On the trail, Gus did his usual routine: sprinting ahead, circling back, and attempting to eat a rotten apple core. Alex didn’t flinch. When Gus returned with muddy paws and tried to jump on Alex’s khakis, Claire winced. “I’m so sorry—”
Their first date was a coffee shop. Alex asked about the fur on her coat. “Gus,” she said, waiting for the usual eye-roll. animal dog dogsex woman
Gus was her anchor. He’d been there through the promotion, the pandemic, and the breakup with Mark, who had once complained that Gus “stared at him judgmentally.” (Gus had been staring because Mark ate the last slice of pizza without offering any crust.) On the trail, Gus did his usual routine:
Instead, Alex smiled. “Golden Retriever? Late spring shed. He’s blowing his coat.” “I’m so sorry—” Their first date was a coffee shop
But the real test came on the second date. Alex suggested a hike. “Bring the boss,” he said, nodding at Gus’s leash by the door.
She was smitten.
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