In Cambridge, we’re finding a place to have lunch and then we’re going to the university

Fifteen minutes later, another message arrives: a picture of Tegan biting on an oversized burger. She looks nervous but happy.

“Time to go home, buddy,” I tell Max.

When the meeting takes place, I want to be at home with no distractions. It’s an all-hands-on-deck situation, since I have no idea what the outcome will be. If Tegan needs me, even long distance, I want to be there.

Two o’clock comes and goes while I sit on the couch, mercilessly biting at the cuticles on my fingers and staring at the black TV screen with a lump in my throat. Max must sense I’m nervous, because he drops his muzzle on my thigh and stares up at me, worried.

That’s when Priscilla comes out of her hiding hole. She throws one deadly glare at me and the dog usurping her space and narrows her eyes.

In response, Max lowers his ears and stares daggers at the cat in return. Prissy turns on her paws, even more indignant, regaling us with a view of her uptight behind as she goes back into hiding.

When I stare back at my phone after the short distraction, a new message has appeared on screen—a short, terrifying one.

Tegan is going in now

How did I not hear the ping? I check the tones are on and put the ringer to max volume. Shortly afterward, another text comes in, announced by a sound this time.

How are you holding up?

I’m sick to my stomach

That good, uh?

I know it’s useless to say you shouldn’t worry

But really, don’t worry

Whatever is happening in there, Tegan will be the better for it afterward

She’s strong, like you

And if words could help, Lucas’ would have. Maybe they have, a little. Talking with Lucas is a nice diversion from staring at the black TV screen, so I make light of the exchange.

I’m a mom

It’s part of the job description to worry

What about Max?

Is he being a good boy?

Lucas must be changing the subject to distract me, but why not play along?

He’s been an angel all day

Max didn’t try to eat your cat? I was worried he might

No, Priscilla went into hiding as soon as he set a paw in the house, so he didn’t have a chance

We’re on the couch now

Max’s taking care of me with lots of cuddles

That’s a lucky dog

Even through the anguish of the moment, his words make my heart skip a beat. I’m trying to come up with a cool reply when another text lights the screen.

Tegan is coming out now

She slammed the door

Going after her