Ch. 20.4 — Old Bob had warned Janine to be careful what she told people. She liked Col and Bee, but she still didn’t know if she could trust them with the whole truth. “I ran away from home. I’m looking for a job.” It was true… in a way.
Bee looked concerned. “Oh, but won’t your parents be worried?”
Janine thought of her mother’s coldness, her father’s anger, and worst of all, her sister’s attempt on her life. They thought she was dead, anyway. Tears welled up in her eyes. “My parents don’t care. They’re glad to be rid of me.”
Bee leaned forward, sympathy in her expression. “Why is that?”
Janine was suddenly angry. She gestured to her face. “Can’t you see how ugly I am?”
Col regarded her sadly. “My dear, we were so busy enjoying our conversation that we didn’t even notice the warts. They really aren’t so very noticeable.”
Janine got up and began to pace. “Oh, sure. Now I know you’re just being nice.”
“No, really.” Col drummed his fingers on the table as he and Bee exchanged glances. “Well, if you are determined to stay in the Tulgey Woods, we must find you a job. What are your skills and abilities? Can you cook?”
“No.”
“Can you care for a house?”
“No.”
“Can you weave, or make jam, or chop wood?”
Janine began to realize how sheltered her life had been. She sat back down. “I can’t do any of those things. I’m good with dogs. I can read, and I can learn. I’ll work hard.”
Bee patted her hand. “Don’t worry. You can live here, and we’ll teach you what you need to know.”
Col nodded eagerly. “Yes, and then we’ll find you a suitable job.”
Janine hugged them both. “Thank you very much.” She yawned.
Bee stood up. “Come with me, dear. We have a loft where we’d hoped to put our children someday. Unfortunately, there haven’t been any, so the room is empty and waiting.”
Janine climbed the stairs to the loft, which was painted a cheerful yellow. A window trimmed in white frilly curtains looked out into the forest. The bed was just the right size for her, and covered with a fluffy white goose down quilt. In moments she was asleep. She didn’t even notice when Freddie jumped up and curled up beside her.
Carol Nicolas 