Page 35 of Fake Dating My Best Friend

A small whimper cuts through my thoughts. I stop mid-step, scanning the street. There, huddled against a trash bin, is a tiny ball of fur. My heart clenches.

“Did you hear that?” I ask, already moving towards the sound.

“Hear what? Come on, we’re losing our momentum!”

“Hey there, little guy,” I murmur, slowly reaching out. He inches forward on shaky legs, drawn by my body heat. Despite his sorry state, his floppy ears perk up slightly, and his tail gives the tiniest wag.

This tiny thing just melted me. Completely defenseless.

“Asher, what are you doing?” Michelle’s exasperated voice cuts through the moment. “It’s just some dirty stray. Probably diseased. And look at those teeth. It might bite! Let’s keep going!”

I turn to stare at her. “You can’t be serious. He’s scared, freezing, and alone.”

I scoop the shivering pup into my arms. He curls against my chest without hesitation, tucking his head under my chin like he’s decided I belong to him now.

I can already picture Isla’s reaction. She’d melt in seconds, already halfway through planning bath time and deciding between a plaid sweater or one of those ridiculous ones with tiny antlers on the hood.

“Ugh, it probably has fleas. Put it down!”

“He,” I correct firmly, “not it.” Nothing irritates me more than people treating animals like disposable things.

“If you’re not putting that mutt down, we’re done here. I can’t stand the smell.”

Well, there it is. Officially, the moment this date face-plants into the mud right alongside her.

“Sure.” I cradle the puppy closer. “I’m taking this little guy to get checked out. Thanks for the enlightening evening. But I don’t think we’ll work out.”

Michelle scoffs, flipping her wet ponytail over her shoulder. “Whatever. Enjoy your diseased rescue project.” She marches off, mumbling something about wasting her best leggings on some emotionally damaged dog guy.

The Yorkie-sized pup nuzzles deeper into my jacket. I glance down at his muddy little face, those big brown eyes now staring up at me. I can already picture the way Isla’s whole face will light up when she sees him.

Pretty sure I just found the perfect way to make one of my Peachie’s wishes come true.

“Don’t worry, buddy,” I murmur. “We’ll get you cleaned up and warm in no time. Though I have a feeling if Isla were here, she’d probably name you something cute on the spot.”

Chapter 10

Isla

ASHER

Emergency.

Don’t freak out.

ISLA

Excuse me??

ASHER

I’m bringing something home.

It’s small. It’s alive.

ISLA

Aren’t you supposed to be on your date right now?

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