Page 32 of Easton Island: A Wedding to Remember

“Like I said, she’s skittish,” Kayleigh warned.

Quinn knelt on the floor. “Hello, Can-dee,” she said in a soft, low voice. “Will you come closer so I can say hello?”

Cand-ee’s ears shot up and twisted from side to side, like Chester’s did when he was listening intently.

“She’s listening,” Morgan whispered.

“Chester does the same thing with his ears.” Quinn slowly extended her hand. “You’re such a pretty girl.”

Using her front paws, Can-dee pulled herself forward, coming within inches of where Quinn sat patiently waiting.

“I won’t hurt you.”

“I can’t believe it,” Kayleigh marveled. “She’s never reacted to anyone like this.”

Quinn slid her hand alongside Can-dee’s paw. “Do you know how to shake?”

She lifted her paw and placed it on top of Quinn’s hand. Morgan thought she was going to burst into tears.

“Maybe we can be friends,” Quinn said. “I have a big backyard for you to run around in. If you come and live with me, I’ll take you for walks. You can go to work with me. We’ll be best buds.”

Can-dee tilted her head, listening to Quinn talk, her paw still resting on top of her hand.

“This is amazing,” Kayleigh said. “I wouldn’t believe it if I wasn’t seeing it with my own eyes.”

Moving cautiously, Quinn shifted to a sitting position, all the while talking to Can-dee in a quiet voice.

Mesmerized, the pup inched closer until she was snuggled up against Quinn. She placed her head on her leg. Morgan knew right then her best friend had found her new family member.

Chapter 13

“Your generous donation will go a long way.” The shelter’s clerk handed Morgan a receipt for the adoption fee and donation and Quinn a separate receipt for her donation. “You’re adopting Can-dee. She’s a sweet dog, but very shy.”

“I think she might be coming around.” Quinn snuggled the pup.

“I’ve never seen her take to anyone like that,” the woman said. “You must have the magic touch.”

“I knew from the minute we saw her that she was the one.”

“She looks like my dog, Chester,” Morgan explained. “Kayleigh mentioned you found her almost a year ago.”

“I can double-check.” The clerk’s fingers flew over the keyboard. “It’s been over a year now. We’ve had her since June of last year.”

Morgan did a mental calculation. “That’s around the time we found Chester.”

“You’re right,” Quinn said. “It could be someone abandoned both Chester and Can-dee.”

“I’m glad she’s finally found a home.” The woman handed Quinn an envelope. “This is a copy of her file, notes from the staff. You might find a few of them helpful.”

“Thank you.” Quinn and Morgan exited the building. As soon as they were outside, Can-dee wiggled and squirmed, eager to be put down. “Don’t go far.”

The pup trotted across the lawn, sniffing everywhere her black button nose could reach.

Morgan clapped her hands. “Look at how excited she is?”

They gave Can-dee ample time to explore before Quinn called her to her side. She promptly made her way over and sat at her feet.

“She’s well-behaved and has so many mannerisms that remind me of Chester.”

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