The tight dip of Claire’s head could be construed as a nod.
Lacey brought her over to meet the rest of the team, and everyone mingled for a few minutes.
Once she was out of earshot, Eli elbowed Nick.“Did I see some chemistry there, little brother?”
“You need to get your eyes checked.”
“I mean it.She blushed when she saw you.”
“Eli, shut up.”After everything that had happened with Kristy, Nick doubted most women would feel any chemistry around him.
He wasn’t even sure he knew what chemistry felt like anymore.Although, something had sparked in his gut when he’d checked out Claire’s T-shirt.
Michael joined in.“She’s cute, Nick.Just your type.”
Nick lowered his voice.“She’s a cat lady.”
“So?”
“She’s also a widow.Show some respect, guys.”
“Of course we have respect for her,” said Eli.“That doesn’t change the fact she was checking you out.”
“Shut.Up.They’re coming back.”
Lacey stood before the group.“Okay, everyone.I’d like the construction and camera crews to get set up.Claire has set aside one of the exam rooms for makeup.The Haven staff has kindly set up a tent in the back of the building for craft services.The crafties will have coffee and snacks ready soon.I need Michael, Eli and Nick.Claire is going to give us a quick tour of the property and we’ll go over our timelines.Thanks, team.”
As the crew members settled into the familiar first-day routine, Claire led the others inside.“Well,” she said.“I guess we should start with the reason we’re all here.My cats.”
Oh, joy.Nick’s gut seized.Let it go.You’re a grown man.
At least Michael and Eli kept their mouths closed about his embarrassing fear.
Claire opened the door.“Welcome to the B&B.This is where we keep our furbabies.”
A multitude of cats meowed and brushed up against their kennels.Nick had to stop himself from turning around and getting into Michael’s truck.
Breathe.They’re in kennels.
In truth, he could hardly call them kennels.They were more like condos, and were equipped with toys.Spacious and bright, the room looked as if it could house about a hundred cats, and it was almost filled to capacity.Only these cats didn’t look sad and scared like other shelter cats did on those humane society commercials.These ones appeared healthy and clean and seemed content in their surroundings.
It was obvious whatever money Claire made went into caring for the animals.
Something told him she’d give her last dollar to feed a cat, rather than herself.
Lacey squealed.“Can I pet them?”
“Sure,” said Claire, laughing.“Through the kennels, if you don’t mind.We can always take out one or two later.”
Lacey hurried over and went from kennel to kennel, patting each furry head.Even Michael and Eli made kissy noises at a few.
Nick hung back.
Claire noticed.“Let me guess.You’re not an animal person?”
“It’s not that.I love all animals.I’ve just never done well with cats.”
“Oh?”
