Page 16 of Mika's Heart

Chapter 4

Mika

Standing in Arin’s living room, I find myself drawn to the big picture window with a view of mountains in the distance.

It’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. I decide right then and there that even if this trip was a waste of time and money, I’m never leaving Alaska.

Arin joins me a few minutes later. She’s dressed now and the baby is cleaned up and bundled to go out in the cold.

“Beautiful isn’t it?” she asks.

We stand there for a few more minutes taking it in, when she breaks the silence.

“I’ve got you a place to stay. We’ll head over there after I take the crotch goblin here to daycare. Come on.”

Grabbing my bags, Comet at my heels, we follow her out the door. Mouse attempts to follow but Arin tells her to stay.

When the little dog gives her sad eyes she gives in, “Fine but if you go all yappy at my customers, I’ll bring you right home.”

Together we walk back in the direction of the shop but instead of stopping, walk past it.

One block over Arin rings the doorbell next to a sign that says, “Little Eskimos Daycare.”

I don’t know who I was thinking would open the door but the short woman that greets us was not it.

She makes me think of Mrs. Clause, short and plump with a huge smile and a twinkle in her eye.

“Mama Lou.” Arin greets her as Olivia squeals, leaning to the old woman.

I take a few steps away, minding my own business while Arin hands her baby off to the daycare provider.

“Well come on.” Arin grabs my arm startling me and dragging me back towards the shop.

Arriving outside of Poison Pen, Arin pulls me to the side of the building and shows me a staircase I’ve never noticed before.

Digging out a set of keys as she goes up the stairs Arin explains, “My current tenant is out of state doing some work with my husband. Atka has been looking for a roommate.

The apartment is furnished. Taylor and I lived here while our house was being built.”

At the mention of Taylor I freeze. “Your husband’s name is Taylor?”

“Surely I’ve mentioned him? He’s a lawyer.” She looks back at me.

Hoping I don’t look like a deer caught in the headlights, I try to brush it off. “I don’t think I’ve heard you say his name before.”

“Well anyways I called Atka. You can stay here, when they get back he’ll work out the details with you.” She says handing me the keys.

“Thank you.” I call after her as she slips past me heading back down.

Once I’m alone I slip the key into the lock. Stepping into the apartment I feel a nudge at my leg and look down to see Comet still at my side.

“Well boy, looks like we landed on our feet.” I tell him.

Reaching down to pet his head I decide the first thing I need to do is give Comet a bath.

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