Page 46 of Pretty Puppy

Ash turned around and broke into a big grin at the sight of his favorite pup from last year.

“Mason! How are you doing?”

He offered Ash a shy smile. “You remember me?”

Ash rolled his eyes. “Duh. Of course I remember you. You were seriously the cutest one in the show.”

Mason’s cheeks bloomed in a bright shade of scarlet. “That’s really nice of you to say. But I still didn’t get a Master. I thought maybe I’d try again this year. I wanted to get here sooner, but I couldn’t. Do you think you could spare a few minutes, only if you’re not too busy, to check out my gear and how I look as a puppy before the event begins?”

He kind of didn’t have time, but poor Mason seemed so lost. He deserved to have an amazing Master who knew how to treat such a sweet, shy puppy.

“Sure. We’ll figure something out.” After all, he’d gotten the time off from the pet grooming shop he’d been working at. He could squeeze Mason in somewhere. “But remember, I’m not a true trainer.”

Mason beamed at him. “But you’re the best pup. I want to be just like you.”

Micki slapped a hand to her chest. “Aww… How sweet.”

Mason’s blush deepened. “Um, I have to finish getting checked in, but anytime you have available, I’ll be at your beck and call.”

Oh yeah. Mason would make some lucky Master an outstanding pup. “Sure, let’s exchange numbers.”

They switched phones and texted each other. After promising Mason he’d contact him later, he returned his attention to Micki.

“So, are you off now, or just on a break?”

She opened her mouth as if about to speak, but then her gaze traveled past his shoulder. “I’m off, so I’ll leave you two at it.”

Ash turned around then broke into a grin at the sight of his Daddy. Lee had warned him that they probably wouldn’t be able to share dinner because he had some business to wrap up, then Ash would be busy with the pens. Ash’s shoulders slumped. He shouldn’t have pestered Owen to show up so soon.

“Wow,” Lee chuckled as he approached. He slid an arm around Ash’s waist. “I thought my appearance would be a happy surprise.” Lee glanced up at Micki. “Hi Micki.”

“Hi, Mr. Petrovsky”

Ash leaned against Daddy. “Itisa happy surprise. But I’m kicking myself because I insisted that Owen get here right away, and he’ll be here any minute.”

Lee jostled him. “That’s okay. I was only taking a quick break. I still have plenty to do as well. But I wanted to see if you had anything for dinner yet. I’m ordering in so I can eat at my desk, and I want to make sure you have something, too.”

“Uh…”

He hadn’t given food a thought. Which was probably why Lee had come down to check on him. Lee knew Ash had a tendency to skip eating.

Micki patted Ash’s shoulder. “I have to run. Walt’s probably already waiting for me in the parking lot.”

They all exchanged goodbyes then Lee jostled him again. “Well? Dinner?”

“Sure. I’ll have what you’re having.”

Lee’s eyebrows shot up. “You have no idea what I’m ordering.”

Ash smiled. “That’s okay, Daddy. You know what I like.”

Lee winked then whispered, “I certainly do. Later tonight, if you’re not too tired, care to repeat what we shared the night I collared you last year?”

“I’m never too tired forthat.” He lowered his voice. “Actually, I thought I’d help speed things along, just in case. I’m wearing a plug.”

Lee furrowed his brow. “Not that jumbo one? You have to be on your feet all evening, working and lifting things.”

“No, I know better than to go all hardcore. But I didn’t want us to have to start at ground zero, if you know what I mean.”

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