Page 208 of Falling for the Grumpiest Protector

He barrels toward me with absolutely no concern for dignity. I crouch just in time to catch him.

"Hi, handsome."

Atlas arrives seconds later.

"Oh, no. One at a time."

Neither dog listens. I laugh as I try to pet both of them.

"Apparently human greetings are no longer necessary."

I look up. Emma is coming out of the clinic building with her bag over one shoulder. I stand. She hugs me immediately.

"It's so good to see you."

"You too."

"How long are you here?"

"Just a couple of days. I have to be back in New York Monday."

"Then I'm glad we caught you."

"Me too."

Jack appears behind her carrying a box. He spots me and smiles.

"Maddy."

"Hi, Jack."

He puts the box in his truck before coming over to hug me.

"Good to have you back."

The words settle somewhere warm.

"Is Javier here?"

Jack glances toward the far side of the property.

“Back garden. If he’s not there, try the greenhouse.”

"Thanks."

I start toward the path.

"Maddy."

I turn. Jack gestures vaguely toward the clinic.

"You want us to stick around?"

Emma slips her hand through his arm.

"Honey."

He looks at her.