Walker chuckled as he started the engine. “Cowboy? Nah, he’s a pro. Been working with veterans for years now. He’s more of a mentor to the other dogs, showing ‘em the ropes. He’s also our official greeter.” He glanced over at Jax, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Because he’s a damn good judge of character. If he likes you, that’s a point in your favor.”
The truck rumbled to life, and they pulled away from the prison. Jax didn’t look back again.
For the first time in a long time, he didn’t feel the need to. “Where’s the dog I’ll be working with? Is it a puppy?”
In the prison program, he’d loved working with the puppies best. They were so loving and eager to please, and their chaotic energy was the only bright spot in his monotonous existence. He’d always hated sending them back to their trainers on the outside.
Walker shook his head. “No, not a puppy. I’ve got a special case for you.”
“And?” he prompted when Walker didn’t elaborate.
“And what? You’ll meet her when we get there.”
That did not bode well.
He’d be lying if he said he wasn’t intrigued. Yeah, he’d loved the puppies, but they had been easy. It was all housetraining, socializing, and simple games. He was curious to see how his newfound dog-training skills stacked up against an actual challenge.
They drove in silence for several minutes before Walker glanced over again, his expression thoughtful. “You’re not just a work in progress, Jax. You’re a damn good story in the making. Valor Ridge? It’s where you figure out how it ends.”
Jax didn’t respond, but something in his chest loosened at the words. Maybe Walker was right. Maybe this was his next chapter.
And for the first time in years, he felt ready to turn the page.