like to say something," Shelby said. "I've come to love it here and being with all of you, and of course the dogs." She looked over at Alice. "I have the most wonderful grandmother in the world. Theo, I cannot thank you enough for everything. And I want you all to know I'm ready to do whatever it takes to stay."
“And we love you,” Joann said. “I used to work at the high school in the counseling office. I can help you get registered. There are a few legal issues we'll have to take care of since your mother is your current guardian, but there are plenty of ways to work around that."
"We should talk about getting some legal help as well," Eleanor said, "and see, if emancipation is needed eventually, what would be involved."
"Anthony DeLuca might help," Shelby said. "Logan mentioned he does some pro bono work.”
"Top attorney, that one,” Eleanor said. “I'll do what I can with my contacts, and I have quite a few."
"And I can do online research as needed,” Mindy said.
"And I'll help Mindy,” Trevor said.
Theo watched as Shelby’s face became more animated with each offer of assistance. There was certainly a good amount of hope floating around the table.
"I’m always here if you need to talk," Steph said. "I can offer moral support and free ice cream for the next month."
“I’ll definitely take you up on that,” Shelby said, chuckling. She looked around the table, making eye contact with everyone. "I can't thank you enough. One more thing. My mother said she’s leaving Florida soon, so we do need to move fast."
"We will. No problem,” Theo said. "I think we have a strong plan to get started with.”
"All right then,” Steph said. “It’s time for cookies.” She held up the plate and Theo could see the chocolate chips were slightly melted and glistening in the sun.
"Sustenance for the soul," Mindy said as she reached for a cookie. “These are amazing.”
Shelby took a napkin and patted her lips. "I'd really like to hear how all of you are doing too.”
"Well, I have some news,” Steph said.
Theo thought Steph had a bit of a glow about her today. He couldn't have been happier to see how well that young couple were thriving since they’d taken over Redd’s Ice Cream Parlor.
"Josh and I might be pregnant,” Steph said. “He agreed a few weeks ago to start trying.”
Clapping resounded in the air. Congratulations offered all around. Another resident of Moonwater Lake might be joining them soon, Theo thought. A tiny little one. Next to him, Theo noticed the way Mindy and Trevor smiled at each other after the news. And they were holding hands under the table. Trevor must have gone to talk to Mindy, and it had obviously worked out well.
"I have an announcement, too," Joann said.
A smile crept up her face. Her eyes sparkled. This was the way Theo remembered Joann before the grief of losing her dog had cast a shadow over her these last months.
"You all know I've been combing the shelters for the right dog, and I think I found him. His name is Fritz and he desperately needs a home after his owner passed away. I put in my application and I'm waiting to see if it gets approved."
"Of course it'll be approved," Shelby said. "What better owner could there be than you?"
"What does he look like?” Eleanor asked.
"He is the cutest thing you ever saw. He's pretty tiny. Probably a mix of Chihuahua and maybe terrier. His black and tan ears stick straight up, and he looks almost like an elf. And his eyes are so soulful, almost human."
"It sounds like you’re in love already,” Alice said. “I bet Scarlett will love playing with him.”
"He'll be a great addition to the dog park," Theo chimed in.
Eleanor cleared her throat. "While we are all sharing news, you will be surprised to hear I’m actually enjoying playing golf with my husband.”
“I am surprised,” Alice said. “That’s one thing I never thought I’d see.”
“What can I say?” Eleanor shrugged. “I know I complained a lot that my husband was hardly home. I realized it takes two to make a relationship work. And my husband pointed out that I've been a little stubborn, particularly around the golf. I guess even I have to admit that I'm not perfect either.”
Everyone laughed. Who is? Theo thought, reaching for another cookie. Eleanor was always so well put together and confident. She was a force to be reckoned with.