Ella: Already in love but too scared to admit it.
Me: NOT HELPING.
Margo: Okay, practical advice. Feel it out when you get there. If it seems right to tell them, tell them. If not, maybe it’s okay to keep up the act for a few days.
Jess: Whatever you do, make sure you and Clark are on the same page BEFORE you get there.
Whit: Nothing worse than getting your story mixed up in front of his parents.
Cara: Although that would be hilarious to watch.
Me: Again, NOT HELPING.
Ella: You’ll be fine. Just remember, his parents have loved you for years. That doesn’t change whether you’re his friend or his girlfriend.
Heidi: Real or fake girlfriend.
Ella: Right. That.
Margo: One more thing: Pack cute pajamas.
Me: Why would that matter?
Whit: Because you have to be cute!
Me: For his parents?
They send some laughing face emojis as if I should get this. Which I do. Belatedly. Oh. Cute for Clark.
Margo: Report back. We need to know how this plays out.
Me: You’re all terrible friends.
Whit: Terrible friends who give excellent advice.
Jess: And who will be waiting for updates.
Heidi: Lots of updates.
Cara: With pictures.
I throw my phone on the couch and gaze up at the ceiling. The dogs immediately sense my distress and pile on top of me in a furry group hug, which I really need right now.
19
CLARK
Saturday morning arrivescold and cloudy, threatening rain. But as they say, “April showers bring May flowers.” The month is almost over, along with the Love at First Wag contract. I’m not sure what that will mean for my best friend/fake girlfriend and me. But first, we have to survive Easter.
My Jeep is loaded with our bags and an elaborate travel crate system that makes it look like we’re relocating a small zoo. Which, honestly, isn’t far from the truth.
“Your parents are really okay with us bringing all of them?” April asks as we navigate early morning traffic toward the airport.
“They insisted. My family operates on a ‘the more, the merrier’ philosophy—whether you have two legs or four.”
“That’s sweet.”
“Wait until you see what they have planned. Mom texted me last night about Easter baskets and something involving bunny ear headbands. I’m afraid to ask for details.”
