Then Poppy placed both of their hands together and nodded, her huge, orange hat flopping like a giant stingray in the cold sea breeze. “Think about that team, honey,” she said. “Don’t resist too much. I know some things in my old age. I’m watching out for both of you. You have a real, live third mother you can share in me. I’m watching out for both of you. I know it’s a strange way to get one, but consider me family.”
“Yes, we do make a good team.” Katie laughed assuredly, knowing this unusual trio might become a new Eastern family she could count on. And suddenly, with the churning waves, the cold, salty air turning her cheeks red, and the wind whipping her ponytail around like a propeller, Katie felt grounded, and very much at home.