Is everything okay?
Desmond
Everything is fine. Wanted to see if you were up for some laser tag and go-carts on Sunday?
Jack
For Parker’s birthday?
Sure! I’ve never done laser tag or go-carts.
Are you sure? Am I allowed to?
Desmond
Pretty sure. I’ll check with the boss, yeah?
Jack
Cool. Does Parker have a list of things he wants?
Desmond
No pressies, Bluey, just you.
I hold my phone up and wiggle it in Parker’s direction. Once he swallows, I tell him the good news.
“Jack is in.”
“Yes!” he exclaims. “Jack is so cool.”
Hiding my grin by looking back down at my phone, I type out a message to Nico as well.
Desmond
Sorry to bother you on an off day, but wanted to run something by you.
Nico
No bother.
Desmond
Parker’s birthday is on Sunday. He wants to play laser tag and go-carts with Micky, and eat dinner with your puppy to celebrate.
Sorry. Don’t feel obligated.
Nico
I’ll let Anthony know—Sunday is just fine. What time will the laser tag be finished?
Desmond
You tell me. We can make anything work.
Nico
How does six sound?
