Chapter 12

MELANIE I assume you don’t have any plans for 4th of July? I roll my eyes at the text message, but I can’t deny the fluttering in my abdomen whenever I see his name on my phone. I type out a reply, a smile on my lips. And why would you assume that? Because I haven’t invited you anywhere yet Arrogant asshole! Two days’ notice and he expects me to be free. But I’m still smiling when I respond. I actually have plans with two guys that night. For your sake I hope they’re Ben & Jerry I snort a laugh. That was actually funny, Mr. James. But no, I’m working at the shelter. That’s a terrible plan I’ll have fun. My friends Cesar and Potato are a blast. My phone rings, and I giggle when a picture of Val Kilmer from Top Gunflashes on the screen. “Hello?” “Who the fuck are Cesar and Potato?” “A basset hound and a corgi. Two of the longest-serving residents at the shelter. They keep me company while I do my rounds.” “So you’ll be alone there all night?” He sounds grumpy. “No Cesar and—” “I’m talkin