Cicely quirked a brow at her parents’ announcement. “But you love barn dances.” “We want to stay home tonight, have an evening to ourselves.” Pa cast an adoring gaze upon Ma that made Cicely feel like an interloper. “How will I get there, and then home after dark?” Her parents had a strict rule about her being out alone after dark, a rule to which she gladly obliged. Ma smiled at Pa before speaking. “We’ve made arrangements for you.” Narrowing her eyes, Cicely attempted to decipher what was happening, but couldn’t guess. Instinct told her there was more at play than her parents wanting time to themselves. “What are the arrangements?” Her stomach performed a solid somersault. Surprises weren’t her favorite thing in the world. “You’ll find out shortly.” Pa winked. Yes, winked. A sick feeling filled her.
