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“I learned my lesson; that’s for sure,” the mom says with a pointed look down at her son.
Without making any promises, I grab a tank of my own with clean, treated water and put on a pair of blue medical gloves to be safe. “I don’t think the weirdo was a very good axolotl owner. Can you promise to do better by this little guy?” I say, making small talk while I lay the pink body onto a white paper towel to examine his limbs.
“I swear,” he says with his hand on his heart.
“What’s your name kid?”
“I’m John. This is my mom, Cindy, and Meno, who cussed out the weirdo.”
Meno.Her name is Meno, and the sound of her sweet giggle travels straight to cargo shorts.
“Just trying to help.”She says.
“You were amazing. Seriously, I can’t believe the man was trying to up-sale us a tank with a dead fish.”
“He’s technically a salamander, Mom,” John says.
“Well, anyway, I was so flustered until Meno came out of her van and gave the man the piece of mind I really wanted to. Thank you again. I do appreciate it.”
“No problem,” Meno says.
“It sounds like the weirdo got what he deserved, but have no fear, he—or rathershe—is going to be just fine. Pancake here is strong, just like Meno, and it may take some time, but she’ll grow that arm back with a good diet and clean water.”
“I can do that. I know all about axolotls, and I don’t even care she’s a girl. I’ll still play with her.”
That makes me smile and the woman laugh.
“Here are some supplies she’ll need, and I’ll even throw in a small cup of worms for her to snack on.”
“Awesome.”
“Oh, joy,” Cindy says, letting out a gust of frustration. “Thank you for helping with the emergency. Looks like John has a new best friend. How much do we owe you for everything?”
I shake my head, waving off her wallet.
“I’m happy to help with whatever you need, anytime, but today’s free of charge.”
As a marine biologist, I make good money, and I’m fortunate to work for a leading powerhouse in the industry.
“What? No way!” Cindy smiles in shock. I know she thought I gave John all the things so I could charge her. It’s so common in today’s world, so I can’t be mad that she misjudged me. I mean it when I say I want to do good, and with Grand Rapids Wildlife, I’ve finally been able to.
“Yeah way. If you want, you’re always welcome to donate, but our sponsor takes good care of everyone here. Hope you guys can come back.”
They have no idea how much I already want them to come back…with Meno. Or for just Meno to return. God, I need to think of something to say before she leaves. Fuck, why am I so bad at this?
“Wow, thank you so much…” Cindy lets her words hang, silently asking for my name, and I don’t miss the eagerness in Meno’s shining baby blues.
“Milo. And you’re welcome.”
“Thanks, Milo. I’ll call you and tell you how good she’s doing and when she gets her arm back,” John says, bouncing on his toes.
“Sounds good, kid.” I barely get out the words before he flies out the door, tank in his arms and materials in mom’s as she follows him out.
“Thanks again,” Meno says with a small wave, and when the door closes behind them, my heart sinks, and I start berating myself.
“You didn’t say a damn thing to her. No hi. No you’re the most beautiful creature I’ve ever laid eyes on. Nope. Milo you’re an idiot.
After cleaning the tiny tank John left behind, I turn from the sink to find Meno standing at the counter, eyes wide as she’s listens to my embarrassing ramblings. My fucking face is hot as I grip the back of my neck, trying to get a handle on myself.
