Page 162 of No Rings Attached
“Yeah.” I was surprised at how much I meant it. “I’m really okay. I wasn’t planning to go today, and now I don’t have to make an excuse or worry about how the cameras would manipulate me not being there. It’s kind of perfect timing.”
“So what do you want to do today?” His thumb traced circles on my spine. “It’s Saturday. We have the whole day.”
An idea sparked. “Can we go to the shelter?”
Something flickered across his face—surprise, maybe, or was it nerves? “The shelter?”
“I know we were just there earlier this week, but …” I bit my lip. “I miss Stormy. And it’s been hard, leaving her there every time. I just want to see her. Maybe volunteer for a bit. Is that okay?”
“Of course it’s okay.” He was already reaching for his phone. “Let me call Theo and let him know we’re coming.”
I padded to the bathroom while he made the call, and by the time I emerged—shower, teeth brushed, hair done, yesterday’s emotional chaos somewhat contained—he was dressed and waiting with that same strange energy humming beneath his skin.
“Theo said anytime,” Drew said. “He’ll be there all morning.”
“Perfect.” I pulled on a pair of jeans and one of Drew’s oversized sweatshirts that had migrated to my side of the closet.
When did that happen?When had his space started to become our space without me noticing?
The drive to the shelter didn’t take long. I watched as the buildings and businesses that had become so familiar to me over the past few weeks go by and realized how much I loved it here.
Drew’s hand rested on my thigh the whole way, warm and grounding.
This could be home.This could really become my home if I was willing to take the leap and move here.
The shelter welcomed us with its big windows and the cheerful mural of cats and dogs painted across the side. Several cars already filled the parking lot—Saturday morning was prime volunteer time.
Inside, the familiar smell of pet food and disinfectant greeted us along with the chorus of barking from the kennels in back. The front desk was staffed by Louanne, one of the regular volunteers, who broke out into a huge smile when she saw us.
“Ellie! Drew!” She came around the desk to hug me. “I hadn’t expected to see you today, but I’m so glad you’re here.”
“Couldn’t stay away.” I hugged her back. “Is Stormy having a good morning?”
“You know how she is,” Louanne laughed and shook her head. “Theo’s waiting for you two in the back by the cat room.”
We pushed through the doors passing by the sweet puppies I’d befriended, and I silently promised to come back for lots of behind-the-ears scratchies. By the time we reached the cats, joy settled in my chest. With everything happening I really needed a kitty cuddle. I waved to the few Kingsley employees nearby.
“Ellie!” Karen from accounting waved, a tabby kitten draped over her shoulder. “Hi! It’s good to see you.”
“You too!” I waved back.
This is what community felt like. Showing up, being known, and most importantly belonging.
Theo emerged from the back room, his face creasing into a smile. “There you are. Right on time.”
That’s weird. It was like Theo was waiting for us specifically. “Hey,” I glanced around “Where’s?—”
“Actually, Ellie,” Drew interrupted, his voice carrying a note I’d never heard before. “Can you wait here for a minute? I need to … There’s something I need to grab.”
I frowned. “What’s going on?
He grabbed my hand and squeezed it. “Just trust me.” He let go and disappeared in the back room with Theo.
I stood in the middle of the room as confusion swirled in my head. Karen and the other volunteers had gone conspicuously silent.
“What is happening right now?” I asked, hoping someone would crack.
“You’ll see.” Karen replied, a huge grin on her face.
