Page 99 of Play With Me

“I think I have a way to preoccupy your mind with something over the next few weeks. I got you a Christmas present that will keep you company until the next time I see you on your birthday, and hopefully then, we’ll tell your Daddy.”

A quiet yelp sounded from behind the closet door, where I’d stashed my surprise.

“Was that a dog bark?” She gasped.

“Maybe. Keep quiet and I’ll show you.”

She zipped her fingers across her lips and threw away the invisible key. I went to the closet door and removed the square crate. Sophie squealed and fell down to her knees right in front of the crate.

“Is he mine?”

“I wanted to get you a parrot, but I didn’t think your father would appreciate an animal that can live to seventy.”

“So he’s really mine? Is it a boy?” She grinned, apparently having forgotten about the parrot and the bear as soon as she saw the pup. More importantly, I was pretty sure she’d find it easier to keep this little secret between us.

“Yes, and yes. Plus, you get to name him, but I need a small favor first. I need you to lure your father in here without telling him that I’m here.”

“That won’t be a problem. I have the perfect plan. Can I take Storm with me?”

“Storm?”

For my sake, I hoped the dog wouldn’t live up to his name, but how could I say no?

“Yeah, I have a feeling he’s going to help me lure Daddy. What if Daddy doesn’t let me keep him?”

“Leave that part to me. Just get him in here, quick.” I looked out the window to where Eddie was dozing in the car.

She hugged me again, her tiny arms wrapping all the way around my neck.

“I will never ever leave his side again. This is the best Christmas ever, Lola. Storm is perfect. Thank you. We’ll be back. It won’t be long.” She paused, then added in a whisper, “And I promise that I’ll be the best big sister ever.”

Sophie dashed out the door with Storm, and I knew that I had a matter of seconds to organize my thoughts before Brook came in. When he did, he came right for me, lifting me up into his arms, spinning me in the air, bringing with him the smell of delicious food and comfort – all the things I missed and needed right now.

“You’rehere? Jesus, Lola. This is the best Christmas gift I could ever imagine.”

“I can’t stay long, but I had to see you.”

“If you think I’m letting you go, then you’re crazy.”

“Eddie’s waiting for me outside.” I pointed to the window but couldn’t peel my eyes away from him.

“I’m sure Eddie knows how to drive home, although if you’d like, he can stay here with us, as long as you stay.”

“Brook—“

Timed perfectly, Sophie came into the room with Storm.

“Sophie, what is that?”

“Wait – you didn’t tell him about the dog?” I asked.

“I thought I’d let you break the news.” She grinned.

“Thanks.”

“You got her a dog?”

“Yup, his name is Storm. He’s a golden retriever.”

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