Room for more than one Gael (Tempest)

Artair and Sarah were adorable. Devon knew he could handle children; he’d been trained to. More than that he dealt with them regularly at Sanctuary, but you had to appreciate someone who was genuine with them and clearly cared. Devon still wasn’t sure the guy had needed him, and he was going to find out how Serena knew him as well. Serena had a habit of meeting charming young men who had hoped for a chance…

She ran for her father and burst into tears. Even her father was crying. Margaret – Devon assumed – was the older woman standing behind him. She looked pale and almost ashamed. That was guilt. It was easy to express hindsight but clearly Sarah was too young to be walking alone.

>> "You OK handling the talking? I'm not too great at it and you've already spoken to him."

Devon gave a warm smile and a nod before giving a gentle pat to Artair’s back. He stepped ahead, looking first to Margaret who was fighting back tears but smiling now. Devon’s glance gave a silent warning; he had nothing to say she didn’t already realize and the stare was a reminder he knew too. She’d messed up.

“I’m Devon,” he said warmly with a positively upbeat tone. “That’s Artair who first helped your daughter,” Devon gestured, adding emphasis on first helped. “Sarah’s a strong young lady, however I hope she has someone walking with her in the future.”

“Yes, of course, thank you both,” George said, wiping a tear from his daughter’s cheek and ignoring his own.

“I’ll meet you from now on,” Margaret smiled to Sarah.

“And we’re going to walk with one of the boys from down the street,” George said. “Walking group, have you meet some more friends,” he smiled at Sarah.

She beamed and nodded.

“In the meantime, George, I want to help you and your daughter. I work with Sanctuary and we have after school and community programs that I’m sure you would like. Sarah can meet more friends like her,” Devon nodded slowly.

George’s eyes widened but realization took over as he nodded. “Oh yeah? I’ve heard of that place. You think so? More kids like her?”

Devon nodded again. “Many. Some who live there,” he smiled. “Margaret, you’re welcome too of course. Anyone who supports families as wonderful as George and Sarah are part of that community too.”

Her eyes softened and she smiled, “Thank you, Mr. –er, Devon.”

“Will you be there, Mr. Artair?” Sarah asked, looking to the Scottish gent. She leaned in to her father and whispered for all to hear, “He talks funny daddy.”

Devon chuckled, turning to the man. “I sure hope he will.”