The Foster Chronicles: Buffy, Week 6

Day 1

I email with a woman, Jane, who has seen photos of Buffy online and been in contact with the rescue organization. She lives in the neighborhood adjacent to mine. We set up a meeting for the next evening at my house.

Day 2

Buffy and I attend an adoption event at Woof Gang Bakery in Raleigh. She trembles mightily for the first ten minutes, then stands very alert for the next hour and a half. Two brown 9-week-old puppies get most of the attention, though a giant, corn-fed-looking guy and his wife, who has a perfect French manicure, come in, ask a lot of questions, and, when she lets them get close enough, scratch Buffy’s neck.

Later in the evening, Jane and her partner come over to meet Buffy. I put Redford, the big oaf, out in the back. He objects, loudly, for their entire visit. I decide to keep Violet in because I think it might help Buffy’s nerves. Indeed, she’s slightly nervous but allows petting and even gives kisses.

They ask lots of questions. None of her issues seem insurmountable to them. They get their little hound out of the car, and the two dogs sniff butts. Everybody’s fine.

Jane declares that she’s in love with her; she’ll go home, put in an application, and pay a deposit.

Day 3

The manicured woman posts on Buffy’s Facebook album that she and her husband

loved her! hopefully we’ll be seeing you both again soon! :)

I email Jane and let her know that the other couple is very interested and she should get that application in if she didn’t already.

I don’t know why I’m rooting for them, rather than the other couple, to get Buffy. Maybe because I love lesbians? Or because that means Buffy would be a mile and a half away and it’s possible I could still see her. Probably both.

I don’t hear from Jane.

Day 4

On the way home from work, I begin to worry. I left the rope toy, the two hollow bones, and the Kong in the spare bedroom for Buffy, but suddenly I’m overcome by the fear that she has chewed the TV cord and electrocuted herself. I imagine her lifeless body sprawled on the floor. Why can’t I have normal worries like normal people? Why does my mind have to spin these sick, paranoid daydreams?

I get home. She’s fine.

Jane emails to say thanks for the heads-up.

Day 5

I receive a contract by email. Jane and her partner are ready to adopt Buffy. The only question that remains is how Buffy will do with their cat. We set up a time for them to meet. If it goes well, I will deliver Buffy to them on the 13th. Jane has a week off starting then, so she can help Buffy get acclimated.

Day 7

My foster dog and I visit her prospective fur-ever home. Buffy is nervous. She shakes for a few minutes. The cat comes right up to her face. Buffy doesn’t even seem to notice. Eventually, there’s some sniffing.

No problem with the cat. Buffy will be adopted on Tuesday.

Feelings.