Total pages in book: 21
Estimated words: 19554 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 98(@200wpm)___ 78(@250wpm)___ 65(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 19554 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 98(@200wpm)___ 78(@250wpm)___ 65(@300wpm)
“You won’t ever have to find out,” I say, but that protectiveness is mixed with an undeniable attraction that electrifies the air between us.
She hands over her customer list and I look it over. Relief rushes through me as I realize I not only know everyone, but they’re all upstanding citizens. Although it eases my concerns, I’m not sure I’ll ever get used to her driving around without protection. Tomorrow, I’m going to make a few inquiries and see what it takes to get her van outfitted with cameras and a panic button.
Chapter 10
Emily
My heart pounds as I pull up in front of what can only be described as a freaking mini-mansion. This house looks like it belongs in a magazine spread, complete with an immaculate lawn, elegant columns, and a fountain sparkling in the morning sunlight. My first appointment as a mobile dog groomer feels surreal, and the stakes are higher than ever. I take a deep breath, trying to calm the nerves prickling in my stomach.
As I glance in the rearview mirror, I do a double take when I see Ashton’s patrol car pull up next to the curb. My heart skips a beat, a mix of excitement and unexpected warmth flooding me. Just the sight of him in that uniform sends butterflies swarming in my stomach.
Leaning out of the window, I wave at him, my grin broadening like an idiot. He catches my eye and tilts his head in acknowledgment, his smile matching mine. There’s some comfort in seeing him nearby.
I hop out of the van, the sun warming my face as I walk up to the front door. I ring the doorbell, and a sudden rush of adrenaline surges through me as I prepare to meet my first clients.
The door swings open to reveal a middle-aged woman wearing a starched white shirt and black pants. “Good morning. How may I help you?” Wow. She must be the housekeeper. So, this is how the other half lives.
“I’m here for Princess’s grooming appointment,” I say confidently, brushing off my first-day nerves.
“Of course,” she replies, redirecting her smile. “Please, come in and I’ll get her.”
I follow the maid into the posh house, and she leads me through a spacious hallway scented with something floral and fresh.
“Princess!” the maid calls, and within moments, a regal brown standard poodle glides into view. She’s a vision, prancing in a way that says she knows she’s a star.
“Hey there, gorgeous!” I bend down, running a hand over Princess’s silky fur. “Are you ready for your spa day?”
The poodle responds with a happy bark, and I can’t help but laugh.
The maid clips a leash to her pink sparkly collar and hands it to me. “Thank you. It shouldn’t take more than an hour or so.”
“Perfect.” She smiles back as I lead Princess out to my grooming van. The mix of excitement and nerves amplifies tenfold as I feel Ashton’s presence nearby. It’s absurd how much having him close puts me at ease.
Once we’re at the van, I start prepping for the grooming session, talking to Princess as I wash her. “You’ve got to tell me all your secrets while I work my magic,” I say, feeling the bond deepen. The poodle closes her eyes while I lather her up, letting me know she’s enjoying the pampering.
Halfway through the process, I glance out the window and see Ashton still parked by the curb, his arms resting casually against the steering wheel. I can’t help but smile to myself, feeling a jolt of love so strong it nearly brings me to my knees.
After drying her off, I give her a traditional poodle cut with all the pom-poms. Princess is the perfect first client, and everything goes smoothly. “You look incredible,” I tell her as I finish up.
With the appointment complete, I escort a freshly groomed Princess back to the front door. “She’s all done,” I declare triumphantly to the maid.
“Thank you so much! She looks beautiful,” the maid says, her gratitude sincere as she pets Princess affectionately. “Mr. Thomas wanted me to make another appointment six weeks from now,” she tells me and I pull out my phone to schedule it.
“Have a great day,” I tell her as I step outside and make my way back to the van. Glancing over my shoulder, I spot Ashton leaning against his car, still watching, a proud look on his face that makes me feel all tingly.
“Are you following me to the next appointment?” I call out, already knowing the answer.
“Of course,” he replies, laughter dancing in his voice. “Protecting you is the most important job in the world.”
I already knew I loved him, but his sweetness seals the deal.
“I’ll see you at the next stop then.” I give him a wave before hopping into the van.
The rest of the day passes quickly as I wrangle and pamper my new clients. I finally wrap up my last appointment feeling both exhausted and excited by my successful day. Every single client booked follow-up appointments, so my schedule is steadily booking up. I send Ashton a quick text letting him know I’m done and heading to his house before I leave my last stop.