He actually did.
No fucking way!
“Here you go, kiddo.” TJ grins like he’s Santa himself. “His name is Bruiser.”
Hudson’s smile falters for a second but keeps on petting and loving on the German Malinois puppy.
“Bruiser. Like the New York Bruisers?” I ask my eyes, crinkling in confusion at TJ.
His gaze flicks to me, annoyed.
Tate's arm tightens around me reassuringly. His hand rubs up and down my arm once. He lets me go once the boys look at us, opting instead toplace his elbows on his knees and pet the puppies' ears.
“Mom, can we keep him?”
“Of course you can, it’s your Christmas present.” TJ interrupts me before I can answer.
I glare at him.
Tanya looks uncomfortable and excuses herself.
“Why don’t you boys get the puppy set up with his food and water while the grownups talk?” Tate suggests diplomatically.
Hudson looks to TJ expectantly. TJ just blinks back with a blank expression.
“You did bring dog food, right?” Tate draws slowly.
“No, I thought you might already have some.” TJ grips the back of his neck.
“Why?” Tate answers this time with a frown. He glances at me. “Do you have a dog?”
“No. A dragon though.” Hudson answers.
I send the boys and puppy to get some sausage off the breakfast spread and a bowl for water from the kitchen. Their cooing voices fade as they go.
I wring my hands together to stop them from shaking before I turn to my idiotic ex-husband.
“Whythe hellwould you buy him a dog without asking me first?!” I hiss through my teeth.
“He’s, my son! I don’t need to ask to buy him gifts.” TJ defends, screwing up his face like he’s confused. He can’t be.
“Oh okay. So where is the dog gonna live?” I challenge.
“Here. With Hudson...” His eyebrows raise like he’s waiting formeto catch on.
“And who’s gonna take care of him?” I continue.
“Hudson.”
“Really? Do you think Hudson will be the one to potty train and socialize a dog like that? He has school and hockey practice. What about vet appointments and shots? Not to mention that’s a large breed that’s going to need a lot of training.” I flap my arms towards the kitchen, standing now. I try like hell not to raise my voice. “What about when I’m traveling for work? And let’s not forget about how much those dogs cost!”
“I’m a professional hockey player. Of course, I can afford a couple grand for a gift formy son.” He scoffs at me.
I’m fuming now. My hands ball into fists at my side.
He may tower over me, but my rage is bigger than this stupid little man.
“You can afford a few thousand for a dog, but you’re behind at least ten times that for child support forour son.”I say in a hushed yell.
