Free Steadfast Heart by Tracie Peterson

why she’d take on that thought, but she also considered that perhaps Kolbein had learned his lesson.
    â€œThe problem is, she is quite young and unescorted and knows nothing of being on her own. Not like you boys. You know everything about life on the streets, and that’s why we’ve come to you. I’m certain you can learn information by asking aroundand watching out for her. Kolbein . . . Mr. Booth will show you her picture, and that will get you started.”
    Kolbein reached into his vest pocket and produced a small photograph. Each of the boys took a moment to study the picture before returning their eyes to Abrianna.
    â€œSure, we can keep a look out for her. What should we do if we find her?” Toby crossed his arms over his scrawny chest.
    â€œFollow her and learn where she’s living,” Kolbein said before Abrianna could reply. “Don’t give yourself away, or she might seek to flee once again.”
    â€œWe can do that,” Toby said, answering again for the group.
    â€œThank you, boys. I knew I could count on you.” Abrianna held up a basket. “I have some treats here you might enjoy. The cookies and cakes were left over from Saturday’s reception. And Liang thought to put in some roast beef and bread for sandwiches.”
    The boys were used to this routine on Mondays and eagerly dug into the basket to retrieve all that Abrianna had brought. Meanwhile, she turned to Kolbein. “Do you have any walking money?”
    He looked at her oddly. “Of course.”
    â€œMight you spare two dollars?”
    He raised a brow but otherwise only nodded and reached into his pocket. Within a moment he had produced the sum and handed it to Abrianna. She in turn handed it to Toby. “Make certain you use this wisely. I would suggest you each get a new pair of shoes at the secondhand store. You look to be all but barefooted.”
    Toby laughed. “Well, summer is comin’, and we won’t need shoes.”
    â€œIt’s not coming soon enough.” Abrianna glanced overheadat the cloudy sky. “You will find yourself down sick, what with the rain and the chill. Spring is always a dangerous time. Please just do as I ask.”
    Toby sobered and nodded. “We will, Miss Abrianna. I promise.” The other boys nodded in unison.
    She smiled and touched each boy’s cheek. There was no telling the last time they’d had a human touch of kindness. If she wagered, Abrianna would bet it to be the last time she’d met up with the boys. “I’ll see you soon.” She turned to go but whirled back around.
    â€œBy the way, are you continuing to pray each day?”
    â€œYes, ma’am,” the boys replied.
    â€œAnd we’re readin’ the Bible you gave us,” Toby added. “I’m trying to teach them to read, just like my granny did for me.”
    Abrianna couldn’t contain her pleasure at this news. “You are all wonderful. Keep working hard. I will bring you some pencils and butcher paper when I can. Then you can practice writing what you read. You’ll be amazed how wonderful it is to read and write. It will open the world wide to you. If you prove yourself capable with numbers and words, you may very well be able to get a better class of job.”
    With that, she moved away and Kolbein kept easy step with her. Abrianna considered the boys’ plights and wondered what more she could do. Surely there might be someone who could help the boys without forcing them to go back to the orphanage.
    â€œYou’re truly a remarkable woman, Abrianna,” Kolbein murmured.
    She shook her head. “Nonsense. I’m just being mindful of those who are poor and sick, just as the Bible encourages us to do.”
    â€œAnd do you offer such encouragements to others on the street?”
    â€œOf course.” Abrianna giggled. “Aunt Miriam cannot understand why I am always losing my Bible,