Page 53 of Hard to Get

She nods.

“Why not?”

“Once is enough with most guys.”

“Oh. Am I one of those guys?”

She studies me then says, “No.”

I swipe a hand over my forehead. “Whew.”

We move to a bench to sit and watch our dogs. There are a few other pups here but Frank and Betty only have eyes for each other.

“Who looks after Frank when you travel?” Stella asks.

“I have a dogsitter. Dog walker. Their business is just over on Drake.”

“Cool. That’s good to know. If my mom couldn’t look after Betty when I had an out-of-town trip, I could use them.”

“They’re great. Two young guys run it and they love dogs.”

“It’s important to have someone you trust.”

“Yeah, I wouldn’t leave Frank with just anyone.”

A big raindrop lands on my arm.

“Uh oh.” Stella looks up to the sky. “The rain is starting.”

“Should we go?”

“It’s just a few spits. I’m okay.”

That doesn’t last long. Within minutes, it’s pouring.

“Okay!” Stella jumps up. “Time to go! Betty!” She claps her hands. “Betty, come!”

Betty runs over and, luckily, Frank follows.

“Come to my place,” Stella says. “It’s just a block that way.”

I’m going to be allowed to know where she lives. This is a big deal. Hell yeah, I’m not one of those guys she only goes out with once.

We jog through the downpour, splashing through puddles on the sidewalk, and Stella turns and leads me up a short sidewalk and steps to the door of her condo. It’s a townhouse style, with the small patio in front that she mentioned. She unlocks the door and we all push inside out of the rain.

“Hold on there, buddy.” I grip Frank’s leash so he can’t run wild with wet feet. “Do you have a dog towel, by chance?”

“I do.” She reaches into a closet, pulls out a towel and hands it to me.

I sit on the floor to dry Frank’s feet, and then I do Betty’s since I’m down here. “Okay, pups, you’re good.”

“Thanks.”

I slip off my wet runners and leave them on the door mat. I look around as I walk into the living room. The dark wood floor shines in the light from the big front windows, even though it’s overcast outside. It’s not a big room, but it’s light and airy, with pale-blue walls, sheer white curtains on the windows, and a couch and loveseat slipcovered in a soft sand colour. A big plant sits in a wicker basket near the window, and cushions in various shades of blue and beige line the couch.

“Nice. I feel like if I look out the window, I’ll see the ocean.”

“That is the best thing you could have said to me.” She turns to face me and her hair is soaked and dripping down her athletic top. “I can’t afford a place right on the water… yet… but I love that vibe.”