Page 115 of Mr. B

“How long have you been playing?”

Bailey turned on the piano bench. “I started taking lessons when I was six.”

“I hope you’re going to pursue music.”

Bailey glanced at Cassandra. “I want to go to the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. But I might go to Cornish in Seattle.” She shrugged. “Haven’t really decided yet.”

Cassandra put a hand on her shoulder. “She’s decided. She’s just afraid to tell her father she doesn’t want to go to Cornish.”

“Hmm. I’m sure they’re both great schools. It was Boise State for me. Hated every minute of it.”

“That’s where Mom went. Mr. B, too.” Bailey blushed. “Of course, you know that.”

“I should get home to Frenchie. But great first lesson.”

“Frenchie?”

“My dog. Although don’t let him hear you call him that. He’s convinced he’s a very small, four-legged human. He hates to be left alone.”

Cassandra laughed. “Bring him next time. I don’t mind.”

“I might do that.”

“What’s with you guys and neurotic animals?”

Milo laughed. “Don’t be comparing my Frenchie to Frank. I’m pretty sure Frank is possessed.”

“My experience with Frank was good. He sat on my lap and purred.”

“No way.”

“It’s true. Wes couldn’t believe it.”

“I don’t believe it. I need to see that. Gentry’s dog is the coolest dog ever. Have you met Pickles?”

“No. Pickles?”

“They didn’t name her. She’s technically Levi’s diabetic support dog.”

“Oh, wow. Is that his youngest boy?”

“Yeah. Tough little dude, though.” He picked up his guitar. “I’ll get a hold of you on Monday, and we’ll set up another lesson.”

“Thank you.”

Cassandra walked him to the door. “This was great. Thank you so much.”

“Not a problem. I’ll see you next week.”

Milo left, and Cassandra went back to Bailey, who had returned to the couch and the guitar. “He’s so cool.”

“Yes, he is. Of course he teaches kindergarten, so it’s expected, I guess.”

“I wish I’d had a cool teacher like him in kindergarten.”

“Miss Debra was cool.”

“Not like him.”