Page 72 of Always Almost You

“You’re in luck,” he added. “The photographer just got here. You’ll get a professional shot.”

Moments later, the photographer joined them, positioning Lauren beneath the arch. “Chin slightly up … Yes! Now one with your dog. Perfect.”

Pumpkin sat obediently, ears perked, as if she understood the assignment.

“These are going to be fantastic,” he said. “I’ll make sure you get them.”

“Thank you,” Lauren said, stepping aside as a young couple eagerly moved into place.

She and Pumpkin entered the café. Every table was full. People stood along the walls, drinks in hand, voices overlapping in excited conversation. Soft lighting glowed against polished wood, and the hum of anticipation vibrated through the space.

The host spotted her and smiled like an old friend. “There’s a reserved table up front for you and the other requested singers,” he said, bending to greet Pumpkin. “Big night.”

“It sure is,” Lauren said, raising her voice slightly over the noise. She glanced around, then leaned closer. “I think Pumpkin will be happier in her bed in the office.”

“We thought so, too,” he said. “Her water bowl and treats are waiting.”

Pumpkin needed no further encouragement. She navigated the crowd with purpose, tail up, making a beeline for her spot.

Lauren followed and knelt beside her, cupping her little face in her hands. “We might be here longer than usual tonight,” she said. “But we’re doing something really worthwhile.”

Pumpkin’s tail thumped against the bed.

“When it quiets down, I’ll bring you out,” Lauren added. “If you want.”

Another thump.

“Otherwise,” Lauren said, smiling, “just rest up and look adorable.” She stood and made her way to the reserved table.

Seven of the regular singers were already gathered, water bottles at each seat, voices easy and familiar. The karaoke jockey moved between them, confirming song lists and making last-minute notes.

Lauren sat, smoothing her dress over her knees. Her pulse was steady. She was calm. But, underneath it, there was something else. She felt the quiet hum of anticipation that she couldn’t quite name.

The room filled. People lined the perimeter, shoulder to shoulder. At seven o’clock, the spotlights flicked on, illuminating the microphone.

The owner stepped forward. “Welcome,” he said, his voice carrying easily through the room, “to The Friendly Bean’s annual Valentine’s Day Karaoke Night.”

Applause rippled outward.

“Tonight is about love,” he continued. “And what better way to celebrate that than by showing love to those in our community who need it most?” He gestured toward the donation table. “Your generosity tonight will help ensure our neighbors don’t go hungry. Thank you for being part of that.”

The applause swelled.

“And now,” he said, stepping back, “I’ll give you what you came for.”

The karaoke jockey took the owner’s place. “I’ve seen the requests you’ve submitted for these talented singers,” he said, gesturing toward Lauren’s table. “You’ve made excellent choices. And they’ve all worked hard to prepare for you. So, let’s give them a warm welcome.”

The room obliged.

“And to start us off, we’ve got Lauren with that Valentine’s Day classic … ‘My Funny Valentine.’”

Lauren inhaled. This song had been one of her grandmother’s favorites. She’d sung it with her since she was a child. She rose, the room seeming to shift around her, and walked toward the microphone. For a fleeting moment, just before she reached it, a thought slipped in, unbidden. I wish he could see this. It surprised her. She stepped behind the microphone, and the music began. The room fell silent. And Lauren sang.

When the final note faded, the room erupted.

Lauren thanked the audience and returned to her seat. Tonight, she thought, settling back into her chair, was going to be special. Even if she didn’t yet know why.

CHAPTER 48