Another thump was followed by a second.
Very slowly we both turned our heads at the same time to stare into the back of the car.
Toward the trunk.
A chill trickled through me. “Do you have something in your trunk? Maybe something heavy?”
“Just some items I picked up at Lowe’s.”
“Oh. Okay.” I flicked my eyes toward him, noticing his expression was masked. Who was this man? Lowe’s? As if a man so polished would handle any handyman chores himself.
If he was unnerved, he certainly didn’t show it. The ticking of seconds became another reminder of my vulnerable position. I shoved the can back into the fanny pack, grabbing the door handle.
At least he didn’t waste any time pulling around traffic and flying into the parking lot. I opened the door immediately and my swiftaction was met with another deep, even huskier chuckle. Did he really think any of this was funny?
“I’ll be right back. Do not go anywhere.” I pointed at him, my arm shaking from the heightened level of anxiety and something far too dark and disturbing for me to admit. I rushed into the veterinary office, finding it next to impossible to put a clear and concise sentence together. “I’m Josette Samuels, one of your clients. My baby, my Indiana Jones was hit by a car. This guy, he… In the park. I need your help.”
I was vaguely aware the receptionist was talking to me, perhaps trying to tell me to be calm. She did rush into the back, leaving me all alone in the waiting room.
So very much alone.
I dropped my head into my hands, allowing a single racking sob. Why hadn’t I managed to hold onto Indy’s leash? “God. This is all my fault. I’m so sorry, baby.”
The slight whine was so recognizable I was instantly relieved just to hear the soft sound. Spinning around, the sight of how the mystery man was cradling such a huge mass of fur and muscle highlighted how tall, broad, and extremely muscular he was.
“He started crying the minute you walked away.”
“What if they can’t see him?” I don’t know why I was asking, or more like pleading for answers from him.
He moved closer, even snuggling closer to Indiana. “Oh, trust me. Theywilltake him. They will do everything in their power no matter the expense or what it takes to ensure he’s happy and healthy. Period.”
There was such dominance in his words that I was taken aback. Yet his tone was a reminder of the arrogance I’d noted the moment he’d stepped from his vehicle. I walked closer, stroking Indy’s muzzle while refusing to take my eyes off the stranger, surprised Indy had taken to the man.
“He likes you,” I said almost wistfully.
“What’s not to like?” He flashed a smile that lit up his entire face. “I’m a great guy.”
I wasn’t certain if I wanted to disagree with him or ask him to provide me with examples.
“You can bring him back now.”
Another girl’s concerned tone drew both of our attention.
“I’ve got him,” he said when I reached for Indy. “He’s much too big for you to carry.”
With my mind still in a foggy mess, I didn’t argue with him, trailing behind as the vet tech led us to a room in the back where he gingerly placed Indy on the awaiting steel table.
“Why don’t you and your husband wait out front until we get the results of the x-rays.” She smiled, nodding toward the door.
I stood right where I was, staring down at my baby with tears in my eyes. “We’re not married. We’re just… He’s just… I mean…”
“What she means is that I’m the asshole who hit her pup.”
The girl seemed shocked at his admittance, her face suddenly pinched.
“Come on. You need to give them some room,” he said from behind me, the roughness of his voice fading into something softand soothing. Yet I still couldn’t move. Mainly because I didn’t like anyone telling me what to do. I was my own boss and had been for years. “Indiana is in good hands.” When he placed his hands on my shoulders, I shuddered visibly.
I hated the chemistry we shared. There was no reason for it, certainly nothing good. Whatever the noise in his trunk hadn’t been made by purchased items sloshing back and forth because of his driving. However, challenging him would only prove dangerous.
