Christine woke with a twinge of panic in her chest. Next second, she took a deep breath and let it out slowly. Yes, it was only a dream.

Christine has been having strange dreams lately, usually involving the element of fire, which she can't explain. Why is she having these dreams? Is God trying to tell her something?

After getting a cup of hot coffee, she sat down in the glow of the morning sun. She absently ran a hand through her hair as she took a sip of coffee.

What should I do today, she thought to herself. Perhaps take a walk in the forest, or go and visit my best friend, Ginger. Yes, that is what I will do. Besides, she just walked through the forest yesterday, and had a strange feeling, so she's not sure if she wants to go back right away.

Christine arrived at Ginger's house a half hour later. After knocking on the door, she heard the sound of footsteps approaching. She prepared to smile.

The door opened. "Oh Christine," said Ginger affectionately. "It's been too long." Ginger gave Christine a tight hug. Then Ginger beckoned Christine across the threshold and into her house.

Once inside, Ginger lead Christine down a short hallway and into the sitting room. They sat down opposite of each other, and then began talking.

"You know," said Ginger, "I was wondering when you were going to come and see me. I've missed you."

Christine smiled. "And I've missed you. It's just that...Well, I've been so busy writing lately."

Ginger smiled warmly. "I sort of figured that."

Ginger continued, "Your dear mother, God rest her soul, was the same way. Always writing stories as if each one would be her last."

Christine considered this. "Yes, well, mom was a much better author than me. I just...wish she hadn't left us so soon."

Ginger smiled sympathetically. "I know, I feel the same way."

Ginger suddenly looked like she remembered something important. She absently put a hand over her mouth for a split second. "Oh dear, that reminds me, I have something for you."

"You do," said Christine.

"Yes," said Ginger. "I'll be right back." Ginger got up and left the room.

As soon as Ginger walked out of the room, Christine began feeling strange again, like she did yesterday in the woods.

What is it with those woods, Christine thought. It's like there is something there calling to her, she just doesn't know what it is.

Ginger walked back into the room a moment later. She walked up to Christine and handed her a small package.

Christine accepted it with caution, though again, she didn't know why she felt this way, especially at just being handed what appears to be a gift.

Christine sat there a minute, sort of in a daze.

"Well," said Ginger, getting Christine's attention. "Aren't you going to open it?"

Christine looked down at the little package in her hands. It had roses on it and a small red ribbon. Without wasting another minute, Christine opened the package by pulling on the pretty ribbon. Instantly, the ribbon fell to the floor, almost with a heavy thud, jolting Christine.

Next, Christine lifted the lid off the little box to find what appeared to be a little ball of fire. It was glowing red with orange flames flickering in it. It was a pendant.