Page 12 of Sawyer

I wasn't exactly brooding... just thinking about Casey. How he was like. What his favorite food and color were.

How would he feel about dating a shifter?

Would Casey be open to it? When Ryder had been lead alpha, he hadn't exactly left a good impression on the humans living in town.

So, understandably, relations between the pack and the humans were a little strained.

Casey didn’t appear afraid of me, though, just curious.

I made a mental note to schedule an appointment at Furry Tails. I glanced at Benny.

He looked clean as a whistle. How soon could I schedule a grooming?

Maybe I’d take him to the park tomorrow. Let the little guy play to his heart’s content.

That reminded me. I needed supplies, dog food, and some toys for him. Nothing but the best for my little buddy.

My thoughts predictably, went to Casey again. Casey seemed different from anyone I'd met before.

There was something about him, a kind of warmth and openness that drew me in.

I wondered what he liked to do in his free time. Did he have a favorite spot in Pecan Pines?

Did he like coffee as much as he smelled like it?

Maybe we could grab a cup together sometime. I imagined walking into his shop, Benny trotting beside me, and seeing that bright smile of his.

His smile was the kind that could light up a room—genuine and inviting, with a hint of mischief.

And those eyes, deep chocolate brown, warm and expressive. I could get lost in them.

Benny shifted slightly in my lap, reminding me of his presence. I scratched behind his ears, and he let out a contented sigh.

Yeah, tomorrow I’ll spoil him a bit. He deserved it after being cooped up in the shelter for so long.

Maybe I'd even pick up a treat from that new pet bakery downtown.

The thought of seeing Casey again made my heart race a little.

I hoped I hadn’t come on too strong earlier with the party invite, but I had just been a little excited. That was all.

"Look who's here," I overheard Noah whispering to Griffin nearby.

I looked up, and my mood soured at the sight of Garth.

The party was open to all pack members, but that didn't mean Garth was welcome.

Garth looked around, as if looking for someone. Then he saw me, grinned, and walked up to me.

"Did our little competition earlier tire you out?" Garth asked with a laugh.

Nearby pack members quieted to look at us.

I set my drink on the table. Benny woke up from Garth's laugh and barked at him.

"Ugly little critter," Garth muttered.

Benny whimpered and that pissed me off. The little guy was enjoying himself earlier.