11/04/2026
WHEN THE LIGHTS GO OUT AT HOCHSTETLERS
CHAPTER #10
Cody Cayenne poked his head around the corner, gun at the ready, hat pulled low. (Yes Cody has a gun. He’s a cowboy DUH). He had heard a rustling in the papers underneath the herbal tinctures and what he was certain was a low growl. The Merry Maids had left but Blake was still counting money so Cody was being cautious not wanting to get caught off the shelf. He stalked quietly along and suddenly came face to face with Leo Lion’s Mane Mushroom rummaging around on the bottom shelf grumbling noisily. “Leo! Why are you making so much racket?” asked Cody in a hoarse whisper. “We are going to get caught!” Leo looked up and snapped “put away your gun Cody! I am a mushroom not a lion!” “Well you certainly make enough noise for one and you look like one with that mane around your neck” retorted Cody as he holstered his gun. “What’s up”? “I have lost my notes for social media! I have an interview as soon as the lights go out and I had a speech all written down.” “Listen pal” said Cody kindly. “No one cares about fancy speeches. Just tell them what you are about and that’s all that is needed. Practice on me!” Leo stood up straight and cleared his throat. “LION'S MANE MUSHROOM gives the brain a second chance when injury, stress, and distraction interrupt healthy cognitive function. Like a good friend, it calmly supports healthy memory & mood. Lion's Mane Mushroom is not just another fad; it is truly a superfood and is nourishment for each of your body’s organs. It is also called the “smart mushroom” because it supports brain health.” Leo gave an exaggerated bow to Cody as if he were a large crowd. Cody hooted with laughter. “Leo you are a natural! And I might say – are quite a mixture of amazing ingredients that we should all be taking every day! You are going to be a big hit! Now let’s go see if Blake is almost done so we can get this show on the road”. Cody pulled out his gun again and crept along. “Cody! Put your gun away” whispered Leo urgently. “I’m just making sure no one steals the money” returned Cody as he continued to creep along toward the back room”. Leo shook his head again. “Only Cody”.