Page 73 of 1001 Dark Nights: Bundle Forty-Seven

Even worse?

He didn’t want to make sense of any of it. Wanted to follow this through to the bitter end and if the whole thing blew up, Jameson had a feeling Devon Pratt would still make the end worth the ride.

Bear pushed at his chest, reminding him it was cold and he wanted to get home. “Sorry, beast. You’re with me tonight, even though I’d rather have her.”

Bear grinned, sloppy with drool.

Jameson laughed and led his dog home.

Chapter Eight

She walked into Vintage and took a moment to admire her handiwork.

It was beautiful. Jameson had allowed her to go hog wild with Christmas decorations and hadn’t even complained. Sure, she’d caught a few grunts at the classic mistletoe, and he looked at the endless colored and white lights like they were his enemy. But this past week he’d changed. Softened.

Maybe it was the kissing.

The outside patio was outfitted with large heaters amidst the tables adorned with red cloths, high white candlesticks, beautiful pine centerpieces, and photos of the dogs. Wreaths and mini Christmas trees lined the edges brimming with colored glass balls and topped with stars. “Frosty the Snowman” belted from the speakers amidst barks, panting, and the occasional worried whimper.

Her gaze traveled over the gorgeously dressed guests all paired with dogs. Each person or couple had adopted a dog for the evening, and was able to spend some one-on-one time with the lucky canine in a roped off area dubbed the Meet n Greet. Jameson’s staff brought around finger foods and mimosas on holiday platters. The double doors were open to the interior tent where a buffet would be served and dancing offered by one of the local singers.

Her favorite part was the Doggy Bar. It was filled with bones, treats, and toys for each of the dogs to indulge in. The auction table was nicely padded with gift certificates, baskets, and fun goodies to bid on.

There were six dogs as the main guests. Each were adorned with red and green collars with little bells. They’d been groomedand pampered and carefully chosen as mascots because they were good with people and crowds. If they were able to get homes, it would free up precious shelter and foster space, allowing Judith to take in more rescues who needed help.

Her heart gave a twinge at the knowledge Bear couldn’t be here to strut his stuff. His fear of other dogs made it impossible to bring him, so she’d taken some photos and turned them into mini displays to showcase his goofy grin and sweet personality. She’d agreed with Jameson leaving him home for a few hours would be more bearable than being with his own peers.

Everything looked perfect. She’d been racing around nonstop doing finishing touches until Jameson ordered her to go home and get ready. Judith was finally out of quarantine and had managed to take over the rest of the activities, so Devon had felt okay coming a bit late.

She took a deep breath and headed in, but she was immediately halted by a line of people wanting to chat. She managed to grab a mimosa and then turned on the charm, schmoozing with the locals and business owners to talk up the rescue and all they did amidst gossip about the town, politics, the housing rental shortage, the beach cleanup, and a variety of other topics.

Devon relaxed into her role, enjoying the social chatter. She bent down and balanced on high heels while petting and speaking with the dogs. Beethoven was a friendly Australian cattle dog with brown and white spots who drew a lot of interest. Two poodle mixes in inky black happily chewed and played with their togs from the dog bar. Devon spotted Virginia Woof, the German Shepherd in the far corner, cocking her head with interest as she surveyed the crowd. The goofy terrier tore around outside, a bit too enthusiastic to be dignified. And of course, Willow the Queen Bee of Chihuahuas was being carried around like the royal she was.

Devon knew she’d go fast to some lucky owner.

Judith and Vishya drifted over and greeted her with hugs and excitement. The owner of the rescue looked elegant with her white hair cut into a short bob and a winter cream wool dress. Her blue eyes were kind yet sharp, and Devon had learned she was both a softie and ruthless when it came to her business of helping dogs. “Devon, you’ve literally saved us this season,” Judith said. “The place looks like a winter festival, it’s absolutely perfect. I just wasn’t up to dealing with the gala—the brain fog has been terrible.”

She shook her head in sympathy. “Covid is rough and hits us all different. I’m just happy you’re better and thriving again. And don’t thank me—Vishya has been amazing at the rescue. He entrusted Bear to me instead of sending him to another shelter.”

Vishya gave her a high-five. He wore a fancy green suit with a red Hawaiian shirt opened at the neck. Somehow, he pulled it off beautifully.

“Speaking of Bear, how is he? I heard Jameson has been helping out with taking care of him?” Judith asked.

Devon caught the judgy look in her gaze but couldn’t blame her. Jameson’s reputation had taken a hit in the town, especially when he tried to get out of hosting the gala. “Yes, and he’s been wonderful,” she said smoothly. “They’ve formed a bond, which is important. We just need to get Bear some help with accommodating other dogs. It’s a big restriction for an adoptee to take on.”

Vishya and Judith shared a look. “We may have some issues getting a behaviorist in,” Judith said.

“I’m sure we’ll make it work,” Vishya cut in, always the lovable peacemaker. “Let’s focus on the animals here tonight and getting them placed. Or at least, getting us lotsa money.”

Devon relaxed and pushed further into the crowd to grab one of Jameson’s mini lobster rolls. She was about to take amouthwatering bite when the back of her neck prickled with awareness. Slowly, she cranked her head around.

Then sucked in her breath.

He was gorgeous.

The tuxedo was classic, simple black, and obviously custom made to fit his form. His thick hair was neatly slicked back, exposing his highbrow, carved cheekbones, and clean shaven, square jaw. His eyes glittered and smoked behind his glasses, which only added to his appeal. Her fingers curled into fists as she imagined touching him again, smoothing the jacket over his shoulders, caressing the lean muscled length of his arms.

He walked toward her.

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