“It’s Rachel, from the vet.”
“Oh, hey.” His tone transformed from professional to casual. “How’s Roxie?”
“I haven’t heard yet. When they said to have her there first thing this morning, I assumed she’d have the biopsy right then, but she could have it done anytime between nine and noon, and even then, I won’t hear from them until she’s awake from anesthesia. I’m sorry to bug you, it’s just that-” Realizing she was rambling, she cut herself off.
“I remember those days. It’s nerve-wracking waiting to hear.”
“Yes,” she said, more emphatically than the situation called for.
He chuckled. “I’m only laughing because I completely relate.”
“I took off work. I tried going in after I dropped her off, but I couldn’t concentrate.” She drank a sip of tea.
“It’s not uncommon. My sister hung out with me that day to keep my mind off Chance.”
“That’s sweet.” She leaned against the chair and sighed. “I don’t have any family here. I thought about asking a friend to come over but was too embarrassed.”
“Since I startedPaws More Worry Less,I’ve realized how common that is among pet owners.”
“Really?”
“Yes. Pet owners are often reluctant to reach for help outside of the pet community.” He cleared his throat. “Some feel they’re being insensitive to human suffering by worrying about their pet, some think their friends don’t understand the bond between pets and their owner. Despite all the reasons out there, it’s important to connect with others and have support.”
“I get that, and if the situation were reversed, I’d gladly be there for a friend, but it’s different when you’re the one going through it.”
The sound of computer keys clicking echoed faintly over the line. “I know we don’t know each other well, but I do have an idea of what you’re going through because I’ve been there. If you’d like, we can meet up in about a half hour when I finish this task.”
“Oh no, you don’t have to do that.” She shook her head even though he wasn’t there to see. “Don’t you have to work?”
“My hours are flexible as long as I get the job done.”
Squeezing her eyes shut, she drew in a long breath. Ten years later, the scars of her broken engagement lingered. Aaron’s offer, innocent and generous as it was, enticed her, but the pull she’d experienced toward him yesterday scared her. Though she’d dated and had been in a few relationships, she’d never experienced an instant connection like yesterday with anyone except Josh.
Her past argued to stay away from Aaron and not risk letting him into her life, even as a friend. Her current situations and emotions begged her to reach out and accept. Each drop of air that escaped as she exhaled carried out with it her indecision. “I could use a friend.”
“Have you eaten lunch yet?”
“No. I’ve been too nervous.” Her stomach tightened then emitted a low growl. “But maybe I should grab something.”
“Do you like pizza? There’s a new place that opened a few blocks from my office. It’s one of those where you tell them what toppings you want, and they assemble it in front of you.”
“Ayli? I went there last week with a friend. It’s really good.” Suddenly, her appetite increased. “Want to meet there?”
“Sure. What time?”
“I’m free whenever.”
Papers rustled. “Is a half hour too soon?”
“Perfect.”
“Great. I’ll see you in a bit.”
The call ended, and Rachel stared at her phone. “What did I get myself into?”
She glanced down at her outfit, the same one she’d worn to work. That morning, she’d chosen the yellow capris and white blouse for their cheerful and bright aesthetics. In her mind, dressing cheery would prevent her from worrying herself into a panic. A lot of good that had done.
Regardless, she loved the outfit, and if she didn’t get crazy with tomato pizza sauce, she wouldn’t have to change clothes to meet Aaron. She went to the bathroom and touched up her makeup, applying a fresh layer of powder to cover what the sweat had taken off. Before she left, she spritzed Island Coconut body splash on her arms. The light scent didn’t overpower but hinted at a summer night on the Caribbean. She left the house without further care to her appearance.
