Total pages in book: 26
Estimated words: 24342 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 122(@200wpm)___ 97(@250wpm)___ 81(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 24342 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 122(@200wpm)___ 97(@250wpm)___ 81(@300wpm)
“It’s really a great idea. People often forget about shelters, and this is a way to remind them that there are animals that need homes.” It’s also a good time for us to hand out information to people who may need help with their pets. There are a lot of services out there that some vets will do for free.
“I think it will help a ton for adoption, but the biggest problem we’re going to have is permits. You can’t drop down a pop-up shelter in the middle of a park.”
“Another?” the server asks, motioning to my drink, and I nod, not realizing I drank it so fast.
“Thank you,” I tell him before he’s off again. “I can see about the permits. I might know some people.”
“Really?” I can see the spark of hope in Mike’s eyes. He really does care about the animals.
I’m sure Mike is aware that I could have some pull with my family and the people they know. I never try to use my name to get extra, but for a good cause, I’d be more than willing to. I’m not offended that he’s asking. Mike is doing what he can, and I won’t fault him for that.
“Yeah, make a list of parks or areas you think would be best, and I’ll see what I can do.” If there was anyone that could get me these permits, it would be Mace and Heath.
The server drops off another drink for me along with the appetizers. I take a sip, and my cheeks start to warm. These might be stronger than I realized.
After a while, Mike and I fall into easy conversation while we eat and drink. He’s not flirty at all, and I’m glad because I don’t think this is a date. In fact, he keeps checking out our male server. The server must be into it because he pops up at our table as often as he can to get us another drink or ask if we need anything.
“How is Bingo doing?”
“Grumpy as ever,” I answer while I snag one of the cheese-covered fries.
“I’m sure he’ll come around. We all know you have the magic touch.”
“You better not know if she has the magic touch.”
My head snaps up at the sound of Mace’s deep voice, and then I see his stormy expression. How did he find me?
“What are you doing here?” I hiss.
“I meant with the animals,” Mike says with laughter in his tone. “You didn’t tell me you had a boyfriend, Briar.”
“I don’t!” I rush to say.
“Why would she need to tell you?” Mace crowds him exactly like a possessive boyfriend.
“Briar is a chatterbox. I’m Mike by the way.” He holds his hand out for Mace. “I promise she’s not my type.” Mike winks at him, and Mace reluctantly takes his hand.
“He’s not my boyfriend,” I say again. “He is the brother of the man my sister is marrying.”
“The best man and the maid of honor. How cliché.” Mike chuckles as they release their hands. He has no idea. “You want to join us? We’re talking about one of the shelters both Briar and I volunteer at.”
“No,” I answer for him.
“I’d love to.” Mace talks over me and pulls a chair close before draping his arm over the back of mine.
I grab my drink, feeling a bit fuzzy as Mike tells Mace all about the Saturday park adoption idea.
“I can get you whatever permits you’ll need.” Mace pulls out a business card and gives it to Mike. I want to snatch it, but I resist the urge.
“I was going to do that,” I mutter instead.
“I have a department that will handle it. Besides, we have a wedding to plan.”
“Sorry I pulled you away. I won’t keep you any longer.” Mike stands and pulls out his wallet.
“I’ve got it,” Mace protests.
“Let him,” I butt in before a back-and-forth starts over who is paying the bill.
“It was nice meeting you, Mace.” Mike says his goodbyes but doesn’t head for the door. Instead, I see him head toward the bar and grab the server's attention.
“We’re leaving.” Mace drops a few bills on the table, not waiting for the check. A small hiccup leaves me when he helps me to my feet. “You’re drunk.” I think he might be right, but I’m not going to tell him that.
“And you’re a…ah…” He waits for me to finish my sentence. “Too handsome!”
What the hell? I used to be way better at insulting him.
TEN
MACE
“You’re not the boss of me,” Briar mumbles against my neck as I cradle her against my chest.
“Sure, beauty. Keep telling yourself that.” I carry her inside the house and then make my way up the stairs. As soon as I get to the top, I hear a knock on the front door, and I look back to see Heath standing on the other side of the glass.