Page 43 of My Fake Dating with the Grumpiest Highlander
“Our other what?”
“Temporary resident,” Jamison repeats as though this is perfectly logical. “The castle is indeed full, but this cottage contains two separate bedrooms. You’ll still have your privacy, naturally.”
I don’t even have time to ask who this other resident is because Jamison has already opened the door.
“If you’ll follow me.”
He leads me into a small, cozy living room.
With a fireplace.
Soft armchairs.
And… a sheep.
It’s not Hamish, who remained outside the cottage door.
This is another sheep.
Massive.
Imposing.
With thick black wool and a stare filled with what can only be described as pure contempt.
“Ragnar,” I say weakly.
“He appears to have made himself at home here today,” Jamison explains.
“And nobody chased him out?”
“He’s rather difficult to move, but I’m certain he won’t stay long.”
The sheep continues staring at me.
“Your room is the one on the right upstairs,” Jamison says, completely ignoring the intense visual duel taking place between Ragnar and me. “I’ll leave you to settle in.”
And then he leaves me alone with the animal.
I straighten, slipping into professional veterinarian mode.
“Ragnar, we haven’t been properly introduced. I’m Mary. I’m a veterinarian. You have nothing to fear, but you are going to have to leave.”
I slowly approach him, hand outstretched, using every calming technique I’ve ever learned.
Ragnar lets out a low growl.
A growl.
A growling sheep.
Well, apparently I’ve seen everything now.
“It’s okay,” I murmur. “I just want to make sure you’re all right.”
I keep advancing.
Ragnar backs up.
