Page 144 of Small Town Firsts

“Mama! Come spin me!”

Five spins later, she says she is too dizzy to keep going and we make our way to the swings. When she sees the tandem swing is open, she shouts with glee. “We swing togedder?”

“Sure thing, Tater Tot.”

About an hour later, we have made our rounds through all of the playground equipment. “You ready for lunch?”

“Hmm.” Tatum taps the little dimple in her chin. “I stapose.”

“You suppose? Well, what sounds yummy?”

“Ice cream,” she deadpans.

“Try again kid.”

“Fine. Grilled cheeses?”

“Now that sounds like a plan.”

Thirty minutes later,we’re both stuffed from our grilled cheeses. Tatum opted for the kid-friendly American cheese and white bread classic while I went with Gouda on sourdough accompanied by bacon, tomatoes, and garlic aioli.

“I eated it all.” Tatum looks at me expectantly while patting her little belly.

“I see that,” I say through a smile.

“So, do I gets ice cream?”

“That depends.”

“On what, Mama? I’ll do anyfing!”

“Anything? Oh, my…” I steeple my fingers under my chin, rubbing the tips against one another like a movie villain. Tatum looks at me with her beautiful green eyes. “How about you help me pick up your toys when we get home and no complaining at bath time?”

My girl nods her head furiously, almost to the point of looking like a bobblehead. “Yes! Yes! I can do that!”

I beam and hold my hand out to her, helping her down from her chair. “Then let’s get to it, pretty girl.”

We hop over to Scoops, which is conveniently located right next door. After placing our orders, Tatum skips over to our usual table near the door while I linger at the counter, waiting for our order. I keep my eyes on her while listening for our number to be called. By the time I have our sweet treats in hand, she’s all but drooling.

Two bites in and my phone starts buzzing in my purse. I fish it out and check the screen, finding two new texts from Jenny, my work bestie. She and I started at Bayside around the same time, and being the new girls, we stuck together like glue. The fact that she’s ballsy as all get-out, fun, and an all-around good person certainly doesn’t hurt.

I press my right index finger to the sensor and unlock my phone before opening her message.

Jenny

Staff meeting Monday morning. 8 AM. Hiss, boo!

Ugh.Great.

Natalie

Thanks for letting me know. Any idea what’s up?

Jenny

I’ve heard a few rumors about us getting new owners.

Ugh.Double great.

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