Page 34 of Carver’s Craving

He shrugged. “Wind is less here and I need exercise. So do the pooches.”

I grabbed my milkshake, armed the SUV, and then headed to the cabin. Locking vehicle doors sometimes felt like overkill, but I’d grown up in a rough neighborhood in Toronto and locks were the way to keep the bad guys out. Nothing could protect a child from the monster within, though. Stop. Not going there.

As I unlocked the door, I pushed the pain to the back of my mind and headed straight to the couch. Walter was slow to raise his head but his tail thumped happily, while Poppin leapt up and tried to jump into my arms. “Down girl. I’m here.”

A chuckle came from behind me. “I missed this tender scene yesterday. Are they always like this?”

I leaned forward to let Poppin lick my cheek while I gave Walter scritches. “Honestly? Yes. Another reason I’m glad I don’t have carpets in the place. I can walk straight here and worry about wiping the floor later.” I pressed a kiss to Walter’s silky head. “You ready for a walk?”

Slowly, he stood.

Poppin nearly knocked him over with her enthusiasm, trying to monopolize my attention.

“I’ve got two hands. And we have a guest as well.” I gestured to Styx.

Who waved.

Poppin cocked her head, then leapt off the couch, ran over to Styx, and started barking her head off.

I winced.

He laughed. “Where are the straws?”

“Cutlery drawer. Along the side.”

“Got it.” He headed to the kitchen with Poppin hard on his heels. Still barking her little head off.

I sighed.

Walter cocked his head.

“All good, I promise. Peepee?”

His tail wagged.

“Great. Coats first. Poppin!”

Apparently, that was enough to derail my girl as she gave up her mission to bark incessantly at Styx. She pivoted and headed my way—her little nails clacking along the hardwood floor.

Styx relieved me of my milkshake, added a straw, and then gestured to the front door. “You want help with coats?”

I shook my head. “Just…keep my black cherry close. I can’t believe I’m about to say this—I’m not full.”

He chuckled. “Yeah, that’s fair. We did stay for a long time talking. They’re nice guys.”

I took my time getting Walter into his outerwear. “You’re such a good boy.”

His tongue lolled.

“Poppin, up.”

She hopped onto the couch.

I’d learned from experience this method was much simpler when she was in her boppy mood. “Good girl.” Within moments, she was in her coat as well.

And I was sweating. Sheesh.

I scooped up Walter and headed for the front door. I balanced him as I attached Poppin’s leash, and then we were outside. I eased Walter onto the grass. He walked a few feet and squatted.