Hazel's plane ride had been uneventful. She browsed through a book she brought. She had listened to some music. She had regretted not buying chewing gum, and bought some as soon as she found a convenience store inside the airport, along with an Earl Grey tea a drink she could never resist. It was longer than she expected to get her luggage. She was afraid it had been lost after 25 minutes of standing and watching, but there it was, gently spinning around on the conveyor belt. Feeling a little ridiculous for having stood there so long without grabbing it- how many times must it have spun past her?- Hazel heaved the suitcase to her side, adjusted her gloves, hat and scarf, and picked up her warm, steaming cup for the taxi ride.

It was a while to get a taxi, as well. People were unloading, yes, and the weather was clear, but it was cold and those unaccustomed to the temperatures of Alaska were moving slowly. All of the other people hailing taxis seemed to have been hauling far more luggage than she was, and some with children, so Hazel stepped back and allowed them taxis first.

When she finally got into a taxi for herself, her tea had been thoroughly cooled, as had her hands. She was shivering as she hefted the suitcase into the trunk before climbing in and rubbing her hands together for warmth. She handed over the map to the driver, too cold to speak, and settled back into her seat. The drive was calm and quiet, the driver just as happy not to speak as she was. When they got within sight of the house, the driver pointed. 

"We're nearly there." Hazel sat forward, looking out the window to see the place. It was beautiful. Covered in snow with trees glistening around it, she couldn't help smiling. She couldn't believe she got to stay here! She looked carefully on the drive, hoping to see someone else.