Page 13 of Wild Card

Oh, God.

I hope that’s not me.

It’s vile.

A furry something bumps my back, and I squeal. Rolling over, I come face-to-face with a golden-brown dog head.

A set of confused brown eyes stare back at mine.

“H-Hi,” I say, swallowing thickly. “Sorry, we probably both have morning breath.”

Its furry head tilts.

I frown.

Where in the world am I?

My heart races as I glance around.

This isn’t my room at the bed-and-breakfast.

Holy crap.

What did I get myself into?

I roll over until my feet hit the floor.

Everything gets hazy as my head pounds with a painful ache. My mouth is so dry that it’s hard to swallow, but my stomach feels terrible.

My eyes finally focus enough to spot my heels that lay close by. They’re right by the nightstand, and in front of that is a trash can.

Oh, no…

Bending over, I peek inside and say a silent thank you to the universe when I see it’s empty.

Okay, so, maybe I didn’t completely embarrass myself last night.

I snatch up my shoes from the floor but don’t bother putting them on.

The giant dog, which I think is a yellow Lab, jumps off the bed, shaking out its fur. Well, at least it’s not trying to eat my face off, but the jingling of its tag makes me cringe.

Someone could hear the noise and come check.

The only thing more awkward than forgetting a one-night stand? Coming face-to-face with that person the next morning.

Only, I’m not sore at all. It would also be really strange to get back into my dress, bra, and panties after sex.

I don’t think I hooked up with anyone last night.

That’s actually a huge relief.

My eyes dart around, but I don’t see my phone anywhere. My coat with my room key isn’t conveniently tossed where I can spot it.

This is going to be a very cold, very embarrassing walk to the bed-and-breakfast.

Hopefully, it’s within walking distance, and I don’t catch frostbite on the way.

Who brought me here?