“I don’t want to take things slow.” On a pout again.
I laughed. “Then we take things at our own pace. We’ve got each other, and that’s all that really matters. The rest is just logistics.”
“In what way?”
“I assume we need to arrange to bring your things from Toronto?”
Slowly, he shook his head. “There isn’t anything in the storage locker. I brought my photos and mementos of Mom. I mean, I have clothes—”
“I can buy you new clothes.” I didn’t want to put myself in the position of being a savior…but providing a few things shouldn’t be overwhelming. “Is there anything you want to go back for?”
He shook his head.
“Would you want to donate your belongings to a good charity? I can help you find somewhere.”
He nodded. “I would really like that. It’s old stuff, but it’s sturdy.”
“Then it’s settled. You donate your things, and you consider your move to Mission City as permanent.”
“I need to find a job.”
Again, my instinct was to tell him that he needn’t worry about that. Rushing wasn’t important. I also understood, though, that independence was important to him. “Sure…when you’re settled. Have you thought where? Or would you like to go back to school?”
He shook his head. “School’s not really my thing. I’ll do my continuing education to keep up with my certification, though.” Hescratched his nose. “I saw the rec center is hiring trainers. It’s a city job, so it comes with benefits and a pension. Those are things I’ve never had. And I can take on personal clients as well.”
“All that sounds wonderful. You love what you do and that’s so important.” I held his gaze. “So you’ll stay here? No pressure.”
“Yes.” His smile was a little shy. “Yes to puppy, yes to partner, and yes to friends. I’ll take everything you’re offering.”
A thought occurred. “You know—”Think carefully about this.
“You know…?”
“Well, the newspaper editor runs a feature each week of a pet in need of rescuing. We have the Hearts and Paws animal shelter.”
Andre sat bolt upright. “Really?”
“Yeah, really. I’ve been wanting to get a companion for Daphne. She’s loved every dog she’s ever met. I do worry about jealousy, though. I’ve even gone as far as speaking with Torah Dixon, a local dog trainer, and she’s given me advice on how to integrate another dog into our home properly. I’d likely hire her again to help train the new dog, Daphne, and me.”
“And me?” Andre vibrated with excitement. “Oh, could we? This is me asking as Andre. The man who will take responsibility.”
I smiled. “It will be nice to be able to go away for work and not have to rely on Quinton for Daphne’s care—not that he minds at all. Still…knowing everyone was safe here with you would be a relief. Mind, I don’t travel often—just every other month or so.”
“I’ll miss you and wish you back but I’ll have Daphne and potentially a new dog to keep me company.” His eyes went wide. “Is there a website?”
I squinted.
“For Hearts and Paws.”
“Oh, I’m sure there is.” I snagged my phone and opened the browser. “I can either check the shelter website or the newspaper to see which pet was featured.”
Andre’s smile was heartbreaking. “Can I really do this?”
“Of course you can.” I swallowed. “I worry I’m too old for you. That you’re tying yourself to me at a time when you should be spreading your wings.”
He shook his head. “Far from it.” He ducked his head. “I’ve found home. That means…everything.”
That might mean everything for now…but is it enough going forward?I wanted him to make the decision with a clear mind. I scratched his scalp. “Will you consider doing something? For me, partly, but also for yourself?”
