The weather outside Kathleen Wells's inter-dimensional residence was frightful no matter what color the dial was turned to. Tempest, the Ancient of the Elements, had done his most suitable to ensure her home was thoroughly disaster-proof. But that didn't change the fact Mother Nature had a mind of her own. Despite the horrendous weather, Kathleen hummed cheerfully as she prepared for a noteworthy coffee date. One she wasn't sure they could pull off without divulging the truth.
For reasons she couldn't fathom, the Ancients wanted her to host a small get-together with her cousin Maddie Masters from Peace Valley. Plus, Magdalene Masters from yet another alternate universe. Most would find it strange since these ladies seemed so close in their looks and strange backstories. But she couldn't argue with what the Ancients had decreed. She only hoped Tempest could make it safe enough for her cousin to arrive. Mag would be arriving an hour earlier through her front door portal.
Mag had already been given a short version of what to say if Maddie asked questions that might get too close to the truth. Only a select few knew about the entire multiverse, and given the current crises, it was better it stayed that way. When Mag did show up through the portal door, she was dressed quite nicely. She wore a dark green long-sleeved shirt, ebony dress pants, and ankle boots. She'd also weaved her auburn and plum hair into a gorgeous, thick braid.
"I do approve of your fashion sense!" Kathleen nodded in approval. Mag just smiled before handing her a baking tin.
"You don't look so bad yourself, Kathleen. That soft pink sweater and black fleece pants look fabulous. I also admire your slipper boots. Oh, if you're wondering about the tin? I just baked some cookies for our coffee date. I hope that's alright. I also brought some fresh flowers from my indoor garden. You know to brighten up the place?" as she revealed a stunning bouquet of multicolored flowers.
"I love them! They'll look so nice in the living room. There a crystal vase in there you can put them in," she paused to check her watch. "My cousin should be here in ten minutes. If you'd like to freshen up some, the bathroom upstairs, first door on the right."
'Thanks," as Mag disappeared upstairs. Kathleen sighed in relief. Due to the weather difficulties, she hadn't had time to bake goodies. So it was a god sent that Mag brought treats for them with their coffee. Ten minutes later, the Peace Valley door was knocked, and Kathleen rushed to let her cousin inside. Maddie Masters shivered as her cousin helped her out of her winter coat.
"I didn't think slowly driving a few blocks would be so dangerous! Not that I slipped or anything. But you never can be too cautious regarding any weather," Maddie acknowledged.
"That's true. Is that a new sweater you're wearing?" Kathleen questioned kindly. Her cousin wore a dark blue sweater, black trousers, and blue snow boots.
"Well, my sister-in-law knit me the sweater for Christmas. This is the first time I've worn it, along with the boots my mother-in-law gave me. So where is your friend Mag? You said you'd invited a friend of yours to join us."
"I'm right here. I just finished freshening up. After all, first impressions are everything," giggled Mag as she walked in. The three exchanged friendly hellos before retiring to the living room to enjoy hot chocolate and cookies.
Each chatted about how the holidays had gone for them and their families. Mag was honest about her holiday. She told as much of the truth as she could without disclosing all of it. She said her family lived just outside Madison. Her husband was a businessman, and she had three incredible children: two daughters and a son. Luckily, she could use her children's middle names when Maddie asked for them.
Maddie felt it was odd that Mag's son was also named Vlad. Mag replied her husband had a preference for vampires. And that she named her daughters after herself. Which was the truth. Jazz and Danielle's middles were her first and own middle name.
Either way, after making small talk about each other families, they began to talk about how they all felt about the new year. What self-improvement goals did they have? But more importantly, they discussed their fears for this coming year. None of them were that political. But the whole world was on edge with it being an election year that may decide the fate of the human race. So it was hard not to think about it.
They didn't dive deep into politics other than all three ladies admitting they feared what could happen soon. So, they switched topics and allowed each lady to discuss her interests. Surprisingly, Maddie did like other things besides hunting ghosts. She had been trying to get caught up reading some books she ordered from Amazon. While also binge-watching with Vlad, any chance they had their favorite TV shows.
Kathleen talked about her advice column/blog. She'd been thinking long and hard about what the next topic of her weekly blog should be. She hoped this coffee date might help her get unstuck. Mag pointed out it should be how relationships take work to maintain since they're still getting to know each other. However, they showed everyone proper respect by listening and ensuring everyone got a turn to talk about what they wanted.
The rest of the coffee date went smoothly. The three watched "Downton Abby: A New Era" to pass the time before the weather let up enough for them all to go home. All in all, everyone agreed it went pretty well!