Page 55 of Buttons

Still, I know the damage is already done, captured and ready to be shared with Elowen as further evidence of my betrayal. Still, I glance at the red-head’s table and find her seat empty. Carmella follows my line of sight, sees the same thing, and huffs.

Since the conversation has exhausted us both, I signal for the check. Meanwhile, Carmella sulks in her chair. “I was expecting a completely different type of meal…”

“I have no idea why. I made myself very clear.”

The server delivers the black leather folder, and I immediately slip my card inside without so much as glancing at the total. Some endings are worth the cost, like ending the relations I had with Carmella. One loose end tied. One step closer to deserving Elowen again.

“You don’t need to pay,” Carmella says, reaching for her clutch. “I don’t want your money.”

“Please.” I hold up my hand. “It’s the least I can do.”

The truth is, I need to pay because it ensures there are no lingering debts or obligations.

The server returns with my card, and I sign the receipt, adding a generous tip. When I look up, Carmella has reappliedher lipstick. Knowing her as well as I do, I notice the tightness around her eyes.

“Well,” she says, voice careful to sound casual, “I suppose this is goodbye, then.”

“I think it’s for the best, especially after you tried to touch me and I pulled away.” Don’t know how I can get any more obvious than that. I’d imagine she’s quite embarrassed right now.

She studies me for a moment with a flat expression. One that screams,Really, Julian?Then sarcastically, she says,“How noble. The reformed husband, sacrificing his friendships for a chance at marital redemption.”

I don’t rise to the bait. Instead, I nod and stand. The check is paid, and our business here is done.

“You know,” she says quietly as I step back, “I always thought we’d end up together, eventually.”

“I realize that now,” I admit. “Our friendship was selfish of me.”

“Yes, it was selfish. But Julian, you know she won’t take you back…not after everything.”

I walked to the exit without responding.

Chapter 23

Elowen

When we arrive at the shelter, the door swings open with that familiar squeak that I’ve grown to love. Behind me, Leo clutches his worn copy of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” while Meredith skips ahead.

“Morning, Elowen!” Nora calls from behind the reception desk. “We’ve got three new arrivals last night. One’s perfect for Leo’s reading program.”

“Hear that, buddy?” I touch Leo’s shoulder. “Sounds like you have a new listener today.”

Leo’s eyes light up, though his expression remains serious. “What’s their temperament assessment?”

Actually, that’s a great question.

“Scared but not aggressive,” Nora answers, matching his professional tone. “Hiding under the blanket, but responsiveto soft voices. No signs of biting or intentional clawing when getting too close.”

My son nods. He has more patience than most adults I know, and certainly more than Julian ever showed.

“How about me, Ms. Nora? Can I help with the puppies today?” Meredith plants her hands on the counter, standing on tiptoes to peer over the edge.

“Sorry, Mi-Mi. The puppies have their check-ups this morning. But the community room could use a toy organizer.”

Before Meredith can respond, Sarah bursts through the side door. Her eyes lock on me immediately, widening with urgency.

“El,” she says, her voice tight. “I need you. Now.”

The children are already drifting toward their assigned areas. They know to stick with the volunteers and not leave unless I go with them. I follow Sarah to the small break room. Aside from the scent of over-brewed, stale coffee—which lingers because the only volunteer who drinks it constantly forgets to clean out the pot—we’re alone.