Page 18 of Without Regret

“Rescued?”

“Yeah. Poor guy was bought as a puppy and then neglected by some jackass. When I saw him at the shelter for the first time, he was skin and bones. I took him home to foster and fatten him up, but then fell in love and had to keep him. I feel mildly guilty about that since I do travel some, but I put him in a doggie retreat when I’m gone.”

Finally kneeling down to where he was lying, she reached a tentative hand out. She came within inches but didn’t make contact.

“Talk to him. He’s a sucker for a female British accent.”

Her lips twitched as though she was trying not to laugh. I could see her relax a bit, which was what I’d been hoping for.

“Good lad. Good dog. Don’t go biting my face off. Poor thing. Can’t believe someone didn’t take care of you.” Finally, her fingers brushed softly over his brindle coat. Hesitant at first, she finally put all five fingers on him, taking a deep breath when he simply lay further down and groaned with what seemed to be pure happiness.

Lucky fucking dog.

When she smiled up at me as if I’d handed her the greatest gift in the world, I realized I was in serious trouble with this girl. This was more than an infatuation; I was starting to develop feelings. This was completely and totally stupid considering I’d just met her, and besides, it was clear she didn’t return the sentiment.

“See? He’s loving it. Careful, or you’ll have him wanting to come over all the time.”

She petted him one last time before standing up. “Baby steps. But thank you. I mean to him and to you for letting me conquer my fear.”

“It was my pleasure.”

We both looked up as my sister called out. She was coming down the steps towards us. “Oh, good, Emma. I’m so glad you’re home. I need your help.”

I had to bite my cheek to keep from laughing. Suddenly, Emma appeared to want rescue. But she was a good sport with my sister despite looking suspicious. She wasn’t alone in the sentiment. I also wondered what Avery was up to.

“Hello. What do you need help with?”

“Well, I’m traveling back home to Houston tomorrow morning, and I have a party I’m attending next weekend. I know my ex will be there. I need help in picking out the perfect dress to make him sorry. Do you have any time to go shopping this afternoon?”

Something told me Avery was upping her recon mission. I was both impressed and a bit hesitant to have her spend time with Emma. Hopefully, my sister could keep a secret.

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