“Well, sure. But that’s not what we’re talking about here. We want the world to know what can happen if centers like this close down. A lack of resources can have an impact.” He slides his hand through my hair again, giving me a tender smile. “If people can hear about your own experience, they’ll understand the need a lot better than just photos and a description of the center.”
“I don’t know if I can be that vulnerable, Taysom.” I swallow hard. “Besides, that feels manipulative, in a way, doesn’t it?”
“You’re just asking for help. Not for yourself, but for the center. This isn’t for your own gain; it’s for the kids. And youcan’t share their stories because of privacy issues. But you can share yours.” He sighs and Miley gives an ear-breaking meow as she sniffs around her now empty bowl.
“You’re the powerhouse here, Charlotte. You. Give us five minutes on screen to capture your heart and dedication. This is more than a career for you; it’s one of your life’s purposes. I’m starting to think you have many life’s purposes, and I’m so proud of you for that.” His gaze darkens a moment and I blink, delight flashing through me.
I cover my face with my hands. “I don’t know what to say. In response to you, or on camera.”
“If you need to make some notes or think about it for a while, then do. But this has to be posted tonight.”
“Okay.” I drop my hands and give a resolute nod. “I think I can do this.”
“Good.” Taysom’s voice gets all growly. Intense. “Give it all you’ve got. Be yourself. You can do this, Charlotte.” His tone holds exasperation. “No regrets. No prisoners. Just show them your heart and it’s going to be exactly what’s needed.” He’s almost yelling, he’s so passionate about this.
And my heart is one hundred percent fused to his.
Fur-Ever Homes Forum
ForumThread:PrincessthePig – Update!
@fur-ever_homes_usa:
We’d like to address some rumors that have surfaced concerning our favorite little (big) diva, Princess. Yes, it is true that Princess recently experienced a very queenly voyage across the pond! An undisclosed member of a European royal family expressed great interest in adopting Princess but requested a trial run first. For the many who have been following her journey all these months, this was very exciting news! Princess enjoyed her vacay immensely and was even given her very own, luxury corner of the palace. Alas, her time there was short-lived, as she somehow escaped her wing of the estate during a visiting dignitary’s formal reception and tried to steal from the hors d’oeuvres table. Understandably, the palace’s PR team asked that she be returned, which means PRINCESS IS STILL WAITING FOR HER FOREVERHOME! Please continue to spread the word far and wide. We know she is SO CLOSE to being united with a loving family. Also, Princess would like us to reiterate that she prefers her diapers be referred to as “panties.”
@vet_evan:
As a vet, I have to say—the fact that she made it through international travel, palace life, AND a diplomatic incident without any new health issues is genuinely impressive. This pig is built different.
@footballislife1:
“Undisclosed member of a European royal family” is doing a LOT of heavy lifting in that sentence. We all know which one it was.
@bunmomlife:
The mental image of a potbellied pig in a palace trying to steal canapés while wearing panties is going to sustain me for WEEKS.
@catmom92:
My cat knocked over one (1) vase and I considered rehoming her. This pig caused an international incident and you’re all still rooting for her. The double standard is real.
@puglover91:
PANTIES. She insists they’re called PANTIES. I would die for Princess and I’ve never even met her.
@oldmanyellsatdog:
At this point I’m convinced Princess is never getting adopted because the universe enjoys the chaos too much.
@bunmomlife
I’m just saying, if she can survive palace protocol (however briefly), she can survive anything. Someone adopt this legend.
@catmom92:
“Prefers her diapers be referred to as ‘panties’” — the AUDACITY. The CONFIDENCE. We should all aspire to Princess’s level of self-esteem.
Chapter 31
