Page 75 of Something Unforgettable

Keegan leaned forward and planted his elbows on his knees. “Don’t worry. I always knew it was the animals you were interested in, not me.”

Finn’s face was warm, but he didn’t look away. “I was thinking about being a vet for a while.”

“Not anymore?”

Finn shrugged. “I have more options than I used to. I love animals, but caring for sick ones would have been really hard for me.” He hadn’t totally let go of his old dreams, but Xavier had made room for a lot of new ones, and Finn wanted to take the time to explore them before making a decision.

Keegan hummed thoughtfully. “In that case, I might have a suggestion for you.”

Finn stood out on the porch and breathed in the crisp night air. He had his feet shoved into his unlaced boots but hadn’t bothered with a coat. It wasn’t as cold as he remembered, though that was probably the bourbon helping keep him warm.

The stars were so bright out here. The sky so black. New York had been nothing like this. As much as he’d loved it, and loved LA as well, Split Rock would always be home.

“Aren’t you freezing, sweetheart?” Xavier stepped up behind him and draped something warm over his shoulders—Daddy’s coat—and wrapped him up tight in his arms.

Finn leaned back with a hum of agreement. “I was just thinking.”

“Good thoughts?” Xavi asked, trailing kisses down Finn’s cheek and jaw, making him feel even warmer.

“Yeah,” he agreed.

Xavier gave him a squeeze, then stood with his chin resting on top of Finn’s head. “Are you someone who makes a New Year’s resolution?”

“No,” Finn said. “But.” He turned in Xavier’s arms so he could see his face. “Do you promise not to laugh?”

“Why would I laugh?” Xavier asked, already looking amused.

Finn narrowed his eyes. “Because maybe it’s a terrible idea.”

Xavier pressed his lips together, clearly fighting a smile. “Little one, just tell me.”

Finn sighed. “Fine. I was talking to Dr. Reid—I mean, Keegan—and he had an idea.”

Xavier’s hands tightened at Dr. Reid’s name. Daddy got a little possessive when Dr. Reid came up and Finn felt bad but he kind of liked it. Not that Xavier had any reason to worry.

“And what was that?”

“Well, he’s been working with a new animal rescue, and they could use some help.”

There was a short pause before Xavier’s grip loosened again. “I think volunteering with the rescue would be wonderful for you. You know I’ll support you no matter what you decide to do.”

“I know, Daddy, but it’s not that.”

Xavier waited.

Finn took a deep breath then rushed out with, “I want to borrow your plane.”

Xavier’s lips pressed together harder and his shoulders trembled as he got himself under control. “Sure, sweetheart. Can I come with you?” he asked.

Now Finn had to fight his own smile. “You can always come with me, but we’re going to need to save room for the dogs.”

Xavier’s eyebrows went up. “The dogs?”

Finn shifted, a little less sure of himself. “The rescue Keegan works with has connections nationwide. He told me there are tons of animals all over the country looking for homes, and lots of people looking for animals. But they can’t always get the animals to where their people are.”

Xavier’s eyes lit up with understanding. “You want to fly them there.”

Finn nodded, his limbs getting jittery. “I could help so many animals find their forever homes. And animals like me. I could be the one to keep them calm on the plane, and make sure they feel safe. But it wouldn’t just be me. Remy has a plane, too, and so does Isabella. They have to fly all over the place for work, and I think I could convince them to help. And even if they can’t, the organization needs donations and I bet if I asked—”

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