Sienna blinked, confused. “It’s not in great shape,” Altha added quickly. “I haven’t used it in a while. But there’s a bed… heating… enough to get by for a few days.” For a moment, neither spoke. “You can stay there,” Altha continued. “Just until I’m back. I won’t be gone long.”
“I… I don’t know what to say,” Sienna replied. “You don’t have to say anything,” Altha said. “Just don’t stay out here.” A pause. Then Sienna nodded slowly. “Thank you,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Altha handed over the keys and scribbled her number on a piece of paper. “Call me if you need anything.” For a second, she hesitated. You’re giving your house to a stranger.
But the thought didn’t linger. She’d already made her choice. And walking away now somehow felt worse than the risk. So she turned and headed back toward the terminal. Even as she boarded her flight, the moment stayed with her. Not because it felt wrong, but because it felt right.
