He left after that, and I stood there for a moment, trying to process what I felt.
Happy, grateful. Respect.
Confused.
About how I felt about Deacon. About what I should do.
With a heavy sigh, I went in search of my phone, finding it in the storeroom. There were messages from Deacon.
Hello.
I’m sorry I left early. Did you get the last boxes done last night? I can help again tonight if you need. Please let me know.
Yes or no is fine.
Tomorrow is the big grand opening day. I would like a copy of Never Let Me Go by Sir Kazuo Ishiguro and I know you have two. Please don’t sell both before I get there.
That made me smile.
Texting is sometimes easier for me.
Regarding introducing solid foods to Bright, I’m sure he’s ready however if you’d prefer me to check the emergence of his premolars, I’m happy to do that and I can also monitor his intake and ability to chew and swallow effectively.
I have some samples at the clinic and I’m more than happy to discuss options for him. Any time which suits you is also fine.
Also Merry too. He may be more ready than you think.
I look forward to your reply.
Thank you for messaging me first.
I was still standing there, smiling at my phone, when Ro came back in. “So,” she said smugly. “I take it that went well.”
It took me a moment to realize she didn’t have the kittens. “Where are the boys?”
“Calm down, Dad,” she said, rolling her eyes. “Evie has them well taken care of. We’re leaving them with her while we go and have some lunch.”
I opened my mouth to protest but she put her hand up. “Relax,” she said. “Evie’s own cat has had two litters and she’s very adept at caring for them. Plus, it’s good practice for tomorrow.”
I stared at her. “What’s happening tomorrow?”
“She’s minding the boys tomorrow, all day.” She ignored the look of horror on my face. “We’re going to be far too busy and will not have the time to stop every time they make a sound.”
Well, that was aimed directly at me. “I don’t fuss over them every time they make a sound.” She deadass looked at me until I revoked that claim. “Okay, so maybe I do. But they’re so little and helpless, and it’s only been a handful of days and I already cannot imagine my life without them.”
She chuckled and collected her scarf. “Okay, let’s go to the diner for lunch and you can tell me everything that you and Deacon’s father talked about.”
I felt much betterafter a long lunch with Ro. She listened to me, nodded, and smiled patiently as I told hereverything, and I was ever so grateful. She’d never once been anything but supportive, much like Deacon’s father was with him. It made me appreciate Ro even more.
I couldn’t imagine where I’d be without her.
“I should totally cook us dinner tonight,” I said. “Given it’ll be the last chance I get for a week or so, at least. Or until I get a routine at the store.” I fully expected some late nights, particularly in this first week.
Well, I hoped I would.
I needed to be busy. I needed this to be a success.
“Orrr,” Ro said. “And hear me out on this, we could totally order pizza, grab some wine, and have a totally chill night before your life changes forever.”
