My phone gives a short buzz, and my heart jumps. I snatch it up, hoping to see her name glowing on the face, but it’s only my cousin.
Gina
Carla said to give you a big thank you hug for stopping by today. She was especially happy to see Kelani doing so well.
Maverick
It’s what I do.
I scratch the soft fuzz on Kelani’s back. Even if I’m not playing as much, I’m still in demand for publicity events, and helping Carla raise money for her no-kill animal shelter is a no-brainer. I’m always down for those guys.
Gina
Need some company for dinner tonight?
Maverick
Is this your way of asking me if I’ll cook for you?
Gina
It’s my way of worrying about you. I know you don’t like being in that big house all alone. It’s why I got you a puppy, remember?
A puppy will never compare to Dove.
Between games, practice, and publicity events, my time during the season slips away so fast. But while the days pass quickly, a week alone here without Dove feels so long.
Maverick
I’m good. I’ve got some plans for tonight.
Gina
Going out with the guys?
Maverick
Nah, just some errands I’ve got to run.
Grocery shopping, watching YouTube to see how the hell I arrange the bouquet of flowers so it doesn’t look like trash. Hiring a last-minute cleaning service to come while I’m gone so the house will shine brightly and smell good when we all return on Friday.
Gina
I’ll stop by and pick up Kelani tomorrow. Maddie is so excited to babysit.
Maverick
Thanks. Glad it’s a short trip.
I’ll be back on Friday when Dove returns.
Gina
Speaking of Seattle, how are you handling all this time on the bench?
Kelani’s little head rests on her paws, and I take a quick photo of her. Dove sent me pictures of them all the time when I was gone. I need to do the same.
I study Gina’s question on my screen.
