“Something like that.” Knox was often a good influence. “When they were training new volunteers, I joined in, but I don’t have time to take part often.” And he felt guilty as hell about it. “Sometimes it feels like I spend so much time working—driving, meeting, and making calls—that I barely have time to keep up with the guys.”
“That’s why you don’t mind that Marcus and Bray married.”
He laughed. “Minding wouldn’t have done me much good, not the way they feel about their wives, but the truth is, I’m happy for them. Like you said, for me they’re family.” For the others, getting together and staying in touch might not be such a big deal. Knox had a doting mom and dad that he was close to. Marcus had his adoptive parents, and now Lucy. Bray had not only his adoptive parents and Karen, but his impressive fight family, too.
In comparison, Ford didn’t have . . . anyone.
The important people in his life were associated with his friends.Theirfamilies.Theirwives.
He couldn’t claim to miss his mother and father. Even when he’d lived with them, they’d been nothing more than strangers existing under the same roof. What he missed was the idea of them. Of having roots. Someone who would think of him and worry a little.
And care.
Someone to include him in a home-cooked meal.
“Ford.” Skye touched her fingertips to his upper arm. “I was only teasing. I know you’re happy for them. I can see how close you all are.”
Chapter 3
What. The. Hell. He’d been so completely lost in thought, he hadn’t noticed when Skye quit looking at the shelter and instead stared at him.
What was it about her that had him thinking deep thoughts? Whatever had brought it on, he’d end it right now.
The cocky grin came automatically as he quickly covered. “I’m fine. I was just thinking of a dog that would be perfect for you.” He led her through two sets of doors that ensured no animals got out. Cats often wandered the lobby, greeting everyone who came in. “Thing is, he’s bonded to another beast of a dog, and I’m not sure separating them would be a good idea.”
Overwhelmed, she turned in a circle to take in the giant glass-fronted room full of playful kittens. There was a supply area for anyone who forgot the necessities when picking up their pet, and several cat towers, most with older cats stationed on them in one lazy pose or another. “This is . . . wow. I can hear the dogs, but I don’t see them.”
“They’re through there.” He indicated the hall, but waited until Nikki, the harried front desk manager, finished a call, then rushed over to them. “Ford, hi.”
“Hi, Nikki.” He accepted a squeezing hug from the fifty-something woman. She was tall and wiry, with short, spiky, flame-colored hair and a zest for life that encompassed not only animals, but humans, too. Ford liked her a lot. “How’s it going?”
“Busy! We’ve had a terrific adoption month.” Eyeing Skye with open curiosity, she offered, “Maybelline is still here though. Did you want to visit her?”
The name amused him. “That’s sticking, huh?”
“Of course it is. It’s perfect for her.” She said to Skye, “The first time Ford saw Maybelline, he named her, because he said no amount of cosmetics would help. She’s a sweetheart, but not the prettiest dog we’ve ever taken in. She sure does adore Ford.” As if imparting a secret, she leaned in and whispered, “He adores her right back.”
“Aww,” Skye said, gazing at him with new, softer emotions.
He couldn’t take it. “Since I’m here, I might as well check in on her.” He nodded to Skye. “This is my neighbor, Skye Fairchild. She’s interested in adopting. Maybe while you get her info, I could sit with Maybelline.”
“She’ll be thrilled to see you.” Nikki led Skye to a chair in front of her desk and handed her a form. “Go ahead and get started on that and I’ll be right back.”
Ford saw the way Skye concentrated on the questions, her expression so earnest that his heart clenched a little at the sight of her.
As they walked away, he said to Nikki, “She’ll be an incredible pet owner.”
“You said she’s a neighbor?”
“Right next door.” Because Nikki knew him well, he promised, “I’ll keep an eye on things, too. If she needs any help, I’m there.”
Nikki smiled. “Doesn’t sound like she’s just a neighbor.”
There was nothingjustabout Skye Fairchild. The more he knew, the more he wanted to know. Hopefully, that wouldn’t become a problem.
Fishing, Nikki said, “She’s gorgeous, too.”
“Very.” Though Skye honestly didn’t seem to realize it.
