Page 22 of Secret Love

“I think this is something we have to make time for,” I tell Bree. “And apparently we’ve missed the signs. We need help.” I give her a pointed look and she sags against the chair, nodding.

Bree loves our girls with her whole heart, but she hates to admit she needs help. With anything.

“If you’re willing, I’ll meet with Cassidy tomorrow and start trying to get to the bottom of this.” Tru pushes back from the desk.

“That sounds good. What do you need from us?” I ask.

“You could mention to her tonight that we spoke. I told her I’d like to help make reading more fun for her. Whatever you’re comfortable with is fine with me,” she says. “We don’t need to put a label on anything yet. We just want to make this a more enjoyable process for her. Let’s see what the tests show and we can go from there.”

She pauses and I nod, tapping the desk.

“I really appreciate your time,” I tell her.

“It’s my pleasure. Thank you both for fitting me into your busy schedules.” She stands and we follow suit, saying our goodbyes and walking out in a daze.

I’d wanted to see Tru again, but this isn’t anything close to how I’d hoped our next time would be.

CHAPTER EIGHT

UNICORNS AND CELEBRITIES

TRU

My meeting with the Wards went better than I anticipated. I could tell they were shaken by the conversation. I was surprised that Henley was the one who went to bat for Cassidy. Bree seemed apprehensive about the whole thing, but that's understandable. I couldn’t tell if she didn’t believe me or just didn’t like what she was hearing. It clearly threw them, realizing their daughter was having this much trouble reading.

Bree Ward is gorgeous. She's tall, with long blonde hair, sun-kissed cheeks, and hazel eyes. She looks like the girl next door, only a little more glammed up. I can't help but wonder why the two of them aren't together anymore, but it seems like they're on good terms.

I clear out of the classroom and head home, excited to see the kitten. I checked on him earlier in the day, and he was sleeping, but it was still hard to leave him behind. He’s so sweet and cuddly. When I walk in now, he's still sleeping, but I pet him and he opens his eyes and moves toward me.

“Hi, little guy. How did your day go? We've got to come up with a name for you. I still can't believe you're a little prince. What shall we call you?” Only funny names come to mind like Ralph or Steve. “Hmm. Maybe Earl.” I giggle at the thought. “Earl of Silver Hills. I like it. Funny, but also a big name to live up to. I think you can handle it.”

He stretches and curls into my lap. I carry him into the kitchen and get some formula ready. He drinks it, and then I put him in the litter box, and he takes care of business. I smile like a proud mother, and then snap a picture of him and send it to my mom.

Your new grandkitten.

She texts back within seconds.

Mom

You're kidding. Oh my goodness, that is the cutest kitten. He’s tiny!

How did you know he was a he right away? I assumed she because—LOOK HOW ADORABLE HE IS.

Mom

Boys can be adorable too.

If you say so. In this case, it applies.

Mom

I’m sorry. Are you twelve or twenty-four? I feel like I’m being transported back in time.

LOL I guess I’m channeling middle school. Ooo, I have news for you! But first…his name is Earl. What do you think?

Mom

Well, I was thinking you’d pick something a little cuter for that sweet face, but…if you say so.

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