7
Paul arrives early for weekly brunch with his friends. The house had felt too empty after Alex’s departure. He tells himself to stop moping over him being gone. Getting used to having someone around after only one night is not going to lead anywhere good.
Besides, brunch brings with it friends, mimosas, and the prospect of his dog. Beau is still in Craig’s possession, though it’s been months since they last fought about him. Thank God for restaurants with outdoor patios.
When Paul gets there he crouches next to his chair to rub Beau’s ears. He’s carrying on a conversation half with Craig and half with Josh on the other side of the table when Shawna says, bright and excited, “My darling Alexander, you made it!”
“Yeah, sorry, couldn’t find a parking spot.”
Paul’s heart jolts. That’s A
