Page 120 of Wardrobe Malfunction

I’m dressed sensibly today. Well, as sensible as I can. I didn’t bring any sneakers with me, not that I have any, so I’m wearing my flip-flops, knowing that we’ll be walking a bit. And I’m wearing jean shorts and a tank, as it’s really warm today. I’ve put on sunscreen as well, as I don’t want to burn. Vaughn is wearing khaki shorts, a tank, and sneakers. He looks hot, like usual. He’s also wearing his ball cap, and he has sunglasses on.

I tug his cap off and put it on my head. “You worried about people recognizing you when we’re out?” I ask him, referring to the cap. I know he wears it as a disguise of sorts.

“We shouldn’t run into anyone. It’s a big place, and I’m taking you to one of the quieter areas, but you never know.” He shrugs, putting the car in drive.

I can’t imagine how it is for him, always having to worry about being recognized.

We stop at Vaughn’s parents’ house. I get out, carrying Jester in my arms.

“He can walk, you know,” Vaughn teases as we head over to the house.

“I know, but he’s so cute, like a little baby.” I snuggle Jester and get a lick on my face in return.

I wish I could have a dog. But it’s not feasible, as I travel a lot for work, and even though Nick is always home, it’d be stuck inside while he was at work all day. That, and we live in a small apartment, which isn’t really practical for a dog.

“It’s us,” Vaughn calls as he walks through the front door.

Is it silly that I get all glowy when I hear him say that? Us. I’ve never been part of an us before. Except with Nick, but that’s different.

“Hey.” His mom comes out of the kitchen, drying her hands on a dish towel. “Has he been okay?” She gestures to Jester.

“No trouble at all.” I smile at her.

“Except for hogging the fucking bed all night.”

“Ignore Vaughn.” I shake my head. “He’s been a little gem.”

“Maybe for you,” he grumbles. “Jester thinks the sun shines out of your ass.”

“You saying it doesn’t?” I tease, checking my behind.

Vaughn’s mom chuckles and takes Jester from my arms.

“We’re just heading up to Crater Lake.”

“Have you ever been, Charly?” she asks me.

“No.” I shake my head.

“You’ll love it. Such a pretty place. Do you need any food to take with you?” she asks.

“No, we’re good. We packed a picnic. Before we go, I just wanted to check if there’s anything you need us to do or to pick up before the wedding?”

“Nope. All taken care of,” she tells us. “Go have fun.”

“Okay. We’ll see you later.” He kisses the side of her head.

“Bye,” I say. “Bye, Jester.”

I wave at him, and he whines and wriggles in Vaughn’s mom’s arms. I feel mean, leaving him behind.

I follow Vaughn out the door.

“That dog fucking loves you,” he says as we walk over to his car.

“I’m very lovable.” I give a comedic flick of my hair, sashaying my hips as I walk.

“That, you are,” he says. There’s something different in his voice. He doesn’t sound as light as he did a second ago.