Excerpt from Chapter Two

     Maria was excited to meet the others. It was fun to watch the reactions as she greeted each creature. Daisy, the fairy, was the first. Just as she did the first time, Maria complimented her on her wings. She won her over a second time. Most people don’t get a second chance to do that. I think that made Daisy happy.

     Then came George. Maria’s eyes widened as she saw the large lion with eagle wings. She petted his mane, which made him purr. “You’re purring like a big cat!”

     “That’s right. We always purr when we’re happy, Maria,” George told her.

     Then Jonah. He’s half horse and half man. They’re called Centaurs. I had to explain to Maria what that was, but she didn’t mind. I think it made her excited meeting creatures like Jonah and George.

     Her eyes widened as each creature hugged her. There were so many of them lined up, ready to give her a gentle squeeze to show her how much they loved her. “I must have been really nice to all of you,” she said.

     “Yes, you were,” Daisy said as she lowered to Maria’s shoulder. “You really don’t remember any of us?”

     “No, I don’t. But I feel like I should. How long have I known you?”

     “For a little over a year, Maria,” George said. He’s a Griffin.

     “I like you. I never met a lion who could fly before. And you said there’s another one here like you?” Maria asked.

     “Yes, she’s around here somewhere. I last saw her playing with the bears.”

     “Bears?” Maria turned her head as she looked around the farm.

     “Yes, bears. There are three who visit here a lot. In fact, most of the creatures come by for a visit a lot. They like seeing you and spending time with you, Maria,” I told her. I watched Jonah disappear into the woods. I guess he wasn't into crowds that much. I didn’t make anything of it.