Page 47 of The Things That Hold Us

After filling out a few pieces of paper, the man smiles at me and says, “Congratulations. You are now a dog mom.'' I cringe at the term, but smile a genuine smile at the guy.

“Do you need a leash or anything for him?”

“Yes, please. I’m very unprepared.” I laugh to myself, realizing just how unprepared I actually am. I’ll have to stop and buy some things on our way home.

He disappears through a door, and comes out with a leash and a piece of paper.

“Here, a list of some basic things you can buy for him. I have a feeling you’ll need it.”

I take the paper from his hand, “Thank you, this is a life saver.”

He smiles, then he tells me to have a good day.

And I walk out of there with Pudding trailing behind me, his tail wagging in the air, and I swear he’s smiling.

Chapter Nine

chef Logan

I have a dog.

If you would've asked me a year or two ago, this definitely wasn't in my plans.

But he’s sweet. He seemed just as lonely as me, and I couldn't leave him there knowing that.

We’re walking through town, and I’m almost to the little pet store we have when I see Logan across the street.

He’s with a woman, and a little girl.

I assume it's his sister and niece.

I know it sounds creepy, but I watch him for a minute. He seems so carefree with his niece, and it's adorable. She looks so much smaller than that day she came into my store. Probably because she's standing next to a mountain. He laughs, and I hear the rumble of it over here, then gives her a hug, and waves.

Before I can look away, he turns in my direction and our eyes meet.

The smile that spreads on his face is addicting.

I smile and wave, and then watch as he notices the dog.

He crosses the street, coming over to me.

“You didn't tell me you have a dog?”

Bending down, he pets Pudding on his head, and his tail starts wagging like crazy.

Of course he’d like him.

“Um, I didn't. He’s new.”

He quirks his brows and looks up at me, “You got a dog?”

“I did.”

He laughs, “Of course you did. He’s cute. What's his name?”

“Pudding.”

Logan looks at me, and the amusement in his eyes makes me laugh.

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