Page 15 of The Long and Winding Road

“I was so hoping to see him again. I’ve never forgotten him.”

“I think it’s safe to say he never forgot you either.”

“That’s nice to hear. I sure as heck didn’t expect to be gone so long.”

“Life is funny that way, isn’t it? You think you’ve got a plan and then, nope. That’s not happening, but this is.”

“That’s exactly how it went for me. I may never plan anything again after this.”

“It’s probably safe to make some plans now, right? You’re doing better?”

“I’m in remission, and the doctors tell me I have as much chance as the general population does of getting it again. I have a whole new immune system after the transplant. But I won’t be considered ‘cured’ for four more years.”

“Then you ought to spend that time doing exactly what you want. None of us ever know what’s coming round the next bend. You gotta make the best of every day. That’s my philosophy.”

“It’s a good one. Let me ask you this… Is Dude still fostering dogs and other animals?”

“She is, and she’s married now to Skeeter.”

Lexi gasped. “Skeeter-from-Nolan’s-garage-who-had-the-dead-cat-in-his-freezer-for-ten-years Skeeter?”

Elmer cackled with laughter. “The one and only. The two of them are happier than pigs in crap.”

“Wow. That’s a couple I didn’t see coming.”

“No one did, sweetheart. But the heart wants what the heart wants, and their hearts are firmly committed to each other.”

“I’m happy for them. Dude was so good to me when I was a kid and in love with all the animals. I thought I’d have at least three dogs by now.”

“If you’re looking for a furry friend, she’s the gal to see.”

“I’m not sure I’m ready for that kind of responsibility, but it’s nice to dream.”

“I’m heading back to the barn after this. Be glad to drop you at Dude’s if you need a lift.”

“That’s very sweet of you, but I have a rental car, and I remember the way.”

He handed her a business card with the wordsjustice of the peace, notary public, free adviceprinted on it. “My phone number is on the back. If you need anything while you’re in town, especially in the free advice department, you give me a call, you hear?”

Could he be any more adorable? Lexi leaned in to kiss his cheek. “I’ll do that. It was such a pleasure to see you again.”

“You as well, my friend. I’ll see you at the party tomorrow.”

“I’ll look forward to that.”

He tossed some bills on the counter. “Megan, I’ve got Lexi’s breakfast, too.”

“You got it, Elmer.” To Lexi, who was about to protest, Megan said, “Don’t bother. He won’t take no for an answer.”

“Thanks, Mr. Stillman.”

“Call me Elmer, honey. You’re all grown up now.” He left with a smile and a jaunty wave for her and Megan.

“He hasn’t changed at all,” Lexi said.

“He’s the most delightful human being I’ve ever known,” Megan said. “He owns the diner now, and I’m his partner in crime. I don’t know what I’ll ever do without him someday, hopefully in the distant future. I tell him all the time I need him to live forever.”

“I can see why. So, you’re married to Hunter.”

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