Page 96 of Between Us

“I—we—could help more people. It would be independently funded from the clinic itself, but most importantly, it would be ethical.” He opens his mouth to say something, while I steamroll on, “It wouldn’t only be surgeries. We could host free clinic days and pet education courses. It’s actually crazy how many options there are. So many things I’ve never even considered, but we could do it.”

“Blake,” he cuts in. “This sounds amazing—truly, honey. I’d be honored to be a part of this with you. Just don’t get ahead of yourself. This isn’t something we could do overnight.”

“I know,” I insist. “It would be at least a six-year plan. And that’s if I can get into UCAH for the fall semester.”

“University of California, Aurora Hills?” my mom asks, surprised. “You’re that sure about this?”

Finally turning toward her, I nod emphatically. “Yeah, I am. It’s the first thing that’s ever made me feelexcitedfor a career. I feel stupid not thinking of it myself.”

“Don’t say that,” she chastises.

“I’m serious. It never occurred to me that I could make this into a career. I mean, obviously, I know there are charities and community programs. But you guys raised us to help when we can and taught us how to be a kind neighbor—all of that stuff. It’s just something youdo.” I shrug. “I never thought about it further than that.”

With a mischievous smirk, she hits my shoulder with hers. “Adrian helped you realize that, huh?”

Rolling my eyes, I huff out a breath, my cheeks warming by the second. “Yes, he did.”

“I think it’s a brilliant idea, honey,” my dad cuts in. And that paternal pride has lit up his eyes again. “I’d love to be able to do more for the residents of Amada Beach, and Aurora Hills, but I’m at my bandwidth between medical exams, surgeries and admin tasks.”

“Maybe I can start helping with that more, the smaller tasks at least, until I get more education and experience. I want to be involved, Dad. And I hope you’ll give me the chance to do it right this time.”

Walking around the island, he pulls me into his arms, and I hug him back, reveling in the unconditional love he has for me. “I’d love that, Blake. This was a learning experience, but that’s all it can be.Once. Let’s do this the right way, together.”

Smiling up at him, I nod. “Together.”

My mom taps her finger on the island, and I imagine her attempting to bite her tongue behind me. After only three taps, she poses, “Does that ‘together’ include Adrian too then?”

Turning in my chair toward her, I scowl, but it’s playful. “I mean, he’s the one most responsible for the new plan. So, I’d say yes.” Though, I don’t really know how involved he wants to be going forward. He was supportive and seemed excited, but he’s still figuring out what part of the field he’d want to specialize in.

“And does that mean Adrian’s a part of more plans than just your professional one’s going forward?”

As if to encourage me to be honest, my dad squeezes my shoulder and walks back to his coffee mug.

“I—yes. I think so.”I hope so. “It’s new, like very new. But we’re together.”

My mom breaks out into a wide, giddy smile. She’s been Adrian’s biggest supporter since the beginning. “Oh, that’s great. He’s a good one.”

“He is,” I nod in agreement, while blushing, and wishing the conversation would end. Turning to my dad, I ask, “Are you okay with this?”

He gives me a weird look before nodding. “Of course I am. Adrian’s proven to be everything I thought he was from the interview—mostlyresponsible, tolerant, a fast thinker, kind. I have eyes so don’t think I haven’t noticed how loyal he’s been to you in these last few months. If you’re happy, then I’m happy, Blake.”

Trying to hide my smile, I quietly admit, “I am happy with him.” I can’t make eye contact with either of them. It’s a big admission for me. And after everything this morning, I’m feeling more vulnerable than usual.

“Good,” my mom chirps. “Because your father invited him to spend Christmas with us.”

Laughing, I pick up my burrito, taking a small bite. “He told me. And thank you for doing that. It means a lot to him.” Biting again, I shrug and swallow. “And me.”

The rest of our short breakfast goes easier, with them asking about what my plans are for the fall semester and offering advice along the way. Soon after I finish my juice and set the remainder of my food down, my dad leaves for the clinic, and I promise to see him there in a couple hours.

island of misfit toys

Sun, Dec 14 at 7:47 AM

I’ve figured it out.

That’s all I have to say for Meera and Margo to understand.

‘You’ll figure it out, Blake,’ they’ve told me a hundred times now.

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