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“Oh, you probably haven’t heard of it before.” Harlow paused, assessing whether Gwen would take that vague information or want more. It was clear from the raised eyebrows and eager stare that Harlow needed to continue.
“It was called Raine’s Bay Vocational School.” Harlow tried not to stutter and felt bad about the lie.
Gwen paused, biting her bottom lip, and looked up in the air. “Hm, I don’t think I’ve heard of that one, and I’ve heard of most.”
“I told you it was small.” Harlow smiled innocently, shrugging.
“Oh well, let’s get back to it. We can talk more later.”
Harlow followed Gwen back to the room as they finished tending to Ashley’s cat. The business from this past weekend seemed to still be in overdrive, and more and more customers came in with needy pets. Harlow did her best to be helpful.
She stayed busy and offered to do things without being asked. Harlow even popped out a few salves and jars of medicine from her own bag. Gwen took notice of the type they were very quickly.
The day went by faster than Harlow expected, and before she knew it, they were in the back cleaning up from the day. Once again, Harlow’s willingness to help and work impressed Gwen. Not to mention, the two of them got along very easily.
“So, you feel good about today?”
“Yes, I loved it.” Harlow paused. “I hope you were pleased with my work.”
Gwen nodded.
“So, uh, I was wondering if you could point me in the direction of rental properties and shopping.” Harlow leaned on the doorway of the back room.
“Well now, you’re asking for two very different things.” Gwen wiped her hand with the cloth and tossed it in the large sink leading them to the front. “I know a realtor I can hook you up with for the rental properties. As for the shopping, though, you’ll have to go to the next town if you want any substantial options.”
Harlow knew the pack dinner was coming up, and she’d left so hastily she didn’t really have many decent options for clothing. She got directions to the small mall and decided to shop for something informal for the pack dinner. She also took note of the realtor, deciding to wait to get in touch with him until afterward in case she decided to leave Forest Crest.
“So, I’ll see you tomorrow?” Gwen’s voice jolted Harlow out of her thoughts.
“Really? I mean yes! That would be great.”
“I think you’ll be a nice addition. I could use some permanent help around here.”
Harlow tried not to jump with joy as she shook Gwen’s hand graciously. “You won’t be sorry. I’m gonna be the best assistant you’ve ever had.”
Harlow said her goodbyes, practically skipping out of the office, ecstatic to have the beginning of her new life falling into place.
Chapter 10
Harlow
Harlow thought her first shift with Gwen was busy, but that had been just the tip of the iceberg. She never thought such a small town could have so much go wrong at one time. Today’s shift was definitely one for the books.
“Whew.” Harlow blew out a sigh, perching herself on the edge of the sink in the back room.
“I know,” Gwen quickly responded. “Now you see why I needed an assistant.” A low chuckle rumbled from her chest as she wiped her hands with the hand towel.
“I sure do. It was definitely a lot but I loved it.”
“You did?” Gwen asked, perking up.
“Yeah. It feels good helping people again.” Harlow sensed Gwen wanted to pry more into her training and past skills but respected her need for secrecy for now.
“Wanna let off some steam down at Cove Next Door?” Gwen offered.
“What’s next door?” Harlow tilted her head confused.
A bigger chuckle erupted from Gwen. “No, sorry. Cove Next Door is the local bar.”
