“You said you’d be here at eight.” The woman in front of him frowns as she swings the door open.
‘F*ck, Ames.” Stephen tries to run a hand through his hair but only succeeds in punching himself with one of the many bags he’s holding. “I’m doing the best I can, okay? Sh*t. My dad just died.”
Unbothered by the argument playing out between their two favourite humans, Dave wags their tail. Stephen bends and unclips the leash, letting the dog run into his ex-wife’s house. Distantly, Amy’s new partner, Nic, greets Dave.
Breathing slowly, Stephen takes a minute. “Sorry. I tried. I should’ve texted you. I—”
Amy shakes her head, her black curls bouncing with the movement. “Whatever. It’s fine. How long are you going to be in Edmonton for?”
“I’ve booked ten days.” He’s not going to let himself cry. Not here, not now. Holding his arms as stiff as he can, he adds, “But I’m not sure, to be honest. I don’t… I’ll keep you posted – I promise. Thank you for looking after Dave for me.
“We’re happy to have her—”
“Them.”
Amy doesn’t roll her eyes – but Stephen can tell it takes effort. “You know I’m not a transphobe. But your dog’s a girl.”
“I’ve never met a less girly— You know what? I don’t want to get into this with you right now. If I had anyone else to ask, I would. But you’re the only dog-sitter I know. You’re one of my only friends, which I know is a weird thing to say about your ex-wife.”
He’s definitely going to start crying now.
“Come on, give me her stuff. You’ve got a plane to catch.” Amy makes a beckoning gesture.
Stephen unclips the leash from his waist and passes it to her. “Thanks. I appreciate it.” He hands over the bag containing Dave’s food and a few toys.
She gives him a one-armed hug. “I’m sorry about your dad. I wish I’d got to know him.”
Stephen sniffs and hugs her back. “Thanks, Ames.” Whistling, he drops to his knees. When Dave comes running back, still smiley, Stephen gives his best friend a hug.
Amy looks at her watch. “You’d better get going if you want to make the next train.”
Creaking only slightly, Stephen pulls himself back to his feet. He nods at his ex. “Be a good them, Dave.”
This time, Amy actually rolls her eyes. “Safe journeys.”
Lugging his suitcase and his backpack, he leaves the front porch. He turns right onto Edwin Street and heads for Bloor Station.
