I Kissed a Dog

chapter 3

When I pulled into my self-proclaimed parking spot, my outlook had improved dramatically. I was looking forward to my schedule.

On Mondays I spent time with the park’s Capybaras, the world’s largest rodents. The new capy babies squealed in delight anytime I approached. I know for certain their cries equal delight, because I can see what they’re thinking. My smiling face to them is all about food and a good behind-the-ear-scratching-session. Not to mention, the jumbo-sized rodents wouldn’t try to maul me like Butch.

I grabbed my bag from the backseat and stretched, taking a moment to soak in some morning rays.

“You’re looking pretty pleased with yourself,” Rhonda scoffed with a sneer, her backside glued to the hood of her older model Jetta. She sucked down smoke as if tar and nicotine were the elixir for eternal life.

Geeze I’d expected her to pick up where she’d left off, but not before I left the parking lot. If I wasn’t careful, she’d deflate my good mood like a pin popping a balloon.

“I thought you were going to quit?” I snapped. According to Hank the Chimpanzee, Rhonda was enemy numero uno. He’d get no argument from me on that revelation.

She’d planted herself in front of Hank’s enclosure and proceeded to have a nice, long chat with herself — about little ole me. Hank, with the promise of a ripe banana, had shown me the one-sided conversation in its entirety. In addition to her raging jealousy, Rhonda pretty much thinks I’m a crazy bitch with the ability to manipulate Luke into obeying my every whim. Don’t I wish! Luke obeying me would be damn convenient.

“Any theories on who’s killing those guys?” Rhonda flicked her cigarette away. “I knew them both.”

So much for not brooding over the stabbings; Rhonda wouldn’t be the only one analyzing the unsolved crimes today.

To my relief, our conversation was cut short by the purring engine of a vintage Corvette. The Wildlife Park wouldn’t open for an hour. This gleaming red car didn’t belong to any local resident. I would have remembered that muscular arm resting in the open window...

“Wow! That’s what I call a real man.” Rhonda stared, her gaze hungry.

“Good morning, ladies.” A deep voice drew my attention away from the pristine paint job.

After a quick glance at our visitor, and a near heart attack, I bolted toward the entrance, hating myself for my ridiculous reaction.

Rhonda offered her eager assistance.

There was no denying he was the same smoldering, hot hero who just yesterday saved my butt from a good lion chewing. I’d seen plenty of good looking men, even dated a few, but for some reason, the stranger in the parking lot had rendered me speechless, and feeling stupid.

As a rule, I’m quick with my words and have no trouble socializing with the male species. Not that I’ve found one worthy of my undivided time and attention, but I enjoyed flirting.

What I’d just seen of our guest made my stomach twist and my heart race. I could feel the heat rising up my neck. At least my toffee-colored skin would camouflage the evidence of my blush.

Talk about a schoolgirl reaction.

The newcomer had to be at least six five, with piercing brown eyes and strong arched eyebrows. Those chiseled cheekbones made the bottom frame for those eyes.

Glancing back, I caught another peek at my lion-rescuer. He was also blessed with long, tousled, blue-black waves that spilled over his broad shoulders, as untamed as the lion. I forced my eyes away from the broad shoulders that tapered into a narrow waist and rock hard butt and hurried through the familiar park entrance, abandoning my need to thank him.

“Here’s my favorite girl.” Luke unlocked the gate, holding it open in his normal, gentlemanly fashion. I stumbled in, almost meeting the pavement with my face.

Used to my clumsiness, Luke scooped me up at the last moment. “Chloe, Chloe.” He shook his head, reminding me how much I depended on him.

Knowing he wouldn’t expect a thank you, I demanded, “Who’s the big dude with the rock star hair?” I needed to know. How could I focus with Mr. Muscle around? The more nervous I was, the more dangerously clumsy I became. “Why is he here today?”

“Big dude with the hair, that would be me,” a smug masculine voice replied from behind.

If I had been a flower, I’d have wilted on the spot.

Somehow, I managed to locate my composure and put on my biggest, brightest, and fakest smile — courtesy of my mother’s handy, hide your emotions “training.”

“And who might you be?” I demanded, raising my gaze to meet his. I tried to keep my focus on his mouth so his eyes wouldn’t distract me. I failed.

“I’m Dr. Zane Marshall, the new vet.” He held my gaze. His eyes, flicked with gold, were almost as dark as his hair. He raised an eyebrow.

“Isn’t this great!” Rhonda squealed, oblivious to my discomfort. “Our very own hero.”

I spun to face my boss who had a sheepish grin on his All-American face.

“When were you going to tell me I was getting a new partner?” I blurted.

“Hold on, Chloe; no one knew. Dr. Marshall gave me his answer an hour ago. It’s about time we have a full-time vet.

You can diagnose the animals’ problems, but then we have to call in people to fix those problems. Our system worked fine during the winter, but summer’s too busy. Besides, he did you quite the favor yesterday.”

Luke was right on both accounts. Zane had done me a huge favor — keeping me alive. There were very few wildlife vets that worked on call anymore. It was expensive to get one here right away. We’d been using a retired wildlife veterinarian who’d been mauled to death by his own cougar.

Luke turned his attention back to the new vet. “Now that we’ve figured out why Dr. Marshall …”

“Mr. Snider, I prefer Zane.”

“I’ll make you a deal, call me Luke and I’ll call you Zane,” Luke suggested, sounding pleased with his newest employee.

“Call me confused,” I huffed. “I’ve got a busy day. The Capys need my attention.”

“Hold on. Today, you can show Mr. … Zane around and get him acquainted with our park procedures.” I could tell by Luke’s crossed arms and narrowed eyes that this was an order not a suggestion.

With a loud sigh, I communicated my disapproval and marched off to my storage cubby. I could hear other employees arriving, followed by more introductions.

Why did this Zane have to be drop dead gorgeous wearing Levis that hugged his muscular legs? I’m a leg girl. Powerful legs and a tight bum were a major turn on. His presence gave me heartburn. It looked like I’d have to invest in some strong antacids.

As a rule, I don’t worry much about my appearance during work hours, but today was different. Dr. Zane Marshall had changed all that when he roared into Plum Beach in his spiffy sports car. My always-trustworthy instincts screamed warnings, while my body shouted something downright pornographic.

This newfound physical attraction was just plain inconvenient. Staying distant and professional was going to be a top priority. Especially since the other time I’d experienced a reaction even close to this was with Jordon, and that hadn’t ended well for either of us. I still had some serious emotional ghosts, as Melanie called them, haunting my heart.

“Hey, I didn’t mean to be so gruff.” Luke caught up as I tried to slink from the women’s restroom, where I’d applied lipstick, for the first time I could remember. I moved on to the coffee maker.

He was pretty much in tune to my routine. Organize cubby. Visit the restroom. Drink too much coffee. Then work. Always in that order.

Predictability was one theme I appreciated about my job. The information the animals broadcasted had the potential to interrupt my calm façade, but otherwise, work was my safe place. Now, without warning, a new man had upset the one place where routines kept me grounded and semi-sane. Sure, on my extended commute I’d wished for something exciting to happen, but Zane wasn’t what I had in mind, and work wasn’t the place.

“I’m sorry,” Luke pressed, eager to restore peace.

“You didn’t even tell me you’d interviewed someone,” I accused. Luke had always been upfront with me. I guess I felt slighted, although I knew that was silly. Consulting with me wasn’t in his job description. But, still —

“I’m not sure what it is about our new employee that has you so rattled. I figured you’d like the help. This guy is good. You should see his references.”

“I’m not worried about his references or his skill level. I’m worried about his cocky, know-it-all attitude,” I huffed.

How else could I explain what I was feeling?

Gee, Luke, the guy is the hottest thing I’ve seen, ever. He makes me uncomfortable. Yep, that word — uncomfortable — still harassed me like an un-exorcised demon. And I owe him my life, that’s always a plus in any relationship.

“Everyone else seems to like him.” Luke filled another cup with steaming coffee. He had the nerve to sound offended.

His unexpected defense of Zane infuriated me more.

“Good for them! I don’t.” I knew I was acting like a spoiled brat, but I didn’t care.

Grabbing my mug, I marched away, not bothering to clean up the brown liquid I sloshed onto the floor. I could imagine what Luke was thinking. He was aware I was prone to an occasional emotional tirade, but my rant today far exceeded anything he’d witnessed. He’d have something more to say later, once he figured out how to approach me.

I could count on it.

Careful to calm myself before entering the central courtyard, I tried breathing through my nose then out my mouth, while counting from one to ten. Most of the time, the method worked. Realizing ten wouldn’t be enough, I continued to twenty, which proved to be the magic number, allowing me to walk, not stalk, to my usual bench.

The concrete slab featured a name plaque engraved with one of the wildlife park’s founding families. I avoided sitting on the engraved wording. Not only did it offend my behind, but it also felt kind of sacrilegious.

From my perch, I sipped my coffee, wishing for more sugar, and listened to the awakening animals. Chirps, growls, and a few roars chorused, signaling the start of a new day at Plum Beach Wildlife Park.

For a blessed moment, I forgot my new partner.

My bliss flipped to frustration as Dr. Zane Marshal strode into the courtyard surrounded by several admiring female workers, including Rhonda, and a small troop of men eager to prove their worthiness to this god of men. Ridiculous! It was like high school all over again.

Attempting to ignore the commotion, I willed myself to listen to the animals, hoping to catch a clear impression. In most cases, I had to be focused on one specific creature, yet the canine patrol dog had confirmed I was getting better at communicating from afar.

Shutting my eyes, I forced all nagging thoughts away and listened.

She’s one beautiful bitch.

What —? My eyes flew open in time to see one of the park’s free-wandering goat’s lips part, ready to nibble.

I lifted the goat’s head and gazed into her eyes.

I’m so hungry. I’m so hungry. Just a little bite … The goat’s mind reflected her desire to chew on my clothing, just as I’d expected. Goats weren’t the most intelligent beasts on the block.

I scanned the area. The one animal looking my way was a beastly but very human veterinarian.

I couldn’t read humans, no matter how hard I tried. After discovering my post-coma ability, I’d expended a ton of energy attempting to reach my own species. It just didn’t work. So, what or who had formulated such a crude thought?

For the first time, which added to the mystery, there weren’t any pictures accompanying the words. In general, animals didn’t use words in the traditional sense. Their thinking revolved around their senses, and what they both saw and heard, sort of like a video preview. With this latest development, I’d entered uncharted territory.

Today, I’d heard, without a doubt, the worded thought of an animal. My gift was expanding, transforming again. The capricious ability seemed to evolve without notice. An animal using the “B” word was beyond baffling. It was bizarre.

“Sorry to interrupt your coffee break, but I thought we should get moving. We’ve got a lot of ground to cover.” Zane’s commanding tone implied that he was used to getting what he wanted.

I gasped, almost spilling my coffee.

Towering over me, it was evident he’d left his newfound followers to their own work.

How such a large man could approach with such stealth was unnerving. He’d advanced without my knowledge — something that never happened. Having a cop for a parent had taught me to be ultra-vigilant. Bottom line: I should have heard him.

“Excuse me, but I’m not on a break, as you so quickly assumed. My shift,” I glanced meaningfully at my watch, “doesn’t start for ten more minutes.” I swallowed my uneasiness with a long drink.

“Fine, I’ll join you.” Without waiting for an invitation, he took a seat on the bench. Stretching his legs, he rotated his shoulders. I was overwhelmed by a masculine, musky fragrance. Shampoo? Whatever it was smelled way too good. I inched away, hoping to put a safer distance between us.

What’s with her? Do I stink?

“What?” I stammered. This couldn’t be happening. Of all people, why him?

Seeming to realize that I’d infiltrated his thoughts, he grimaced.

Just Great! Considering we’d be working together, good ole Luke had explained my talent to our newest employee. But why Zane would assume that my animal-reading-ability extended to him, a human being, was beyond me.

I leaned closer, this time forgetting to hide my intentions.

Attempting to slide into his mind, I was met with a brick wall — a very vivid image of a brick barrier blocked my probing, making it impossible to sense anything.

I was shut out, on purpose, it seemed.

No animal had ever stopped my snooping. They seemed eager to comply. Apparently, humans were different.

Between my latest encounter with death, my ever-expanding talents, the murders, and Zane’s sudden appearance, I felt my stress level rising. I had to make a decision: Stuff my feelings until later, when I could sort through them alone, or go bonkers and lose my job.

The example my parents' had set once again guided my decision. For now, I’d ignore the strange incidents and pretend my world was standing right side up.

Gulping down the last of my coffee, I handed Zane a park map. “Let’s go.”

Forcing myself to treat Zane as I would any new employee, I babbled on about the various animals, citing their unique traits, histories, and dispositions. Zane took careful notes and remained silent other than a number of questions about the black bears. I was grateful that he hadn’t attempted to bring up our earlier mind reading encounter or yesterday’s lion taming/Chloe shaming incident.

The few times I tried to tune in to his thoughts left me disappointed. The brick wall remained strong, shielding his mind. The good news — he didn’t seem aware of my failed intrusions, at least he didn’t acknowledge them. Maybe the barrier he’d managed to erect was permanent, although I wasn’t sure how that would work. It wasn’t like I’d found a how-to-manual for my condition.

“What’s going up over there?” Zane stopped to watch several men working on a new exhibit building.

“Come on. I’ll show you.” I hurried ahead eager to see the latest developments.

Luke’s dream to add a mini-aquarium was becoming a reality. I was amazed by the progress.

“Hey, Chloe!” Joel, one of the younger workers, turned to wave from his rooftop perch, bumping several nearby metal poles in the process.

One of the huge rods was catapulted my direction.

With no time to move away, I dropped to my knees, covering my head with my arms. I felt a gust of air.

I froze, waiting for impact. Nothing hit me but relief and curiosity.

I opened one eye than the other.

What I saw made no sense. Zane was lowering several poles to the ground without any effort.

“Man! How’d you do that?” The worker stared at the rods, awed.

“You should worry less about me, kid, and more about keeping this work site safe. You could have killed her.” Zane glanced back, his concern obvious, causing my heart to do an unfamiliar flip flop.

Severe shock, again … that would explain my increased heart rate. Of course, I was in shock. What else could it be? The guy had saved my life twice in less than twenty-four hours.

Before I could even begin finding my feet, Zane was lifting me up, holding my elbow to keep me steady. My legs wobbled, but with his help, I remained standing.

Several workers offered apologies.

Joel rushed to my side. “Chloe, I’m so sorry. I messed up. Can you forgive me?”

I nodded and turned toward Zane, more interested in his heroic actions. “How did you get to me in time?” I asked, lowering my voice.

I tried to gauge the distance he must have traveled to reach me. Last I remembered he’d been several long paces away, and I was convinced the steel beams weighed far more than any one man could lift. He’d laid them down like putting pencils on a desk.

This latest occurrence reminded me of yesterday’s rapid rescue effort, and it made no sense. Men just didn’t move that fast, nor could they subdue lions with their bare hands. The whole incident seemed to have a surreal quality to it. And to think I’d wished for excitement.

“Well?” I pressed, waiting for his explanation.

“I’ve been known to respond with adrenaline a time or two.” He shrugged. “No big deal.”

“No big deal. You’re kidding, right? You saved my life, not once, but twice.” The idea that I was indebted to this massive man didn’t sit well in my gut. “Thank you,” I stammered.

Seeming to read my mind, he shrugged. “I’d have done it for anyone. In spite of what you might think about me, I’m a pretty helpful guy.” He released my arm.

“You can help me anytime,” I said, making sure I sounded serious; because I was.

“You can count on it.” Looking uncomfortable, he turned to gather my scattered papers.

“Do you want to continue the tour?” I asked, hoping we could move on. I didn’t want to dwell on my latest dance with death.

“If you’re able, I’m willing.” He smiled, a broad smile that reached his eyes, softening his features.

“Thanks to you, I’m able.” I accepted my paperwork and moved to the next exhibit, trying to ignore the warmth spreading through me like liquid heat. His smile had the same effect on me as the sun had earlier.

Sun lover equals Zane lover? No way! Not a chance. I shoved the ridiculous idea away.

We’d reached the wolves, one of my favorite exhibits in spite of my aversion to dogs. A male and three females lived in the wilderness-inspired enclosure.

Unlike many zoos, the park’s animals had large areas to explore, making their confined existence more bearable. At this point, all the animals had been born in captivity, and I’d never heard any complain about their surroundings.

For the most part, the wolves watched from a distance. They stuck together and avoided human contact, forming their own little pack. Feeding time was the one exception.

Zane fixed his gaze on the big male and made a funny growling noise deep in his throat. Much to my surprise the grey wolf trotted toward us.

“Magnificent creature,” Zane acknowledged. He squatted and faced the wolf through the gaps in the fencing.

After a few minutes of silent staring, the wolf retreated.

Randall, I spoke the wolf’s name in my mind. What did the man say?

All I could decipher was a picture of an enormous black wolf and the word, brother. Another actual word? My ability was morphing from the caterpillar phase into a fully developed butterfly, and I had no clue how or why it was happening, or when it would stop.

“You’re not the only one with a special animal connection,” Zane boasted.

“I’ve never claimed to be the one and only!” I shot back, feeling defensive.

Regardless of his rescue efforts, he still annoyed me on several levels. Later, I’d give Luke my ultimatum: Zane or me. As for the wolf’s strange mental impression, I’d explore that later as well, right along with my growing list of crazy and impossible things to consider.

“You are high-spirited, aren’t you?” he teased.

“What did you expect, another pining woman?” Why did I feel the need to be so mean? He’d saved my life — two times. It wasn’t his fault more of my coma-acquired-gift was being unwrapped without my permission.

“Chloe, I’ve managed to offend you. I’m sorry. I’d hoped for a compatible partnership with a coworker. I’m guessing that’s not in the stars.” He sounded disappointed.

Before I could process his apology, he reached for my hand. “Hello, my name is Zane Marshall. Can we start over?”

The moment our hands touched an electrical current coursed through my veins like an illicit drug. I quizeredquivered as I stumbled backward, almost falling. The strained look on his face was evidence enough that he, too, had felt the intoxicating sensation.

As much as I hated to admit it, there was something both alluring and odd about Zane Marshall. And I was desperate to know more.

Zane tensed. Our moment ended as Rhonda, a cat in heat, sashayed toward us,

“How’s it going? Enjoying your tour?”

“Very much so.” His eyes traveled down my frame, lingering on my breasts then legs. My face burned in what was surely a very brazen blush. I doubted my darker coloring could hide my heated reaction this time around. I didn’t care.

It gave me an odd sense of power to see him focused on me with the curvy, platinum-blonde batting her lashes. When Rhonda found a man she wanted, she made no effort to hide her intentions. Zane was the latest man on her hit list of hunks.

“What are you doing for lunch?” Her question was for Zane alone. She made that clear by sliding closer to him while ignoring my presence. I should have been happy to see him vanish for awhile, but instead, an unexpected stab of jealousy pierced between my ribs.

The next words tumbled out of my mouth shocking us all. “Zane’s having lunch with me. We’ve still got some animals to visit anyway.” I waited for his sure-to-follow rejection. Why would he want to have lunch with a sourpuss like me when Rhonda would stroke his ego and a whole lot more if he desired.

“That’s right, I’m sorry, but Chloe and I have more work to complete before we can head out. If you’d like to join us, it’ll be awhile.” His attempt at diplomacy was lost on Rhonda.

Her face scrunched into a mask of fury.

I knew right then that our treaty of common dislike had just expanded to hatred on her part. I’d have to watch my back more than ever.

“I’ll take a rain check.” She softened her features before turning to smile at Zane, and then strode away, making sure to sway her ample hips.

“Wow — is she always like that?” Zane grimaced.

“Do I have to answer?” I tried to conceal the excitement I felt knowing that this Hercules of a Man preferred me over a sure roll in the sack. This latest development added to my growing belief that there was more to Dr. Marshall than I’d originally thought.

“So, you’re treating me to lunch?” His face lit up with a boyish grin that just about won me over on the spot.

“Co-workers go Dutch. That’s the rule around here,” I joked

“Fair enough. I saw a little seafood place down the road.”

“Which one?” This was the Oregon Coast. Seafood was the main staple. Where was this guy from anyway — Mars? I’d once read a book about men being from Mars.

He seemed to catch my attempt at humor slash sarcasm. “All right now, play nice. I’m the outsider. You pick.”

Twenty minutes later, we were seated across from each other at the Plum Beach Fish and Steak House. I eyed the menu, trying to keep from gawking at Zane, who looked larger than life in the small booth. Every female in the place was stealing glances our way. Zane seemed oblivious to the attention, another plus for my new partner.

An afternoon newsbreak filled the flat screens mounted on various walls throughout the restaurant. Several patrons called for the staff to turn up the volume.

Police Chief, Robert Daily, dabbing his face with a handkerchief, waited behind the podium, prepared to make an official statement. He shuffled through a pile of papers. Another man, wearing a tasteful business suit that boasted a major designer’s label, waited nearby. He gripped his own stack of papers.

I didn’t recognize him. Of the two men, he appeared the calmest.

“Friends,” Chief Daily began. “It is times like these, when drawing closer as a community is more important than ever. As you are aware, two of our town’s young men were needlessly murdered.”

The word needlessly struck me as the wrong word to use when describing a murder victim; however, Police Chief Daily wasn’t the type of person that garnered respect. Today was no exception. He’d always seemed out of his league making public announcements. If the situation weren’t so dire, I might feel sorry for him.

“We are working overtime to solve these cases and bring justice for these crimes and peace back to Plum Beach. I understand your concerns about the tourist season, and realize that many of your livelihoods are being affected by these events. …”

“Why can’t you catch this creep?” Someone yelled from the crowd of onlookers surrounding the podium.

“We heard there was another killing!” a woman shouted.

“Hold on, folks, please, let me finish,” his voice trembled.

I looked at Zane to see if he was watching the news like everyone else. Sensing my scrutiny, he turned away from the screen. “Did you know either of these men?” His eyes mirrored the concern in his voice.

Thankfully, I could answer no. We turned back to the report in time to see the well-dressed man replace the chief at the podium.

“My name is Agent Green. I’m from the Portland FBI Field Office. I will be working with your local police department to bring a rapid resolution to these events. To answer your question about an additional murder; you are correct.”

People gasped, both on and off the screens. Hushed conversations broke out around the restaurant. I held my breath waiting for the details, hoping that once again I’d be a stranger to the victim.

I should have known my luck would run out.

“Our latest victim has been identified by family members as Seth Johnson, a local fisherman who worked part time for Tim’s Tackle and Treasures. If you are a single man, between the ages of eighteen and thirty, we advise you to remain vigilant.”

A throng of reporters pushed forward as the officers turned to leave. The local anchorman returned, providing a press conference summary.

“I knew Seth Johnson,” I said, surprised by the hitch in my throat. “It wasn’t like we were close or anything, but he helped me pick out fishing gear for my stepdad when he visited last summer. Seth was just a kid. He couldn’t be, have been, more than eighteen or nineteen.”

“I’m sorry. Do you want to leave?” He asked with genuine concern.

“I don’t think so. My stomach’s still growling and there’s nothing not eating will fix.” I hoped I didn’t sound callous, but by the twinkle in his eyes, I knew he agreed.

Avoiding any further discussion about the murders, we instead discussed park procedures between huge bites of grilled salmon and steak, cleaning our plates like two people ravished by an inhuman hunger. I almost choked, considering just how much I’d like to be ravished by the man inclined over his plate.

Seeming to read my thoughts, he glanced up, running his tongue over his upper lip. I couldn’t help imagining what his tongue would feel like gliding down me.

I scolded myself. Thoughts like those belonged to a sex-starved woman, not a twenty-four-year-old-virgin. I had every intention of keeping my purity intact until my wedding night, but for the first time, ever, I wondered if I’d make it.

Zane, if he uncovered my internal battle, was certain to rise to the challenge of deflowering me. Keeping a safe distance had become more important.

Being raised a good Baptist girl made an impact on my beliefs. My religious upbringing was like a safety net keeping me from losing control and following after what my mother referred to as desires of the flesh. I’d never understood the whole temptation principle, until this moment. I wished now that I’d paid closer attention in church.

“Delicious!” He reached for his water.

“Amen to that!” I agreed, sounding far more spiritual than I felt.

Zane gave me a lopsided grin. I couldn’t blame him. Typically, I didn’t shout amen after a meal — although my steak had been flame-broiled to perfection.

“Can I tell you a secret?” His eyes twinkled with mischief.

I leaned forward, eager to learn what type of secret a man like Zane might reveal.

“I love a woman who’s not afraid to eat when she’s hungry.”

Not sure whether to feel insulted or pleased, I decided on pleased. I’d always hated phony women who refused to eat in front of men. “Thanks, I think. I enjoy food.”

“That’s just one of many things we have in common.”

“I’m sorry. Did I miss something?” Now I was baffled. I barely knew Zane Marshall. Although, I was beginning to hope that would change despite my internal warning system flashing red.

“We both care about animals. We’ve determined we enjoy food, and we like each other.” His expression dared me to say otherwise.

“I think you’re overestimating our very short acquaintance. To be honest, earlier, I was leaning toward the not-liking-you side. Your car caught my attention, though. Oh, and the fact you kept me from getting mauled and crushed helped.”

“See! We both like my car!” He laughed loud enough that a few heads turned our direction. He lowered his voice, “I do like you, Chloe. I have what you might call a sixth sense about people. You’re a good woman, but you don’t believe it.”

Stunned by his assessment, and how close our faces were, I pulled back. No one had ever called me a good woman, and he was right, believing it wasn’t easy for me. My former teenage confidence had diminished after my dramatic breakup with Jordon, amongst other things better forgotten.

Not comfortable with the emotions he’d triggered, and intending to keep my commitment by paying my own tab, I reached for my purse.

“I don’t believe in going Dutch.” He pulled a shiny gold card from his wallet.

“Oh, I see.” My protective defenses slammed into place. “Women aren’t capable of paying their own way. You think I’m some damsel in distress looking for a big strong man to save me.”

My comment drew the ire of two older women seated at the table next to us. They looked appalled by my outburst.

I had no reference point for Zane. A man who looked like a movie star, but was also insightful, humorous, and seemed to care, was beyond comprehension.

Too good to be true was exactly that: too good to be true.

I’d been hurt by a so-called perfect man once before. It wouldn’t happen again.

“How was your lunch?” A pretty waitress accepted his card. Like every woman who came within ten feet of Zane, she made no attempt to hide her approval.

Crossing my arms, I waited, wishing I’d driven. Oh, no; I just had to ride in the Corvette.

When the waitress returned, she scribbled what I imagined was her phone number, before handing over the receipt. Zane gave her a blinding smile.

What a dog! I thought. Typical male.

Luke was going to have to choose between his newest employee and me after all. Plum Beach Wildlife Park wasn’t big enough for both of us. I hoped my seniority and Luke’s long-term crush would give me the edge I needed.

We’d know soon enough.