A Drabble—100 words including the title—by Margaret P.                                                               

Harlan Garrett lit the candle inside the hollowed-out pumpkin,

A loud knock came at the door.

Laughter greeted him as he opened it to small ghosts and witches escorted by their nannies.

Little fingers grabbed at the sweet treats he offered;

One of many pleasures Scotty would not have if he lived with his father.

Why, Harlan was sure they didn’t celebrate Halloween in California.

Even if they did, he was still right to keep Murdoch Lancer from his son.

Every nerve of his being told him so.

Nothing scared Harlan more than the idea of losing his grandson.