Chapter 26: Big Family

The drive to the animal shelter was silent, tension-filled, and uncomfortable. Axel sat at the driving wheel because we were driving his car: a bright red Subaru Impreza. Broddi took the passenger seat, crossing his arms like a spoiled child who didn't get his way. I took the back seats, staring out the window and trying to avoid all eye contact. The only noise passing between the three of us was awkward coughs and unintentional sniffles. I almost cried out in relief when I saw the shelter come into view.

It was a small little place, only ten to fifteen parking spaces in the parking lot. The paint on the walls was peeling and the window that looked into the shelter was tinted grey as if it hadn't been washed in awhile. Still, the pure joy on Axel's face made up for the shambles of the shop.

Axel hopped out of the car and slammed the door shut, quickly shooing Broddi and I out after him. Broddi grumbled impatiently, but I made sure the look on my face was as joyful as Axel's - even if