Page 32 of Montana Manhunt

He followed the signs to the medical examiner’s office and opened the door.

A woman sat at a desk, typing on a computer. She glanced up and smiled. “Hello. I’m Sandy. How can I help you?”

“My girlfriend, Violet Trevelyan, would like to see her sister. The name is Camilla Trevelyan.”

Sandy turned to Violet, sympathy in her eyes. “Of course. I’m so sorry for your loss, Ms. Trevelyan. If you would have a seat, I’ll let Dr. Royce know you’re here.”

Noah guided Violet to the cushioned chairs several feet from the receptionist’s desk.

“In case I forget to tell you later, thank you for coming with me,” she whispered.

“I will always have your back, Violet. You can count on me whenever you need me.”

She glanced over at him at that. “Back at you, Noah. Anytime, anywhere, I’ll be there for you.”

“What do you think about dogs?”

Violet blinked. “Dogs?”

“Yeah. You know. Four legs, two ears, a tail, and barks.”

“I love dogs. What about you?”

“They’re the best pets.”

“You’re not a cat fan?”

“Oh, I like them fine. Most of them don’t like me. Cats have a mind of their own and nothing I’ve done convinced them to be my buddies.”

“Why are you asking me about dogs?”

“I’d love to get one.”

“We’re deployed a lot, Noah. Who would take care of the dog when we’re out of the country?”

“I talked to Jesse’s wife, Simone. She’s willing to watch our dog when we’re deployed. She said her dog would enjoy the company, and she’d just bring ours to work along with hers.”

“You already asked her,” she murmured, sounding stunned.

“Like you, I was concerned about our frequent deployments and didn’t want to board the dog for a month. What do you think?”

“What size dog are we talking about? I don’t want to have a miniature horse running around a house or apartment, and I doubt Simone and Jesse’s dog would like a playmate that large, either.”

“I was thinking about a West Highland white terrier.”

“I love Westies.” Violet grinned. “They’re adorable, spunky, and loyal. I vote yes.”

Noah chuckled. “Excellent. When we go home, I’ll see what I can find. I have a friend who breeds Westies. If he has a litter ready, we’ll go on a field trip to see if one of his puppies might be the dog for us.”

An inner door opened, and a man in scrubs walked into the waiting area. “Ms. Trevelyan, I’m Dr. Royce.” He held out his hand to Violet. “I’m so sorry for your loss.”

“Thank you.”

“I understand you want to see your sister.”

“Yes, sir.”

“If you’ll follow me, we have her ready for you.”

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