Page 139 of When Ben Loved Jace

“Imagine having a little place of your own,” Jace continues, “if that makes this easier on you. The trailer even has its own kitchen and bathroom.”

“Really?”

“Yup!”

“What about a TV?”

“I’m sure we could arrange that,” Jace says, “although it would be nice to watch things together too.” He looks at me, since I’m a bit more versed in pop culture.

“What sort of movies do you like?” I ask.

“Horror,” Jason replies.

“Any favorites?”

“Ever seen the one where a family adopts an evil kid who ends up murdering them?”

“Okay!” Michelle intervenes. “Jason, why don’t you show them your room?”

He shrugs and stands. Michelle’s expression is apologetic as we follow him down a hall. “He can be ornery,” she says, not lowering her voice in the slightest. Which is nice, because it means she isn’t whispering behind his back. Full transparency. I’m sure she’s a great social worker. I’m just not sure that we’re cut out to be parents.

We enter a small room, Jason plopping down on the bed. Michelle wavers in the doorway as I awkwardly glance around.

“Who’s this?” Jace asks, picking up a framed photo.

“My dog,” Jason says.

“They let you have pets here?” I ask.

“Of course,” Jason says, the answer dripping with sarcasm. Then he whistles. “Dixie! Come on girl.” A dog fails to appear. “Huh. That’s strange. She must be taking a crap in the backyard that doesn’t exist.”

“Was that really her name?” Jace asks, his tone sympathetic.

Jason hesitates. Then he nods. “Yeah.”

“Was she your dog before you came here?” Jace continues.

He nods again.

Jace sits on the bed next to him. “I don’t suppose you like cats.” Without waiting for a reply, he pulls out his phone. “Thisis Samson.” He starts swiping through photos. “I love him more than just about anyone. Oh! Sorry, Ben.”

Jason cracks a smile.

“It’s fine,” I say with a despondent sigh.

“What happened to your dog?” Jace asks. “Is there any chance of getting her back? She could come live with us too.”

“It was a long time ago,” Jason says. “Seven years. I think she’s probably dead by now.”

“Sorry,” Jace says.

“It’s all right.” Jason shrugs. “That’s just how it goes.”

“I wish it didn’t,” my husband replies. “I can’t stand the thought of losing Samson. It’ll destroy me. You must be very strong.”

Jason presses his lips together, but not for long. “Do you like dogs?”

“I like all animals.”