Page 5 of Vow Of A Fox

Glad to hear my corny pun hit the mark! And even happier to hear Rosco’s on the mend. He’ll definitely be the life of the dog park after this. While I may not be an expert in edible-induced adventures, I think I can safely say I’ve perfected the art of crafting humorous replies to wrong number messages. ;)

This woman had me grinning like a fool, and it felt damn good, as I replied.

It’s a good specialty to have.

Before I could think about it, I tapped out another message.

Who knew a wrong number could turn into the highlight of my day? Let me know if I can return the favor.

I hit send before I could chicken out, and then thought better of it.

What was I thinking?

This woman could be married.

Honestly, she probably was because who in their right mind would skim over a gem like her?

When she didn’t reply, I hit the gas and continued home.

Way to make it weird, Ben.

Just as I turned onto my road, my phone pinged with a new text. I waited until I was in my driveway before I looked to see if it was her.

I’ll think on it. So, what else keeps Dr. Ben on his toes, besides dogs with a taste for adventure?

She wouldn’t have asked that question if she was married or involved with someone, would she?

I leaned back in my seat and fired back a reply.

Besides emergency edible dog crises? Hyper labs and ornery cats with occasional tooth infections. I’m kidding. That makes it sound like I hate my job. I don’t. I love it. I love animals. They keep me busy. How about you? I imagine a life spent perfecting the art of crafting humorous replies to wrong number messages would have a few adventures of its own.

The three little dots appeared, and I realized my heart was pounding while I waited to see her reply.

Not really. I’m filling in at my cousin’s coffee shop right now—The Caffeinated Fox—until she can find someone to hire on permanently. I’d say that’s a bit less glamorous than saving animals from their questionable dietary choices, but I get to practice my coffee foam art, which is almost the same thing.

I replied back quickly.

The Caffeinated Fox? I know the place. Best coffee in town, hands down.

A plan formed in my head to wake early enough tomorrow morning to swing by and see if I could meet this mystery woman in person.

My phone pinged again.

The title is well deserved.

I sat parked in my driveway, trying to think of what to say next because I didn’t want this conversation to end.

My cell pinged with a new text before I could think of anything.

Have a good night, Dr. Ben. Thanks again for the laughs.

A grin tugged at my lips.

My pleasure. Have a good night, too.

Once I hit send, I realized I should have asked for her name but thought it might make me seem like a creeper to ask now that we’d said goodnight.

With a sigh, I climbed out of my truck and headed inside. For the first time in ages, I was actually looking forward to tomorrow and starting my day with a coffee from The Caffeinated Fox.

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