The Third Order

She fell into a new routine: taking it easy, teaching a few dance classes, wondering what she was going to do going forward. The longer she stayed in Scotland, the less she wanted to return to New York. She wasn’t sure that was good for the long term, though. The only thing she really was sure of was that she should not make any drastic moves. Not until she felt stable and sure.

About three weeks into this new routine, Dougal called. “Can you come with me tomorrow?” 

“Wednesday? Sure. Are we going to the lab?”

“Yes. We have an appointment with one Oliver McQuiddy, a carbon-dating technician. Bring the amulet.”

“What time should I be at your house?” 

“Make it two. We’ll head over together.”

Maggie and Dougal showed up at the university lab at three on the dot. They were met by an overweight, middle-aged man in a lab coat. 

“Dr. Fraser?” asked the man, reaching out his hand. “I’m Oliver McQuiddy.”

“Glad to meet you,” said Dougal. “I hope you can help us. This is my sister, Maggie,” he continued, turning to her. “She has the object we would like dated.”

Maggie reached over to shake Oliver’s hand. “Pleasure to meet you.” 

“Follow me,” said Oliver as he pointed down the hall. The three walked down a long hall to a secured door. Oliver swiped his badge, and the door opened. He motioned for Maggie and Dougal to enter.

Oliver walked over to the lab table, went to the far side, and turned around. “What is it you would like dated?” 

Maggie reached into her pocket and pulled out the amulet. Oliver’s eyes narrowed.

“Where did you get this?”