Finding Serenity

Thanksgiving

Rena had been working at the coffee shop for almost eight months. It was November, and Thanksgiving was just around the corner. She was in her apartment, trying to decide what she should bring to dinner. Lacy had invited her to Gramps' center for kids, a place known for throwing big parties, with Thanksgiving being one of their best.

Although Lacy had assured her that she didn't need to bring anything, Rena felt it would be awkward to show up empty-handed. She decided to bake a homemade pumpkin pie. As she gathered all the ingredients, her kitten, Neko, hopped up on the counter with a curious look in her eyes.

"I'm making a pie, Neko. It's for my friends. They invited me to a Thanksgiving dinner," Rena said with a smile.

Neko used her little nose to sniff the ingredients scattered across the counter. When she got to the flour, she dipped her nose a little too far. Her nose was dusted in white before she let out a tiny sneeze, knocking the cup over.

"Oh, Neko, see this is why you can't be on the counter when I'm cooking," Rena said, picking up the little kitten and placing her on the floor. "Off you go, I need to finish this pie."

Once she finished baking her pie, she set it on the counter to cool. She grabbed a cup of cocoa, sat down in her small living room area, and watched Neko chase her toys. Her thoughts drifted back to the times she had Thanksgiving dinner at Clark's. Before she knew it, she had drifted off, with Neko curling up in her lap.

Thanksgiving arrived and Rena stood outside the grand building known as the Fairy Hall. She clutched the small pumpkin pie she had brought as a contribution to the Thanksgiving feast, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness.

As she stepped inside, the warmth of the hall enveloped her, and the sound of laughter and chatter filled the air. The hall was decorated with twinkling fairy lights and autumnal wreaths, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere. Lacy greeted her with a warm hug, her eyes sparkling with joy.

"Rena, I'm so glad you made it!" Lacy exclaimed. "Come on, let me introduce you to everyone."

Rena followed Lacy through the bustling hall, where tables were laden with an array of delicious dishes. She spotted her other work friends, Nathan, Grayson, Mira, and Ezra, who waved at her with welcoming smiles. They were gathered around a short, elderly man with a kind face and a twinkle in his eye.

"Rena, this is Gramps," Lacy said, introducing the elderly man. "He's the heart and soul of this place. He's helped all of us through tough times and got us back on our feet."

Gramps extended a hand to Rena, his grip firm yet gentle. "Welcome, Rena. It's a pleasure to meet you. Any friend of Lacy's is family here."

Rena felt a warmth spread through her chest at his words. She had heard so much about Gramps from Lacy, about how he had been a guiding light for so many people. As she looked around the hall, she saw the faces of people who had found solace and support in this community. It was a place of belonging, and for the first time in a long while, Rena felt a sense of hope.

Nathan, with his easygoing smile, handed Rena a plate piled high with food. "You have to try Gramps' famous stuffing," he said. "It's the best."

Rena took a bite and her eyes widened in delight. "This is amazing!" she exclaimed. "I can see why everyone loves it here."

Grayson chimed in. "Just wait until you try Mira's pumpkin pie. It's legendary."

Mira blushed and waved off the compliment. "Oh, stop it, Grayson. You're making me blush."

Ezra smiled warmly at Rena. "We're really glad you could join us, Rena. It wouldn't be the same without you."

Rena felt a lump in her throat as she looked around at her friends. She had been hesitant to come, still healing from her past, but now she was grateful she had accepted Lacy's invitation. This was exactly what she needed—a sense of community and support.