Page 27 of Rio's Release

Sir Lancelot and King Arthur, the two cats, barely look up from their spot on the couch.

I squat to hug my four-year-old. “How’s my girl?”

“Good. Aunt Fannie is showing me how to make her chocolate chip cookies. I got to add the chocolate chips,” she says proudly.

“Well, I’m sure they’re going to taste amazing.” I smile at Fannie. “Sorry I’m late.”

“Oh, no problem, dear. Bella and I have been having a wonderful time.” She slides the last pan of cookies into the oven, then wipes her hands on her apron. “Those should be ready in about eighteen minutes.”

“I’ll keep an eye on them.”

Fannie unties her apron, her eyes on me. “How was your day, Shelby?”

“Fine. Mrs. Tinsley said Luna and Ashley are getting along really well, and that it’s done wonders to bring her out of her shell.”

“That’s fantastic. So, why do you look sad?”

I shrug. “Just a long day, I guess.”

“Oh, that reminds me. Your realtor called and said she’d like to meet with you tomorrow at 11am.”

My shoulders drop. “I can’t.”

Fannie tilts her head to the side. “If it’s about Bella, she can help me in my garden. She loves watering the flowers and picking bouquets.”

I bite my lip. “I don’t know.”

“Is it work?”

“I’m sure Pam can cover for me. Wendy knows my father recently passed and I have to deal with the estate.”

“Then what is it?”

“I hate going back there, even for a short time.”

“Well, if you get the paperwork signed and get the place on the market, you can put Las Cruces behind you for good.”

“I suppose.” I meet her eyes. “You’re sure it’s no trouble to watch Bella tomorrow?”

“Positive. She’s an angel, and she keeps me company.”

“All right. I’ll drop her off at 9am, if that works for you.”

“Of course, dear. Now there’s a pan of lasagna warming on top of the stove. You have a nice night, and I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Thank you, Fannie.” I turn to see Bella scratching Hurley’s belly. “Bella, say goodbye to Fannie.”

She stands and runs over, hugging Fannie’s waist. “Goodbye Fannie. Thanks for making cookies with me.”

“You’re welcome, love. Good night.”

After we eat and I put Bella to bed, I curl up on the couch and text Jenny.

Me: Your aunt agreed to watch Bella while I make the trip to Las Cruces tomorrow to meet with the realtor.

Jenny: Why not bring her with?

Me: You know I can’t do that, and you know why. It’s too risky.

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