Survivors
Chapter 10
Author's Note: This chapter sets up a lot of what's to come. I hope it's enjoyable to read. I have many chapters to go. Encouragement is much welcome. Thanks.
Over the next couple of weeks, Jack, Rose and Cora began to settle into a routine. They were rarely all home at the same time. During the day while everyone else was gone, Rose would go to the center of town and shop for necessities, or look around for a home for the three of them. She would always return home before Cora was due back from school. Today when Rose returned, she found two letters in the mailbox from Cora's grandmother. One was addressed to the child, and one to Rose. She took them inside, setting Cora's carefully on the kitchen table before opening her own. Her hands shook just a bit as she lifted the flap, pulling out a single sheet of heavy paper.
Rose,
I thank you for the apology you wrote me. It won't be the easiest thing for me to see you again, but of course I'll be happy to spend Christmas with my granddaughter. I'll be bringing just a few presents with me. If there is anything you especially need, please let me know.
Boston will be turning cold soon. I must admit spending the holiday in a warm climate will be welcome. If you aren't in your new home by then, I'll be happy to take a room near where you're staying. I'll let you know when I'll be leaving Boston. The trip takes quite a while, of course. Keep well, and I'll see you in December.
Elaine
Rose was relieved that Elaine didn't seem hostile toward her, and now had hope the December visit would be pleasant. She knew Cora would be thrilled to see a letter had arrived. It wouldn't be long until the little girl returned from school. Rose had no difficulty keeping busy until Cora arrived. Upon seeing the letter on the table, Cora burst into happy tears.
"Rose, will you please read it to me? I might not know all the words."
"Of course I will." Rose quickly took a chair at the kitchen table. She was happily surprised when Cora settled onto her lap. Smiling, Rose began to read.
"My Dearest Cora,
I will be seeing you for Christmas. I've missed you so much. I can't wait to see you! Is California nice? You must be in school by now. I'm sure you're doing well.
When I come see you, I'll bring you some special things that I hope will help you miss the family a little less. I'll be counting the days until I see you. Sending you heaps of hugs and kisses.
All My Love,
Nana"
Jack came home several hours later. Sunset was now a little after 6 pm, which was when work on the rebuilding ended for the day. Cora waited patiently until after Jack had eaten his dinner to show him her wonderful letter. Seeing Cora so happy made Jack smile as well. The three of them sat at the table talking for a while, until Cora announced she was ready to go to bed. While the child prepared for sleep, Jack talked quietly with Rose, wasting no time getting to his point.
"We need to ask Cora's grandmother to live with us. It will mean finding a bigger house, but we'll manage. They need each other. Cora has been so unhappy."
Rose sighed deeply. "I know. I also know it's my fault."
"Keeping Cora with us was your idea, but I didn't speak up and say we shouldn't. We can fix it, Rose. They'll be so happy. We should let Elaine know in advance, but let's save it for a surprise for Cora. Okay?"
"I think that's a good idea. I'll go out again tomorrow looking for a house." Rose paused to give Jack a tender kiss. "You look so exhausted. Go on to bed if you like. I'll tuck Cora in tonight."
Jack was so weary he simply nodded, walking to their bedroom and closing the door. Cora came out to the living room moments later. The couch was made up, so the little girl settled right in. Rose sat down on the edge of the couch and leaned over, giving Cora a hug good night. The little girl didn't hesitate to accept it, or try to pull away. Once Cora had let go, Rose hesitated to speak, feeling it would break the spell of this rare tender moment. After moments, it was Cora who spoke up.
"Since I don't have school tomorrow, can we go down to the beach and see where Jack has been working? He promised he'd show us."
Rose smiled and immediately agreed. "We won't go out really early. Jack needs his rest. Once we're all up and about tomorrow, we'll go."
"We'll have so much fun! I'll go right to sleep so I won't wake up late. Good night, Rose. Thanks for letting me send that letter to my Nana."
Rose's breath caught in her throat as she answered. "You don't need my permission to send a letter to your family, sweetheart. I can help you with a letter any time you want." Rose gave Cora a quick kiss on one cheek, then said good night and stood up from the couch. From behind her, Rose heard Cora whisper. "Good night, Rosie."
