Page 50 of Falling for the Grumpiest Protector

"You too."

Javier watches him leave.

"He's twenty-six."

"I wasn't going to ask."

"Everyone asks."

"I like him."

"That makes one of us."

From somewhere outside, Cole calls back, "I heard that."

I laugh. Javier shakes his head, but I catch the smile he doesn't quite hide.

Emma pats the examination table.

"Atlas."

He stands immediately. Javier gives a small hand signal, and Atlas walks toward Emma. I watch.

"You don't have to tell him?"

"Not usually."

"He watches you."

Javier glances at me.

"That's his job."

Something in his voice makes me look at Atlas differently. Not pet. Partner.

Emma begins her examination.

"Everything been normal?"

"Yeah."

"Eating?"

"Yeah."

"Energy?"

"Normal."

"Any stiffness after longer days?"

"No."

Emma looks at him steadily. Javier sighs.

"Maybe a little Sunday morning."

"There we go."