Page 118 of If You Claim Me

“We’ll figure it out,” Kenny says. He looks to me. “You could talk to your husband. I’m sure he’d be happy to help.”

I look at him blankly. Telling Connor will only cause more problems. And I certainly cannot tell Meems and risk the strain on her already struggling heart. But I can run the numbers formy own programs and pull from my enhanced savings. “I’ll see what I can do.”

I spend the rest of the day researching grant opportunities and emergency funding sources between my regular duties, feeling exhausted and overwhelmed by the time I leave work. My phone pings with new messages as I trek up the steps of the subway to my car, which is currently one of Connor’s cars. Driving around in a Rolls-Royce is highly conspicuous, so I park on the subway line and take the train to work. Connor took Betty to the mechanic, and she’s undergoing extensive surgery because I refuse to give her up, and Connor refuses to let me drive her until she’s been serviced properly. This is the least-expensive car option available in Connor’s garage, unless I let him buy me something new, which I will not.

Meems

Cedrick will not bring Taco Bell home for me.

Dred

It is a questionable life choice.

Meems

It’s what I feel like eating today. Nothing else will do.

Dred

You have to eat, Meems.

Meems

I know. And I will eat Taco Bell.

Dred

What do you want?

Meems

Doritos Locos Taco Supreme combo and birthday churros.

Please.

Dred

Not the healthiest options, but okay.

Meems

Can you also stop at McDonald’s and get me a nugget Happy Meal with a vanilla shake?

Dred

What about some vegetables?

Meems

There are potatoes.

Dred

They don’t really count, especially when they’re deep-fried.

Also, these don’t seem like the best choices for someone who is hoping to have heart surgery.

Meems