Page 85 of Ravage

“I’m not sure.”

“Maybe they didn’t like it.”

“I doubt that. It was a really cute turtle.”

“Yes, it was.” She sat down at one of the tables and sighed. “I guess I’ll have to make another one.”

Her determination made me smile. “I guess that means we’re having our appointment.”

“Well, yeah. We have work to do.”

I had to hold back my laugh as I stood and started gathering supplies. Poppy had an old soul, and without even trying, she was brightening my day. I brought the clay over and placed it in front of her.

“My bowl is gone, too,” she said, looking around the room.

“It is.”

“And my house.”

“I know. I’m really sorry.”

“You didn’t do it.”

“No, I didn’t, but I still feel bad about it.”

She shrugged. “I can make another one.”

I watched with wonder as she started working with the clay. Poppy was a special little girl. Plenty of children her age would’ve fallen apart over losing something they cherished, but Poppy had learned way too early how to live with loss. I hated that she’d had to feel that here with me.

“Your picture is gone, too.”

“It is.”

“Did the bad guys mess it up?”

“No.” I smiled as I said, “Mr. Cole took it.”

Her brows furrowed. “Why did he take it?”

“I’m not sure.”

“I bet he’s going to put it on his refrigerator.” She kept working as she said, “That’s what Clara does with mine.”

“Maybe so.”

“Where is he?”

“I’m not sure.”

“Is he coming back?”

“Maybe.”

Poppy crinkled her nose. “You should tell him to.”

“Why?”

“Because you look sad, and he makes you not sad.”