Clues on Leash: A Paranormal Cozy Mystery by Corrine Winters

Author:Corrine Winters [Winters, Corrine]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-10-10T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Seventeen

Katie arrived at David’s brownstone, feeling the weight of the morning still pressing on her shoulders, but she forced a smile as she reached the door. Before she could even knock, she heard the excited barking from inside, followed by the unmistakable sound of paws skittering against the hardwood floor. The door swung open, and Reveille, David’s overly enthusiastic beagle mix, bounded out, tail wagging furiously as he leapt up to greet her.

“Hey there, buddy!” Katie laughed, bending down to ruffle Reveille’s floppy ears. The dog licked her cheek, his entire body wiggling with uncontainable joy. Reveille’s excitement was infectious, and for a moment, Katie’s stress melted away, replaced by the simple happiness of a dog thrilled to see her.

David appeared in the doorway, balancing on his crutches. His leg was still encased in a bulky cast, making it nearly impossible for him to keep up with his energetic dog. He gave Katie a grateful smile, looking a little worn but relieved to have help. “Katie, you’re a lifesaver,” he said, shifting his weight slightly to adjust his balance. “With Anna and the kids visiting her parents, and me stuck hobbling around, Reveille’s been bouncing off the walls. He’s got more energy than the rest of us combined.”

Katie smiled up at David, patting Reveille as he continued to nuzzle her for attention. “I’m happy to help, really. Besides, I think I could use the exercise as much as he can. It’s a win-win.”

David chuckled, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a few bills. “Still, you’ve got a lot on your plate. Here, take this. It’s the least I can do for making the trip out here.”

Katie glanced at the money and immediately shook her head, pushing David’s hand back gently. “No way, David. I’m not taking your money. You’ve done more for me than I could ever repay—this is the least I can do. Besides, I’m getting paid in tail wags and doggie kisses. Can’t put a price on that.”

David tried to insist, his brow furrowing in that stubborn way he always got when someone tried to do him a favor. “Katie, come on. I know you’ve got a business to run, and I don’t want you doing this for free. You’ve been a blessing.”

Katie met his gaze with a warm but firm smile. “And you’ve been like family, David. You’ve always been there when I needed help, and right now, Reveille needs this walk more than I need cash. Consider it a thank-you for all those times you’ve had my back.”

As Katie clipped the leash onto Reveille’s collar, David leaned on his crutches, watching his dog bounce around with a boundless energy that he sorely wished he could match. Katie gave the leash a gentle tug, getting Reveille to settle down momentarily, then glanced back at David with a thoughtful look.

“If you really feel like you owe me, David, then how about paying me in information?” Katie said, her tone light but probing. “You know, about Fern’s case.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.