I’m not wearing pant(ies).
ME
Jesus Christ, Bree. Don’t give me a boner when I’m about to pet puppies.
BREE
I’m starting to think this was a terrible idea.
ME
What idea is that?
BREE
You, hot, tatted up, puppies. Guaranteed to make the women melt.
ME
There’s only one woman I want to melt.
BREE
“Can you stop sexting with my best friend and pay attention?” Taylor’s voice startles me.
“We weren’t sexting.” I shoot off another quick text to Bree before we get busted and she kills me.
ME
Put a pin in that for later.
“Whatever you say. Now, asIwas saying. You will give the initial address to the crowd and then we’re off to the races. You’ll smile and sign autographs.” Taylor walks down her list in the planner I notice she’s carrying more often than not.
“And play with the puppies, right?” Can’t miss out on puppy time.
She rolls her eyes and continues her instructions. “Promote each rescue. The point of this event is to raise money and awareness for the pets around the city. Don’t stay at one booth too long. You can trade off with the other guys. Most importantly, have fun! We don’t want people to think this is just checking a box for you,” she adds, pointedly.
“It’s not. This is important to me.”
“I know that. I’ve seen how much work you put into this. The people need to know that. Don’t forgetwhywe’re here.”
Well shit, that stung.
Nodding, I say, “Got it.”
Taylor lowers her planner and touches my arm. “That’s not what I meant. I’m not throwing it in your face. You’re not the same guy as you were a couple months ago. You’ve proven that.”
“Thanks, Taylor. That means a lot coming from you.”
“You’re welcome. Let’s go get you mic’d up.”
We walk to the pitcher’s mound where I’ll give my opening speech. People are everywhere. After the mic pack is attached, I step onto the mound and address fans waiting to be let onto the field.
“Thank you all for coming to the inaugural Bark in the Park! I’m so excited to be here today to host this pet adoption event, and while there are plenty of dogs here, don’t forget about our feline friends. Cats are available for adoption on the suite level where it’s nice and cool. Have a great time everyone, and if you see your favorite player around the park today, don’t be afraid to ask for a photo. I’ll be over playing with the puppies.”
Cheers erupt as the crowd disperses. Bree walks up to me after I hand off the mic pack to the closest assistant.
“You just had to tell them where you’d be, didn’t you,” she smarts.
