“That’s true, you can, but you need to practice handling modern money. We’re going to go to the coffee shop, and you can have a go.”
“A coffee shop?” He turned to Olivia in interest.
“Yes.” She smiled. “It sells lots of different types of coffee. You can even try an espresso if you like.”
“What’s an espresso?” he asked curiously.
“It’s a tiny cup of really, really strong black coffee.”
“I see… Perhaps we should go there first?” he asked hopefully.
“Nice try.” She smiled. “But Beau is hungry, and he needs a leash.”
She pulled into a parking space along Main St. and stepped out of the car, watching to make sure Theo was out before she locked it. Rounding the car, she took Beau from him, snuggling the puppy into her jacket.
“What are those?” Theo asked, looking up as two workers on ladders strung Christmas decorations between the streetlights.
“They’re Christmas decorations.” She looked back at Theo, her eyes narrowing thoughtfully. “I forgot that as a Puritan you wouldn’t have celebrated Christmas.”
“My father considered the day an abomination. He said there was no justification for it in the scriptures and that it was associated with pagans and devil worshippers.”
“Modern day Christmas is a culmination of many different folklore tales and religious festivals, but it’s fun to celebrate it. It’s a time for goodwill and love.”
He looked at her skeptically.
“You’ll get used to it,” she laughed.
They walked contentedly down the street together until they reached Baileys’ store. Pushing the door open to a merry jingle of bells, they found sweet little Mr. Bailey decorating a Christmas tree.
“Why does he have a tree indoors?” Theo whispered.
“It’s a Christmas tree,” she replied. “Just go with it, it’s tradition.”
“Olivia, dear.” He spotted her and climbed painfully to his feet.
“Are you alright, Mr. Bailey?” Olivia asked in concern.
“Just the old knees playing up, and my back is not what it once was.” He smiled as he caught sight of the wriggling ball of fur in Olivia’s arms. “Well, who do we have here?”
“This is Beau.” Olivia held him out so Mr. Bailey could pet him.
“My goodness, he looks just like your Truman, doesn’t he?”
“Yes, he does,” she replied quietly. “I guess I’m just sentimental.”
“Nothing wrong with that.” He patted her hand affectionately. “Well, what brings you by today?”
“Beau was a bit of an impulse, and I don’t have any supplies for him,” she replied. “I was hoping you might stock what I need.”
“Certainly.” He beamed. “We have a whole pet range. What exactly are you after?”
He picked up a basket and handed it to Theo and beckoned them to follow him.
“I need bowls, food, treats, a leash, and some chew toys before I lose every pair of shoes I own.”
“Goodness,” he laughed.
He helped her pick out a food and water bowl in bright blue. She also got him a bed and several padded cushions, treats, food, and toys.
