Sanctuary(169)

she wrapped her arms around herself, turned in a slow circle. The sun was radiant, the air stunningly fresh. she could see the wreck through toppled trees, the broken pottery that had been the little fountain, the now roofless smokehouse. Branches and leaves and glass littered the patio.

Above them, Gaff and Lexy worked on prying off the protective plywood, and opening the windows to the light. she saw her father and Kate at the edge of the trees, then with wonder and amazed joy, saw him drape an arm around Kate's shoulders.

"Yes, I'd like that. I'd like to stay a while longer, help them put things back. It won't be exactly as it was. But it might be better."