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She pushed the notebook she’d been doodling in away from her and stood up. She’d better go and get Fluffles and leave, or else she’d be late for the appointment.
* * *
‘You want to come and sit on my lap?’ Poppy smiled as Fluffles pawed at her jeans. ‘Come on, then.’
She only had to pat her lap once before the small dog jumped up.
‘She’s a sweet one, isn’t she?’ A woman perched on the seat next to her smiled, her arms wrapped around a cat carrier. ‘I wish this kitty would be so affectionate. All I get is a hiss before she turns her back on me.’
‘Aw.’ Poppy peered into the carrier. ‘She looks so sweet.’
‘Hah, she’s definitely a case of looks can be deceptive, I’m afraid. Still, I wouldn’t have her any different. She’s a true little character even if she rules the roost at home.’
Poppy laughed as the woman nudged her and nodded towards the front door.
‘Look, isn’t that the chap from the TV? The one from that countryside show?’ She stage-whispered. ‘I’d heard Mack, the new vet, had brought some of his old customers here. Lots of celebrities, apparently.’
Poppy looked as the man in question walked towards the reception desk, a frail old dog limping at his heels. She did recognise him, but she couldn’t tell where from. She hadn’t had much time to watch any TV recently. ‘Maybe.’
‘It is, I tell you. I watch that show every Sunday, I do. It’s my favourite.’ The woman glanced at Poppy. ‘Do you think I can ask for his autograph? It might seem a little disrespectful being as he’s here with his poorly dog, do you think?’
‘I’m not sure.’
The woman shifted in her seat. ‘I’ll wait until he’s been in. I can hang around the car park after our appointment.’ She patted the carrier, a loud hiss erupting from the cat being disturbed. ‘Yes, that’s what I’ll do.’
Poppy nodded. How was she supposed to answer?
‘You’re from Wagging Tails, aren’t you? The dogs’ home near West Par.’ The woman nodded at Fluffles’ harness. It had been Ginny’s idea to get some made up with ‘Adopt me’ embroidered on, and so far they’d been helping get the word out.
‘Yes, that’s right. Fluffles will be ready to find her forever home soon.’
‘That’s lovely. I’ve always fancied getting a dog. Not that this one would ever share her home with anyone. Besides, she’s enough to keep me on my toes.’
On Poppy’s lap, Fluffles stood up and spun around before settling back down.
‘At least you should get a good discount here because you’re from the rescue centre. This one here managed to catch his claw and rip it. I’m expecting it’ll cost me an arm and a leg.’ The cat meowed loudly. ‘Yes, I know. You’re worth it.’
‘Well…’ Poppy shook her head. She couldn’t very well tell a total stranger that Mack had refused to honour the old vet’s deal with the home. Even though after hearing he had celebrity clients, she was even more sure he could spare the money. She heard a throat being cleared to the side of her, and she looked up, her heart skipping a beat when she saw Mack waiting for them.
‘Fluffles?’
Swallowing, Poppy glanced at the woman. ‘Lovely to have met you.’
‘You too. And you, little one.’ She patted Fluffles as they passed.
Poppy followed Mack into the small treatment room, where she picked Fluffles up and placed her on the table.
After closing the door behind them, Mack shoved his hands in his pockets. ‘Sorry.’
Frowning, Poppy took a deep breath. She’d half hoped he wouldn’t mention it. Half hoped they’d be able to get through the appointment as though nothing had happened between them.
‘It’s okay. I know why.’
‘Right.’ He came further into the room and fussed Fluffles before standing with his back against the counter on the far wall. He looked down at the floor before looking back up at her apologetically and taking a deep breath. ‘After my dad left, things were really tough, money-wise. I almost quit training to be a vet.’
‘Oh, really?’
What did that have to do with him not wanting a relationship?
