Page 32 of The Cowboy's Ultimatum

“Did Wilbur do that?”

“He sure did, but the only threat he posed was the possibility of lickin’ someone to death. He was a bit like Will Rogers. Never met a man he didn’t like.”

“What breed was he?”

“A black Lab, but I think he had some Doberman in him. He was more protective than the average Lab, but he never showed any aggression. Annie and I both had dogs growin’ up and we found them at this shelter. She had little ones with attitude and personality—just like her,” he added with a chuckle. “I think that’s why she’s so successful.”

“I’ve never had the experience of adopting from a shelter. How do you know which dog is the one? Isn’t it difficult?”

“Well, it can be. But one of them will have a look in their eye. I can’t explain it, I just know. But of course I want them all.”

“That must be the hard part. Having to leave the others behind.”

“It sure is. Fortunately it’s a no kill shelter and most of the folks around here get their pets from this place.”

“Oh, that’s wonderful.”

“I take it you only have Daisy.”

“My mother has a huge, white fluffy cat. I don’t know the breed but he’s gorgeous. He looks like a walking fur rug. His name is Sampson. She’s a cat person so having a dog around was never in the cards. But I’d love to have one.”

“You have your own cottage. What’s stoppin’ you?”

“Andy, that’s a very good question. I’ve always wanted a lap dog. Something soft and cuddly. In fact…hold on,” she said, lifting her phone from her bag.

“Who are you callin’?”

“My mother. You’re right. I have my own place so there’s no reason I shouldn’t, but I wouldn’t feel right about bringing in a dog before checking it out.”

“You’re really thinkin’ you might get one now?”

“Yes, I am. Why put it off?”

“No reason,” he replied with a grin, but before she could place the call her phone chimed.

“Oh, my gosh, it’s her. Hey, mom, I was just about to call you,” she exclaimed.

“Sweetheart, are you all right? Your father and I are—well—a bit speechless. Sheriff Cooper is here with a detective from Dallas. They told us a biker assaulted you this afternoon and he’s coerced you into doing some sort of drug trade at our event tomorrow night. We don’t know what to make of it all.”

“I’m so sorry, I should have called, but things have been crazy. And I should have been there when they told you. Why didn’t they call me?”

“They tried but your phone kept going to voicemail. They’re explaining all the details to us now.”

“Oh, that’s right. I turned my phone off because I didn’t feel like talking to anyone after what happened.”

“Where are you?”

“I’m with Andy Baker driving up to Fairview. He’s going to adopt a dog.”

“When will you be home?”

“Not for a while yet.”

“Well, regardless, I’m very relieved to hear from you.”

“Mom, I’m fine, honestly, and I’ll tell you everything when I get back, but would you mind if I got myself a little dog?”

“Mind? Not at all. You should have a pet—besides Daisy, I mean. But please get back as soon as you can. The detective needs to talk to all of us together. He’ll be here for at least a couple of hours. He’s setting up all manner of equipment.”

---