Page 42

“OMG, is this for real?” she mouthed.

“Just wait…” Jenn whispered. Then she called out, “Cathy Ann! We’re here!”

“Ladies!” came the dramatic reply, as Cathy Ann swept into view in a swish of flowing fabric. “So, this must be the amazing Vivi.” Cathy Ann beamed, arms wide for a welcoming hug.

“And this must be the equally amazing Cathy Ann,” Vivi replied, stepping into the embrace.

“Oh, I can already tell we’re going to get on marvellously. Goddess, you’re absolutely stunning,” Cathy Ann said, taking her in.

“Haha, I was going to say the same of you.” Vivi grinned.

“Pah! Wait ‘til you meet the rest of the gang—we’re a good-looking bunch.” Cathy Ann winked.

Lizzie and Màiri tumbled in minutes later, fresh from helping at the hall.

“I’m so happy to meet you!” Lizzie cried, wrapping her in a hug like they’d known each other forever.

“We’ve heard so much about you!” Màiri beamed. “It’s amazing you’re here. Halloween is one of the best nights!”

“I can’t wait,” Vivi said, clasping her hands and beaming at them all.

“Right—bubbles?” Cathy Ann announced, and a joyful chorus answered.

Once dinner was demolished, the transformation began. Vivi took charge of Jenn’s makeup while Cathy Ann worked her magic on Lizzie. From the occasional glance, Jenn could see Lizzie being turned into a glittering sea-nymph—soft greens, blues, pearly whites, and gems that shimmered like sea glass.

When Vivi finally handed Jenn the mirror, she almost didn’t recognise herself. Smoky green and gold tones made her eyes pop, her skin was luminous, her cheeks perfectly flushed, and glitter and gems scattered just right—magic without gaudiness.

“Woah, ladies—you look incredible!” Màiri said, stopping short as she walked in, already in costume and looking every inch the pixie-fae in purple tulle, black and silver wings, and knee-high boots.

“That costume is unbelievable.” Jenn admired her. Màiri was petite, with long light brown hair, grey-green eyes, delicate pixie-like features, and a sprinkling of freckles. It was almost unfair how perfectly the theme suited her. If you let her loose on the machair, someone would definitely mistake her for a real-life fae.

You wouldn’t immediately guess she was related to Ruairidh, though. Cairistìona and Ruairidh looked like siblings, sure—but apparently Màiri and her brother Donnie favoured their dad’s side of the family, while Ruairidh and Cairistìona took after their mother. Either side, there were clearly some excellent genes kicking about.

“I am so happy with it!” Màiri squealed. “Thank you so much for getting all the stuff, Vivi. Now come on, you two—get your outfits on.”

Lizzie and Jenn wriggled into their own outfits—Lizzie’s sea goddess curves draped in blues and silvers, Jenn’s woodland-fairy greens and golds with just a hint of mischief.

“We scrub up not too bad.” Jenn winked as they headed back out.

“I’m never getting this off.” Lizzie laughed. Then she hesitated. “Are you sure I look okay? I’m worried it’s a bit… much?” She gestured vaguely at her figure.

“Trust me, it’s not. David’s going to fall over himself when he sees you. And probably half the guys on this island too!” Jenn laughed.

“Hmm. You’re too kind,” Lizzie said, brushing her off. “Honestly though—you look utterly amazing.”

Jenn had to admit—they all did. Even her. Her costume felt like it had been made for her. She actually felt like a woodland elf. A slightly naughty one. Maybe she’d get up to some mischief tonight.

MT and Cairistìona arrived in a whirl of perfume and chatter. “Would you look at you lot!” MT shrieked, throwing her arms wide.

“And this must be Vivi,” Cairistìona said, going straight in for a hug. “We’ve heard so much.”

“All good things, I hope.” Vivi grinned.

“Only the best,” MT said warmly. “Anyone who brings half a suitcase of glitter is a friend for life.”

“Right then, before you ladies get carried away,” Cathy Ann said, gesturing to the bedroom, “shall we go and get our costumes on?”

“Yes! Be back in a mo.” Vivi laughed, disappearing after her.