Page 6 of I Knew He Was Trouble
Yes!
SHAYNA
He’s the biggest sweetie pie ever. Yes, please!
MALLORY
Agreed. If I’m going to like any animal, it’s him.
ALYSSA
I love that floofball! I’m down.
My shoulders fall in relief that they’re all in agreement. I’ve dreamed of owning a dog for so long that it’s impossible to keep the bounce out of my step as I walk back inside. Winston runs over, his golden ears flopping in the breeze. I kneel and scratch his neck. “It looks like you’re coming home with me, buddy.”
Pamela comes out of the kitchen carrying a to-go cup, which she extends my way. “I know how much you love coffee.”
“That’s so sweet. Thank you.” I pat Winston’s head, stand, and accept the cup. “I heard back from my roommates, and they’re happy to welcome Winston into our home.”
Her mouth falls open, and she pulls me in for a hug. “Oh, thank you. I’m devastated he can’t come with us, but I know you’re going to take the best care of him.”
I hug her tight. “I’ll send you pictures and videos anytime you want.”
Pamela pulls back and shakes her finger between us. “See, my gut always told me you were a good one, and it’s never wrong.”
“I’ve always loved Winston.” I know you’re not supposed to pick favorites, but he’s always been mine.
“I’ll let you go. Let me give you all the dog supplies.” Pamela grabs a large reusable tote bag, filled to the brim, and starts dragging it over to me.
I hurry over and pick it up. It’s heavier than expected. Inside, I spot a few gallon-sized baggies of dog food, dog bowls, a harness, a few toys, shampoo, and a brush. “This is great, thanks.”
She clicks the leash back onto Winston’s collar.
My eyes go wide. “You want me to take him right now?”
“Is that okay?” Pamela worries her bottom lip. “The movers are coming Monday.”
I’m not sure my friends expected me to bring him home with metoday, but it will make for a fun girls' night. I slip the tote onto my shoulder and accept the leash. “Yeah, of course.” I walkout front, Winston following at my heels. “You have my number. Seriously, text me anytime you want a picture of him.”
“I will.” She leans down, hugs the dog, and kisses him on his head. When Pamela stands straight, her eyes glisten with unshed tears. “You better go before I become a blubbering mess.”
I shoot her a sad smile before walking down her driveway. Once we hit the sidewalk, I wave goodbye. Then, with Winston by my side, I head home.
“You’re such a good boy. Yes, you are,” Shayna coos as she scrunches up Winston’s neck floof. If you look up the word “joy” in the dictionary, you’ll find Shay’s picture beside it. She’s the epitome of sunshine—the eternal optimist. The friend you want on your side to pick you up when you’re down.
“He doesn’t understand English, Shay,” Mallory deadpans.
“Do I need to say it in French, then? Spanish? Maybe Dutch?”
Mal throws a pillow at her.
“Even if he doesn’t understand, he knows he’s getting praise.” Shayna turns back to Winston, her dark-brown hair swinging with the movement. She rubs his ears and turns her baby voice back on. “Isn’t that right? You’re the smartest boy in the whole wide world.”
Alyssa walks in, carrying an armful of snacks. My mouth waters the second I spot the familiar packaging of Kizito cookies. They’re a staple sweet treat in Louisville.
The pronunciation of our dear city is a controversial topic, even for locals. I pronounce it Looavul—like I have a mouthful of marshmallows. Some people might argue it’s Looeyville, but heaven forbid someone pronounces it Lewisville. That’ssacrilegious here. Regardless, it’s the city that has our history and our hearts…and the most delicious cookies.
I grab a snickerdoodle. “What are we celebrating?” We only ever buy Kizito cookies for special occasions.
