Page 62 of When Morning Comes Around

“I made a new friend. His name’s Dominic.”

“A friend? Or more than a friend?”

She swallowed. “Obviously, it’s early days yet, but… He’s more than a friend.” She held her breath as she waited for his response.

“That’s awesome!”

She leaned against the counter as relief flooded through her.

“You’re a good ‘un, Josh,” said her dad. “And don’t worry, Dom’s a good guy. He’s a friend of mine.”

Sadie had to laugh at the note of panic in Josh’s voice when he asked, “A friend of yours, Grandpa? How old is he?”

Her dad chuckled. “I’ll have you know that I have all kinds of friends. They’re not all old farts like me, if that’s what you’re worried about. Dom’s the same age as your mom.”

Josh laughed. “Okay, sorry. I don’t mind telling you that I was worried for a second there. And Mom?”

“Yes, sweetheart?”

“Thanks for telling me – not trying to hide it.”

“I remembered what you said. I really didn’t think that I would meet anyone – not for a long time, if ever. But Dom just kind of came out of nowhere.”

“Well, I know Grandpa would have something to say about it if he wasn’t a decent guy. And I’m going to see if I can come out there to visit soon, then I can meet him for myself.”

“Really? I’d love it if you can come.”

“Me too,” added her dad. “It’s been too long.”

“I know, it has. I’ve missed you, Grandpa.”

“Then get your ass out here to see me,” her dad said with a chuckle.

“I will, just as soon as I can. Can I ask you a favor for now, though?”

Sadie’s heart sank.

“Maybe?” her dad asked. “I want to be pleased that you asked – most people think that I’m too old and useless to be doing them favors these days. The trouble is, I know you, the only favor you’d ask for would be for your mom. So, what’s up? What is it?”

Sadie made a face at him, as Josh said, “Will you nag Mom about getting a lawyer and getting going with this divorce? I think Dad’s up to something.”

Her dad huffed. “I will. You’ve got no worries there.” He scowled at Sadie. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Because the first I knew of it was when Josh told me just now.”

“Okay. Well, now that I know, I’m going to be nagging you, okay?”

“Fair enough, but you won’t need to; I’ll go over to town on Monday morning.”

“If you can find someone who will give you an appointment that soon.”

She shrugged.

“When Dom gets here, I’m going to ask him for the name of a lawyer. I’ll bet he knows a good one.”

Sadie stared at him.

Josh chuckled. “Good thinking, Grandpa; if he wants to date Mom, then I imagine that he’ll be happy to hear that they’re fast-tracking the divorce.”

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