It wasn’t easy to pick a new town but I had a good feeling about the small town of Vine Grove. The wine was the clincher. I booked a couple nights at a newer bed & breakfast that was located at the outer edge of town.
Before hopping on Interstate 90, I purchased three large black coffees—I didn’t mind drinking them cold. Scorch and I needed several potty breaks but we made the trip in less than three hours.
As we pulled into town, my first impression was that it was quaint. The second was it celebrated Halloween with gusto. All the business fronts were highly decorated with Halloween décor. Same with the houses. I guess the town liked the holidays as much as I did.
Up ahead, I could see a neon sign from a mini-mart. I pulled in and parked, slipped a leash on Scorch, and hopped out. My back was stiff from sitting. “Come on, Scorch. Let’s see if the store is pet friendly.”
The door chimed as I entered.
“Hello there,” a deep male voice called from the back of the store.
I couldn’t see who spoke. “Hi. Is it okay if I bring my little dog in the store? He’s on a leash.”
The man belonging to the voice stepped out from behind the counter. He was spectacular looking. Dark hair, blue eyes beneath slashing dark brows, high cheekbones, and a beautifully shaped sensual mouth. He was dressed in a sweatshirt and dark, slim-cut jeans that revealed lots of lean muscle. A wolf whistle tickled the tip of my tongue.
Now this was a proper welcome to a new town.
He stopped a few inches from me, appreciation glowing in his eyes. “Oh, of course. I love Pug’s. What’s your name?” he asked my dog. The corners of his eyes crinkled when he spoke, I would guess not from age, but from living.
As he bent to pet Scorch, I noticed his hair was tied in a short queue at the back of his wide neck with a piece of fine leather. He reminded me of a pirate with his mischievous eyes.
I extended my hand. “I’m Finn Dubose.” And wanted to add—single and available.
Scorch tugged on his leash and it slipped through my fingers. He danced all around the handsome guy’s legs. Then Scorch was snatched up and hugged tight against the nicely formed chest of the stranger. Days like this, I wished I was a Pug.
The sexy guy reached out his free hand. It was cool, firm and comforting. “I’m Keaton Vanhorn. Is there anything I can help you with?”
Was there ever. “Yes. I just arrived in town. I was hoping to grab something to eat before checking into my room. Can you suggest anything?”
Scorch licked Keaton’s chin and he laughed. My dog had the right idea.
“There are some sandwiches, but they were made earlier today.” He jerked his thumb toward the refrigerated cases. “They’re back there.”
Old mayo and bread didn’t sound appealing. I scrunched up my face. “I think I’ll skip the sandwiches.”
He mouth curved into a wide smile. “Good idea.”
Keaton seemed content holding Scorch in his arms and Scorch wasn’t complaining. My dog’s eyes were shut. I looked around the store. “Do you own this place?”
“No. I’m a veterinarian. Mr. Johnson, the owner, forgot to pick up the dry cleaning for his wife so I said I’d watch the place for him for a couple minutes.” His eyebrows waggled. “Now, I’m glad I did.”
He was flirting with me. My cheeks heated in delight.
The door chimed again and a man bustled in. “Thanks, Keaton. You’re a life saver. Marg would have killed me if I forgot her clothes again.” Mr. Johnson walked up and stroked Scorch’s head. Then looked back and forth between Keaton and me. “Hi. I’m Carl.”
“This is Ms. Dubose.” He handed Scorch over and as he did, his arm brushed my shoulder. It tingled from the contact. “And this is Ms. Dubose’s dog, Scorch.”
“He’s a cutie.” Mr. Johnson scratched behind Scorch’s ear one more time before heading toward the back of the store.
“If you’re still hungry, I can recommend a great diner for you and your significant other…?” Keaton’s voice sounded deeper, huskier.
“It’s just us and I’m starved.” Scorch wiggled. I lowered him to the floor and he shook his little body. When I looked up, Keaton had a sensual, seductive look in his blue eyes.
“Good,” he stated firmly and brushed a strand of hair behind my ear.
As a romance editor, it was easy to picture Keaton removing a sword from its sheath and challenging another suitor for my honor.
“I have to get back to work, and I know we just met, but would you like to go to dinner tonight?” His penetrating eyes never left mine.
“I would, but I don’t want to leave Scorch alone on his first night in a new place. Does Vine Grove have pet-friendly restaurants?” I joked.
“No, but I have a solution. Scorch can hang out with another Pug I have at my office. Along with being the local vet, I pet sit. My facility has a covered, enclosed area for dogs to run and play while I’m working and an indoor play area when I’m not.”
“Scorch would love that. We’ve been traveling for the last nine months and he hasn’t been able to spend much time with other dogs.”
“Really? I’d like to hear about your travels.”