Page 134 of Debts and Desires
“BJ,” he threw back. “I ain’t feedin’ your delusions.”
“What’s it stand for then?”
“Bandit Junior,” he grumbled.
“Ha! Liar! Youlikemy delusions.” I stuck out my tongue.
The doctor cleared her throat, looking at us, but said nothing. I felt my face go as red as Carter’s was.
With gentle hands and a soft-spoken demeanor, Dr. Nelson proceeded to give Band—BJ a thorough examination. With each check, she explained what she was doing. Despite the kitten’s initial apprehension, she seemed to relax under the doctor’s gentle touch, purring loudly.
Once the examination was complete, Dr. Nelson gently returned BJ to Carter’s arms.
“Well?” Carter asked.
“She’s fine.”
“You sure?” Carter asked.
“I am. She looks to be about six, maybe seven weeks old. You can try a bottle for another week or so, then move to more solid food. She’s a healthy little one. No fleas, no injuries or deformities, and no problems other than that little bit of sassiness. Ain’t nothin’ to fuss about,” she remarked.
“Ain’t fussin’. Just wanna be sure is all,” Carter said. Dr. Nelson shook her head, another smile forming.
“I take it you’ve met Big Mac?” she asked, looking at me. I nodded. “He’s probably my favorite—and most frequent—patient.” The doctor chuckled. “Carter worries over him so much. When he first got Mac, Carter brought him in at least twice a week. Even once for a sneeze that ‘didn’t sound right’.” Another laugh. “I’m not surprised he’s actin’ the same with this little one here. He’s always helpin’ animals ‘round here.”
Here comes thesecondswoon of the day.
“Just bring her back in a month or so,” she finished.
“I’ll make sure whoever takes her knows,” Carter responded. Dr. Nelson pinned him with a knowing stare.
“So, I’ll see you in a month, then,” she laughed. She gave us a little more information before sending us on our way, refusing payment for the checkup. Carter still managed to slip some cash on the desk on our way out.
Once settled in the truck, we headed home. Or so I thought. Carter instead got on the highway.
“Where are we going?” I asked.
“You heard the doc, BJ should have some specialty food. Sowe’re headin’ to the pet supply in Macon to get that and a few other things to make her feel welcome.” My eyes widened, my smile huge.
“We’re keeping her?!” He gave a quick nod. I leaned over, planting a kiss on his cheek. “I thought you didn’t want to,” I teased.
“I didn’t. But I got to thinkin’, I’d rather you talk to her than that cat poster.” I rolled my eyes.
“I’ll just talk to both now.”
“Great.” I chuckled. BJ slept the whole way into Macon as I held her, stroking her softly.
As we browsed through the aisles of the pet store, Mac tagged along. His usually gruff demeanor softened. Despite his tough exterior, he seemed to take on the role of a worried mother hen fussing over BJ. Carter had to tell Mac a few times to “quit it” when Mac kept licking poor BJ’s face.
Carter went all out, making sure we had every little thing BJ might need. From food and litter to toys and grooming stuff, he made sure she’d be set. His excitement was contagious as he filled up our cart with cat supplies.
“Guess Mac’ll have to share his cabinet,” I chuckled as the cashier rang us up.
“Guess so.”
Our hands bumped into one another as we walked out and without thinking, I grabbed his and held it, even if it was a short walk to his truck. Carter squeezed mine.
Just like fate had given me my boys, fate gave me this tiny kitten, too. It wasn’t a coincidence that she looked just like my poster confidant. It was a sign furthering my belief that I was exactly where I was supposed to be. I knew it sounded silly, but I didn’t care.
