Page 51 of Aviator
“Ms. Kenna, isn’t it?” one of the shopkeepers asks with a warm smile. “I’m Evelyn, and this is Tildy. We’re so glad to see you safe and sound.”
I return their smiles, the genuine concern in their voices touching my heart. That’s what I love about small towns. Even strangers can feel like family. I wish we had more of that sentiment in Champagne, but there are simply too many people being so close to Charlotte. It’s like you have to constantly be on guard. “Thank you. It’s been quite an experience, but I’m grateful to be here.”
As I browse the racks, their curiosity seems to bubble over, and they sidle up next to me. “We heard about your incredible story. Surviving that crash and winning the lottery a few years back? You’re quite the inspiration.”
I can feel the soft blush coloring my cheeks, and I’m grateful a rack of clothes separates us so they can’t see me in Dean’s sweats and shirt. I also don’t have any makeup on, not to mention the bulky bandage on my shoulder that Dean re-wrapped earlier this morning. “It’s been a wild ride, that’s for sure.”
Tildy gives me a gentle smile. “We’ll let you get back to it. Just give us a holler if you need anything.”
“I will, thank you.”
I select a few pieces, each a small step towards reclaiming a sense of normalcy. A couple pairs of warm jeans, yoga pants in a rainbow of colors—you can never have too many—some warm sweaters, and long-sleeved shirts for layering. They even have bras and underwear. A little too fancy for everyday use, but they’ll do for now. Plus, the bright patterns and little bows make me smile. I could do with some frivolous bows right about now. I top it off with a sensible pair of boots and some sneakers.
After making my selections, I head to the counter to pay. The shopkeepers are discreet enough not to make a fuss, kindness evident in their gestures. It’s a welcome respite from the media attention swirling around me since the crash.
I offer a genuine smile as I thank them.
They exchange a knowing look, a silent understanding passing between them. I’ve been in the spotlight for both the extraordinary and the mundane, and they’re treating me like any other customer, a relief I hadn’t realized I needed until now.
“Do you mind if I change into some of this in your restroom?” I gesture down at Dean’s clothes.
“Of course, honey.”
“You go right ahead. The restroom is in the back. Take all the time you need.”
I change into a bright purple bra and panty set and slide into jeans and a butter-soft deep purple sweater. I still have Dean’s socks, so I tug on the boots and stuff his clothes into the bag. The ladies wave as I head out the door, the tinkling bell following my exit.
Next door is a general store, which is busier. I can blend in more, especially now that I’m not dressed so inappropriately. There, I stock up on basic toiletries that make me feel more human: shampoo, conditioner, body and face wash, razors, and deodorant. I even splurge on a little makeup, knowing it will make me feel more in control to wear it.
When I step out, I already feel more like myself. I pretend for a moment that I’m in Crystal Mountain as a tourist. Now that I’m not stuck in the mountains and wondering if I’ll make it out alive, they’re actually pretty damn beautiful. The little shopping center I’m at is across the street from a good-sized grocery store, a little plaza with several restaurants, and—thank God—a coffee house.
I remember their names because, somehow, it’s already early evening, and I’m starving. Noticing my tank is nearly empty from driving around, I fill up and head to find a room for the night.
Thankfully, the lodge has openings due to tourists leaving because of the storm. I manage to get a room with a big king bed and a decent shower—two of my priorities in my life going forward. I make sure to let the desk know to direct Riley to my room if she shows up, then I order out for dinner—a mocha from the local mom-and-pop place, The Crystal Mountain Coffee Shop, and a large eggplant Parm from an Italian place in that same little plaza. They’re both set to arrive in about a half hour, so I use the time to take yet another shower. I swear, I’ll never have enough showers.
It takes a couple trips to bring all my new stuff inside, and I’m exhausted by the time I finish. I bring everything into the bathroom and strip out of my new clothes, setting them aside to wear again tomorrow since they’re not dirty. My bandage is waterproof, so I don’t worry about getting it wet as I let the warm water from the shower cascade down my body. I close my eyes, the soothing sensations washing over me. It’s not as good as Dean’s shower, which makes me smile sadly.
Leaving him was gut-wrenching, but I needed a moment to myself. Everything happened so fast—surviving the crash, clinging to each other, and eventually being rescued. But my feelings for Dean are like a tempest, intense and overwhelming. I had to take a step back, clear my thoughts, and gain some perspective. I have the girls to consider, and I can’t just jump into another relationship. Especially not so soon after Garrett. I don’t want to make another mistake. If what Dean and I have is real, it can withstand a little time apart.
After the shower, I wrap myself in the plush hotel robe and sit on the edge of the bed. My emotions tumble and twist within me, and I finally let the tears flow. The release is cathartic, each tear carrying a mixture of relief, fear, and a desire I can’t fully comprehend. By the time the delivery driver knocks on my door, the storm has passed, and I hope the comfort food will ease the knots in my stomach.
But when I open the door, it’s not a waiter standing there. It’s Riley and my three younger sisters, their faces a mixture of concern and relief.
“Kenna!” Riley exclaims as all four of them leap forward, enveloping me in a tight, eight-limbed hug. “We were so worried. We saw the news about the crash and came as soon as we could.”
Then, their voices lift in overlapping statements about how worried they were, how they couldn’t believe I survived the crash, and how they’re so happy I’m alive and they’re never going to let me go again as long as they live.
Tears prick my eyes again, but this time it’s from the unexpected comfort of their presence. They’ve come all this way to check on me, to remind me of the love and support I have. I cling to all four of them, relieved to finally know they’re okay. To have them back in my arms again.
I glance at the hotel room, thinking about the warm shower, the promise of comfort food, and the solitude I thought I needed. But now, surrounded by the people who know and care about me, I realize I don’t have to figure everything out alone. And as my sisters excitedly chatter about their journey here, I can’t help but smile through my tears.
Sometimes, the path ahead may be uncertain, but having loved ones by your side can make all the difference.
As my sisters and Riley settle in the hotel room, I wipe away the remaining tears and offer them a shaky smile.
“Hey, you guys,” I say when the clamor has calmed down, my voice still a bit hoarse from the tears and emotion. “I can’t believe you’re here.”
Klaire, ever the wise and oldest of the three, gives me a knowing look. “Of course, we’re here. We were worried sick about you. We told Riley we’d hitchhike up here if she wouldn’t take us.”
