Chapter 11
And the fear still shakes me
So hold me until it sleeps…
A memorial for Jack Philip McFadden was set aside in the corner of the garden. A headstone was erected in his honor in a circle of newly planted rose bushes. Casper and Kat were kneeled while Dr. Harvey, Fatso, and Stinkie stood and mournfully looked on. No one spoke for a while; Kat busily ran her fingers over the engraving.
"I still can't believe he did that. Who knew he had it in him?" Kat asked the question that was on everyone's mind.
"People change drastically when their in love." Casper's eyes glittered softly as he looked over to her.
"He was ready to cross over." Dr. Harvey spoke up grimly. "I never knew anyone who had died twice, let alone come back."
"Who going to scream at us, or hit us now? The house is going to be so empty!" Fatso sobbed, Dr. Harvey patted the ghost's shoulder to comfort him. He recoiled when the big ghost used his jacket as a tissue.
"It was my entire fault." Stinkie explained ruefully. "If I hadn't told da Reaper where Stretch was…" The group once again lapsed into silence. Kat stood and brushed the dirt off her silky blue dress. She put a hand to the almost healed scar on her chest.
"I never got a chance to say thank you."
Casper, who was still kneeling, turned towards her.
"He knows you're grateful."
He pulled a small box from his pocket.
"I would be just as grateful if you became my wife."
Kat nearly fainted. The two ghosts caught her and pulled her upright. Dr. Harvey smiled and nodded his approval.
"Yes." She breathed.
He slid the antique ring on her finger, while Fatso wailed horrendously. Even Stinkie wiped away a tear or two.
"Come on." He gestured to Fatso. "Let's leave these two sweethearts alone."
"But…But the wedding! The cake, invitations! What about the dress?" Fatso blubbered.
"We would be happy if you two stayed." Kat piped up. But Stinkie shook his head.
"It's time for us to go. There can't be a Ghostly duo can there?" He joked.
He floated a little ways away, Fatso reluctantly followed. Kat stepped up and gave them each a hug, Casper and James waved goodbye.
"I'm sorry we have to leave now, I'll tell Stretch hello for you." Stinkie ran his fingers through her hair.
"Bye." She whispered.
"I knew they were good together." Fatso said matter of fact, dabbing his eyes.
She blinked and they were gone. Casper came up behind her and kissed her softly on the back of the neck.
"You know I'm going to miss them." She confessed.
"Me too." Casper agreed.
Kat giggled, turning to her fiancée. "So, you ready for college?"
"College?" His eyes widened.
She gave him a peck on the cheek.
"You'll love it."