Page 61 of Pack Scratch Fever
“I’ve got you, baby,” he whispers. “I got you.”
I wrap my arms around him, allowing myself to just be held.
If I can trust Avery and welcome him into my life, I can do it with Maddox, too.
“Piper?”
Mari’s voice interrupts me, and I quickly step out of Maddox’s hold.
“Yeah?” I ask, breathless. My face burns as I catch the amused look she gives me.
“We just found a home for Darlene.”
My eyes widen. “Really?”
Darlene was the cat I was most worried about bringing to the adoption event. She’s older and has a chronic skin condition. From my experience, it’s more difficult to get those animals adopted.
Mari is thrilled. “Really. She’s a retired veterinarian and is looking for just one cat. She’s already paid the adoption fee, too.”
I spin back around to face Maddox. “Yes!” I cry, letting out a hoarse laugh. “Yes! Darlene has a home!”
He laughs back and tries to high-five me, but I fling myself into his arms and let out an excited squeal. I hug him, and he squeezes me tightly. Pepper and ginger stimulate my senses, amplifying my joy.
When I pull away, I can’t keep the ridiculous grin off my face while Maddox stares at me in wonder, his lips slightly parted.
“What?” I ask, still smiling.
Darlene has a home.
We have one more space at the rescue for a cat that needs shelter.
“You’re breathtaking, baby,” he breathes.
My grin only grows.
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MADDOX
Joy.
That’s what I’m scenting on Piper.
It’s heavenly and sweeter than her normal minty lemon scent. She’s made of spun sugar with a citrusy, herby note.
Her smile makes time stand still.
I’ll adopt every cat in the world to keep her smiling like that.
There’s a fire in her eyes.
She looksalive.
I know I’ve been pushing her limits by flirting and calling her pet names, but I can’t help it.
She’s ours.
Even if Poe doesn’t see it yet, I know Avery does, and I’ll make Piper believe it.
