“She sounds like a very happy mouse.”
Katie’s heart melted as Adele told Peter all about Mindy.
He listened carefully to what she said, asking questions that made the seven-year-old smile. His kindness and gentleness made Katie sigh.
Andy looked at the clock on the wall. “It’s almost time to leave.”
Charlie groaned. “But I want to know what happens to Nora’s magic dog.”
“You can ask her while we’re having a cookie,” his brother replied. “Mom doesn’t want to be late home.”
“Andy’s right,” Katie said. “Talk to Nora in the dining room. Remember to bring your drawings with you next Thursday.”
“I will,” Adele yelled from across the room.
With a flurry of activity, everyone packed their bags and hurried out of the meeting room.
Peter’s eyes widened. “I’ve never seen children move so quickly.”
Katie lifted her hand and beckoned him toward the doorway. When he was standing beside her, she smiled. “This is why they were in such a hurry.”
The children were standing in front of a table, selecting cookies from a plate.
“Nora’s Auntie Megan works at Sweet Treats. She bakes fresh cookies and brings them to the center before she collects Nora. I don’t know whether it’s creating a book or the cookies that everyone enjoys more.”
“I’d say it’s their books. Look at the two children over there.”
While eating their cookies, Nora and Charlie leaned together, talking excitedly.
Katie thought the children would enjoy creating stories, but she hadn’t anticipated the other benefits. “This class has been good for all of them. Charlie and Andy were shy when they joined the group. Once they got to know everyone, they were much more relaxed. And Nora and Adele have learned to be a little more patient and listen to other people’s ideas. We usually have two more children with us, but Jack and Amelia couldn’t make today’s class.”
“When did you start the group?”
“A couple of months ago. As soon as Mom told Pastor John that I’m a writer, he asked if I’d organize a children’s writing club. I didn’t mind and it hasn’t taken a lot of time.”
“I’m impressed. It can’t be easy working at the inn, writing, and doing this.”
Katie blushed. “It’s not a big deal.”
“It is to the children.”
She guessed it was. They were all looking forward to seeing their finished stories. And they’d be even more excited when they saw the Christmas surprise she’d organized for them.
Katie turned toward Peter. “I haven’t seen you at The Welcome Center before.”
“I’ve come a few times. John and his volunteers are doing things you don’t see very often.”
“We need these types of centers in Los Angeles. The homeless shelters can only do so much to help people.” She watched the children enjoy each other’s company. “Places like this give everyone a sense of purpose and hope.”
“What does it give you?”
Instead of replying quickly, she thought about what she’d learned. “Volunteering at the center makes me appreciate how important family is. For the last few years, I’ve taken that for granted.”
“Everyone likes to feel connected to someone,” Peter said softly.
His blue eyes were watching the children, but she suspected his thoughts were a million miles away. “Will you see your family at Christmas?”
Peter shook his head. “My parents and sister are having Christmas with my aunt in Montreal. They won’t be home until mid-January.”
