Epilogue #2
in the marketing and sales of dog treats, but she did know animals, and this played to her strengths. They hoped to provide
funding to shelters and rescues all over the world. “Plenty of space for a desk and a computer. This will work just fine.”
They walked to the end of the hall to the primary bedroom. It was spacious, with hardwood floors and bright sunny windows.
“This is nice. Lots of room for a big bed,” Emilio said. He seemed to be slowly softening to the house.
Willa cleared her throat. “That’s right. Plenty of room.”
“Gus likes to sleep with us,” Emilio said.
“Uh-huh,” answered Willa.
They checked out the other rooms, including the kitchen, which would likely be a gut job, but Piper’s dad had several friends
who were contractors. It wouldn’t be a problem.
“I’ll leave you two to talk about everything,” her mom said when they’d finished the tour. “I’ll be outside if you need anything.”
Piper so appreciated that her mom gave them space. “The backyard is fenced in for Gus.”
“Let’s walk out there,” Emilio said. “We only saw it from the sliding glass door. I’d like a better look at the pool.”
Piper felt another glimmer of optimism. Maybe this house could win him over. Hand in hand, they slipped through the door out
onto the flagstone patio. It was covered on one end by a pergola, and the pool was lovely—retro with deep turquoise tile.
It would need a little TLC, but Gus would love it. He would spend hours in that pool. It might be impossible to get him out.
Off to the side was a grassy area. “This is perfect for Gus,” Piper said. “And it goes all the way around to the other side
of the house.” When she turned the corner to view the side yard, she gasped. There, straight ahead, were two adorable dog
houses.
“Oh, my God. Emilio. Look. It’s perfect.”
“Gus isn’t going to want to sleep in there.”
“No. Probably not. I mean, he’s very, very spoiled. But maybe it’s a sign this house is right for us.”
“Maybe.”
“I should probably tell you that I talked to my mom’s client. The woman who runs the local animal shelter.”
“And?”
Piper smiled and stepped closer, taking his hand, hoping her touch could influence him. “They have a super-cute dog. A female
border collie. Apparently, she’s a little shy. Probably about two years old. She was abandoned in a parking lot.”
Emilio frowned. “Oh, no. That breaks my heart.”
“Apparently, she’s doing really well. Eating like crazy. She’s just not too sure about the shelter. It’s noisy and that’s
a difficult environment for a dog that’s been traumatized.”
“Are you saying what I think you’re saying?”
“That Gus needs a sister?”
He unleashed a wide and effortless grin. “You’re unbelievable.”
“In a good way?”
“In the best way. And that could be nice. Then Gus would have a companion. Someone to play with.”
“Someone else to knock over. Besides me.”
“Exactly.”
“So we’re doing this?”
He nodded. “Yes to the house. I’d like to meet the dog first.”
Just when Piper hadn’t thought she could get any happier, this happened. It was all too perfect.
“Of course.” They found Willa out in the driveway. “We’ll take it,” Piper said.
“You two don’t mess around with making a decision, do you?” Willa asked. “That’s wonderful. Now, I told Piper I’d waive my
commission to save you all some money.”
Emilio cast Willa a look. “Please don’t waive your commission.”
“You’re family, Emilio. Family does not pay a commission. What are we thinking about offering?”
“Ten percent above asking? Will that help get the deal done?” Emilio asked.
“I have a feeling that offer will do very well.” Willa hitched her purse up onto her shoulder. “Are we meeting at the house
for dinner later? Or are you two coming over now?”
Piper opened her car door. “Actually, we need to go see about a dog.”
“Tracy found something for you?” her mom asked. “That’s wonderful.”
Piper and Emilio climbed into the car, and she started the engine. “Now. I want you to keep an open mind.”
“I already said yes to the house, and you know I’m going to say yes to the dog. What else is there to be open-minded about?”
Piper bit down on her lower lip. “Did I mention that the shelter also has a super-cute cat? Gray and white with a pink nose?”
“Do you have cat treats in your pocket?”
“Ummm . . .”
“Be honest.” He reached for her jaw and forced her to look him in the eye. Eh. Forced might be a little strong . . . She didn’t need much convincing to look at him. He was so very easy on the eyes.
“I’ve been working on a recipe.”
He shook his head slowly. “Piper. No.”
“It was Nom Nom’s idea. Harmony said they’d like more from me.”
He leaned in closer, his lips mere millimeters from hers. “What if I want something from you?” Infuriatingly, he kissed the
corner of her mouth. The corner. That was all he’d give her.
She closed her eyes as the physical frustration worked its way through her. “This isn’t fair. You’re too hot. You have undue
influence over me.”
He laughed quietly, then planted a real kiss right on her lips—slow and soft and perfect. “I’m sorry. I will never again withhold
a kiss.”
Piper couldn’t help but remember that she’d once thought there had to be something else. Now she knew her something else was
all around her. It was inside her. And now she could share it with Emilio.
“That’s more like it.” She started the car and popped it into Reverse. “Now let’s go see a lady about a dog. And a cat.”