Hawk’s eyes flashed with anger, but he knew he had crossed a line. Without another word, he grabbed his things and stormed out of the room, leaving an eerie silence in his wake.
Darien picked up Baran’s suitcase from Hawk’s bunk, feeling a mix of relief and sadness. He knew it was the right decision, but it was never easy to turn someone away.
Silas and Finley entered just as he was leaving.
“What’s going on? Did something happen to Baran?” Silas asked.
“Yes. Hawk attacked Baran and took his suitcase, and I just finished talking with Hawk. He can’t stay here anymore.”
“And Baran?” Silas asked.
“He’s staying with me. He has some bruises, but he’ll be okay. He’ll work with me here. I hope you two will help us decorate.”
“Are we still going to have a Christmas party?” Finley asked.
“We definitely are. Do you want me to give your phone number to Baran?” he asked Silas.
“Yes, tell him to call anytime.”
Darien nodded.
“He can call me too,” Finley said.
As he carried the suitcase to his car, Darien thought of Baran, hoping this action would bring him some sense of justice and safety. At the very least, Baran would know someone was looking out for him.. Darien was determined to keep Rainbow Haven a true haven for all who needed it.
Chapter Eight
Baran
Baran wandered into thekitchen, drawn by the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked cookies. As he stepped inside, he was greeted by the sight of Miss Charlotte standing at the counter rolling out dough and cutting shapes for new cookies while also placing batches of cookies onto cooling racks and decorating others. She worked with practiced ease, her movements quick and efficient. The kitchen was filled with the scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar.
“Hello there,” she greeted him, her accent carrying the tones of Scotland. “You must be Baran. I’m Miss Charlotte.”
“Hi,” Baran replied, feeling nervous but comforted by the homey atmosphere. “It smells amazing in here.”
“Thank you,” Miss Charlotte said. “I’m baking Christmas cookies. Would you like some?”
Baran nodded eagerly, and Miss Charlotte gestured for him to sit at the table. She poured him a glass of milk and placed a plate of hot cookies in front of him. The cookies were beautifully decorated, each one a small work of art.
As Baran took a bite and the warmth and sweetness filled him, Miss Charlotte sat down across from him. “I’m here most of the day, so if you need anything, just let me know,” she said.
“Thanks, Miss Charlotte,” Baran replied, appreciating her hospitality.
She studied him for a moment, her expression gentle but curious. “Tell me, Baran, what brought you here? Why aren’t you with your family?”
Baran hesitated, the painful memories surfacing. “It’s a long story,” he began, his voice tinged with sadness. “My father found out I was gay and disowned me. He threw me out with nothing. I had nowhere else to go.”
Miss Charlotte’s eyes softened with sympathy. “I’m so sorry to hear that, Baran. But know that you’re safe here. Darien and I will make sure of it.”
“Thank you, Miss Charlotte. That means a lot.”
She nodded. “We’ll take care of you, lad. Now, enjoy those cookies. There’s plenty more where they came from.”
Talking to her made Baran feel a sense of comfort and belonging. Her kindness gave him hope for the days ahead.
Shortly after, Darien walked in with Baran’s suitcase.
“You got my suitcase back. Thanks.”
