Page 45 of Loving Carter

The kind of hug shared by two good friends.

Chapter Seven

Skylar

“Can you make it sothat it looks like KeeKee is thinking about something important?”

I’m making notes about the type of dog cake Miriam Dupree wants. I was surprised this morning when in addition to her usual coffee, she asked to order a cake. She’s not the type for a dog cake, so I’m a little concerned about her reason.

“Is KeeKee okay?” I ask.

Miriam frowns at me, and I immediately rethink my whole sympathy attitude.

“Of course. She’s very well, which is why I want you to capture her serious expression.” Miriam sets a packet of photos on the counter. “You can look at these pictures and see what she looks like, but none of them capture her serious, contemplative expression.”

Okay, I love dogs. I mean, really love them. And KeeKee is a heck of a nice pug. But she’s not contemplative. If anything, she’s a nutball. She’s always running and playing and jumping on people. I think she’s wonderful, but Miriam apparently has a different viewpoint.

“KeeKee doesn’t seem very serious,” I say, trying to get Miriam to be realistic. “I think she’s a very fun-loving, happy dog.”

That’s a compliment, right? I just told her that KeeKee is a swell dog. She should thank me. But the words no sooner leave my mouth than Miriam frowns. It’s a deep frown that seems to crumple her face.

“She isveryserious. If you don’t think you can capture that expression, I can take my business elsewhere.”

I look at Miriam. She’s bluffing, and we both know it. Pet cake makers aren’t thick on the ground around here. Frankly, they’re not thick on the ground anywhere. And although I can’t draw, I create excellent pet cakes. As Carter always says, I can only create three-dimensional art. My cakes really do resemble the animals.

KeeKee with a serious expression may not be accurate to the dog, but if it makes Miriam happy, then what do I care?

“I will give her a serious expression,” I say, deciding not to be mean. I’m able to do this, so I should. I’m a firm believer that kindness is important, even if the person to whom you’re kind isn’t kind back to you.

“And contemplative,” Miriam says. “I want her serious and contemplative.”

“And contemplative,” I say back. I have no idea how I’m going to capture that on KeeKee’s face. My dogs don’t do contemplative. I bite back a smile and decide maybe I can find some pictures of contemplative dogs online. Some dogs must think deep thoughts.

I write up Miriam’s order and smile as she leaves. My smile is sincere. I’m happy she’s leaving. That sounds mean, I know, but I’m not in the mood to be hassled today.

First, I’m worried about Tillie. Everything seemed fine last night, but I haven’t heard anything yet today. I texted Carter, but he hasn’t responded yet. I ended up calling the hospital, but she wasn’t in her room. Second, I’m worried about things with Carter. Where do we stand? We had a real saved-by-the-bell moment yesterday evening. If his phone hadn’t rung, I’m not sure what would have happened.

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