Exton

When Rowan was finally able to take a break and meet Traeger for supper she was struck by how quiet the tavern was. She rarely uses the front door because one is assaulted by the noise of the crowd on a Friday evening, but not so tonight.

Approaching the bar she sees Monty, wiping some glasses and Jack, sitting at the bar nursing a Corona.

“It's so quiet in here tonight. Where is everyone?”

Trying not to grin and only partially succeeding Jack shrugs his shoulders. “Not sure, Star and Erik were just here a minute ago...”

Suddenly Star rushes to the bar, “Rowan, I need your keys to the van. Tomas is fussing... his back...” She holds her hand out expectantly.

“Oh, maybe I better go see...” Rowan starts to stand.

“No, I can take care of it. You havent had supper yet.” Star races out the front door the second Rowan hands her the keys.

“Well, that was strange. I wonder whats got into her. Alise should have plenty of solution for Tomas' cold packs.” Rowan sits down, smiles at Traeger and reaches for a menu. “I'm starved. What are you having?”

Just as Rowan is getting ready to order her meal, Mya flits over. She hovers in front of Rowan and clears her throat loudly, as if having a fairy in front of your face wasnt noticeable.

“Star send Mya for healer lady. Cant find... ummm... cant find... cold things for Tomas....”

“The solution?”

Mya nods solemnly, purple wings humming.

Glancing towards Traeger, Rowan says, “I better go see whats wrong. The solutions are right where they have always been...”

Mya tries to flit casually to the door and as soon as Jeb holds it open a crack she zips out. “Healer Lady coming... Hide...”

Rowan steps out the front door and takes a couple of steps down the stairs before she realizes the van in front of her isnt hers. I thought I parked right in front....


Suddenly Star emerges from the back of the van. She approaches Rowan, a huge smile on her face. She reaches for her hand and pulls her down the last few steps. Star hands Rowan her keys, two shiny new ones on the chain replacing the old van keys.

Rowan stammers, “What is this? Whose van is this and wheres mine?”

Stoney, his siblings and the families all step from behind the van. The riders step from the shadows of the alley. Monty and Traeger comes down the stairs. Star laughs happily as Raina, Ky, Nick and Gareth come around Eriks Jeep which was in front of the van.

“Its yours. We all chipped in...” Star is almost dancing in her excitement.

Rowan is frozen in disbelief for a few seconds. Then as it sinks in her hand moves to her mouth and she tries hard to control the tears threatening. “Its mine? You mean you all got this for me?”

From behind her Rowan hears Traeger laugh. “As Star said, we all chipped in. There are supplies, gas and we had enough to pay for the insurance for a couple of years. Do you like the color?”

“Yes, such a dark blue. Like the sky just before the night begins to fade with a new day...”

“I knew you would like it. We had a mechanic go through it too, so it shouldnt give you any trouble.” Traeger moves from the steps to join the group gathered around the van.

Rowan is still shocked, “I cant believe you all did this... I dont know what to say....” Tears start to fall as she slowly turns and looks at everyone.

Stoney steps forward and takes her hands in his large ones. “Rowan, daughter of the Goddess. You have done so much for all of us. You took care of Alise after her ordeal and simply accepted us the way we are. Many of us feel we owe you a debt that can never be repaid. You have delivered our children, stitched us back together. We wanted to show you in some small way how much we appreciate you and your skills.”

As Stoney moves back Raina wraps her arms around Rowan, “Many of us wouldnt be here if it werent for you. Me for one. You deserve this and so much more...”

Star interrupts, unable to contain her excitement. She tugs on Rowans hand, “Come see the rest..”

Rowan laughs at her, Like a child at Yule... “You mean there is more?”

Star nods happily and pulls Rowan to the back of the van. With a flourish a group of demfae open the rear doors to reveal the interior and all the new supplies.

Star explains, “I tried to remember everything you wanted and didnt have. And there new things for the babies...” Star opens a drawer to reveal new flannel blankets and caps. "Alise and Tara helped me get those. And Pandora and Chloe helped me with all the herbals...." Star points to a clear cabinet, all the jars plainly marked with its contents. “I think Guunnar has something for you too...”

Tears flow freely now, “This is all too much. I am overwhelmed by your kindness... I will thank each of you later, right now I think I am at a loss for words...” Rowan tries to control herself and wipes her eyes. She pulls Star close and kisses the top of her head, “Minx. Was this your idea?”

Star and Traeger exchange a glance and a smile. Rowan turns and gives Traeger a beautiful smile and says 'thank you' as Guunnar makes his way towards Rowan.