"He's better than I imagined." Matt's tone was soft and loving regarding Lucky. He'd always wanted a dog growing up, but time and space had never permitted it when his dad was alive. No pets were allowed at the orphanage, and then life had simply never given him the resources to keep one. A dog required a lot more commitment with the need for walks and attention. Yet Kate sharing Lucky with him had been a gift. He could enjoy all the adoration of a canine, could dote on Lucky when possible, without having to worry about Lucky not having someone there to walk him and entertain him when Matt worked long hours. Kate's schedule seemed to have a lot more flexibility than his did when it came to caring for the dog.

It had been what worried Matt with the cats, but the two kittens seemed more independent so far. With their litter boxes, toys, and dishes full, they seemed okay to entertain themselves and one another while Matt was gone. He'd have found them another home, otherwise. A selfish part of him though was glad that they seemed happy with him. Kneeling down, he felt Ella put a paw on his knee and reach for him. He bent down to kiss her head, scooping her up into his arms. He set her on his shoulder and scratched her. He noticed her colorful pattern, and the bright ginger of Sam's coat. "And there's my little menace," he said affectionately, petting Sam who was now in Kate's arms. "Your everything my dad warned me would happen, aren't you?" Matt said it with loving affection.

"Did you want to wear the gown, or something else? There's changing rooms if you wanted to before we go."