Mike cocked his head to the side. I straightened and plastered on a pleasant, professional smile, feeling like a complete idiot. Why does this man affect me so? It was like I had been on a deserted island my entire life and this was my first encounter with a man.
“So when do you move into your new house?” Of course, Mike knew about what Grandpa had done.
“The movers arrive tomorrow to unload everything.”
He shifted the puppy in his arms. “Do you need any help?”
“The movers are doing everything. All evening, I’ll be unpacking boxes. If you want to save me from the monotony, feel free to stop by.”
The puppy’s head lulled to the side, and she gave a little snore.
“I think she likes you,” I said.
“I like her, too. I used to have a boxer. They’re incredible dogs. Anyway, I better head out. Sorry your coffee is cold now.”
I wanted to put that easy smile back on his face. The furrowed brow bothered me more than it should. “The coffee will definitely be reheated.”
A gross look passed over his face. “Syd, that’s stooping pretty low, even for coffee.”
“It’s been two days since I’ve had some. I need it. Even reheated, it will be glorious.”
He gave a chuckle, and the wrinkle lines faded. Carefully he transferred the puppy to me. “Here she is.”
“I’ll tell her you said bye.”
I got a wink in response. Mike reached for the door, and the puppy woke up and began to wriggle and whine. “Shh… it’s okay. We’re going to find you a home.”
The dog became more agitated to be set free, so I put her down. At top speed, she took off toward Mike. In one fluid movement, he scooped her up, instantly calming her.
“I think she wants to stay with you.”
“I work crazy shifts. Sometimes I’m gone eight to ten hours at a time. I can’t leave her alone that long.”
I wanted Mike to be able to have this puppy. Something told me they needed each other more than I could have possibly known. Without thinking, I offered to help. “Good thing you know a vet. I can watch her on the days you work, and she can stay with me until we find the owner.”
“Is that what you want to do, little girl?” Mike got a lick in response. “Okay, let’s go home.” From behind the front desk, I pulled out a bag and packed it. “Here’s some food and basics you’ll need until you can get to the store. If you need anything else, let me know.”
“What do I owe you?”
“Nothing. Absolutely nothing.”
“Thank you, Syd. That’s awfully nice of you.”
“You’re so welcome. I really appreciate the coffee and helping with my nose since my arms were so tired.”
I needed to slap myself. Stop with the tired body parts!
He gave me an incredible smile before taking the bag and walking out of the office, leaving me with my frayed thoughts. I wanted him to stay. Be quiet. Don’t say a word.