Finding Haven

Chapter 10

Kendra

"Kendra, should I wear my unicorns or kitties?" Maddie asked, running over to where I sat. She held a t-shirt in both hands. I looked her over. She had already donned her faded rainbow leggings.

"I've always liked the combination of unicorns and rainbows," I told her, making her smile.

"Me too."

Humming her own little tune, she put on the unicorn shirt. I looked over at the other rascals. Ryan and Max were ready and sitting on the other bed in the motel room. Violet had gotten dressed, but her long golden hair hung around her face. I walked over to where she sat and motioned to her head.

"Want me to fix it?" She nodded, turning so that I could sit behind her. "What do you want?"

I gently ran the hairbrush through it, getting all the tangles out. She shrugged. I wasn't the most skilled at fixing hair, but I wasn't hopeless either.

"How about a couple of braids?" I asked. She nodded.

"Ooo, yes!" Maddie squealed, running up to us. "I love braids! Can you fix my hair next?"

"Of course," I answered her with a smile.

I split Violet's hair into two sections and got to work. She relaxed into me as my fingers twirled her golden locks. I French braided each side back and closed them off with a hair tie at the end.

Once I finished, she scooted off to the side so Maddie could take her spot. Practically bouncing where she sat, it was difficult to work on her fiery curls. I fixed Maddie's hair exactly the same way I did Violet's, knowing she would appreciate it.

Once everyone was ready, we headed down to the motel lobby. Bridget was behind the desk again. A large steaming cup of coffee sat in front of her as she leaned back in her chair. She straightened when she saw us coming, and a bright smile filled her face.

"Good mornin'," she greeted.

"Good morning," I replied. "I was wondering if you knew of any apartments for rent in town? Joe mentioned you might know of some." I didn't think it was possible for her smile to get bigger, but somehow it did.

"Oh, I know just the thing!" she exclaimed. "Grandma Cho has an extra apartment over her store that she's been trying to rent out for ages."

"How big is it?" She shrugged.

"I don't know, but I can show you to her shop. She should be open by now," she offered.

"Is it okay for you to leave?" I asked. "I wouldn't want to get you in trouble." She waved her hand, collecting her jacket, phone, and keys.

"Oh, don't you worry your heart, I'll be just fine." She was genuinely not worried, so I let it go. "Y'all ready to go?"

The twins cheered, running forward to follow her out of the motel. Ryan trailed behind them, watching them like a hawk. Violet snagged my hand, and we took up the rear.

The morning breeze had a slight chill to it that the sun quickly warmed. Bridget chatted with the twins as we headed into town. We had yet to come this way. Various colorful businesses lined the street.

A large general store on the right was being unlocked by an older man. He smiled and waved as we passed. Violet ducker her head, but the twins happily waved back.

Bridget turned left at the next intersection. This street was smaller, branching off from the main road. A white shop sign stuck out up on the left side of the street. Cho's Charms was scrawled across in beautiful cursive letters.