Chapter 96

“I’ve never dressed like I want to in front of people.” When Carrie set down the unicorn, she still held a ninety-nine-cent tiara in her hand. “It feels right and weird all at the same time.”

“You’re safe here,” Patrick promised.

“He’s good at that…making the people around him feel safe.” I kissed Patrick’s bearded cheek, and then fixed his glasses, which I’d left all askew.

Carrie’s next smile seemed easier. “I can’t believe I’m finally meeting you face to face, Goose.”

“Am I everything you expected?” I asked.

“You know what?” She moved her arms away from her body to reach for the snacks. “You look exactly like a man named Goose with a dog named Wilbur should look. I thought that when I saw you on TV, and it’s even truer now.”

“Glad to hear it.” I picked up the crown she’d set down and stepped up beside her. Carrie tensed again. Seeing anyone else do that when someone came near hurt my heart. “It’s okay. I just think our little snow night party could use a queen.”