Damn hillbilly. He’s luckyheis, in fact, the best man I know. I would do anything for him, and the feeling’s mutual.
“So, Tennison was told by Cap to let me set her up with Carlie. Think she’d have time?”
The humor drains from his face.
“She’s okay, as far as we know. But Cap thought her history could help others.”
“Geez, bud. Yeah, I’ll let Carlie know.”
“Thanks. I think Cap thought he was doing a good thing, but I don’t know if this is a great time. Our probies go through big adjustments, mentally, learning the ropes in real life. If you know what I mean.”
“Yeah, I bet. How’s she doing?”
“They. We have two newbs, and they are doing okay. Time will tell, I guess. They’ve made it through their first shift. Ask me again in six months’ time.”
“Hell, Milo, in six months’ time, I’ll just ask her myself.”
My brows fall. He’s got this idea in his head, and I can tell he’s going to run with it.
“Better go find your girl,” Laws says with a shit-eating grin. “Your shift just ended, Hammond. I’ll see you Saturday?”
“Sure.”
He walks out the door, heading to work. Goldman and Sachs is his new job, but we all know it’s not his vocation. I don’t think HR ever has been, but don’t tell Rawlins that. He’s the most family-oriented guy I’ve ever met, and it makes him an incredible friend.
I take the stairs two at a time and turn left to the common room. Schmidt is sprawled out on the sofa, out like a light. Heids and Sandy are washing up, bantering back and forth like an old married couple with grudges old as time.
I spin on my heel and make for the quarters.
Davey walks out from the bathroom, towel around his waist, rubbing another over his head. I pass him and come to a stop at Tennison’s door. It’s open a little way. She sits on the floor, legs spread, as Petal laps up all of her attention upside down, getting belly rubs and soft words.
I clear my throat and knock.
Without looking up, Tennison sighs. “Your mean old master is back, baby.”
It’s a whisper, but I hear every word.
The dog licks her face.
“Oh, I know, girl. I love you, too.”
Something tightens between my ribs.
“Petal,” I bark, the dog’s name coming out much harsher than I intended.
Tennison pushes to her feet. “You know, a little kindness would go a long way. Maybe think of her and what she’s been through before you go snapping at her. Frankly, I wish we’d had room at the shelter to take her back. If I’d known she was with you?—”
I’m stepping into her quarters before my brain catches up with my body. I know it’s not my place to be in her space.
Even invited in, we’re not?—
“Are you always this insufferable, or is it just with female staff? Or Petal?” Her eyebrow raises. Petal hides behind her legs.
Traitor.
Tennison folds her arms over her chest.
“The dog, Tennison.”
