The Haunting of Castle Black

Dany smiled warmly as she passed out candy to little kids dressed up in assorted superhero costumes. It was Halloween and Dragonstone Diner was a favorite destination for adults and kids alike, well known for its vintage, '50s-style decor as well as the kind-hearted owner's penchant for spoiling children with treats on holidays. Her shift was almost over and she was looking forward to going home and relaxing after spending most of the day on her feet waiting tables.

"Any big plans tonight?" her friend Missandei asked as she closed out the register, her shift ending as well.

Dany shook her head. "Are you kidding? Tonight is going to be just like every other Friday night – curling up in bed with a big bowl of ice cream while watching cheesy '80s movies."

Missandei rolled her eyes. "Seriously, Dany? You can't stay cooped up at home on Halloween!"

"Watch me!" Dany said, huffing out a laugh. She wasn't interested in all the wild shenanigans that went on during Halloween. Besides, between working at the diner and going to school, she just didn't have the time for the frivolities of college life. Things like intramural sports, sororities, and even dating were out of reach. Once she finished school and got a real job, perhaps she would have time for a social life, but for now, this was the reality.

"C'mon, Dany, you really need to get out," Missandei pleaded. "I'm going to this frat party tonight at Castle Black and I need a wing-woman. This guy I'm crushing on is going to be there and I'll look like an idiot if I show up by myself."

Dany sighed. "Can't you find someone else to go with you," she whined. "Halloween just isn't my thing."

Missandei wasn't one to take no for an answer. "Um, excuse me, but have you forgotten that I covered your shift for you twice last week when you had exams? That means you owe me. Now are you really going to leave your girl hanging?"

Dany's shoulders slumped in resignation. Her friend had a point. She quickly thought up another excuse, however, hoping against hope that there was still a way to wriggle out of going to the party. "You know, I would totally go but I have absolutely nothing to wear and it's way too late to find a costume now."

Missandei's face lit up. "That's no problem at all. I have tons of costumes at home and we're about the same size. You can just wear one of mine!"

"Great," said Dany dryly, forcing a smile that probably looked more like a grimace.

Missandei barely even noticed. "OMG this is going to be so much fun," she squealed excitedly. "Okay, I'm going to go home to change and pick out your costume. I'll meet you at your place in a couple of hours."

"All right," Dany replied with a sigh. "And you'd better not pick out anything skanky!"

"Of course not," Missandei said with a sly wink as she swept towards the door. "See you in a bit!"

Dany raked her fingers through her hair, groaning out loud as she watched her friend walk away. So much for a relaxing evening at home.

_______________

A few hours later, Dany was back at her apartment feeling refreshed and rejuvenated after a brief nap. She had just enough time to take a hot shower before Missandei was banging on her door with her trademark knock – five short raps followed by two long ones.

Dany went to open it and her mouth dropped open in shock because Missandei looked like she had just walked out of a brothel! She was dressed as a sexy nurse and her costume left absolutely nothing to the imagination. It featured the shortest skirt she had ever seen, complete with a red and white nurse's cap, a skin-tight corset, and fishnet stockings.