Christopher folded his arms.
“Spend thirty dollars or take him somewhere else.”
I held Benny tighter.
I wasn’t embarrassed by him.
But somehow, standing there with only enough intention to buy a four-dollar coffee, I suddenly felt embarrassed by myself.
That realization made me angry.
“I came inside because your sign says dogs are welcome.”
“They are.”
“Apparently only attractive dogs belonging to people who order expensive meals.”
His face hardened.
“I’m not arguing about this.”
“Neither am I.”
I turned toward the door.
I’d barely taken two steps when the room tilted again.
My knees weakened.
Someone grabbed my elbow before I could fall.
“Easy. Are you all right, ma’am?”
An older man wearing a dark coat steadied me.
“I’m fine.”
The words came automatically.
Then I stopped.
For once, I decided not to pretend.
“No. Actually, I’m dizzy. I skipped lunch. I just need somewhere to sit for a minute.”
