping up. Parents and children alike were heading toward the door with their hands full of goodie bags, masks and prizes. He glanced around the room secretly looking for the cute little kitten who caught his attention earlier, but she was no where to be found.
After the last guest left, Dave and his crew spent a while cleaning up. With only the vacuuming left, he thanked everyone and sent them home. He'd take care of the last details and clean up.
He hit the switch on the canister and was taken aback by the sudden total silence in the building. A wash of exhaustion also hit him. What a day it had been! He put the last few items away in the closet and headed for his office. Finally a chance to sit down and relax for a few minutes. He was so tired he could fall asleep at his computer.