I figured that, as a contractor, he probably knew how to run a dishwasher—even if I’d needed to consult the manual the first time. “High sticking.”
“Ah.” He made his way over to me.
I arched an eyebrow. “Do you want to watch the game, or would you like your toy?”
“If it squeaks, that might interrupt your concentration.”
After considering, I shut the television off.
He didn’t appear the least bit disappointed.
If the score had been closer—or if Vancouver had a chance of winning—I might’ve kept it on. As things stood, they were about to lose their fourth game in a row.
I patted the couch. “Wait here.” I stood and made my way to my bedroom. I didn’t need much time to find the stash of toys I’d bought at the pet store yesterday after work. Gallia, the sales assistant, had asked questions about mypuppy. I’d been appropriately vague. I had some idea of what I wanted—but I also wanted assurances the toys weren’t toxic to humans. I made up a story about a beloved niece who put everything into her mouth. Did I feel guilty? Yep. Was I going to tell the nice, bubbly woman the truth? Nope.
After washing everything, I’d put them in a bin at the top of my walk-in closet—ready for whenever the opportunity might arise. I also had a couple of things in my SUV. Never hurt to be prepared for any potential opportunity to play.
As I entered the living room, I squeaked the toy.
Lorcan, who sat on his knees, poked his head above the back of the couch. His eyes lit with enthusiasm.
I plopped onto the throw rug and patted the spot next to me.
With little difficulty, he sank beside me—again, on his knees.
“Is that going to hurt?”
“I don’t care.” His gaze darted between me and the toy.
“Well, I care. If I’m to be your Daddy, then I need to make certain your needs are met—that includes your health.”
He nodded. “They’re okay. As you know, I do a lot of bending in construction. My knees have held up pretty well.”
I’d have to take his word for it.
Since he was already sitting, I held the toy out.
He leaned forward.
I allowed him to take it in his mouth.
Slowly, he squeezed it between his teeth.
The rubber squirrel squeaked.
Again, his eyes danced with joy.
Maybe this can work.
Chapter Eleven
Lorcan
My own squeaky toy. A squirrel, no less.
I was in seventh heaven. Whatever that meant. I squeaked it again.
Cody grinned.