Page 28 of Triplet Babies for my Ex's Best Friend

“Captain,” Ethan says, tone firm but not raised.

Captain doesn't care.

Captain is already halfway into my lap.

“Okay, yes, hello, this is happening…” I laugh, bracing myself as he licks my cheek like I invited him to do so.

“He likes you,” Oliver says, as if that explains everything.

“I can see that,” I reply, trying not to fall off the chair this time.

Captain settles against me like we’ve known each other for years. I scratch behind his ears automatically, and he melts.

“Traitor,” Ethan mutters under his breath.

I blink.

Wait… was that humor? From him?

I glance up. He’s watching, and there’s something different there now.

More human.

That’s dangerous, very dangerous.

Focus.

“I’m good with dogs,” I say, because again, professionally. “Part of the job sometimes.”

“Clearly.” There’s a pause. “I think that will be all for today.”

Oh.

That’s it?

That was… fast.

Too fast?

Did I mess it up? Was it the falling? It was the falling, wasn’t it?

I stand, carefully this time, very aware of my feet.

“Thank you,” I say, smoothing my cardigan again. “I appreciate the opportunity.”

I glance at Oliver. “Nice to meet you.”

“You too,” he says.

Captain wags his tail like I’ve just made a lifelong commitment to him.

“I’ll walk you out,” Ethan says.

Of course he will.

Because clearly this situation hasn't yet reached peak awkward.

We step into the hallway, leaving behind Oliver, the dog, and the only version of this interaction where I felt remotely competent.