The clicking sound of computer keys crossed over the line. “I don’t have anything for this week. Would you mind holding while I check with Dr. Scott on something?”
“That’s fine.” Rachel ran a hand down Roxie’s back.
Hannah returned after less than a minute. “Would you be able to come in now? Dr. Scott is concerned about the rate of growth and would like to see her as soon as possible.”
A lump of fear formed in her throat. She pushed aside the initial anxiety, reminding herself that Dr. Scott always erred on the side of caution. “Sure. I can be there in fifteen minutes.”
“We’ll see you soon.”
She ended the call and wrapped her arms around Roxie’s neck, buried her nose in the thick coat of hair. “You’re going to be okay, girl. You have to be.”
Roxie tilted her head and rubbed her nose against Rachel’s hand.
On the drive to the vet’s office, she purposely kept her mind off the reason for the visit. In her heart, she knew it wasn’t anything major, but her head had other ideas. She thought of work, and the new education annex that would give each woman that passed through the center a solid change at leaving with a marketable skillset.
She pulled into the parking lot, and Roxie immediately began whimpering. In all her years, Roxie never ceased to put up a fight going into the vet’s office. Once inside, she’d settle down, but getting her in was a workout.
After hooking the leash to the harness, Rachel wrapped her arms around the dog and attempted to lift her from the car. In true Roxie fashion, she spread her front paws, bracing them against the doorframe.
“Roxie, they’re about to close. I know you don’t like it, but it’s for your own good.”
Another tug later, and Roxie refused to budge. She only snorted, clearly communicating she wouldn’t give in without a fight.
“Need some help?” a male voice called from behind.
Surprised by the other person, Rachel let go of Roxie and turned around, giving a short laugh. “We go through this every time we come here. Once she’s inside, she’ll be fine.”
The man smiled. An attractive smile, she was annoyed to notice—not quite symmetrical and just enough of his pearly whites peeked through to indicated friendliness without going overboard. “I had one like her. Is she treat oriented?”
“Yes, but her stubbornness exceeds even her love for treats.”
Mystery man broke out into loud laughter. “I don’t mean to make light of it, but I’ve been in your spot more times than I can count.”
His chill demeanor put her at ease. “Can you hold her legs for me while I lift her down?”
“Sure.” He set down the pet taxi in his hand. “I’m pet sitting my parents’ cat while they’re on a cruise, and of course Fifi is due for her shots.”
She arched a brow. “Fifi?”
“Original, right?” He flashed that smile again that lit his entire face and accentuated his sky-blue eyes. “And yes, she’s as fluffy and pretentious as one would think a cat name Fifi would be.”
“That’s hilarious.” She peered into the carrier and verified Fifi’s attributes.
“I like cats, but I’m a dog person at heart.” He slowly approached Roxie and gently took hold of her front paws in smooth moves that spoke of experience.
“Do you have any?” She couldn’t stop stealing glimpses of him as she surrounded Roxie with her arms. It had been years since she’d had a reaction like this to any man. Josh’s unexpected departure from her life had erected tough walls around her love life.
“No, not right now.” Their eyes locked when he looked up, and a ray of evening sun glistened against his sable hair. “Ready?”
“Yes.” After taking a deep breath, she heaved Roxie out of the back seat and set her on the ground. She smirked at the man. “We’re not done yet.”
He glanced at the entrance with a knowing smile. “I’ll hold the door for you.”
“Thanks.” A sigh of relief slipped out. “I’m Rachel, by the way, and this is Roxie.”
“Nice to meet you, Rachel and Roxie.” He pulled the door outward. “I’m Aaron, and you’ve already met Fifi.”
Giving Roxie a tug, Rachel led her through the door. “Thanks for your help.”
