Page 31

Billy

One Year Later

“ D arlin’, you’re gonna love this. I’ve been so swamped with work. I’m sorry we haven’t had a date night in a while.”

I stand in the kitchen as the kernels heat in the machine and pour out into the bowl.

Dancing over to the fridge for cola, I set it on the counter with two glasses before adding ice and filling them.

“My day was pretty good. Remember the family who had me stuff their grandma? The craziest thing happened: he called me up and I guess his parents kicked the can.”

I take a gulp of soda before setting it on the tray.

“So he wants me to taxidermy ma and pa. I’ll have to go into the house to help him set ‘em up at the dining room table. It’s crazy what people do, but the money will be good. You won’t have to worry about working anymore. Just focus on what you love.”

I place the large bowl of popcorn onto the tray and fill another dish with chocolate candies. Tonight is going to be the most memorable night yet.

Picking it up, I head to the living room. The worn wooden coffee table has seen better days, but it’s ancient and I love it. Once the snacks are laid out for our date, I ignore Lucy’s stare for a minute.

Twirling around, I slide open the closet door hidden among the oak panelling and grunt as I pull out Veronica.

“Been a while, eh? Thought you could enjoy a movie with us.” I cover her back with the old tattered cardigan. Her skin was pieced back together after making the leather-bound ledger that’s lost in my shop somewhere.

“Lou, your book is gonna be successful. You need to stop worrying so much,” I say, lifting Veronica and placing her on the couch.

Lucy always doubts her abilities, and it pisses me off. I just want a good night with a clear mind and my treasured keepsakes.

I sit between them on the comfortable couch, reaching forward to pop a handful of candies in my mouth.

Running my fingers through my hair, I pick up the remote and lean back. I stretch and wrap my arms over their shoulders. Lucy falls into me, and I squeeze her a little tighter.

I glance down at her. It’s a shame I had to put her back together so quickly. Lou’s skin is already in need of a deep condition. She’s still just as gorgeous to me, though, with her pretty pert nose and hand-painted mossy green orbs.

“You’re gonna love the show,” I whisper and press play.

The video footage trails across the screen, each a different location in JoJo’s house. She’s reading on her sofa and drinking tea.

I lightly squeeze Veronica’s shoulder, focused on the television.

I tenderly kiss Lucy’s temple.

“Always and forever, Lou.”