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She looks up at me and her neck bobs like she’s agreeing with me. Holy shit, I wouldn’t have been able to leave her behind either.
After I’ve gone inside and showered, I climb into bed and pick up my phone. I can’t sleep and it’s late enough that I think maybe Ruby and Pierre have gone to bed by now. But just in case she’s concerned, I shoot her a text.
Dolly is doing just fine. I get why you love her.
Ruby
I love her so much. Are you saying this because she’s the cutest thing you’ve ever seen?
She’s cute, but no. She kind of…hugged me.
Ruby
NO WAY. I can’t believe it! She’s only ever done that with me! I’m gonna cry.
Don’t worry. She still loves you most.
Ruby
No, I’m not jealous. That’s just so sweet and I miss her.
She misses you too. Kept looking to see if you were coming.
Ruby
You’rebreaking my heart.
She’s fine.
Ruby
I’ll be over as soon as I drop Uncle Pierre off at The Dancing Emu. We’re having breakfast early, so I should be there in plenty of time to feed Dolly.
Take your time. If you’re not here by the time she usually eats, I’ll feed her.
Ruby
You’re the best, Callum.
So you say. Sweet dreams, Ruby Sunshine.
I want to sayThink of me in your quiet time, but…I don’t.My thoughts sure go to what she might be doing alone in her bed though.
The next morning, I drag. I’m slow to get breakfast done and even after a second cup of coffee, I’m achy and just can’t seem to get going. When Delphine and Irene start misbehaving, the void of Ruby around here is even more noticeable.She’d be cracking up and distracting them out of their mischief.
When I round the corner a few hours later and see her walking toward me in her tight jeans and a light brown down jacket that matches her eyes, I instantly feel…relieved.
It’s short-lived because when I grin at her, she returns it, but it’s dim. It doesn’t reach her eyes and she looks worried.
“What’s wrong?” I ask.
Her brows crinkle in the center.
“Am I that obvious?” She laughs, but it’s forced.
“Yes.”
She exhales and points toward Dolly’s stall. We walk there and I wait for her to start talking. She’s quiet until she sees Dolly and then she talks to her, petting her and putting her food out. As Dolly starts eating, Ruby looks at me again.
