Chapter 159

I was on my phone, still trying to find information on the Goodacre family tree, a way to tie Calvin to the Porters other than his ghostly word of mouth, when a text came. To my surprise, it was from Tom’s brother apologizing for the actions of someone else. Trying to come up with a proper reply, I was saved momentarily, when Shelby arrived with my sketchpad and pencils, some underwear, and most importantly, Wilbur.

“Hello, my little Willy Wonka!” His kisses were better than anything coursing through my veins from the IV. He was gentle, and somehow knew exactly where to step, even while filled with unbridled excitement. If I could talk to ghosts and angels, maybe I could talk to animals. Dogs, maybe cats, too, had a sixth sense it would be great to tap into.

“Well, Uncle Max, it’s official,” Shelby said. “The doctor says I’m six weeks along.”

“You’re going to have a little cousin, Wilbur. How about that? And everything’s okay?” I asked.