Page 23 of Finding Forever in Cedarwood

He waggled his head. “I observe, and no one just appears in Cedarwood without any real reason for coming here. They don’t open gym memberships with no apparent means to support themselves.”

“I thought I hid it well.” Liam sank down in his place.

“That you’re an actor? Yeah, I had no idea who you were, but I could tell you were famous. You have that air about you. Your sunglasses are fancier than anything sold around here, you dress better than the lawyers in town and you’ve got the kind of haircut that screams money.” He shrugged. “I kind of profiled you.”

“Sorry, but you’re right.” Liam flattened his hands on the counter. “I tried to be cool, but I overshot.”

“A little,” Stone said. “But it happens.”

“Honestly, I’m relieved. I wanted to tell someone besides your brother,” Liam said. “I’ll explain everything in the cattery.”

“Okay.” He accepted the coffee cup. “Thanks for this.” He needed the jolt of energy.

“You’re welcome.” The uneasy silence settled between them. “Donnie really chatted me up. He kept saying nice things about Amy. He mentioned you a few times, but mostly her.”

“He hates me,” Stone said. He’d never gotten along with the guy because he kept making passes at Amy and snotty comments about Stone’s relationship with Jeff. “I don’t trust him.”

“I wasn’t enamored with him. He kept going on about gays going to hell,” Liam said.

“That’s the Coalition. You don’t do anything to them and they still target you.”

“That’s shit.”

“If you’re gay, they—him included—will give you hell. It sucks.” He sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. “I’m sorry. You probably don’t care that he can be a dick.”

“I’d rather know than get drawn into someone who will use me.” Liam smiled, then tensed. “I see the vet. Fingers crossed.”

“Shit.” He hadn’t forgotten Champ, but he appreciated having something else to think about for a few moments. “Aubrey.”

“Hi.” Aubrey joined them at the counter. “It’s touch and go with Champ. The other three are underfed, but will be okay. Champ’s the runt and they’ve been chewing on him. I’m not sure if he’ll make it. He needs attending, so if you’re willing to care for him, he may have a better chance. If you don’t have the staffing for it, I’ll take him to the clinic.”

“I’m adopting him,” Stone said. “I’ll start caring for him right now.”

“Good.” Aubrey raked his fingers through his hair. “Call me if you need anything. You know what to do with Champ.”

“I do.” Regular checks, food, cuddles and keeping him warm. Mostly, he needed to keep an eye on the poor baby. Being away from Champ’s siblings would help him most of all.

Amy brought out a box with a clean blanket inside. “Here’s our Champ.” She handed the box to Stone. “He mewled. He’s a vocal little punk. I think he’s a fighter.”

“I hope so.” He accepted the kitten. “Hi, baby.” He rubbed the kitten’s head beneath his chin. This was the part of the job he hated—caring for abused animals and seeing the damage people could do.

“Jake’s here already, so I’m going to help him with the kittens. Aubrey, thanks for coming by so fast. You’re a lifesaver.” She paused. “Who’s this? I’m Amy. I keep Stone in line.”

“I’m Liam Black. I brought Stone coffee.”

“Nice.” She patted his arm. “Next time tell us and we’ll put in an order. We’ll pay, but we’ll give you an order.”

“I should’ve brought enough for everyone,” Liam said. “Forgive me. Next time, it’s my treat.” He winked. “Thanks for helping Stone. You all do a wonderful job.”

She blushed. “I try.”

“They’re awesome,” Stone said. “I can’t do my job without them.”

Aubrey waved. “I’m the vet.” He grinned. “I love working with Stone. He brings me challenges, but I welcome them.” He turned to Stone. “If you need me, call. I’m out. Nice to meet you, Liam. Stone, later.” Aubrey walked out of the building.

Amy rapped her knuckles on the counter. “I’ll be with the kittens. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.” She laughed as she left the room.

“She’s unique,” Stone said. “A good worker and she keeps me in line.”

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