“Your mom came into the K9 offices. She had a meeting with the director about fundraising. They did a tour, and I was with a new dog. She stopped the tour and made a point to hug me and tell the director I was the reason she was so passionate about the program.”
“That’s great.”
“Finn! Do you know what this means? Evelyn is a career fundraiser. She’s amazing! She can bring a lot of attention to K9!”
“She’s my mom. I know how passionate she is. Wait until Jenna gets involved.”
“This is exactly the kind of attention we need. Can you imagine how this will affect and support the program? I’m on cloud nine.”
“It’s a good organization.”
“It is.” I make a mental note to take my mom to lunch next week to thank her for making Presley so happy.
“We’re going to be short on time, so I’m going to pick up some lunch on my way to get you. Text me what you want.”
“I could meet you instead of having you drive all the way here to pick me up.”
“We’re going together. Text me your lunch order.”
“You’re lucky I love you so much, and I’m riding on cloud nine about your mom. Otherwise, I’d definitely give you a hard time about being bossy.”
“Give me a hard time tonight. For now, just accept it.” I press end, picturing her huff in irritation.
The text comes through as I drive up to the deli I knew she’d pick. Since the first time I brought her lunch, she chooses this place every time we’re in the area. I know her order by heart, but I check the phone to confirm she hasn’t decided on something different.
Presley: Chix Salad. No tomatoes. Come please.
What the fuck? Come? She wants to come? This is too good to pass up.
I press redial, and she answers immediately.
“You trying to tell me something? Should I push back the appointment an hour?”
“What are you talking about?”
“You want sex, babe, I’m game.”
“Again, what are you talking about?”
“Read your text.”
She squeals, “Coke! I want a coke! Damn autocorrect!”
I laugh so loud the cashier jumps. “Knew what you meant, but a man can dream.”
“Jesus, I’m so lucky that went to you.”
“Gotta go, but remember, if you’re feeling needy, I’ll take care of it.”
“Bye, you sex fiend!”
I order our lunch and eat my sandwich on the drive to the K9 offices. She must be watching for me out the window, because she rushes out, waving to someone behind her. I give her a quick kiss before she dives into the bag and starts eating like a starved animal.
“Do you mind if Dad, Johnny, and Winnie come by this afternoon? They want to see the place.”
“Of course, I already talked to your dad.”
“You did? When?”