Avian

Refuge

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Before, Kanza seemed to like her space from the humans, but what ever happened that night in the cave seemed to make her more comfortable with Peter.  As they moved along the forest floor, Kanza sat, perched on Peter's shoulder.  It actually made Ava a bit uncomfortable knowing that Peter could turn on them.  She hoped that he wouldn't, because she actually kind of appreciated his company. Peter and Kanza could not stop talking. They talked about food, animals and even pets. Kanza and Ava were both intrigued at the idea that one would take care of an animal, just because.  Jordan was pretty quiet, Ava could tell something was bothering him.

The sound of motors filled the ambience of the forest. They were getting closer to a road that would lead them back to human civilization. Peter lead the way towards the sounds. Kanza became increasingly nervous. When they came to the road, they followed it while keeping in the tree line. Any chance of being noticed was a risk they were not willing to take.

They had been walking all day, and the sun was setting.

" there is a town up ahead." Peter said. "We could find a place to stay for the night?"

"Is that even safe?" Jordan asked.

" It is getting close to dark, we should be fine."

"What about Ava and Kanza? There isn't much that could disguise them..." Jordan asked.

Peter stopped and looked back at Jordan. There was an awkward silence, so hesitantly,  Ava slid down Jordan's arm and hopped right into his coat pocket that badly needed washing. Peter chuckled, but Jordan just looked down at her and sighed.

"Ava,..." he started. "Are you going to be alright?

"I'll be fine Jordan. Just pretend I'm not here." She tried to encourage him.

Jordan looked down at her and managed to crack a smile.

Peter looked at Kanza who was bobbing as she struggled to stay awake. She had been talking Peters ear off all day, the poor girl was exhausted!

Peter gently reached for her and cupped her in his hands, making sure not to drop her. Ava was surprised to see that Kanza didn't budge, instead she remained rested while Peter brought her down. He looked at her for a brief moment and then brought her to Jordan and lowered her into his pocket with me.

"Please keep her safe." He told Jordan.

Peter looked at Ava and smiled. "Thank you, Ava."

Kanza was wrapped in her wings. Ava sat down next to her and curled her wings around herself.

"Well." Jordan started. "You guys look mighty cozy in there." Ava smiled up at him, and he winked back.

"Let's see about a place to sleep first." Said Peter

"Sure, and then some food." Jordan added.

"We need to be carful." Peter addressed.

Kanza fell fast asleep.  But Ava remained awake, knowing they were entering human territory made her uneasy.  The streets were fairly quiet.  Jordan and Peter swiftly walked in and out of ally's, keeping their eyes peeled on passing vehicles. 

"There is a motel on 1 st." Jordan mentioned. 

"Alright, follow me." Said Peter.

They entered a run down motel on the corner.  Ava could see
Through  the fabric of Jordan's pocket.   It was dimly lit with a few old cars in the lot.  Nothing fancy.  As they entered the small office, the smell of cat hair and old furniture filled the air.  Ava instantly felt uneasy.  There was a women at the desk holding a large fluffy grey cat with a smooshed face.  The cat became restless as they purchased a room and jumped off her lap and ran out the door as soon as it opened it. 

They entered their room which only had one bed.  It looked a bit sad and worn out, but it was a place to stay.  Jordan sat down on the bed.

Ava popped her head out of Jordan's pocket, scanning the new environment. 

"Come on out." Peter nudged. 

Ava climbed out of the coat pocket and onto The bed beside Jordan. 

Kanza was still fast asleep.  Jordan peaked into his pocket.  Kanza looked like a sprawled mess of feathers.  Jordan reached in, carful not to wake her and cradled her out of his coat.  He sat her gently onto one of the pillows on the bed.  Then he stood up.  Ava stood up too, not wanting to leave his side.

"Ava, wait here, I'm just going to get something for us to eat and I'll be right back.  You will be safe here.  I don't want to loose you." He said with concern, and taking off the dingy lab coat. 

Peter stood up and walked to Jordan.  "Here, you'll need this." He handed him some cash. 

"Thanks." Said Jordan "I will be back.  Just stay here!" 

"We will." Said Peter. 

Jordan looked at Peter seriously.  "Please."

He bent down towards Ava, still standing on the bed, and gently kissed her forehead, "I love you."  He whispered softly.

Peters expression was that of shock! But he contained it well as Jordan exited the room to grab them a bite to eat.