The Gentlemen's Club, Volume 1 by Erika Rhys

Author:Erika Rhys [Rhys, Erika]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Erika Rhys

18

When Nick and I arrived at the PetSmart on Broadway, we selected a chew-proof leash and several kinds of organic dog treats. Then, we moved on to toys. The shelves of the toy aisle were piled high with a staggering array of rope tugs, chew toys, and rubber bones. As Nick and I browsed the selection, Jack flopped on the floor near Nick’s feet, clearly worn out from the walk and the August heat.

Nick picked up a furry toy that resembled a cross between a beaver and a squirrel and eyed it critically.

“The tag says that it’s washable,” he said. “I’m guessing that’s a good thing.”

“Washable is good, but try squeezing it,” I said.

When he did, the toy emitted a shrill squeak, and Jack’s ears perked up with obvious interest.

“He likes this one,” Nick said.

“Yes, but just imagine hearing that sound for hours, especially if you’re trying to work or sleep. Does Jack sleep near you?”

Nick looked embarrassed. “I got him a dog bed and a sleeping mat, but he made it clear last night that he prefers to sleep on the bed next to me.”

“Well, it’s a personal choice, but lots of people let their pets sleep on their beds. Back in Vermont, this girl Marie, who I waited tables with—she let her pet iguana sleep with her.”

“She slept with an iguana?”

“Iggy the iguana.”

“I thought iguanas bit.”

“Not Iggy. He did spit on Marie sometimes though.”

“That’s disgusting,” Nick said.

“Marie didn’t seem to mind. Apparently, spitting is normal behavior for iguanas.”

“Well, they do have ice in their veins, I suppose.”

“Good point,” I said.

“But you can’t run with an iguana.”

“You like to run?” I asked.

“I run every morning. Now that I have Jack, I’m planning to take him with me. What about you?”

“I usually run at least three times a week, but I’ve slacked off for the past few weeks. I need to get back into it.”

“You can run with me and Jack anytime. We could meet in the park, or wherever is good for you.”

“I’ll take you up on that offer,” I said. “But right now, I should be getting home. My roommate and I made plans to hang out this evening—she’s leaving tomorrow for a few days back in Vermont.”

“Before you take off, let’s talk about dinner tomorrow night. How does eight o’clock sound?”

“I’d love to have dinner with you, but what about Jack? He may not respond well to being left on his own. You’ve only had him for a day or so. He’s still adjusting to his new environment.”

Nick looked thoughtful. “I was planning to shut him in one of the bathrooms—with food, water, and toys, of course.”

A thought struck me. “I have a better idea.”

“What’s that?”

“Let’s change up our plans so that Jack can stay with us. We could go running in the morning and then have lunch in the park like we did today, or if evening’s better for you, we could hang out at your place and order some takeout.”

“Let’s do it all,” he said.

“What?”

“Everything you just suggested.

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