Page 74 of Sneak Attack

“Will do,” I called to Suzie and since Bongo was happily sniffing the scent of puppies all over me, I grabbed his collar.

I might have avoided Cole last night, but maybe this would show him I was doing what I promised—and trying.

* * *

He grinned easily this time when I handed over Bongo’s leash. “He’s been playing like crazy. Should rest well for you later.”

“Good. How’d your day go? Any dog attacks?”

“Nope.” I shrugged. “But something exciting happened.”

I let that linger, and Cole’s curiosity was instant.

“What is it?”

“You have a fan. Out back.”

He leaned back so he could see through the large window that showed the play yard. There were four workers back there and he glanced back at me. “Who?”

“The boy. His name’s Jacoby, goes by Jake.”

“Huh.” He scratched his jaw. “A fan, huh? What’d he say?”

“He asked if I knew you, and then asked if I could get your autograph.”

“Why doesn’t he ask me himself? Not that it bothers me he went to you, as long as it doesn’t bother you.”

“No.” I chuckled and glanced at Suzie. She was tapping on her computer’s keyboard, but I had no doubt she was listening to every word we said. “It surprised me though, wasn’t expecting it.”

“Took a while for me to get used to, but yeah, I’ll get him something for sure. I’ve got gear in my office at home.”

“He said he plays, but I don’t know what position or anything, if that gives you an idea of what to give him. He was embarrassed, or nervous, I guess. Said he’s better with dogs than people.”

A knowing gleam hit his blue eyes. “Something you have in common?”

“Exactly. And thanks again, it’s nice of you to do this so willingly.”

He shrugged. “I’m a nice guy, and also, don’t make plans for Sunday.”

He had a game, and I knew that, but he couldn’t mean…

“Cole, I’m not sure—”

“Not the game.” He smiled knowingly. Softly. “I can’t do much about those seats or anything right now, and that’d make everyone uncomfortable. No, Mom always insists on a family dinner after home games. I want you and Marley to come over. Have it with us. She’s always done it before.”

She didn’t mention a thing about it last Sunday. I would have happily taken her over there or had Mama B come and get her. She’d done that for me, probably knowing how uncomfortable it’d make me and never made a single noise about it. Or she’d forgotten…

“Are you sure?”

“I want you to meet Jasper, more than just when he’s half-asleep and scared. Come over, Sunday, Eden. Bring Marley. It’ll be fun….” Bongo shoved his nose against me and sniffed wildly. “I’ll even let you play catch with Bongo.”

“Sold.” I laughed.

“Ah. You just want me for my dog.”

“It’s a cute dog.”

He leaned in and whispered, “Sunday.”

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