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‘But I was waving and shouting at you. I know you saw me, you waved back!’

‘Yes, I did but I remember you from the other afternoon in the chemists and thought you wanted to ask me how I was.’ Even to Rocco’s ears it sounded an incredibly lame and rather pathetic excuse. Not to mention rather egotistical of him.

Alison stood up, still rubbing Bruno’s ears and gave Rocco an incredulous look. ‘We do have a duty of care but turning up at someone’s house is a little above and beyond.’ She took a step back. ‘Oh yes, I remember you; the pulled muscle guy.’

The way she said it wasn’t in friendly familiarity.

‘That didn’t have his special filter jug delivered.’

‘Yeah.’ At least she didn’t mention the hair dye.

‘You bought the hot water bottle with the leopard print cover.’

‘Mmhmm. Yup, that’s me.’

She glanced at his hair. ‘And the Just For Men.’

Fuck.

‘Yes, yes. You’ve definitely remembered me.’

‘I didn’t have you down for a dognapper.’

‘I’m not! I know Bruno. I’ve met him before. I thought he was lost so I took him in and called Frankie.’

A flicker of doubt softened Alison’s furious expression, ever so slightly.

‘Frankie told me Bruno was staying with her while his owner was away at a work do. And when he appeared here tonight, I was worried he’d somehow got out and wandered off. Frankie had walked him here a couple of nights ago and she and the dogs came up to the house and I guess Bruno must have remembered and thought he’d come and visit.’

Between them, Bruno sighed and began to lick his paw.

‘You know Frankie?’

‘Yes. I’m her brother, Rocco.’

‘Oh. She’s mentioned you.’

‘Me and our other sister, Valentina, helped out with Canine Cupids Christmas Club that first evening. You arrived before we got there and we left before you picked Bruno up again.’

‘Oh.’

‘That’s where I first met this big guy.’

On cue, Bruno got to his feet and made his way to the sofa, jumping up and circling round until he found a comfy spot to lie down on. Willow momentarily raised her head in mild curiosity at her new sofa buddy before settling again.

‘Bruno! Get down!’ Alison commanded.

Bruno ignored Alison, who looked mortified.

‘He isn’t allowed on the sofa at home. I can’t believe how calm your cat is.’

‘Frankie’s dogs are here all the time. Willow’s used to them.’

‘Willow’s beautiful.’

Rocco felt a little surge of pride. He thought Willow was the most beautiful cat, and he liked when people agreed.

‘And Bruno’s an amazing dog,’ he said, returning the compliment.