” Tia, do you know the story about the Gates to Hell, you know, the real story. Not one of those made up ones.”

Harley’s Aunt Domino was sitting in a chair in her sewing room, working on one of her needlepoint projects.

” Go ask you Uncle. ”

” But he told me to ask you- he said you’re the one that traveled all over the world back in the day. He said you’d know. Come on Tia, I really want a good story to tell at the Halloween Party tonight. And thank you Tia for letting me have it here. You’re the best. ”

”  You’re welcome Sweetness.  Now. I’ve seen some strange things. Did I tell you I’ve seen a witch making a deal with the devil and ghosts drowning at Sea- forever poor things-  and I watched a dead woman wind her way down a tree like a snake? Oh wait, I’ve seen that at least three times. Those post mortem possessions are a dime a dozen. Never mind.

” But no Gate to Hell?”

Domino put her needlepoint down and reached for her Niece’s hand. ” I’m sorry sweetness. No. I’ve never been to one or seen one. But I do have a nice collection of shrunken heads you can use at your party. How’s about that?”

Harley’s disappointment fell away from her face, ” Did you make them yourself?”

” I certainly did. But you might want to leave that part out. Be careful with them though. You know what happens when the stitches come loose from their mouths. ”

” Yes Tia, I know.”

” Good girl. Now take care of them, they’re my treasures you know.”

” I will.” Harley happily sprinted out of the room and Domino called after her, ” Harley. Harley come back here. Shut that door now. ”

” Sorry Tia.”

” It’s okay, ” Domino picked her needlepoint back up. ” Wouldn’t want somebody wandering in here by accident. They’d have a devil of a time trying to get away from  your Tia once they come through that door,  wouldn’t they?”

Domino smiled down into her needlepoint hoop and Harley’s face lit up like a Jack -O-Lantern.

” You’re the best Tia ” Harley cried as she ran out of the room and pulled the door closed behind her.

” Yes. ” Domino said, “Yes I am.”

JNW’S HALLOWEEN CHALLENGE: Gate