"Can we have coffee?" Jodie asked, moving behind Ms. Van into the den. Two hours of tireless efforts had erased the chaos in Viola's consulting room. The floor shone, dry and spotless; the old cabinet was repaired and hung securely; and new pipes were fitted to the sink.
However, the place felt bare, devoid of Viola's mystical touches. The shelves and countertops, once cluttered with portions and arcane artefacts, now stood vacant. The only thing that remained was the faint scent of sage and sandalwood and the grimace on Viola's face as they left.
"Isn't it a little too late for coffee?" Ms. Van glanced over at her. "How about dinner?"
Jodie shook her head. "I need that punch of caffeine. I have a lot to think about, and besides, it's barely 7 p.m. I'm sure a cup won't hurt."
