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Sydney babbles something unintelligible at the phone. “Did you see that? Glitzy just climbed a ramp. Awwwweeee, now she’s curled up on a fluffy pillow. I bet it’s super soft. We should get one for her to use at home.”
I glance at the grainy feed. “Not sure that’ll match with the rest of our furniture.”
Although, if I’m being honest, I’m not the master in charge. That dog and my daughter rule the roost. I’m just their property manager who puts food on the table. It’s a responsibility I take very seriously.
“What’re you thinking about?” Harper’s smooth voice drags me from the random thoughts.
I trail my fingers along her arm. “Adding another to the household.”
She shivers as goosebumps follow my touch. “Dog?”
“Female,” I correct. “A certain blonde that reminds me of sunshine would brighten our dynamic.”
Her lips part. “You’d be severely outnumbered.”
“Already am, and I don’t mind.”
My daughter whimpers, putting those unbalanced plans on further delay. “I wanna get Glitzy. She misses me.”
“After we eat. That’s why she’s at Pampered Pooch.”
“Can we order? I’m starving.” She flops against her chair with the dramatics of a paid actress.
As if hearing Sydney’s complaints from across the bar, Rylee Walsh—formerly Creed—appears at our table. “Hey, friends. I didn’t realize Becky wasn’t covering this section. Were you waiting long?”
“Yes.” I offer the owner a blank stare—my specialty.
Harper nudges me. “Be nice.”
“That term clashes with my personality.” I narrow my eyes at her.
“Maybe you need an attitude adjustment.”
“Only if you’re handling the repair.”
A breathy exhale bursts our intimate moment. “I didn’t realize you two finally got back together. Rhodes better pay up.”
Harper laughs, swatting at the other woman’s arm. “Oh, don’t encourage him. We’re not a couple.”
“Yet,” I counter.
She rolls her eyes but doesn’t argue further. “He’s fixing my car.”
The redhead grins. “Gotcha.”
I might be an asshole, but even I can appreciate that Rylee is able to smile again. The tragedy of her older brother’s death was a huge blow to the whole town. It still cuts deep six months later. Rumor has it that this bar was Trevor’s dream. Thanks to the combined efforts of his sister and best friend, Bent Pedal continues to thrive in his absence.
“What can I get for you?” Rylee’s gaze roams over our trio.
Sydney thrusts her arms toward the ceiling. “Pizza!”
“You’re gonna turn into pizza,” I tease.
“It’s yummy for my tummy.”
Harper glances at the menu that holds far more creative choices. “Works for me.”
Rylee nods. “Got it. Just cheese or…?”
