Page 14 of Oz Wisdom

She turned toward Oz. “No way this is a free stay. I’m sure there’s some sort of shelter around where I can stay until I find a job.”

“You’re not going to a shelter.”

“Why not?”

“If you were comfortable with that idea, you'd have sought one out in the first place. After a couple of nights in a place like that, I’d be dragging you from the park restroom again.”

Taylor couldn’t argue. The thought had crossed her mind when she discovered her sister was gone. But the park turned out to be nice. And she didn’t have to deal with a mass of people asking a hundred questions.

“You ready?” Oz asked again.

“Oh.” Taylor snapped toward him and began walking toward the door. “Yeah.”

Oz opened the door, and she stepped inside. Just as beautiful as the outside. Bright and spacious.

“Hello.”

Taylor watched the stunning blonde as she emerged from a room at the foot of the staircase.

“Taylor, this is London,” Oz introduced.

“Hello,” Taylor greeted.

"Oz told me that you need a place to stay for a while,” London commented to Taylor.

“I do. But not for long.”

“You’re welcome here for as long as needed. Let’s get you settled in a room.”

Oz stepped forward. “I can do that.”

“Thanks. You know which rooms are open. I’ll be in my office if you need anything. And Taylor, I’ll see you when you get settled and show you around,” London said before retreating back into the room she had appeared from.

“After you.” Oz motioned her toward the staircase.

She gave a nod and headed toward the second floor. So many rooms. How many people lived here?

“That is Lola and Mia’s room,” Oz said, pointing out a room two doors down. “Look at the others and find one that suits you.”

Taylor twisted the knob closest to her and eased open the door. It was nice. Tones of blues with a western feel. Did the décor really matter? This was only temporary. Plus, it was free. She had no right to be choosy.

“Let’s look at another.” Oz pulled the door closed. “Maybe something homier down here.” He strolled past the occupied room and passed two others. “Something you may feel more to yourself with.” He pushed open the door and stepped back.

Taylor moved past him. Yellow. But subtle with hints of green. She smiled. She could do this. She walked toward the window and lifted the curtain to the side. No other houses or buildings for as far as she could see. Quiet. Relaxing. Perfect. “I like this.”

“I think you found your winner. London says your surroundings set your mood and this one made you smile.”

“For a while. I don’t know how I’ll repay her for this. But I’ll do my best to be out of here soon as possible.”

“You repay by pulling yourself together and standing on your own two feet again.”

Taylor nodded. She wanted that, too. Needed that. If she had a car, it would be easier getting a job. Could she ask? Should she ask?

“What’s on your mind?” Oz questioned.

“What?”

“I can see it. You have something on your mind.”

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