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Author's Chapter Notes:

Note: I decided to name the mayor Tom Sneddon because the two of them bore a resemblance and had similar attitudes. Anyway, thank you to HoneyToTheBee, MJFreak23, Michaela Josephine and everyone else who supports this fic. I love y'all! xoxo

 


Over the next week, Irina continued to visit Maestro each evening. That and work enabled her to keep busy so she wouldn't drive anyone crazy with her excitement about the Halloween party. It wasn't like she would have revealed much about it to Carol anyway.  She just knew her friend would probe information from her about whose party she was going to, and she didn't plan to mention her bond with the Maestro anytime soon.  At least not without his permission.

Even so, it was a relief that the day she had been awaiting had finally arrived.  She had been granted permission to leave work two hours before her usual time. She packed up her belongings and tidied her desk with a smile on her face. She imagined she looked quite goofy, but she didn't care. ‘Oh I'm so grateful to my supervisor for this.  I don't feel particularly guilty because I spoke the truth about why I needed time off. Which reminds me, I had better send a text to Carol before I leave. I wouldn't want her to accuse me of avoiding her. ‘  After she was done clearing her work area, she pulled out her cellphone to text Carol. She wrote: "Hey, love, I just want you to know I will be leaving work early today to help make preparations for a Halloween party I'm hosting with a friend. It's a shame you had to work overtime this entire week or we could have done something yesterday to make up for it. But take care of yourself and have a safe weekend. Love, Irina."  That done, she slipped her phone back into her purse. ‘If she responds, I can always see the message later.'  She pushed in her chair, grabbed her briefcase and purse, making sure to lock the door behind her whilst exiting the office.   She ignored the customers and other employees giving her curious stares as she walked out of the building. She hopped into her car and drove away.

After arriving home, Irina went into her bedroom and put up her briefcase before standing in front of the closet. ‘Hmm...I should wear something that's rather festive, since it is Halloween after all. Besides, who needs costumes when I am capable of creating whichever look I want? ‘  She peeked through all of her "holiday" outfits, and after some mulling, decided on a classic long black dress with a hood. ‘Voila!'  She pulled it out and laid it on the bed before taking off her work clothes and high heels. She changed into the dress and pulled on her ankle boots.  She removed the hairclip that had been holding her hair in place and combed it down, letting it cascade down her shoulders. ‘Hmmm, so far so good, but my face feels too bare. Some make-up is definitely in order, and this time I will go all out.'   She looked in the mirror as she began to apply her make up: first mascara, then eyeliner and closed her eyes slightly to add a pinch of eye shadow. She furrowed her brow as she scrutinized her face. ‘Now for face make up. What shall I use? I would use blush, but it makes my face itch and scratching it in front of Maestro would be mortifying.' Settling for some peach colored face powder, she used the sponge to pat some on her cheeks.  To complete her makeup do, she traced along the lining of her lips with lip liner before applying lip balm and ebony-colored lipstick. Deciding not to change her jewelry, she took one last glance over in the mirror. ‘Perfect. It has a dark and spooky feel, but not to the extent where I would frighten small children. If anyone asks, I will simply I have dressed up as a witch.' 

Once she was done getting dressed, she hung up her work clothing, put her high heels in the closet and got an overnight bag to pack her things in. She packed a nightgown, bathrobe, underwear, something to wear for the next day, an extra outfit just in case Maestro wanted her to stay an extra night, and other essentials. She also packed a few DVDs she wanted to watch with him. She double-checked to make sure she had everything and then zipped her bag closed. She took a glance at her watch. ‘Three thirty. Not bad. That'll give me a chance to have some alone time with Maestro before the children arrive.'  She carried her overnight bag and purse to the living room with an excited grin on her face, resting them on the couch.  She made a quick dash to the bathroom, washed her hands, and went into the kitchen. She brought out the container of cupcakes and placed it on the dining room table. She frowned a bit when she noted the fact that she had to carry the container, purse and overnight bag. ‘Looks like I'm going to have to drive. There's no way I'll be able to teleport while carrying all these things. I wish I had some help.'  Letting out a sigh, she opened the front door, walked outside and opened the trunk of her car.  She first ran back inside to get the cupcakes, then her bag and purse. She placed the cupcakes and bag into the trunk, shut it down and went to close the door. She locked its deadbolt and got inside her car, starting the engine. She started to drive to Maestro's house. The feeling of excitement grew as she passed all the different houses in her neighborhood. Suddenly a small knot formed in her stomach as a worrying thought occurred to her. ‘I usually visit him in the evenings. What if I'm too early or something? Would I have to go back?'

She halfway closed her eyes and shook her head to erase the thoughts from her mind. ‘Stop being such a worrywart,' she mentally scolded herself. ‘Of course I am arriving at a reasonable time. I mean if the parents disapprove of him as much as he claims, I highly doubt they would allow the children to remain after nightfall.'   She told herself to stay focused as she drove the remainder of the way to Maestro's mansion. ‘Goodness, now that I think about it, I should not have been so lazy that I relied on teleportation alone. ‘

Soon Irina was approaching the gates of Normalville, which opened automatically. ‘Huh?' She wasn't sure if Maestro was watching out for her or not, but she wasn't complaining. She slowed down a bit as she drove through the gates. She spotted Maestro's mansion straight up ahead, making sure there was no one crossing the street before driving up to it. She stopped on the side of the road and parked in front of a brick wall which had branches from a rosebush draping over it.  ‘I'm finally here.' She let out a sigh of relief that driving to the house didn't take much longer than when she teleported. ‘Hopefully he isn't too preoccupied at the moment.'  Grabbing her purse, she opened the car door, climbed out and popped the hood before shutting the door.  She took out her overnight bag, hung it on the same shoulder as her purse, carefully lifted the container of cupcakes, and rested her bag down so she could close the trunk. She picked up her bag again and proceeded to head towards the mansion.


Maestro stood in the living room, peeking outside through the curtains. He was keeping watch for any unwelcome visitors he intended to scare away, such as the mayor. An evil smirk appeared on his features as he thought about how he would make the mayor or any trespasser regret entering his home without permission. ‘And the good thing is that it's Halloween, so I don't have to hold back.' Of course he liked to frighten people even when there wasn't a day set aside for it, but he always had to ensure he didn't go too far then.

He watched as a figure dressed in black approached his mansion. He got a good look at the person's face and his smirk changed into a genuine smile when he saw that it was not someone coming to cause mischief, but Irina. ‘Ah. So she is here.'  He was always glad to see her. He tossed his mask and cloak onto the couch as Arisa entered the living room.

"Sir, is there anything you need me to assist you with right now?" she asked.

"Yes. My female companion has arrived."

Arisa quirked an eyebrow slightly. This was the first time she heard her master mention befriending anyone. But then again, he rarely got extremely personal with her. ‘I have noticed a change in his mood, though. Could she be someone who has captured his heart?'  A tiny smile crept upon her face at the thought. "What's her name?"

"It's Irina."

"Ah. Beautiful name."  She took a peek through the curtains and saw the unfamiliar looking woman walking towards the mansion. ‘Oh my. I imagine she must be having a difficult time carrying so much at once,' she mused, noticing the grimace on the redhead's face.   As she watched Irina approach the doorstep, she promptly opened the door before plastering a warm smile on her face. "Hello there. I would give you a handshake, but your hands are full. My name is Arisa. Here, I'll take that."

Irina gave a weak smile. "It's all right. And thank you. It's a pleasure to meet you." She panted several times, trying to catch her breath, before handing the container to the younger woman. ‘Man, bringing all that stuff in has been such a workout.'

"The pleasure is mine. And likewise."  Arisa took the container and went to carry it to the kitchen.

Irina rested her overnight bag next to the sofa and walked over to Maestro. He flashed her a charming smile and wrapped his arms around her before pecking her forehead. "Well hello there, my dear Irina. I am so pleased to see you again."

She hugged him back and kissed the bridge of his nose, making it tingle a bit and causing him to chuckle lightly. "I am happy to see you as well. You have no idea how much I have been looking forward to this day."

Maestro pulled away from her slightly, a tiny smirk appearing on his face. "Oh, but I think I do."

Irina raised an eyebrow, fighting the urge to conjure her fan and swat his arm with it. "Oh really? And how's that?"

"Well, for one thing, you are here much earlier than your usual time."

‘Darn it, I should have known now would be too early. I should have gotten his phone number. I wonder if he even has a phone.' Irina blushed and she looked sheepish while explaining, "I got home from work early today. I wanted to have some time alone with you before the children arrived. Did I come at a bad time?" She tried her hardest not to show her disappointment at the possibility of having to leave and come back later. She lowered her head, avoiding his eyes.

Maestro could sense a shift in her mood and knew he had to do something fast. He placed a finger under her chin, tilting her head back up to make her eyes meet his once again.  "Of course not! Don't be silly!"  He lightly tapped the bridge of her nose.

A chuckle threatened to escape Irina as she looked relieved. "All right. I was just making sure. I don't want to be responsible for interrupting you from anything important."

Maestro chuckled again. "No no, you're fine. On the contrary, your timing was perfect. "

Irina cocked an eyebrow. "It is?" She felt like such an idiot for worrying and not realizing he was merely testing her at first. She couldn't help but discreetly roll her eyes. ‘The tease.'

"Yes. I was about to make preparations for the party, and I could use your assistance."

"We-ell..." Irina hesitated for a moment, as if to lead Maestro into thinking she had doubts. ‘After all, two could play at the teasing game.'  Her face relaxed into a genuine smile as she noted his anxious expression he showed while he patiently awaited her response. She had to bite her lip to keep from bursting into laughter at his facial expression.  She cleared her throat before answering, "I would be delighted to. Besides, it is another reason I came so early."  

 "Good." Maestro smiled, reaching up a finger to trace along her jaw. She shivered under his touch, as well as felt a chill going down her spine. He studied her face for a bit. "By the way, you look very beautiful and mysterious today. But that's no surprise, for you always do."

Irina's face turned bright red as she smiled shyly at him. "Why thank you. You look very snazzy yourself."

He blushed heavily and briefly covered his face with his hands. "Oh, Irina, you're too kind."

She wagged her finger at him as if to say, ‘Don't even think about contradicting me. ‘  It worked, because he said nothing else. "Just as you say flattery is beneath you, the same goes for me. I speak kind words to you from the bottom of my heart."

Maestro smiled softly. "I know. What do you say I show you the guestroom you'll be staying in, and then we can set up for the party afterwards?"

"That sounds nice, actually. I do need to put up my stuff. " Irina went and retrieved her overnight bag and hung it on her shoulder, wincing a little.  'Oh dear. I hope my rotator cuff can handle this.'  "Let's go."

Maestro offered her his hand to hold, which she did without hesitation. She sighed softly as his large hand enveloped her medium-sized, dainty one.  "Now hold it tight and don't let go. " He could see how winded she was when she entered the house and didn't want her to feel overwhelmed.

Irina did as she was told, intertwining her fingers with his. She gave him a nod to let him know she was ready. He transported both of them upstairs, leading her to a guestroom next to his master bedroom. "Here you are," he said with a small grin. "I hope you like it."

She did a quick glance around the massive bedroom before gently resting her overnight bag on the bed. "Yes I do, very much. I feel as if I'm in a palace."

"Good, because you deserve to be treated like royalty," said Maestro, grinning and winking at her.

Irina blushed lightly, ignoring the swarm of butterflies fluttering inside her stomach. "As do you."  She took a quick glance at her watch to see how she had done on time. It was five minutes till four. "So, the party is still beginning at five o'clock, correct?"

He nodded. "Absolutely right. What time is it now?"

The red head glanced at her watch again. "It's about four minutes to four."

Maestro furrowed his eyebrows a bit. "Well it's about time we get busy. Arisa and I have done some setting up already, but there is still quite a bit of work left to be done."

"I am sure. Shall we get going, then?"

"Yes. Wrap your arms around me and hold on tight."

"All right."   She wrapped her arms around him as instructed in a tight embrace.  She closed her eyes and on impulse placed her hand on his chest, resting her head on it. Though taken a little off guard, he showed no indication that he minded. He wrapped his arms around her and teleported back downstairs with her. He figured she felt winded and would need to regain some energy, so he opted to give her a moment to recover.

Irina slowly opened her eyes and exhaled a deep breath. She saw that she and Maestro were now in the living room. ‘Huh? What gives?'  She realized she was resting her hand and head on his chest. Horrified, she quickly jerked them off. ‘My goodness! I must have scared him half to death! I really ought to control myself before that happens for real.'  She released her hold on him and glanced up at him. He didn't seem to be bothered or angry by her previous actions, but that wasn't enough to reassure her. "I'm so sorry! I had forgotten myself.  "

Maestro noted her apprehensive expression. He smiled kindly at her before gently stroking her red tresses. "Relax. It's all right. There is no need to apologize."

From his smile Irina could tell he wasn't angry, but she was still mentally cursing herself for her impulsiveness.  "I just don't want to be responsible for frightening you away or giving you the wrong idea." 

He shook his head before chuckling at her. "No, you're fine.  You could never scare me away. It's usually the other way around."

Irina's eyes brightened a bit and she managed a small smile. "Really?"

"Of course. So don't worry so much." 

She knew she was being insecure, but she couldn't help it. She was unsure what signals she was sending to Maestro with her acts of affection.

Maestro could tell from her demeanor that she was still uncertain, so he wrapped his arms around her and just held her close to him, stroking her hair. His strong arms around her was all she needed for her doubts and fears to disappear. He never failed to make her melt or feel different sensations with his words, touch or the way he looked at her. She slowly wrapped her arms around him, holding him as well.  He pulled from her a bit, just to give her some space. "Now do you believe me?"

Irina smiled softly at him. "Yes."

Maestro gave her a smile of his own while placing a strand of her hair behind her ear. "Good.  There is not much time left, so we should get going right about now.  Do you feel all right?"

"Yes. I'm fine."

"Let's go, then."  He held out his hand and she took it, allowing him to lead her out of the living room, through the corridors.

Irina couldn't help but shudder just a little whilst walking past a room with a sign taped to the door that read: WELCOME TO THE DUNGEON OF DOOM. ENTER IF YOU ARE BRAVE ENOUGH, in squiggly handwriting.  She nearly choked when she was led past rooms where the signs on the door read things like: THE BOTTOMLESS PIT OF DESPAIR and THE DARK ABYSS.  She wasn't sure what exactly was in those rooms but had the feeling it couldn't be very pleasant. ‘I imagine those rooms are designated as punishment for unwelcome guests who dare to interrupt the party. I hope no one does.'  She shivered at the thought of witnessing the Maestro's wrath. If there was someone who had a worse temper than she did when ticked off, she was sure it would be him.

Maestro sensed she was feeling uneasy. He turned around briefly and gave her a reassuring smile. "No need to be alarmed. There's nothing in those rooms that can cause permanent damage to anyone. The signs are just to give guests a scary, yet thrilling experience. "

She let out a soft sigh of relief. "All right. I will take your word for it."

Those words made him smile, for it showed she trusted him, unlike most adults. "I'm glad. I deal with unwelcome guests accordingly and that's all. I would never intentionally hurt someone."

She gently squeezed his hand. "I know. Someday everyone else will realize that, too."  ‘At least I hope so. The truth is, I do not know what will change the minds of the people in this town. They don't seem to want to give him a chance.'

His tone of voice became quiet as he answered, "I hope so."  He led the rest of the way in silence, and she was quiet as well.  She knew the treatment he typically endured from adults was a sensitive subject for him, and she didn't want to upset him. They finally came to the ballroom. It was no surprise he had decided to host the party in there, since it was one of his favorite spots. He led her inside.  She held in a deep breath, reminded herself that whatever scary stuff the room contained was only in jest, and then exhaled.

There were orange and black streamers hanging from the ceiling, as well as a bunch of balloons in one corner, and a large banner that read HAPPY HALLOWEEN was draped across the wall. Irina's eyebrows rose a bit when she saw a large black coffin with a hexagram symbol on top leaning against the wall. However, she was not surprised to see mannequins of ghouls, a skull and cross bones, a mummy, skeleton, a life-sized Frankenstein doll and a witch both made out of papier-mâché, and a jack-o-lantern.  She also spotted several pictures of fairytale characters that were most children's favorites. ‘Wow, it appears as if Maestro has outdone himself. I cannot say I'm surprised.'

Maestro let go of Irina's hand, although a part of him wanted to hold it longer. "What do you think?" he asked, noting her silence.   As he and his henchwoman had been decorating, they were trying to maintain that perfect balance so the scariness would be moderate.

Irina furrowed her brow in thought. "I like it. You and Arisa did a wonderful job. I can tell the both of you have gone all out for this. "

"We most certainly did."  Maestro gave a small grin, proud of the work done. His grin faded and he looked thoughtful, almost worried. "You don't think it will frighten the children too badly, do you?"

Irina could tell from the look on his face he was awfully concerned. "No, it is perfect."

"Thank you. I'm glad you think so." The last thing Maestro wanted was for the parents to get on his case for causing their children to have nightmares or something. It was already hard enough dealing with the backlash for showing them magic tricks.

"I really do. " Under normal circumstances she would gently chide him for his lack of confidence as he did to her, but this time she understood.

Maestro looked relieved, and then let out a soft sigh. "I love this time of year."

"I can tell. Well you're not alone, because I do, too."  Irina smiled to herself, thinking how child-like his excitement was. ‘It's very endearing, though. Besides, I can be the same way.'  She looked around the ballroom and saw tables and chairs set up. ‘There doesn't seem to be all that much left to do.'  She smoothed out her dress before asking, "So, what do you need my assistance with?"  

Maestro smiled slightly. "I'll show you. This way."   He led her over to a table that had a bowl full of candies along with other goodies, and a bunch of party bags on it. "These are for the goody bags," he told her, gesturing towards the bowl.

Irina nodded. "I got the impression they were. " 

"Would you mind if I asked you to make them? It would be a big help. "

"It's not a problem at all. In fact, filling goody bags are one of my specialties."  She took a look at her watch again. It was approximately four fifteen. ‘Wow, it's almost time. Well, no matter. I should be able to fill these before the children arrive. ‘  

"Great. I shall leave you to it. I'll be right back."

"All right." Irina sat down, pulling the bowl and party bags toward her.  She wasn't sure where Maestro was going, but she figured he had some last minute business to attend to.

With that, Maestro left the ballroom.  Irina got to work filling the party bags, humming to herself while she did so.  As she worked, she thought about the children and what costumes they would be dressed in. ‘I look forward to seeing them.' 


Mayor Thomas Sneddon was walking around the town, keeping an eye on the children as they went trick-or-treating.  He thought he saw some walking the route to Maestro's mansion. A scowl appeared on his features. ‘I just know that freak will take advantage of today and traumatize those innocent children with his twisted theatrics. He has gotten away with it long enough. I won't stand for it any longer.'  His scowl turned into a sinister grin as he began to formulate a plan to ruin the Maestro once and for all. ‘Enjoy the fun while it lasts, weirdo, because your circus side show is about to end.'  He let out an evil laugh and then went on his merry way. ‘I should have disposed of him long ago.' 

 

 

 

Chapter End Notes:

DUN DUN DUN...hang on to your hats!! :D

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