Page 12 of Found by the Pack

You’re here. You’re doing this. One day at a time.

A hot shower helps. I scrub hard—skin, scalp, everything—like I’m trying to wash off years of grief and the faint trace of Shepard’s cologne still clinging to the shirt I wore to sleep.

I change into black jeans, a slouchy charcoal tank tucked into the waistband, and my favorite oversized green flannel. My hair’s still damp from the shower when I twist it into a high ponytail and lace up my worn black Doc Martens.

There. Ready to face the town.

But when I get outside to the car, my phone’s still there—dead, screen blank, tethered to Shepard’s power bank like some half-finished thought. I unclip it, grimacing. The library key is still on my passenger seat, too. The one I was supposed to return to City Hall.

Shit. Sorry, Shepard.

I unlock the car, settle into the driver’s seat, and check the time. 3:48 p.m.

Not enough time to paint, but enough to drive around. Scope out the town. Get a feel for the mural spots and maybe grab something to eat before the sun disappears.

I turn the ignition. The engine coughs once, then kicks to life.

Out my windshield, I catch a glimpse of the lighthouse in the distance, its frame rising pale and slender against the steel-colored sky. Below it, a cluster of boats bob in the water—some docked, some anchored. The beach stretches wide and quiet. Wind-blown dunes, sea grass swaying. Peaceful. Too peaceful.

This town is so damn small. But it’s beautiful.

I can’t help smiling as I put the car in drive and start toward Main.

When I glance down at my screen, I see a new email.

FROM: Mayor Jake Marshall

Subject line: MURAL SITE BREAKDOWN + SUPPLIES

Hi Sadie,

Hope you’re settling in okay. Let me know if you need anything.

Here’s the list of your mural locations:

Outer wall of the Driftwood Cove Fire Station

Side of the community health clinic

South-facing wall of Baxter’s Feed & Seed

East side of the elementary school