Page 82 of You and Me, For Real
It’s not much, but the comment has the effect I was hoping for.
“Not usually.”
“Hey guys! I’m so glad you’re here.” Scarlet hugs me and kisses me on the cheek. “Nice to see you again, Ashton.”
“Thanks for having me.” She toys with Teddy’s leash.
Scarlet looks to Roxy. “Oh, good, you brought her.”
“Yeah, we’ll see how well she does.”
“I bet she’ll love it. Lots of new playmates to meet. And you guys will, too.” She loops her arm through mine and clasps her hands around it. “Lots of fellow dog lovers in there.”
“By the way, I sort of invited Wren. I hope that’s okay.” While I know Wren loves dogs, I mostly did it for Ashton’s benefit. I didn’t want her alone longer than necessary in case Scarlet keeps me busy fake-relationshipping most of the night.
“Wren Reynolds? The pop singer?”
“Yeah, she’s my neighbor, remember?”
“Yes! I remember you told me that. My dad would love to meet her.” She leans in, whispering, “He’s such a fan.”
We’re almost to the doorstep, and Ashton is stiffer than a board but still walking toward the entrance with us. It speaks to her dedication to animals. She’s willing to put herself in such an uncomfortable situation to help get her rescue off the ground.
I want her to have the most successful night, and while I have faith in her abilities, I want to ensure she gains some funding tonight. Before we left, I made a deposit into her Venmo account we set up—anonymously, of course. A good chunk to get her started. Just in case.
“Your dad’s already here.”
“Of course he is.” He’s probably working the crowd, trying to grow his client list.
The guests in front of us, with two standard white poodles, walk inside.
Wesley’s smile is wide. “Welcome, welcome.”
I slip out of Scarlet’s grasp and shake Mr. Rhodes’s hand. “Hello, sir. Thank you for having us.”
Wesley chuckles and pulls me in for a hug. “What’s this ‘sir’ nonsense? We’re closer than that.”
I grimace-smile.
After a smack on my back, Wesley releases me and eyes Ashton beside me. “And who’s this?”
“This is my friend and dog trainer, Ashton. She’s working miracles for my rescue, Roxy.” I gesture to the dog.
“That’s great.” Wesley holds eye contact with Ashton for a beat longer than necessary before reaching to shake her hand. “Ashton, is it?”
“Yes, sir.” Ashton’s cheeks are brighter than a ripe tomato.
“What’d you say your last name is?”
He’s still pumping her hand up and down, studying her.
“I didn’t, but it’s Reid, sir.”
“Well, nice to meet you, Ashton Reid. I hope you have a good time at the party.”
“Thank you for having me.”
Wesley looks over our heads at the line behind us. “You guys enjoy yourselves tonight. I’ll be sure to catch up with you later.”
