“Why do you know me so well, Nic?”
“’Cause we’re cousins. And what could go wrong? It’s Benny’s brain, Sir Isaac Newton’s laws, and Red’s…what is he bringing again?”
Gracie’s eyes shuttered. “Trouble.”
They dropped the subject when they stepped into the rec room, where folding chairs were arranged in rows facing a platform stage draped with lights and garlands. Above a giant trophy that had to be bigger than some of the kids and dogs, a hand-painted sign that stretched across the back wall read:
Canine Canyon Welcomes You! Paws & Pals Talent Show!
Paper snowflakes and dog bones dangled from the ceiling, and tables along the sides were covered with hot cocoa, cookies, and raffle prizes donated by local businesses. Gracie had provided a basket of human and dog treats, which, she was happy to see, had a lot of raffle tickets.
The happy hum of voices mixed with barks from the training room, creating a chaotic but heart-warming soundtrack.
Just as they found seats and saved a few extras, Gracie’s phone buzzed in her pocket. She knew who it was before she looked.
A single text glared up at her, so predictable she almost laughed. Almost.
Sam Sutton:Can’t make it today. Coco and I are gonna try to work things out.
The words blurred as tears filled her eyes, but not for her. Never for her. Only for Benny.
She blinked them away, then whispered to the others, “He’s not coming. Big surprise.”
Nicole’s mouth tightened in sympathy, MJ’s in anger. Cindy muttered something sharp under her breath.
Gracie forced a wobbly smile. “I just hope Benny wins so he’s not doubly disappointed.”
Before MJ could respond, the door to the training room opened and the camp counselors paraded in with a pack of kids and at least twenty dogs on leashes. The room erupted in cheers and applause as the children scattered to greet their families.
Gracie spotted Benny instantly—his glasses askew, his eyes bright as he half-ran, half-dragged Sir Isaac Newton toward her. His face was pure, uncontained joy.
“Mom! Where’s Red? Did he make it yet? Does he have the You Know What? I’m last, so I know it’s going to be like the grand finale!”
“On his way, Benny.” She leaned over, getting closer to her son. “Listen, sweetheart…” She took a deep breath. “I have to tell you something.”
Benny froze, then straightened like a little soldier. “Dad’s not coming, is he?”
Gracie’s chest ached. “No, honey. I’m so sorry. He?—”
Benny flicked his hand with a noisy, “Pffft. I figured he’d flake out. Doesn’t matter.” His eyes lit up. “Because Red’s coming with Starling Superior Snacks and we worked it out so it’s part of Newton’s laws! This is gonna beepic!I gotta practice one more time. Come on, Sir Isaac Newton!”
Gracie watched him take off, biting her lip.
“Well,” her mother said, “looks like nothing can keep a good man down, huh?”
A fresh set of tears welled, this time for a different reason. “You know, that kid is the greatest thing that ever happened to me and I honestly could learn a lot from him.” She leaned into her mother. “He’s just like you and I love that.”
“Aww.” She gave Gracie a squeeze. “Trust me, he didn’t get those brains from me.”
“I have no idea where those brains came from, but he got your heart, and honestly? Does anything else matter?”
“To Benny?” Nicole leaned over and chimed in. “Winning this contest.”
“He will,” MJ said, but then she made a face. “But, honey, did he say…Starling Superior Snacks? That thing is older than Red, held together with spit and toothpaste, and I can’t believe it even works.”
Gracie winced. “Well, it’s too late now.”
Some music swelled through the speakers and the crowd of about sixty or so settled down.
