If distraction were an art form, I'd be hanging in a museum between Michelangelo and Da Vinci. Endless meetings, training sessions, consultations, anything to keep me too busy to think about Bitterroot.

Or about the desert run that still echoed in my bones.

Or the questions I didn't want answers to.

But of course, all good things come to an end, and I found myself slinging several large suitcases into my trunk once more. It felt like I was moving out without actually moving.

"You didn't have to choose me as your human," I said to Morph as he sat on the front porch, watching me with a flicking tail. "And after the first two trips, you could have gone on your merry way. But here we are."

I slammed the hatch down on the SUV and sighed. I stood awkwardly between the house and the car for a moment before deciding it was best to sit on the front porch for a little bit and mentally prepare for the long drive ahead of me.

As soon as my behind was on the concrete, Morph immediately was in my lap. Of course, that brought Beans over from his spot on the gliding bench. Morph couldn't have all the pets, that was just not done.

"I know. I'm gonna miss you guys too. BUT! Uncle Robby agreed to come by once a week to make sure your crunchies are full." Beans all but melted into my hand as I scratched him behind the ear.

Morph looked up and gave a soft "murr," paws kneading the air like he was questioning my life choices.

"No, I can't not go, even if you are super cute," I explained, gently petting along his side. "Honestly, it'd do me good to get out again. But this one feels like it'll be too long."

"Besides, I won't have my cuddle buddies," I said after a beat, putting on a fake smile and leaning down to give Morph a gentle squish hug. Morph held still for a moment before deciding that was enough and wormed his way out. Beans immediately seized the opportunity and hopped right into my lap as if he had been invited.

"Yes, yes, I love you too Beany," I chuckled, aggressively petting the cat and giving him snuggles. Beans, as opposed to Morph, purred loudly and immediately began to groom my pants back as a symbol of his affection. I had been so focused on Beans' antics I nearly missed the rag top Jeep pull into my driveway.

"Oh good, you're still here!" called a familiar voice and I looked up in time to see Robby hop out of the car, cup of blended coffee in hand and a shopping bag around his wrist. "I was semi worried you had already left and I was going to have to drink this sugar bomb while you were stuck with gas station tar."

"Thank you," I said with a smile. I tried to move Beans gently, but he didn't get the hint and dug his claws in to stay. "I'd get up but I'm a tad trapped."

"And that's why I came prepared." Robby set the blended coffee on the porch railing and reached into the bag. Before he had managed to pull out the plastic box of cat treats, both furballs had drawn closer and were yowling. "And this is why I'm your favorite uncle," he added, giving both cats far more treats than necessary.

"I owe you," I said, brushing off my pants before reaching for the coffee Robby had once again picked up and passed over.

"Nah," Robby replied, also passing and dropping down on the step beside me.

"What's this?" I asked, digging into the shopping bag curiously.

"Can't have a road trip without supplies," he shrugged. Inside were my favorite energy drinks, a handful of sodas and several theater sized bags of my favorite candy.

"You deserve a raise," I said with a soft smile while I mentally told myself I wasn't allowed to cry. "You're too good to me."

Robby shook his head and nudged my shoulder with his. "You take care of us so much, it's the least I can do back. Take care of road trip needs. Even if it might give you diabetes."

I laughed and took a sip of the coffee before giving a soft moan. "And you remembered which one of the zillion flavor combos was my favorite. Can I just marry you now?"

It was Robby's turn to laugh. "Eh, get in line. I have several other ladies interested in a lavender marriage with me."

I chuckled, taking another sip and savoring it. "Is it bad that I don't want to go?" I asked after a quiet moment.

"Is that Boss Lady talking or my friend?"

"Yes."

Robby stared out at the cars. "As a friend, no. The whole thing is sketch as hell and you just got back too. If you keep up this pace, you're gonna burn yourself to nothing and fast. As assistant to the Boss Lady, kinda. We already talked about where the money is going and all that. But you don't need me harping on repercussions."