On Halloween afternoon, Emma climbed the wooden attic ladder, cardigan glowing pumpkin-orange.
Her purple cape waited above. Dust motes sparkled near trunks, quilts, and decoration boxes.
A soft whistle floated from behind an old patchwork quilt. Emma listened.
Two shy eyes peeked out. A tiny, pearly, translucent ghost followed, carrying a miniature golden lantern.
He had rosy cheeks, mitten hands, and a pale blue bow tie. Emma smiled. “Hello, little friend.”