Elianna

The next morning Elianna woke to the smell of eggs and bacon. Her mouth watered as she jumped out of bed and dressed for the day. This time in her new jeans and beautiful purple and pink floral shirt. Rose smiled when she entered the kitchen.
“How about a  good breakfast to start the morning off right?” Rose asked cheerfully.
“Yes please. It looks great!”
Elianna quickly devoured the meal and cleaned the kitchen while Rose enjoyed her plate. Its the least she could do after all the generosity.  She then carried Rose’s large tote of books to her car and waited for her to lock up. Rose then drove her to the hospital.

“If you wait here, I can pick you back up as well. That is, if you want to spend another night.”
Elianna nodded in response and replied “7:15”, she knew Rose’s routine.
“Thats right. 7:15.”

Elianna climbed the steps to the hospital, eager to show Charlotte her new clothes. She “Woohoooed”, once she caught a glimpse. “Look at you all dolled up!”
Elianna spun around giving her the complete view.
“Don’t I look beautiful!”
“Most beautiful gal in Yellow Town.”
The girls spend the day painting nails and doing each others makeup. At 7 PM sharp Elianna was outside waiting on the same step Rose left her on.

“How was your day with Charlotte?”
“Good. She has been quite bubbly and in good spirits lately. She admired the clothes you gave me.”
“Maybe I could meet her one day.”
“Maybe but she is really shy. She doesn’t like to have much company.”
“Her parents must be grateful that she has such a great friend like you.”
“I doubt it. Her mom and dad never come around.”
“Why not?” Rose questioned while her heart grew heavier with every question.
“I don’t know. I have never seen them before.”
“Never?”
“Nope. Not even once.”
“Isn’t that strange?”
“Not really. Kids get sick all the time and their parents must go on with their lives.”
“That just seems odd to me. If my child was sick I would be there everyday.”
“Not everyone has a parent like you.”
A thick silence settled amongst them.
“Would you like to bring Charlotte a gift?”
“What kind of gift?”
“What do you suppose she would like?”
“She is always using up her colored pencils. She could probably use some more coloring pages and books to read too.”
“We will eat out tonight and go shopping for your friend.”


Rose drove Elianna to the local consignment shop. Together they walked inside where Rose instructed Elianna to pick her friend out a few items. A few minutes later Elianna returns with colored pencils, a coloring book, and one chapter book. Rose nodded and told her to go check out the board game section. She returned with a floor puzzle of ocean animals and CandyLand.
“Great. Now pick you out something.”
Elianna paused for a moment, confused.
“Why?” She asked.
“Why not?” Rose responded.
Elianna slowly approached the isle she had saw it. A little bear similar to the one in the story Corderoy. Except his overalls and hat were a light shade of blue and his belly glowed with ambient light. Perfect for the lonely scary nights when the darkness felt too scary to face.
Elianna clutched the bear tight, presenting it to Rose.
“Alright, grab another for Charlotte.”
Elianna did as she was told and followed Rose to the register. Elianna looked away not wanting to know the final bill. On the way home Rose stopped at a Burger joint and bought them both a cheese burger and fry. All the while Elianna was bursting with excitement and joy, though you would hardly know it other than the big smile on her face.

The next morning Elianna woke up early to prepare her friend’s surprise. She wrapped each one neatly in pretty wrapping paper, finishing them off with oversized bows. All of them except the bear. Rose instructed her to wait on that particular one. Next she grabbed the wig Rose had bought her and gave it a try. If she was going to be catching rides from Rose from now on she needed to maintain her privacy. She pinned her golden locks up and pulled the jet black wig onto her head. She pinned it in place and observed the stranger in the mirror. Funny how hair can make so much of a difference in someone’s appearance. Surely no one would recognize her. She planned to test it on Charlotte today. She wanted to see if she could recognize her beneath the wig. With the excitement of presents she just might fool her.

Rose did a double take when Elianna entered the kitchen.
“How do you like it?”
“Weird, but I kinda like it. We will see if Charlotte notices me.”
“Do you have everything ready to go?”
“All except the bear, like you said.”
Elianna watched as Rose touched each bear together instantly making them light up and play a tune in unison. Rose touch the belly of one bear and miraculously  the other responded with a lit up hand print on it’s belly. Elianna was amazed!
“These are special bears. Not only do they light up, but when paired, they will mimic the touch on the other bear’s belly. That way you can be close to Charlotte when you have to be away.”
Elianna rushed and hugged Rose, silent tears running down her face.
“Thank you. Thank you so much.”


Once again Rose drops Elianna off at the hospital. This time with arms full of gifts and a devious smile. Upon entering she had to promptly tell Nurse Jackie what was up. Elianna was a familiar face, this girl was a stranger. The nurses happily joined in the game and stood back as Elianna approached Charlotte.

“Good day miss. I was sent from the central intelligence agency to deliver a special surprise for a very special lady.” Elianna announced, doing her best to sound different.

Charlotte looked puzzled but clearly oblivious to her friend’s presence. She took the arm full
of gifts and stacked them on her hospital bed. One by one she unwrapped each of them, the excitement and joy showing loudly on her face.
“I can’t wait to show Eli! She will be so excited to play with all of this!”
“You won’t have to wait because TA-DA!”
Elianna pulled off the wig revealing her true self.
“What in the world? How did you do all this?”
“I had a little help from some friends.”
“I would say more than a little. Thank you all so much.”
“Don’t let her fool you Charlotte. We had no idea until she walked through the door, arms loaded.”
“Thank you Eli! Thank you so much. You are the best friend a girl could ask for.”

Elianna showed her the magic of the teddy bears, demonstrating multiple times by placing her hand on the bear’s belly, causing the same imprint to glow on Charlotte’s bear. Charlotte shrieked with delight and joined in with the testing accuracy. As Elianna’s gifts sparked joyful play, laughter resonated through the halls, drawing in other residents. Charlotte and Rose extended an invitation, and soon the entire hospital was abuzz with contagious giggles and warmth, transforming the atmosphere into one of pure delight.









Before she knew it, 8:00 was quickly approaching. Elianna’s heart sank, knowing Rose was probably home and through with dinner by now. She desperately wanted her soft warm bed one more night. Just as she was about to say her goodbyes she spotted Rose standing off in a corner almost hidden. Rose caught her gaze and softly nodded, hoping to reassure Elianna of her presence. Her eyes lit up bright and she ran over to her.
“Come meet Charlotte.”
Elianna grabbed Rose’s hand and led her through the crowd straight to Charlotte who sat at a table with a couple other people doing a puzzle.
“Charlotte, this is Rose, my……. friend. She is the reason today was possible.”
“Wonderful to meet you Rose. Nice to hear Eli has other friends. I assumed I was the one and only.” Charlotte joked. “Thank you for the gifts.”
“You are most welcome. It is great to finally meet the great and mysterious Charlotte.”

The night stretched on, reaching almost midnight before the kids passed out and the nurses shift change was initianted. Elianna couldn’t recall the last time she had been this happy or had seen her friend this happy. She wasn’t sure why Rose had invited her into her home but was sure glad she did. Now with all the gifts, clothes and meals, she was largely indebted to Rose, or so it was beginning to feel. Once the party ran out of steam, Elianna and Rose helped clean up and went home. She stretched out in her over soft bed and slept soundly with a heart and belly full. Rose similarly went to be feeling fulfilled and gratified.

Elianna

“There ya have it, my home sweet home.” Said Rose as ushered Elianna up the concrete steps. 
“My name is Rose, what should I call you?”
“My name is Elianna.”
“Elianna, that’s unique I like it.”
Unsure how to respond, Elianna stayed quiet.
“You can stay in the guest room. There should be what you need in the bathroom. Make yourself at home and when you get clean, I will have some supper ready for you.”

Elianna scurried to the bedroom, shutting the door behind her. For a moment she froze taking in the picturesque scene. Soft plush carpet squished between her toes making her wiggle them. A full bed stood before her, perfectly made with oversized pillows and a thick blanket. On either side, small nightstands held a lamp on one and a delicate vase with a single rose on the other. Nearby, a matching dresser and chair complemented the room’s serene ambiance. She took a deep breath, devouring the sense of comfort and normalcy. The pure bliss almost brought tears to her eyes.

She stepped heavy on her way to the bathroom, loving the feel of the carpet, a texture she hadn’t felt since she was a toddler. Sometime when her mother was alive, she would sit on the floor and play with her. They would stack blocks together and have imaginary tea parties. Her mother always had something fun and exciting to do together. She didn’t realize she had missed the feel of soft floors so much.

Elianna tore herself back from memory lane. She observed the bathroom. An oversized tub and shower combo sat next to toilet. A marble sink lined the wall with fresh personal hygiene products. Elianna unwrapped the soap and inhaled the flowery fragrance. Not the soap her mother used but just as fancy and pretty. She looked around, locating a towel, and washcloth. Next to the towel hung a silk nightgown. Elianna gasped, could it really be for her. Her hand slid over the smooth fabric, letting it flow from her hands like a liquid. No other clothing was present and she had to wear something.

She stepped into the shower, too hesitant to tempt a full bath. For a moment she stood under the hot stream. She turned the water hotter and hotter until it pricked her skin, basking in the warm ambiance and silence. She couldn’t remember the last time she had enjoyed such a luxury. After cleaning with the pretty smelling soaps she stepped out and dried off, anxious to try on the night gown. To her surprise it fit perfect and held to her skin like a hug. She quietly exited the guest room refreshed and wearing a grin.
“Dinner is on the table. Would you like to join me?”
Elianna’s belly growled at the mention of a hot meal. “Yes please.”
“It’s leftover potato soap. I hope you like potato soap.”
Elianna nodded despite not being able to recall ever eating potato soap. It had been a long time since a home cooked meal had occupied her belly, anything would taste just fine.
“Would you like to tell me about yourself?”
Elianna shook her head no in response.
“Okay then. I will tell you about myself. My name is Rose as you know. I own the bookshop you have been sleeping in. I bought the little shop years ago when my two children grew up and had children of their own. It was something for me to care for and tend to after my children were not around as much. I suppose books are easier and less maintenance than plants. My husband passed away shortly after the kids left, leaving me alone with a whole lot of time on my hands. I could really use the help around here if you would like to stay for a while. I am only getting older and the house is too big for one person.”

Elianna stared deep into her eyes looking for any malice or ill intent. None was present. “But why”, she thought? “Why would the old lady want her to stay? To slave around the house and care for her like her own children wont. That would be a hard no. She could not obligate herself to such a situation. Her father would find her and both of them would be punished. Even if she could she would not be tied to a helpless elderly woman in need of a house maid.”

Elianna’s eyes dropped to her food and she ate in awkward silence. She had nothing to say in response. She slowly chewed each bit of carrot, pea and potato, enjoying the taste.

“The soup is good, thank you.” She finally mustered.
“You are welcome dear. Who is your father?”
“Seath Jinkins”
Rose cringed at name. A well known kingpin of the community.
“So you know him?”
“I know of him, yes.”
“Then you see why I can not stay with you.”
“Who’s going to tell him?”
“He has eyes everywhere.”
“We can work around that. For now get some rest.”
Later that night Elianna snuggled up in the full size bed and felt like she was swimming through the clouds. Finally a soft, REAL, bed to sleep in. She fell asleep thanking God for such an incredible blessing.

The feeling of unfamiliar surroundings woke her up late at night despite her comfort. She lied away watching the sky become a beautiful hue of blue grey. She quietly slipped from her bed and went looking for her clothes. She found them in Rose’s dryer, still warm. She hung the nightgown back where it was and changed back into her not so soft, familiar clothes. She resisted the urge to take it, knowing it wasn’t rightfully hers, she was no thief.
Barley making a sound she snuck out the back door as Rose still slept, locking the door behind her.

Rose

The moment Rose’s eyes opened she knew Elianna had left. The house was too quiet, too big. Needing to be sure she looked thoroughly while calling her name. Nothing. Rose sighed in disappointment and prepared for another day at her beloved store. She took the long way hoping to catch a glimpse of the girl and her routines. Once again she spied her climbing the steps to the hospital. A thousand questions burned in her brain, knowing most will probably go unanswered.

Elianna

Elianna spent the whole day with Charlotte, knowing she had a comfy place to sleep tonight and likely a hot meal. They played goldfish, built a Lego castle, finished a whole game of PayDay and finally ended the day by watching Scoobydo. When Elianna finally said her goodbyes it was dark outside. Her little legs walked briskly for the mile or so to Rose’s house. At first she was afraid she had already gone to bed, ultimately leaving her sleeping out in the elements once again. She peeked through the kitchen window and caught a glimpse of her eating dinner alone, an empty plate set for Elianna. She knocked on the door and was greeted by a smiling Rose.
“I was hoping you would come back. Dinner is on the table, spaghetti tonight.”
“Sounds wonderful. Thank you for having me again.”
“You are always welcome dear. As long as you pick up after yourself and don’t bring any strangers with you.”
“Yes. Ma’am.”
“Do you have siblings?”
“Just me.”
“You and only you are permitted on this property, understood?”
“Yes ma’am. Thank you for washing my clothes.”
“Do you have more clothes?”
“Just one extra pair and a winter jacket.”
“That’s what I figured. I stopped by the thrift store on my way home and purchased a few items. I hope they fit. If not, let me know. I also bought you a wig. I advise you to wear it anytime you feel the need and anytime you come and go from here.”
Elianna froze mid chew in disbelief.
“Why do you visit the hospital so often? Do you have a loved one there?”
Elianna nodded. “Charlotte, I love her dearly.”
“What is she to you? Is she ill?”
“She is my friend. Yes she has cancer. She will probably be dead in a few months.”
“That is terrible. I am so sorry. Is there anything I can do to help her?”
“I don’t think so, the doctors keep her comfortable. Don’t worry, I won’t bring her here, she has to stay at the hospital. I will stay here tonight then I must be on my way.”
“Yes of corse…You are always welcome Elianna.”

After dinner Elianna sorted through the clothes Rose had purchased. Several pairs of pants, shorts, shirts and undergarments. She cried silently as she put each one away. It seemed a waste to leave them heaped up in a pile. Plus it was untidy, the least she could do was put them away, even if she had no intention of staying long term. When she was finished Rose poked her head through the door to the guest bedroom.
“You know, I have a vehicle. I could drive you to the hospital in the morning, you don’t have to sneak away or walk so far.”
“Really!?”
“Most certainly. I will take you anywhere you need to go, as long as I can open my shop on time. Then we could still go places after I close shop.”
“The hospital will be more than enough thank you. Thank you for everything.”
“You are welcome. Goodnight Elianna .”
“Good night Rose.”