The scenario played out in his mind for the rest of the workday. He had to get a grip, restructure his safeguards. Helping her today hadn’t been in his plans, but he’d done it and now there were consequences. One way or another, he’d clear his mind of Luna. A night out with Trey was exactly what he needed.
Three hours later, he was home and taking Hope for a walk. Although he’d made progress with Hope and the leash, but she’d only tolerate it for a brief time. He’d learned to turn around only five minutes into their walks or he’d end up carrying the pup home, no easy task since she’d filled out to a healthy weight and was growing every day. Once, he’d attempted walking her without a leash. Hope had circled around him, and after five minutes, still hadn’t made it out of his yard. Dr. Tim thought she would grow out of it given time, but it wasn’t a major issue.
“Ready to go home, Hope?” He swiveled his position, and Hope took the cue.
He tried not to think about the day when Luna took possession of Hope. The dog had become a part of his life, and he couldn’t imagine not seeing her every day. It would be a bittersweet moment, though, because it would mean Luna graduated from the shelter and had a home of her own.
At least she would allow visitation. It wouldn’t be the same, but he’d rather see Hope occasionally than never. Of course, there was one other solution that yielded a better return. One day, maybe. One day in the far-off future.
When he returned home, he cranked up the heat and readied a pot of coffee in case Trey wanted to chat first, which he often did. It might have been why they’d become good friends. Trey hated silence and filled it with constant chatter. Carl didn’t mind the quiet—he rather enjoyed it for the most part—but also enjoyed listening to friends.
Fifteen minutes before six, Trey arrived, announcing his presence with a Christmas carol instead of the customary knock.
Laughing, Carl answered the door. Some things never changed. Except his friend’s appearance. Trey’s hair reached his shoulders, and he had a full beard. “Looks like someone’s enjoying their freedom.”
Trey’s grin stretched wide. “I told you when I got out that I’d never have a buzz cut again.”
“Yeah, but I didn’t think you’d go to that extreme.” He gave Trey a loose, brotherly hug. “It’s good to see you again, my friend.”
“Same. When my boss assigned me the job in D.C., I jumped at it.” Trey stepped inside. “Several of the guys still in are at Quantico now. I plan on dropping down to see them too.”
“Who?” Staying off social media kept him out of the loop on most of the happenings.
“Johnston, Tyndale, and Gallagher.”
“Really? I called Gallagher this summer and his number had changed.”
Trey rolled his eyes. “He had to change it. You missed all that drama.”
“What happened?” Carl took him to the kitchen and poured them each a cup of coffee.
“He got involved with a crazy girl. Come to find out, she was still married.” Trey grimaced. “He felt terrible and broke it off immediately once he knew, but the girl wouldn’t leave him alone. Finally, he had to change his phone, email, everything.”
Carl whistled low. “Wow.”
“It’s a mess. Last I heard, the girl’s husband left her.” Trey rubbed his jaw. “I hope she gets the help she needs. She can’t be happy.”
“Speaking of dating, are you still with Jill?”
“What does this tell you?” Trey pulled a small box out of his coat pocket.
Raising a brow, Carl smirked. “Either you asked and she said no, or you haven’t asked yet?”
“I’m flying home to New York on Christmas Day, but she doesn’t know yet.”
“Congratulations a few days early.” His forehead creased. “How come you didn’t wait until after Christmas to come? It doesn’t seem much work will be done before then.”
“Boss man insisted. The company we’re trying to merge with has their Christmas party tomorrow, and he wants me to attend.”
“Look at you going all corporate.” Carl gave him a playful jab.
“It’s not so bad. My parents are happy I’m using the degree they paid for before going into the Marines.” Trey sighed. “They’ll never let me forget I wasted their money when I could have waited until after I served and used my G.I. Bill.”
Carl inwardly cringed. Life hadn’t always been perfect with Mom, but she’d always supported him. “That stinks.”
“It is what it is.” Trey shrugged. “I enjoy my job though. My boss is demanding, but he’s a good man and fair. Actually, he’s the one who bought my plane ticket so I can fly home and surprise Jill.”
“That’s awesome. I don’t know many employers who would do that.”
