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“Coffee is great,” Amber said. “Can I help with anything?”
“Can you take this out? Just stick it on the table out on the porch. This kitchen is too small for these big men.”
Amber laughed and took the board back outside.
Gloria took paper plates and plastic forks and knives out. There was no way the impromptu work party was going to turn into a luncheon if Maggie could help it, even if feeding the workers was the thing to do.
“Are you okay?” Justin asked, coming back for mugs. “You look a little glassy eyed.”
“I’m doing the best I can to be cordial,” she whispered, choking back a sob. “Grab the milk and sugar, too, and take them outside. I’ll bring the pot when the coffee’s done.”
Worried for her, Justin didn’t probe any further, doing what she asked of him.
In all the confusion of people coming in and out, Brulee got out of her yard. Maggie’s phone beeped. The number was the rescue.
“It’s Kelly. Are you missing anyone?”
She looked around the kitchen and living room. “My dog.”
“She’s here. Do you want me to keep her here? I see your barn party has arrived.”
“Thank you so much. When they finally start working,ifthey work, I’ll walk over to get her.”
The pot of coffee was ready, so Maggie grabbed more mugs and took the pot and mugs out to the porch.
“Brulee is over at the rescue. I’m going to walk over and get her.”
“I should have been watching her,” Justin said.
“It’s okay. I’ll be back.”
“Can I come?” Amber asked. Then Gloria piped in, wanting to come, too.
There was no way Maggie could deny this one small request without seeming a real bitch, so she gave up and smiled.
“Sure. You can see our new moms and babies. We had nothing for a week, and then bam, we’re to capacity.”
“I can foster for you,” Gloria said.
“Well, that’s so nice. You’ll see what I mean.”
Gloria and Amber had a continuous stream of conversation, which got Maggie off the hook on the walk over. Maggie concentrated on her beautiful property. The closer they got, she could hear her dog barking. Brulee was in the play yard with several other dogs.
“Look at all the dogs!” Amber said. “I want to help if I can.”
“Talk to Kelly,” Maggie said. “She’s in charge.”
“I’ll do that. Thanks.”
“Brulee, naughty,” Maggie said, kissing her head.
Annie came to the door, waving. “Do you need Steve to help dig footings? I know he’s bringing the cement when it’s time.”
“They haven’t started digging yet,” Amber answered. “Can I come in? I’m dying to see puppies.”
Gloria followed Amber inside, and Maggie took Annie’s arm. “Come out here so I can talk to you.”
She followed her out to the play yard.
