Page 9 of Home Changes
“Dad,” he called over his shoulder, “Ken’s coming down the drive. I’m gonna go see what he needs.”
Chester didn’t respond, just waved one hand in a dismissive circle as he continued breaking the cheese into small chunks, popping one into his mouth, then giving one to Gomer.
Seth shook his head. At this rate, Gomer would need double his exercise. Too much weight on a dog with arthritis wasn’t just uncomfortable; it was dangerous.
Ken parked in front of the house and stepped out of his SUV, nodding a greeting as Seth came outside. “He was fine every time someone came to check on him,” Ken said, reaching out to shake Seth’s hand. “Got angry at us for disturbing his peace, though.” He chuckled. “He’s doing better now. Not as mean. For a while there, I wasn’t sure what was going on.”
Seth leaned against the SUV, arms crossed over his chest. “He forgot I came home. Asked me why I was back and thought I was still in the military. I’ll take him to Belle Fourche and get him a full physical. Make sure we know where we’re starting from. I’ve been reading about treatment options. Some meds can help clear the fog a bit.”
Ken nodded slowly. “I know this has to be hard on you.”
Seth exhaled through his nose. “I never thought I’d see the day Chester Hansen wasn’t in full control of everything around him.” He hesitated, then added, “I’ll need to find a lawyer, too. I talked to Dad a few days ago, during a lucid moment. He doesn’t have awill. No power of attorney. Nothing is set up for medical or financial decisions.”
“My wife’s a lawyer. Family law,” Ken offered.
Seth frowned. “Allison’s a lawyer? I didn’t know that.”
Ken burst out laughing. “I’m not married to Allison. My wife’s name is Sam. She was a state patrol officer before she became a lawyer. Runs a small family practice right here in Hollister. She stays busy writing cattle contracts in the slow season and takes on pro bono cases, too. We’re expecting our first, adopting a baby actually, and we think she’ll be here in April next year.”
“Holy crap, congratulations, man.” Seth extended his hand and shook Ken’s. The pride in his expression was priceless.
“Thanks, man. We’re really happy.” He added, “So, if you’re worried you can’t afford to get everything squared away for Chester, she can work something out with you.”
Seth shook his head. “I’m not worried about the money, Ken. I saved and invested pretty well during my time in the military. I’ve got a solid retirement. For what little we need up here, I can take care of Dad and me for a while. At least until he needs to go into a facility.”
Ken didn’t sugarcoat it. “That’s gonna suck.”
“It will indeed,” Seth agreed, his voice quiet. Pausing, he tilted his head slightly. “So … you didn’t marry Allison? How did that not happen? You two dated forever.”
Ken gave a slow smile. “That’s a long story. One of those you tell over a cold adult beverage.” Ken grinned. “Come to dinner sometime. Sam and I would love to have you over, and we’ll catch you up on all the town’s comings and goings.”
Seth reached out and shook his hand. “Sounds like a plan. Just let me know when and where.”
Behind them, the screen door creaked open, and Gomer trotted outside and came straight to Seth, sitting neatly at his heel, tongue lolling and eyes bright.
Ken looked down. “And who is this?”
Before Seth could answer, Chester shuffled onto the porch.
“That is Gomer,” he said, pointing with one hand. “He got put out to pasture. Just like me.”
Seth chuckled, patting Gomer’s head. “He’s my military working dog. I adopted him after we both retired.”
Ken frowned and looked at Seth with a raised brow. “You were a dog handler?”
Seth nodded. “More than that. Started as a handler, then trainer, and moved up to kennel master. Eventually, I ran the MWD Major Command program. Mostly pushing paper. I hated it. Took me away from the dogs.”
Ken lifted an eyebrow, considering that. “Good to know. Real good to know.” He glanced toward his cruiser, then back at Seth. “Well, let me know if you need anything. And, Chester, don’t forget about the Fall Festival next month.”
Seth glanced toward the house. “What’s that?”
He looked at his father, who just blinked at him.
“Hell if I know,” Chester grumbled. “What do I look like, Hollister Social Services?”
Ken stopped mid-step and stared at Chester, baffled. Then he shook his head. “Chester, you know everything about everything that happens in this town.”
Chester shrugged. “Don’t know nothing about no stupid festival.” With that, he turned around and shuffled back into the house, muttering under his breath.
