Chapter Fourteen
Andre
Isurvived my first encounter with the entire Fulton clan. I could sayfirstbecause they’d accepted an invitation for dinner this evening—wanting to take advantage of the fact Jai and Keegan didn’t have to return to the camp until eight tonight.
Zahir and I stopped at a supermarket on the way home, and he bought a massive lasagna. “A little heavy for this weather, but we’ll add Caesar salad and cut veggies.” He offered a smile.
“Uh, okay.” As we pulled into his garage, I tried to figure out how I could help for tonight’s meal.
“I just plan to throw it in the oven, set the timer, and then we can do…other things.”
I arched an eyebrow as he cut the engine. “Other things?”
“I don’t know. Puppy play, cuddling, napping—”
“Not napping.” I undid my seat belt. “Napping’s out. I’m too nervous.”
“I could try to point out you have no reason to be nervous or I can simply suggest puppy play to alleviate your anxiety.”
“Yes to that.” I opened the car door and slipped out. I grabbed the lasagna and salad fixings from the back seat and closed that as well.
Zahir secured Daphne, closed the garage door, and we headed to the backyard. He unclipped the dog’s leash and she zoomed over to the garden.
“Does she really have to go?”
“Probably not. Although she had water at the Fultons.
“I’m glad we didn’t leave her alone. That would’ve been hard on her. I mean, if you left me alone, I think I’d feel hard done by as well.” I grinned mischievously.
“Pup, I never would leave you alone.” He returned my smile. “Snack or water or straight to play?”
“Yes, please to water and play.” I followed him inside.
“If you grab two glasses and add water, then why don’t you head downstairs? I’ll deal with my girl.” Who came barreling in and plopped onto her butt at my feet.
I arched an eyebrow at Zahir.
He rolled his eyes. “Okay—one. Just one.”
I chuckled, opened the treat jar, and procured one.
Daphne vibrated with anticipation.
I crouched. “Can you shake a paw?”
She held out her paw, and I shook it.
“Can you spin?” I was taking her through the tricks Zahir did.
After a moment, she spun. Then plopped right back onto her ass and waited.
“Can you lie down?”
She gave me what I would’ve called theduhlook. And didn’t comply.
Aftera moment, I offered the treat on my palm.
She eyed me warily.
