Page 90 of Silver Secrets

“That’s a bummer,” Courtney said. “Before I forget, here are your keys!” She handed Sloane’s house keys back to her. “Thank you so much for letting me grab those blankets from your closet. The dogs are going to absolutely love them.”

“I’m glad you were able to get over there. I’m sorry I’ve been so busy and distracted lately. I need to get back into a routine.”

“I know Darius misses you.”

“I miss him too.”

“I wish I could stay longer and convince you to pop over to the shelter with me right now, but Elias just dropped me off and now I’ve got to run.”

Gage walked out of her office, his dimple popping out as he smiled at Sloane.

“Hey, Court. What’s that you’ve got?” Sloane watched his brows furrow as he locked his eye onto the envelope tucked under Courtney’s arm.

“Oh, Dillon was coming out of Montgomery Defense when I was walking in here. This is just mail for Sloane. And I would have walked out of here without giving it to her if you hadn’t mentioned it. I swear I’m so frazzled lately.”

“Probably has something to do with Elias,” Lily teased.

Courtney smiled. “Yeah, it probably does.”

“Thanks for bringing it in for me. Dillon doesn’t seem to like having to come in here to drop off whatever mail I have.” Sloane laughed as she reached for the large envelope and several small letters Courtney had in her hand. “Though, I’m not sure how I feel about him not handing them directly to me. Not that I don’t trust you, Court.”

“No, I get it. I’ll give him hell for you if you ever want me to.”

Sloane smiled. “Thanks. I’ll let you know.”

Courtney turned to Gage. “Do you think you’ll be able to come back to the shelter soon? We miss you. Both of you.”

Sloane looked at Gage, but he just shook his head no.

“It’s complicated right now, Court. But I hope so,” Gage answered

“That’s good. Because Betty found a family. They’re going to get her this weekend.”

“Oh no.” Sloane’s heart fell. “What is Darius going to do? He’s going to be heartbroken.”

“That’s one of the reasons I asked about you coming back. I’m worried about him. Betty is going to the sweetest little old lady in Lark Lake, but there is just no way she can handle Darius too.”

“He’s such a good boy. I wish people would look past his size and give him a chance.” Gage leaned against the doorway to her office, sadness for the dopey giant evident on his face.

“I have faith he’ll find the perfect family soon, but that does really make me wish I could figure out a way to get back. Even if I can’t take him for a walk, maybe I could spare an hour or two to get some cuddles in with him.” Sloane looked at Gage, and smiled the second she knew she’d won.

“We can figure something out, Red. Can’t let our best boy be sad.”

“Yes! You guys are the best. I know he’s going to be so happy to see you both. I’ve got to find Ellie over at Dolly’s for some fundraising meeting with the bowling club, but text me when you are going to stop out! I’ll make sure I’m there too so we can do a proper catch up! Lily, I hope Sage feels better soon.” Courtney turned and pushed the door open. “See you guys later!”

“Sage go down for her nap okay?” Gage asked Lily as soon as Courtney was gone.

“She’s a little fussy today. But I eventually got her to zonk out.”

“Speaking of feeling a little fussy, I’m starting to get hungry. You ladies want anything from Davney’s? I was thinking about calling in an order for burgers and having one of the guys drop it off to us.”

“I’m good right now.” Lily smiled.

“I’m not hungry yet. Just feeling sad about Darius,” Sloane admitted.

“We’re going to figure out a time to go out and see him. Make sure he’s coping well without having Betty around.”

Lily nodded, her eyes dropping down to the mail still in Sloane’s hand. “Do you want me to take those for you? I can open them if you still need time to finish your notes.”

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