The Heart Left Behind (Cole and Yvonne) novel Chapter 38

Jonas mumbled sleepily, "Daddy, when can we hang out with Ms. Sommerton again?"

I paused before answering softly, "We'll invite her when she's free, okay?"

Jonas nodded and drifted back to sleep. Once I tucked him in bed, I quietly closed his door and walked to the living room.

I let out a long breath, only to be startled by the sudden chime of the doorbell. I opened the door to find my neighbor, Ms. Harris, looking distressed.

"Mr. Joplin, Momo is sick, and all the regular vets are closed. Could you drive us to the 24-hour vet?"

I agreed, leaving a quick note for Jonas before driving Ms. Harris to the emergency vet. By the time I got home, it was nearly midnight.

I collapsed onto the couch, my mind drifting back to our picnic—Lorraine's smile, Jonas' laughter, and her delicious food. I pulled out my phone, hesitating briefly before typing a message to Lorraine, "Thank you for today's picnic. Jonas had such a great time."

I quickly added another message, "By the way, I'm thinking about taking Jonas to the beach. Do you have any suggestions?"

I set my phone down and went to shower. When I returned, I found several messages from Lorraine.

"You're welcome! I had fun too. A beach vacation sounds perfect!

"I can help you plan the trip if you'd like."

Just as I was about to reply, another message came, "It's peak season, though, so booking might be tricky. I have a friend at a travel agency who might be able to help."