Page 67 of But For You

“So, I’m tampering with the inspection report as we speak.”

“Dane, you can’t do that. He’ll find out.”

“It will take at least six months or longer for him to find out, and by then, we’ll have closed on it, and he’ll be wrapped up in a mortgage he can’t get out of.”

“So, you’re trying to trap Sam into buying the house.”

“Precisely.”

“I could just talk to him.”

“And ruin the surprise and take away his happiness? Would you do that?”

“I really don’t like you right now.”

“I’m well aware.”

I sighed deeply. “So, the kids and I are stuck here until Sam gets back.”

“Yes.”

“Did you bring my laptop?”

“Yes.”

“Kola’s karate gi?”

“I believe that’s in the van.”

I had to think. “Hannah’s Barbie Dreamhouse?”

“Yes.” He smiled at me.

“Chilly’s dishes and his litter box and his toys and his cat tower and⁠—”

“Yes. May I ask why he had stainless steel bowls instead of the kind that feed and water him automatically?”

“Because automatic doesn’t teach kids any responsibility.”

“Is that right?”

“Yes, that’s right.”

“And setting the feeder, filling it, this teaches nothing?”

“You know what I mean.”

He grunted and gave me a pat on the arm before he headed for the door.

“You always take care of me. Thank you.”

“That is what family is for.”

I nodded as he reached the front door.

“Come let me out. Remember, when you’re home, when you leave, either or, make sure the alarm is engaged.”

“Yes.”