Back at it Again (One-on-One)

Arlo's glasses were askew on his nose. Nugget slept at their feet.

* * *

"Oh, Landon, honey, no."

 

He mumbled before opening his eyes blearily.

* * *

"No. You need to like ice cream."

 

"It's a gift to see your face when I wake up, Cal. Don't worry."

* * *

"Because I want to love you."

 

"Oh," he agreed, sitting up. "Where's Nugget?"

* * *

"I can, but it's harder."

 

He blinked before looking down.

"Oh, what a good boy."

* * *

She gave him a smile.

"I'm kidding, babe."

 

"A very good dog. We chose well."

* * *

"You think my affections are so easily swayed?"

 

"So, we about ready for the second one?"

* * *

"It's close," she admitted. "But I like you enough."

 

"Well, we gotta make a timeline, then."

* * *

They stepped up to the cashier.

"Could I please get a medium fry and a chocolate shake," she said. "And he'll have...?"

 

"Million dogs in ten years, remember?"

* * *

"That'll be $7.35, please."

Val paid before taking Landon to a table, rubbing the back of her neck.

 

"We can change it to 100," he allowed. "100 dogs."

* * *

She gave him a smile.

"I think I look gross."