Page 37 of Love in Mission City

Chapter Four

Byron

The relief surging through me as I opened my front door was unlike anything I’d ever felt.

Sheffield barked excitedly.

Something I normally tried to tamp down, but today was grateful for.

Rosebud didn’t look quite as happy.

My instinct was to snag the leashes, yank the dogs in, and slam the door.

Two things stopped me.

Clearly Rosebud had taken a shine to Carter. In a way she rarely did.

Said human did look a little sheepish. A little contrite. With his wince.

Oh, and a third reason. He held a bag from Fifties that smelled divine. Now, it would’ve been rude for me to assume he’d brought food. But from the little I knew of him a chance existed.

My stomach rumbled. I’d stuck to plain crackers and tea all day. The rule was either to feed or starve a cold. Since I couldn’tremember which—and hadn’t felt like googling it, I’d opted for the latter.

“Byron.”

“Yes.” I sniffed. “You need to get away from me.”

He sighed. “At the very least, I’m giving you the chicken noodle soup.” He nudged his way in, forcing me back. He handed me the leash and headed for my kitchen. After putting the bag on the counter, he washed his hands. Finally, he retrieved a spoon from my drawer. “Sit and I’ll bring it to you.”

So far I’d managed to unhook the dogs’ harnesses and leashes.

Rosebud leapt onto the couch while Sheffield headed to the food container and eyed me.

Carter clearly noticed as well. “Wait until I get your daddy settled, and then I’ll feed you.” He met my gaze and gestured to the couch with his chin. “You sit. I’ll bring the food. Then I’ll feed the dogs. How much? Do they eat the same thing at the same time?”

I was lightheaded—and not because of the lack of food. “You need to leave. You’re going to get sick.”

“Stop fussing and sit down. I have a healthy immune system.”

“I thought I did too, and look where I wound up.”

“Your client locked you in a room with herself and coughed all over you. You’re not going to cough all over me.” He pointed to the window. “You’re even letting in a touch of fresh air. That’s so good for you. Now, sit so I can feed the pooches.”

I sat. And ate the soup.

He fed the dogs when joined me in the living room. He plopped on the chair farthest from me, dug into his bag, and fished out a burger and fries.

I might’ve moaned.

“Well, finish your soup, and I’ll share my fries.” He put them aside without touching them, then proceeded to devour his burger.

I might’ve really enjoyed the sounds of pleasure he made.

Rosebud plopped and curled up onto his feet.

Sheffield sat at just the correct level to give maximumpuppy dog eyes.

Carter, thank God, was unmoved.