#rivervale_lodge

**

For Frank it's something of a reunion, he made his calls, got his contacts. The Croix family is getting more help than they're awae of

Silent guardian angels manifest; a repair here, box of groceries there, a few job offers, perhaps, a raffle won with the prize being handyman services....

And a boggan friend as that handyman and some others swarm the place working as fast as only boggans can

While the family is out, no doubt.

No doubt! A free potluck set up by more contacts

Different ways the community already has in place to offer support already exist. Now, the Croix are connected to them all

Daphne is a sad little girl, Junior excitable, but both kids

Frank delicately makes inquires as to what happened to Mrs Croix.

NOT of the family, though.

She died six months ago inn the hospital. Hard to say from what

Anne Marie might be able to find out

And her resting place?

Ah, the grave site you can find

Frank will note that, and call Anne Marie to see if she has some free time.

"For you, I can surely try to make some, Frank. Though I may have Jonas do some footwork. "

"Mind if I come by?"

"I'm at my house , head on over"

"Dutch, I have to meet with one of our area experts. You can find your way to the Lodge?"

"Sure can, Rigger!"

"Thanks. I'll see you back there."

They part company, and Frank heads to Anne Marie's.

she arrives, Dr. Lee opens the door, "The wife said you were coming by. Go on up. And forgive me, I'm the on call surgeon"

"Of course, Doctor. Sorry to disturb you, I appreciate your welcome."

"Coffee is in the pot, and it is no trouble" He heads off to the hospital

Frank goes on in, and finds Dame Anne Marie at a desk

He nods respectfully; the coffee he gives a pass. "Evening."

"Evening, Frank. How are you?"

"Doing well, Miss Anne Marie. Thank you for seeing me."

"Have a seat, please" She gestures to a large chair

Frank takes the offered seat. "Do you have a moment for a story?"

"Well, if it's a short story" but she smiles "Should I get you some coffee?"

"No, thank you. This late, it keeps me up." Frank gives her the short version of the Croix family situation.

She sighs "Oh that poor family."

Frank nods. "Brekke to the tree away to heal it. I stayed at the Croix house to heal there."

"They've got more food in, now, and repairs are planned or underway. Do you think you could find out how Mrs. Croix passed?"

"Oh yes, if need be my husband can find out" Proud

"The little girl, Daphne... she's withdrawn, quiet. Seemed sad. Understandable. She's 8. The boy, Junior, is 6. I assume his name is Jeff."

"Mmm" She takes notes down. "I don't want to scare Mr. Croix intto thinking his custody is in danger"

"No, certainly not. "

"But yes, I think there might be some financial assistance programs... that.. oh yes" She sorts through "I think I might be able to cut his costs on those medical bills. If need be, we'll have the hospital itemize"

(Pause)