Page 71 of Hooked On Him
“Stop being mean to Peanut. He’s the best dog ever.”
“What’s his story?”
“His old family moved and left him behind. But because he has only three legs, he’s not really a dog people want to adopt.” I hold Peanut up to show him. “So, he’s kind of been the shelter's resident dog. But as he got older, he has gotten more depressed. And because the shelter is so crowded lately, he hasn’t been getting the attention he deserves.” I sigh heavily. “I’d have taken him home myself, but my apartment doesn’t accept dogs, only cats.”
Peanut licks my face, and I nearly cry again. “How old is he?”
I close my eyes and cuddle Peanut, getting more kisses. “We’re not sure exactly how old, but we know he’s a senior dog. I just want this poor guy to find a good home so he can live out the rest of his life being loved, not in a cage, you know? He really is the best dog. He listens well, is really chill, loves to cuddle, and doesn’t bark like most chihuahuas.” I look down at him longingly. “I really wish I could bring him home. I hate that I’ve been so busy and haven’t been by to see him more.”
Austin doesn’t say anything, just reaches over and pets Peanut. Peanut nudges Austin’s hand and then licks it, and my heart clenches. “Okay, so I guess he’s kind of cute. And I could see why you would love him.”
“See. He’s not so bad. I think I’m gonna kidnap you for the day. Maybe it will help get people to see you more.” I tell Peanut, giving him a kiss. He lets out the smallest raspy bark in argument, making Austin chuckle.
“Okay, that was cute.”
Peanut is with us for the rest of the day. And while people loved petting him and taking photos with him, no one wanted to adopt him.
By the end of the night, most of the animals had gone to new homes. I call it a win. Sadly, a lot of our disabled or elderly pets remain.
“It’s okay,” Abby says as we pack up. “Now that we have more room, we will have more time for these guys.” She takes Peanut and puts him in a carrier. “They will still get all the love and cuddles from the shelter.”
As we walk away, I feel my heart break. I love animals. And I love helping them. But one of the hardest parts about working at a vet clinic is dealing with the ones who don’t make it. It hurts every time. And seeing animals so sad and alone in tiny little cages hurts too.
If I could have my dream come true, I’d move out to the country, get a big plot of land, and be the crazy cat and dog man. Hell, I’d even throw in some donkeys and pigs, too.
The ride home, I’m quiet.
“Hey,” Austin says, parking the car when we get to the apartment. “I don’t like seeing you sad.”
“Sorry.” I force a smile. “It’s just sad.”
“I know.” He leans in and kisses my temple. “How about we go upstairs, order in, and watch a movie?”
“Yeah.” I nod. “I’d like that.”
It seems to be my thing now, falling asleep in Austin’s arms and waking up in my own bed. Sadly, always alone. But it warms my heart to know Austin makes sure I get tucked into bed.
I might not like change, but this kind of change, I could get used to.
Chapter 16
Austin
I can’t believe I’m doing this. I must have hit my head hard in rugby practice. That has to be it. There’s no other way I can explain why the hell I’m at the shelter with a little rat dog in my arms who is licking my face like it’s a damn popsicle.
“I think he likes you.” Abby, someone who works with Levi and whom I met at the adoption event last week, smiles.
“He better,” I grumble, frowning. “I’m the reason he’s getting out of here.”
“And we really appreciate it.” Abby looks like she’s trying hard not to laugh at me. I don’t blame her. I look like a total sap right now.
But I can’t help it. Seeing the look of devastation on Levi’s face when we had to leave Peanut at the end of the event broke my damn heart. Knowing how much he adores this little shithead, I couldn’t just let the old fart die in this place.
After debating with myself for a few days, I gave in to the inevitable and checked with my building manager about the pet policy. I knew we were allowed cats because a few of my neighbors have some. But I wasn’t sure about dogs.
Turns out, as long as they aren't loud and weigh under five pounds, we’re allowed to have dogs.
Guess it’s Peanut’s lucky day since he’s so light he could probably blow away if he’s not strapped down.
