Page 36 of Falling for the Veterinarian

“Of course, what do you need?” I ask enthusiastically.

“They want to view the property in person one last time before signing any paperwork. I scheduled a 6:00 pm appointment with them tomorrow.”

“Okay, how can I help with that?”

“I need you to be there by 5:30 p.m. to check the main house and make sure it’s still clean and then put some cookies in the oven to bake.”

“Sure, I can do that,” I assure her.

“Perfect!” She continues, “I already put a package of pre-formed cookie dough in the fridge, so all you need to do is put them in the oven.”

“Great, putting it in my calendar now, so I won’t forget,” I tell her as I input the details into my phone.

“Oh, one more thing, wear your best outfit and look as amazing as possible. I will be letting you take point on this once I arrive with the potential buyer.”

My jaw drops. “Are you serious?! This is a mega commission. Are you sure you want to split it with me?”

“Absolutely, hun. You’ve earned it!” I exit her office and desperately try to resist the urge to jump for joy. I round the corner and come face-to-face with Trixie. Based on her animated expression, I can tell she heard everything in Lisa’s office. She joins me in a short and ridiculous victory dance.

At the end of the day, I meet Aunt Michelle and Uncle Nate for dinner. Maggie greets me as soon as I enter the inn. I kneel to her level and give her a quick cuddle. She stays by my side as I saunter into the restaurant.

Aunt Michelle waves me over; Uncle Nate is changing the light bulbs in all the wall sconces.

“Does he ever relax?” I ask Michelle even though I already know the answer.

“Well, he retired from his company to spend more time with me, but by me, I think he meant the inn.” She laughs, then continues, “Honestly, I think I saw him more when he worked full-time at his job.”

“You look extra radiant this afternoon. Do you have something you want to tell me?” She eyes me with eager suspicion.

“Well, I had a meeting with Lisa today. She has a big client coming to view a gorgeous and expensive property tomorrow and…. I get to take the lead on it!”

“Oh wow! I am so proud of you.”

“Thank you! You know, if the deal goes through, I will have a hefty commission and I can finally return the honeymoon suite to you.”

“Um, no rush, I love having you here. Besides, the rent you insist on paying is more than the room made last year.” She chuckles. “So, I think I got the better end of the deal.”

My phone vibrates in my pocket. It’s a text from Jen. “Zach’s not going to make it to dinner, emergency surgery. Do you think Cookie could give me a plate—”

Before I can finish, Cookie comes out with two bags. “Here, two doggy bags. One for Zach and one for Mags. I wouldn’t mix them up if I were you.” She gives me a wink and goes back to the kitchen.

“How did she know?” I question Aunt Michelle.

“I may have asked her earlier.”

“You really are psychic.”

Twenty-Seven

Sarah

Oncehome,IopenMaggie’s doggy bag. Two freshly made dog cookies. Mags already knows what it is and whines eagerly. She gingerly grabs them from me and joyfully gallops to her dog bed. I put Zach’s food in the fridge.

I pull up the listing for the property on my laptop. I haven’t been there in a while. If I am going to close this deal, I need to familiarize myself with the place once more. I scroll through the numerous pictures and note the square footage of each of the standing properties and the acreage.

A soft knock at my door makes my heart rate rise. I open the door to let Zach in. “Hey, I’m sorry I am late. Old man Sam needed help with his horse. It was a tough delivery. But the foal is in great condition and a beautiful palomino color.”

I heat up the leftovers and bring them to the pub table for him. I bring my laptop to the table to continue my research.

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