With Jack working all day at the summer camp and me at nights at Semele's, we've got a pretty good schedule for taking care of the pups. It's even better on my days off when I can watch Macha and Shannon and knock out a few special orders.

It's possible I'm avoiding doing homework, but that's neither here nor there.

I'm in the middle of whipping up a batch of coconut cream cupcakes when there's a knock at the door, which I wouldn't have even noticed if not for Macha and Shannon's barking. "Okay, okay, hush now," I tell them before turning down my music and heading for the door. I'm not expecting anyone, but it's hardly uncommon for people to just stop by as they please.

But I"m not expecting Jack, honestly.

"Oh honey, what're you doin' knocking? You have a key!" I tell him, opening the door wide so he can step in, though Shannon and Macha bouncing around at his feet sort of block his way. "Hey, kids. C'mon. Get out of his way."

It's hard not to miss the black cloud that follows Jack in and I reach out to touch his arm. "Jack? You okay?"