Page 39 of Possess Me

“Don’t you have any decent animal activists on this island?” Her anger and determination matched what little I knew about her. “What about a vet? Do you have any vets here?”

The poor kid looked at me for help.

“Why don’t we get the dog inside and I’ll see what I can do.”

“She needs a bath. I don’t have a bathtub.”

“Come on. We’ll go to my cottage.” I grabbed our shoes, half laughing at myself for being out of shape. At least she didn’t argue with me, although I had to admit to myself at least that I had no idea what the fuck to do from here.

Sure, I loved animals like the next guy, but I hadn’t come on this trip expecting to rescue and harbor one.

Still, I’d all but promised Fallon I’d help. When I tried once again to take the dog from her, the look she gave me was as full of venom as any I’d seen from a woman.

I remained quiet, rubbing sweat from my face with my arm as we headed down the path leading to the cottages. I moved ahead of her, sliding the keycard into the lock. She nuzzled the dog, hesitating to come inside. When she rubbed her face against the dog’s head, the pup finally licked her cheek.

The delight and relief in Fallon’s eyes were notable, maybe managing to crack a portion of my rough exterior.

“Come on. Let’s see what we’re dealing with. Then I’ll make a few calls. But you need to listen to me. You can’t go off halfcocked like that again.”

“The last time I looked, I was the mistress of my own destiny. I know what I’m capable of.”

Oh, the need to spank her was stronger than before.

She took a few seconds, her eyes darting back and forth across mine with such defiance I was shocked. I’d be damned if she wasn’t trying to determine if she could trust me. What in the hell had the woman been through? It wasn’t my place or my business, but the continued thought of protecting her lingered in the forefront of my mind.

“Fine. Let’s see if we can help the dog.”

“The baby. She’s just a baby. I do appreciate your help.” She tossed out the last words even as she continued glaring at me.

Her words dripped of formality. “You’re welcome.” I held the door open and she took a few seconds studying the cottage. “The bathroom is this way.” The cottage itself was incredible with every amenity thought of.

The views were even better, the thought of vacationing here already entering my mind. First of all, I couldn’t remember the last time I’d taken some time off, but more than that, my distrust for Ludolf was only increasing.

I turned on the bathroom light and she immediately placed the pup on the bathroom counter, gingerly peeling away the shirt. The look on Fallon’s face captured my attention and the way she brushed fur from the dog’s face could melt even a soulless man’s heart.

Some might say I didn’t have one. I chuckled inwardly from the thought. Who knew I’d be worried about the fate of a wayward pup.

“I think she’s Great Pyrenees. She’s beautiful. Look at her eyes.”

She gently tipped the pup’s head so I could see. They were a beautiful chocolate brown with flecks of gold. Just like the woman tenderly caressing her.

“Soulful.”

She nodded. “Will you turn the water on in the bathtub? I’m going to check to see if she has any broken bones.”

“You’re sure she’s a her?”

Her laugh was sultry, her eyes flashing amusement. “I do know how to check and see if I’m dealing with a male.” With a wink, she returned her attention to the dog, slowly rubbing her hand down the front of the pup’s legs.

I shook my head, resisting the filthy retort my mind had already created. As I turned on the water, I listened to Fallon telling the dog everything was going to be okay.

I certainly admired her determination and courage.

“Don’t forget to pull down the handheld showerhead for me. I cannot believe someone did this to you and what the fuck is wrong with the people who work here? They knew she needed help long before she got to this point. She’s emaciated. Don’t worry, Bella. You’ll never go another day hungry as long as I’m in your life.”

“Bella?”

“I need to name her. She looks like a sweet Bella. Don’t you?”