Page 78 of Trust

“Is that one yours?” Hoyt asked as Killer jumped over a small puddle.

“Yes. And I’m not sure I can get rid of him without a lot of blowback.”

Hoyt bent over and scooped up the animal. “Not a fan of small dogs, but this one isn’t bad.”

Zane ignored the dog’s look of disapproval. “Olivia decided I was the perfect dog dad for the little beast and made me adopt him.”

“Maybe, I should have gotten Betsy a dog or something.” He stroked the dog’s head. “Or just not act like a complete idiot.”

Zane crossed his arms over his chest and hoped that the story was about to be unraveled.

“You mind if I borrow…”

“Killer?” Zane finished.

“Yeah, I’m gonna show him to Betsy and see if she might want one.”

Zane waved his hand. “Keep him as long as you like.”

“Thanks, man. I gotta come up with something because she’s been avoiding me.” He hoisted the dog closer to his chest. “You’d think a woman who taught first grade would be much more understanding with someone that didn’t handle unexpected declarations very well. A person who spends time teaching kids how to read should have a whole lot of patience and not run off at the first opportunity and get a new look, a half-dozen dates, and be talking about moving to the next town over.” He sucked in a breath. “What has happened to teachers? Do they think every man has the social skills of those idiots who go on The Bachelor? Some of us haven’t had a lot of practice, and it would be nice if women gave us a chance to get comfortable with the situation first.”

Not sure if he understood the rambling confession or was expected to respond, he tried to appear sympathetic.

Hoyt slapped Zane on the back. “Thanks for the advice, Zane.”

“No problem. He watched the man lumber in the direction of his heart’s desire. “God bless you both.”

“What’s that?” Asher asked as he strolled up.

“Just dispensing pearls of wisdom wherever they’re needed.”

Asher let out a loud snort. “No, really, what’s going on?”

“Great question, brother!” Zane adjusted his ball cap. “Feel free to enlighten me on your plans.”

“I’m heading back to Virginia. I’ve got to finish formally separating from the Navy.”

“Are you going to return to Haven and hang up a shingle after you're done?”

“Yeah, I’ve got a lease signed on some office space.” He looked around at the crowd. “There’s only one other attorney in town, and he’s about a hundred and twenty if he’s a day. This town is ready for new blood and can use my skills.”

“Glad you think so,” Zane replied. “You ever gonna tell me what went on between you and Bea?”

“Nothing happened!”

He gave his brother a slow once over. “Yeah, I’m not buying it.”

Asher slid his aviators out of his pocket and put them on. “Don’t let that sage-waving yogi fool you. She might appear to be peace-loving, but she’s really a steamroller that gets her way no matter what.” He let out a frustrated grunt. “Never underestimate the power of Namaste, brother.”

“Wasn’t planning on it.” He tugged his phone out of his pocket and held it up. “Let me just get a quick picture.”

Asher smirked. “What the hell for?”

“Posterity. This is the first time in recorded history that a woman hasn’t fallen all over herself to get your attention.” Zane pressed the button and hoped he captured Asher’s disgruntled expression. “In fact, it looks like she’s avoiding you at all costs.”

“Whatever, I’m out.”

Zane watched his brother storm away. “See ya, Romeo.”

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