Montana

“You know, many couples get a dog to prepare themselves to become parents,” Carson’s mother tells my mom.

I’m lounging in the sun in the chair next to theirs. My eyes are closed, and they believe I’m asleep. Wanting to hear what they say next, I keep pretending.

“A grandbaby may be in our future.” My mom claps excitedly.

“They rushed into marriage,” Carson’s mom reminds mine. “It would be okay if they took their time in ...