Page 37 of Mail Order Splash

“You have opened a whole new world for me, Kleine.” Victoria looked back over the seaquarium from outside. I can see it as you must see it, how you must have seen it as a child. It’s no wonder you want to save this place.”

“Thank you for understanding. It would be easy to sell, but I can’t.”

“We greatly appreciate you sharing this with us and trusting us to help. I must get back now but, we will be in contact.”

“Can I come back when Netty will be out?” Dalton asked. “I will stay quiet and out of the way, I promise.”

“Yes, you can come back. I was thinking about this evening, or would early morning be better for you?”

“Do what’s best for her. I could camp out here with you guys if you have another cot.” He looked from me to Josh.

He can’t be serious. He’s a Hawthorne with jets and yachts, why would he want to do that. Can I trust him?

“Kleine, I can see that worries you. I can assure you that he is trustworthy and committed to this. You won’t find a better person to help you.” Victoria tried to assure me. “Also, remember Dr. Garcia trusts us or he wouldn’t have suggested we help you.”

“You make valid points. It’s not about trusting either of you. I guess it’s just a lot at once, but if you want to live primitive for the night, you are welcome.”

“We get takeout and watch movies, then ice cream. If you can hang with that, then we welcome the company. Of course, we take care of Netty as well. She needs to be rubbed, exercised, and fed.”

“Do I get to go in the water with her?”

“Not necessary at this stage but, if you want to, I will allow it, if it doesn’t excite her too much.” I chuckled at his enthusiasm. “Dr. Garcia usually stops in, he may say differently. He’s the more established vet.”

“Perfect. I have a wetsuit I can bring back with me. Anything else?” He pulled his cell out, making a list. “Can I bring take-out back with me, or can I have my chef make us a real meal and bring it back with me?”

“That isn’t necessary.” I declined the offer.

“Kleine, we should eat healthier. Let him bring food if he wants.”

“Fine, surprise us. We’re not picky eaters, nor do we have any allergies.” I gave up. “One thing, though. We hang out in our pj’s so, if you’re joining, bring yours along.”

“I can’t wait, it’ll be like a real sleepover. I’ve never had one.”

“You’re not serious. You must have at some point.”

“Never. Well, once I slept at Aunt Victoria’s house with the twins, but we didn’t sleep in a room together with snacks in our pj’s.”

“That’s true, you all slept in separate rooms, something about the floor not being comfortable,” Victoria agreed. “A bit spoiled they were. Not so much Dalton but, for sure, the twins.”

“How many children do you have?” I asked her. “I’ve met Murphy; she’s amazing.”

“Five altogether. Murphy is the only girl besides his sister.”

“How many siblings do you have, Dalton?” I turned my attention to him.

“Five of us as well. Also same, four boys and one girl. Huh, I never thought about that before. KInda weird.”

“Not at all. We paid for that to happen.” Victoria winked at me.

“Seriously?” Dalton gasped.

“No, not seriously. Did you pay attention in school?”

“No, not to stuff like that. I like math. Who wants to listen about babies and such?”

“Dalton, stop there, you’re digging a deep hole.” She put her arm across his shoulders. “Thank you again, Kleine. I leave tomorrow but look forward to my return in a week to see what has been accomplished here.”

“Is an hour good, or longer? Maybe two hours?”

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