“I wanted to come see your group today because Allison wants to tell you about our latest fundraising efforts for the foundation.”

“Yes.” Allison had a big smile and a bubbly voice. “Every year we do a big fancy dinner and silent auction, but this year we’re doing something a little different.”

“And fun,” Ned added. He was like a proud grandpa, and I couldn’t wait to hear Allison’s idea.

“Yes! Fun. Costumes. It’s going to be a costume ball.”

“Oh my gosh. That sounds so cool.” April appeared at our table, undoubtedly sensing the possibility of getting all fancy. But the annual fundraiser was the sort of thing with seats going for three digits and big law firms and accounting firms buying tables for their partners.

“Yeah, it does. But I bet tickets are going to be pricey.” I tried not to sound regretful. We wanted the foundation to raise tons of money, and I didn’t want them lowering prices just so some broke college students could attend. But then Allison smiled wider.

“Well, we’re aiming for the corporate sponsors, true. But we’re also asking a few of our regular visitor groups to join us. Mingle with the guests, do pictures, help make sure everyone’s having fun.”

“I want to do it.” April bounced on her feet, practically quivering like a puppy. Homeschooling really was getting to her, and I wanted her to have this opportunity. And if it helped the foundation raise money, I’d be there.

“I’m in.” I nodded, loving how April gave a happy laugh in response.

“And the rest of the group?” Allison pulled a small notebook from a pocket in her cardigan. “I’ll need to know how many tickets to comp.”

“We’ll need Neptune,” April said, predictably eager, while I was still counting in my head.

“I’m not sure…” Getting Milo to do this more than once probably wasn’t going to happen, let alone something with bigwigs. Even now, I could see him eyeing Ned and Allison like they were seconds away from laughing at us, more of that unease he’d had with the doctors rolling off him.

“You know everyone’s going to want a picture with him.” April made the puppy-dog face she did so well that had gotten me into this mess with Milo to start with.

“He is rather…impressive.” Allison smiled in his direction, but Milo busied himself with his game with Chase. Maybe his empathy for Chase could convince him to don the costume more than this once. Maybe.