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“I’ll be coming by for some breadsticks.”
“And garlic knots?”
“Of course. Got to have my garlic knots. I’m leaving school now.”
“We’ll have them ready for you.”
“I’ll see you in a few.”
When they arrived at Rocco’s, Milo tucked Frenchie into his jacket and picked up an umbrella. Then he opened the back door for Caleb. “Okay, let’s try to stay dry. You ready to make a run for it?”
Caleb grasped the edge of Milo’s jacket pocket, and they jogged to Rocco’s front door. Caleb went in while Milo closed the umbrella. Maggie met them at the door, then patted Frenchie’s head.
“Hey, sweet boy.”
Milo grinned. “Don’t let your husband hear you call me that.”
She nudged him. “Shush.” She smiled at Caleb. “And who is this?”
“This is Caleb.” Milo put a hand on Caleb’s shoulder. “Caleb, this is Maggie.”
He looked up at her and smiled.
Abe walked over to them, and Caleb looked up at him, then took Milo’s hand. Abe grinned. “Wow, am I that scary?” He knelt in front of Caleb. “I have a little boy a few years younger than you. He thinks I’m pretty funny.”
Caleb leaned against Milo’s leg, and Abe stood. “Are we babysitting now?”
“Just transporting. Wilda is painting the parlor today, so I’m bringing him home so she can finish up.”
“Okay. How’s that going?”
“It’s going fine.”
“Good.” Milo cocked his head, and Abe laughed. “Seriously. I’m glad it’s working out for you.”
“Hmm.” He took the boxes from Maggie. “Thank you.” He supported Frenchie with his other hand, and Caleb still held onto his leg. “I might need some help to get out the door.”
Maggie looked down at Caleb. “Can I hold your hand and take you to the car?”
Caleb nodded, and they headed for the door. Maggie picked up the umbrella Milo left next to it. She walked to the car, keeping Caleb mostly dry, while Milo ran with Frenchie and the two boxes.
As she ran back to the restaurant, Milo called out, “Thank you!”
She waved, then disappeared inside. Milo looked back at Caleb. “Put your seatbelt on.” He started the car, and they headed home.
Wilda was on the porch with an umbrella when Milo pulled up and parked near the steps. She walked out to get Caleb while Milo carried the dog and the food. When they got inside, she took the boxes from him, and he set Frenchie down.
“I thought we caught a break in the rain, but…”
“Do you want me to get you a towel?”
He removed his jacket and ran his hands through his hair. “I think I’m okay.”
“Is this your dinner?”
“A snack for us to share.”
“Shall we eat in the kitchen?”
