“Because they’re seasonal and transient. And when they pack up and leave, there’s a big open space and leftover trash and forgotten stuffed animals, and the fun is gone. It’s sad.”
He didn’t say anything for a long moment and then he said, “No carnivals then.”
“No carnivals,” I agreed. I put on my seatbelt and then slowly backed out of my spot. “Though I do appreciate a good merry-go-round.”
“Yeah?”
“Yeah. It reminds me of that scene in Mary Poppins when they jump into a chalk painting.”
Boxer chuckled. “I never know what you’re gonna say. I like that about you.”
“You do?”
“Yeah. Hold on a second. Silas! You and Brock need to get in the truck! Linden? You still there?”
“Yeah, I’m here. Who are Silas and Brock?”
“Silas is Mia’s kid. Brock’s his best friend. I’m at the park with them. Silas decided he wanted to try out for the soccer team because the most popular girl in his class said she liked soccer players.”
“You’re not supposed to be doing anything too strenuous!” I admonished.
“I’m not. It’s cute though, how you worry about me.”
“I’m not worried.”
He snorted. “Yeah, okay.”
“Silas is twelve and already into girls?” I asked.
“How did you know he was twelve?”
“Mia said so when I met her.”
“Huh.”
“Huh what?”
“You listen. When people talk.”
“Well, sure. I’m a doctor. I’m supposed to listen so I can make things better.”
“Do you know how many people don’t give a shit about that?”
“Language, Boxer, you’re around children.”
“Yeah, Doc. School me. I like it.”
I let out a laugh. “So is Silas any good at soccer?”
“The kid’s got two left feet,” Boxer said with a chuckle. “But what he lacks in coordination, he more than makes up for with enthusiasm.”
“Boxer!” a young boy yelled. “Stop talking to your girlfriend!”
“Hold your horses, kid. When a pretty girl wants to talk to you, you take your time.”
“You better get going.”
“Yeah, I better.” He sighed. “They’re making asinine kissy faces at me. I’ve got to have a sit-down talk with them about women.”