Chapter 72

"If now's not a good time--"

"No, it's okay." Kiki replied a bit too quickly. "Come on over and sit down. I'm glad you came by."

Taren did as she asked, and placed his hands on his knees. "Well, I have some good news for you. Or- at least I hope it's good news."

"What's that?" Kiki asked, suddenly caught up in his enthusiasm.

A broad smile spread across his face. "Well, I just came from The North Pole Lodge and Liam is going to give you a room until you get on your feet again--free of charge, for as long as you need it."

"Liam White? Really? Isn't he the general manager of The North Pole Lodge?" Kiki's rose almost into her hairline. "Why would he do that?"

"He's a friend of mine." Taren shrugged. "I paid him a visit and when he heard about the fire and what happened, he didn't hesitate. In fact, he's giving you a suite, complete with a kitchenette, and he's having it fully stocked. And the townspeople took up a collection for you and wanted me to give you this check." He reached