Kaylyn had been trying to convince him to go to veterinarian school, but Lyle, being so shy, hadn’t been persuaded. Chance knew he would make an incredible vet. I think I should join in on Kaylyn’s campaign for Lyle.
“Chance, when do our new clients get to town?”
“The last day of Dragon Week. Sunday afternoon. Everything all set with the new dogs?”
“I guess so. Mr. Bayless got to the ranch with them around eight. I was going to put them with our dogs, but he didn’t like that idea. Said he wanted to keep them in their cages last night. They are right behind his truck.”
Chance could tell Lyle didn’t care for that, and neither did he. Kaylyn’s dogs always had the best accommodations—soft beds, heated and cooled rooms out of the weather, and an exit so that they could stretch their legs in a large fenced-off area.
“Where’s his truck parked, Lyle?”
“By the RV that Emmett brought here for Bayless. They’re both by the big barn.” Lyle sighed. “I wish we could delay handing Bayless’s dogs over. They need to go through Kaylyn’s training.”
“They will. Jaris and I will test them Sunday morning before their new owners arrive. Plus, we’ll make sure everything meshes for the new owners and their dogs next week during their training together.”
“I know. One good thing, those four won’t have to stay with Mr. Bayless any longer.” Lyle’s statement surprised him.
Chance had never heard him say anything bad about anyone before. “There’s more to what’s troubling you about Bayless than him making his dogs stay in cages outside, isn’t there?”
“Yes.”
“Aren’t the dogs trained like Bayless said?
“They are trained. I saw him working with them.”
“Then what’s the matter, Lyle?”
“I don’t like the way Mr. Bayless handles them. I saw him kick one of his dogs.”
Chance’s gut tightened. He patted Annie.
“I don’t want that man around Kaylyn’s dogs.” Lyle might be quiet and shy, but when he did say something, it was best to listen.
“I agree.”
&
nbsp; “Thanks, Chance.” Lyle stood. “Sammie, you take care of your puppies. I’ll be back later.”
Definitely, I’m joining in the effort to get Lyle to veterinarian school.
“Bye, Annie.” Lyle yawned. “I better go check on our other dogs.”
“No, Lyle. Amber said she wanted you to come and have some pancakes. Go eat and then go to bed. I’ll check on our dogs and then I’ll talk to Bayless.”
Lyle placed his hand on his shoulder. “Thanks again, Chance. You and Jaris please take good care of Kaylyn.”
“We will.” Chance got up on his feet. “Come on, Annie.”
After making the rounds to check on Kaylyn’s dogs, he walked toward the barn where he knew the RV was parked.
He could hear footsteps he’d heard only once before. Bayless’s footsteps. “Good morning.”
“Hello. Miss Anderson with you?”
“No. Doc has strict orders she’s not to resume training dogs until she’s completely healed. You settled in?”
“I am. You’re Chance, right? We met at Miss Anderson’s house the other day.”