Devonne Brown

Lorraine was known for her arbitrary obsessions. One week it was crystals, spirits, and witchcraft, the next it was chocolate fudge. Whatever her random fixation, she did it with passion and all consuming gumption to the woe of her husband Cyril. He had learned over the years to stay quiet and sweep up the shards of whatever mess might be left on the kitchen floor between compulsions.

Today Lorraine paced back and forth on the back porch. She watched the sidewalk for the mailman who, according to her email, was supposed to bring her ceremonial robe today. She had found the perfect heavy hooded cape. It was emerald green velvet lined with dark purple satin, resplendent with sequins and jewels. It was fit for the High Priestess.

Cyril watched Lorraine through the kitchen window. He wondered what in the hell she was waiting for now. He knew she was on another one of her tears, but the energy for this one was weird. She was dressed up in a green velvet dress that touched the patio stones. She had on black shoes instead of her slippers. She never wore anything but her slippers when she was home unless something was up. 

Cyril shook his head. His wife had lost her mind again. He watched her open a wooden box. Oh damn, she took out a crystal ball, a big one, and set it on a red velvet tablecloth. She scattered crystals around it. Lorraine looked up like she heard a sound, then turned her attention back to the box.

She drew a four inch clear crystal out of the box and set it beside the large crystal ball. Where did those things come from? How long had she had them? The back porch looked like a gypsy tent. He knew his wife was crazy today. He shook his head.

A knock at the door distracted him. Five women, all dressed in silk and satin, wearing shiny beads and big earrings greeted him. Of course, they’d come to see Lorraine. He led them to the back porch. 

Lorraine’s back was turned as she was shrugging her shoulders into a fine cape of emerald velvet. Cyril smiled through the kitchen window when the High Priestess turned around and presented herself to the ladies. She might be crazy, but she was his.