Page 13 of The Enforcer

The pep talk allowed me to turn around and head for the door. At least I could head home and enjoy a glass of wine while snuggling with my pup.

Sadly, I couldn’t get images of him out of my mind.

At least I could smile and had felt some fire for the first time in years.

But I was very glad the temptation was out of my life.

“I know, baby boy. Mommy has missed you too.” Magnum’s entire backside was wiggling as soon as I came in the door. He’dseen my car pulling up. I was certain of it. He’d known minutes before my arrival. He was just amazing that way, the golden lab and golden retriever mix one of the few constants in my life.

After I gave him a hug, he rushed away to grab one of his dozens of toys, carrying the fluffy squirrel in his mouth as he squealed. I adored the pup. Rescuing him had been the greatest joy of my life.

“Come on, baby. Did you have fun with sissy today?” Thankfully, my sister picked up slack, her online business allowing her to work anywhere while my job kept me ungodly hours. “Were you a good boy?”

He hopped up on me again, his deep brown eyes bright. That made me think about Christos’ ice blue eyes when they’d pierced mine.

“Come on. Mommy dog wants a glass of wine.” I headed to the kitchen, filling up his water bowl before grabbing a clean wineglass, filling it with my favorite merlot. It was almost dark, the late afternoon sky allowing a golden glow inside my apartment. I’d been lucky to find the place, the controlled rent on the incredible space making my friends jealous.

It helped to have a father who was a senator. It was the single time I’d allowed him to pull a few strings. The place belonged to a friend of his who had a long-term assignment overseas. The situation had literally fallen into my lap.

I headed toward the living room, eager to relax for a few minutes before getting us both something to eat.

“Come on, boy. Come close to Mommy.” Magnum jumped up, nuzzling against my side. I stroked his fur, grateful to be home. Greece. The wine tasted extraordinary on this late afternoon.With my laptop on the coffee table, I placed the glass right beside it and, on a whim, typed in Athens, switching to images.

As very vibrant pictures appeared, I sighed. “It’s beautiful, baby cakes. Maybe Mommy dog will take a vacation someday.”

He whined and I laughed. “Don’t worry. I won’t go anywhere without you.”

I pushed the computer away, still staring at the photographs while concentrating on enjoying my wine. The doorbell surprised me.

Magnum immediately started barking.

“It’s okay, boy. Maybe Miss Katrina left something.” My sister was notorious for doing so. I headed toward the door, ready to flash a smile in her direction. I never had visitors. As soon as I opened it, I was shocked.

“Dr. Laurant?”

“That’s me.” The delivery driver had at least three dozen roses in red and white in his arms, the stems nestled in a gorgeous crystal vase.

“Delivery for you.”

“Let me get you a tip.”

“Not necessary. That was already taken care of. Have a nice day.”

I struggled to get them inside, forced to kick the door shut. “What do you think, boy? Who sent me flowers?”

Magnum sat back on his haunches, studying the vase skeptically.

I took them to the small dining room table, placing them directly in the center, readjusting them several times so they were perfect. I couldn’t remember the last time anyone had sent me flowers. Other than my parents of course. My mother sent flowers for everything.

They were exquisite, yet to open, the crimson a rich, deep color. After taking a deep whiff, I searched for a card, giving my pup a wink before opening the envelope.

I will never forget your kindness. One day, I will be able to repay you. One day, we will meet again. Christos.

Just reading the words out loud brought a lump to my throat. Who went to this kind of trouble and money spent to say thank you? Maybe it could become a trend. I laughed softly to myself. What a surprise. Maybe the fates would smile on us and we would run into each other again.

Oh, sure. And maybe I’d win the billion-dollar lottery.

“Come on, pup. Let’s get some dinner.”

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