Page 42 of Tricking an Introvert

Why was he bending over backwards for her? Sometimes, she felt like he was just pitying her, seeing himself or his best friend through her and wanting to help out of the goodness of his heart.

Other times, she dreamed.

"Because I like you. And while I may be a little more adjusted, I also have a terrible habit of restricting my world to Michael. It’s past time I included someone else."

A simple answer that she chose to accept.

Although it wasn't simple at all. There could be many shades between the lines.

It took the puppy three hours to crawl out of his corner and sniff Tessa's hand. He licked it and walked right into her heart, carving himself a space in there.

"Hey, Beau," she called him instinctively, not questioning the name.

There was a small wag from his tail.

"Who's a pretty boy? You're a pretty boy!"

Now he raced forward and stuffed his snout on her lap. She laughed as she hugged him. Just like that. Dogs were so very forgiving of the human race.

"The vet said there's nothing broken—he's just a little bruised from the fall. He was neglected—he needs to eat, and they want to see him about vaccines. They didn't spot any fleas, and they gave him a treatment for that and worms."

"Good. Let's see if you want some food, baby Beau."

He did want food, and scratches, and hugs. Beau was a little more wary of Cole at first, revealing that his abuser might have been male, but by the time Cole left for the night, they were pals, too. Beau howled into the night, protesting Cole's departure.

"Hey, hey, none of that, pretty boy. You get me all night."

Cole laughed. "What a lucky boy. Don't spoil him too much."

"Unlikely. Good night, Cole. Thank you for taking care of Beau. Oh, and can you send me the invoice for the vet?"

"On me. I'll see you tomorrow?"

She beamed. "Sure thing."

“Good night, gorgeous.”

For a wild second as he retreated, she thought he was talking to her. Her face burned and her heart beat a million miles a minute.

Then she realized he was addressing Beau.

Bummer.

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